Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman and the French Republic have emphasized the importance of developing investment relations between the two countries, highlighting the need to increase mutual investment in each country's productive sectors. This was stated in the joint communique issued at the conclusion of the official visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to the French Republic.

According to Oman News Agency, the visit marked the first official meeting of His Majesty Sultan Haitham to France, reinforcing the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two nations. The history of this relationship dates back to the late 19th century with the establishment of the French consulate in Muscat in 1894. During the visit, Sultan Haitham and French President Emmanuel Macron held discussions that underscored their commitment to strengthening a bilateral partnership in various sectors.

The visit also witnessed the opening of the Franco-Omani business forum, which facilitated interaction between more than 60 French and Omani companies. This event resulted in significant economic contracts in renewable energy, water, and aerospace sectors. Both leaders praised the dynamic economic relations and expressed a desire to expand trade and investment, leveraging opportunities provided by Oman Vision 2040 and France 2030.

The communique highlighted the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Investment Promotion, aiming to operationalize ambitions and facilitate concrete investment flows. Both countries are looking to enhance cooperation in strategic sectors, including civil aviation and space, with agreements on technical cooperation and transportation.

The partnership between Oman and Airbus for constructing Oman's first satellite was acknowledged, alongside logistics and water management collaborations with French companies. Cultural cooperation was also a focus, with agreements to boost collaboration in cultural, scientific, and academic sectors.

Furthering educational cooperation, both sides agreed to enhance French language teaching in Oman and promote student mobility to France. The partnership between the Ministry of Education of Oman and the Omani-French Centre in Muscat was recognized for its contributions to educational and cultural exchanges.

In defense and security, both nations emphasized their joint commitment to maritime security and combating illicit trafficking. The communique also addressed regional stability, including efforts to support peace processes in Yemen, Ukraine, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The visit concluded with His Majesty expressing gratitude to President Macron and the people of France for their hospitality, and extending an invitation for President Macron to visit Oman.