Muscat: The second edition of the Omani Afro-Chinese Business Forum launched today in the Wilayat of Salalah, organized by the "Business Forum" in a strategic partnership with Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI). The event features the participation of a number of investors and business owners from the Sultanate of Oman, the People's Republic of China, and a number of Horn of Africa countries, running for two days.
According to Oman News Agency, the opening of the forum was held under the auspices of Eng. Ahmed Hassan Al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ). Mustafa Abdul Qadir Al Ghassani, representative of the Omani-Chinese Friendship Association, delivered a speech highlighting Oman's strategic location connecting Asia and Africa, which positions it as a significant platform for enhancing tripartite cooperation among Oman, China, and Africa. This aligns with the targets of Oman Vision 2040, while also keeping pace with the opportunities offered by African markets and the development in the Omani-Chinese partnership.
Majid Said Akaak, Chairman of the Forum's Organizing Committee, explained that the forum serves as a strategic meeting point uniting the interests of the three parties and their economic integration. It combines Chinese technological industries, Oman's geographical and logistical advantages, and African markets with high population densities, affirming the historical trade and diplomatic relations among Oman, China, and Horn of Africa countries. He also noted that among the main goals of the forum is attracting investment and localizing African capital, with a significant rise in the presence rate of investors from Horn of Africa countries.
In the same context, Abdul Wali Bashir, representative of the African delegation and member of the forum, emphasized the importance of trade and investment partnerships and the pursuit of exploring opportunities in participating markets. The forum witnessed the inauguration of its website, offering services to facilitate intra-trade between Oman and Horn of Africa countries.
The forum's opening included the presentation of two working papers. The first, by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, addressed the importance of the transport and logistics sector. The second, by the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones, focused on its economic and logistical assets. The proceedings continue with panel discussions, business meetings, and field visits in Dhofar Governorate, allowing participants to discuss cooperation, build partnerships, and explore investment opportunities.
