Omani minister to visit China to enhance economic ties

MUSCAT - Oman's Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah will visit China on May 14-15 to enhance bilateral economic partnership, the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced Wednesday.

Ali bin Mohammed Al Mehri, head of the ministry's Information Affairs Department, told a press conference that Abdullah will meet with a number of senior Chinese officials during this visit, and will invite China to participate in Oman's development projects.

Abdullah will be accompanied by senior officials from Oman's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Central Bank of Oman and the State Reserve Fund.

"China is the largest importer of Omani oil and is an important economic and trade partner," Al Mehri said, mentioning that there are already several Chinese investment projects in Oman.

Al Mehri also stressed the two countries share a common desire to promote and develop bilateral cooperation, especially in the investment sector.

All projects related to the economic diversification and other development plans, whether in logistics, mining, industry or tourism, welcome foreign investment, he said.

Al Mehri also praised China's contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security, adding that regional issues including Iran's nuclear deal would be discussed during the upcoming visit.