Muscat: His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik departed for the Russian Federation today on a two-day state visit, during which he is slated to meet with President Vladimir Putin. This visit, initiated at the invitation of President Putin, highlights the strengthened relations between Oman and Russia.

According to Oman News Agency, His Majesty was seen off at the Royal Airport by a host of dignitaries including HH Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers; HH Sayyid Asa’ad bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs; and HH Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth. Other senior officials present included Sheikh Abdulmalik bin Abdullah Al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council, and Khalid bin Hilal Al Ma’awali, Chairman of the Shura Council, among others.

Accompanying His Majesty on this important visit is a high-ranking official delegation. The delegation comprises HH Sayyid Shihab bin
Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs; Sayyid Khalid bin Hilal Al Busaidi, Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court; Gen. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Nu’amani, Minister of the Royal Office; and Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister. Other members include Dr. Hamad bin Said Al Aufi, Head of the Private Office; Abdussalam bin Mohammed Al Murshidi, Chairman of Oman Investment Authority; and several other key officials.

May the Almighty Allah protect His Majesty the Sultan during his travels, grant him good health and wellbeing, and guard him as a source of pride for his people.