Omani-Belgian Relations Set to Thrive with Strategic Alliances and Investment Opportunities.

Brussels: The Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Belgium are poised to strengthen their bilateral relations, with a focus on trade, investment, and cultural cooperation. This development comes as His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is set to visit Belgium, where he will meet King Philippe Leopold Louis Marie of the Belgians, enhancing the cooperative efforts between the two nations. According to Oman News Agency, the engagement between the two countries has been ongoing, highlighted by King Philippe's visit to Oman in February 2022, which saw the inauguration of the Duqm Port project. This project is a collaboration between the Omani government and the Belgian Port of Antwerp, showcasing the potential for joint ventures. The Hyport Duqm green hydrogen project represents another significant collaboration between OQ Group of Oman and the Belgian Deme Group. This initiative aims to create an international alliance for the production and import of green hydrogen, benefiting Belgium and its neighbors. The pro ject, which secured a site for renewable energy generation in 2021, plans to begin operations in 2026. The nations signed the Joint Declaration of Intent Agreement and the Green Hydrogen Certificate Pilot Project Agreement in Brussels in 2023, underscoring their commitment to clean energy. Additionally, discussions with the European Commission are underway to enhance regulatory frameworks for hydrogen production and transportation. On the diplomatic front, Oman's global relations have facilitated an agreement between Belgium and Iran, addressing the detention of citizens from both countries. Ambassador Rua Issa Al Zadjali of Oman emphasized that the upcoming state visit will further strengthen cooperation in various domains, including trade and energy. Trade between Oman and Belgium reached RO 148 million by August 2024, with Omani exports amounting to RO 10 million and imports from Belgium at RO 138 million. The rise in Belgian companies investing in Oman, with registered companies increasing by 50% and c apital investment reaching RO 819,778,000 by September 2024, reflects the growing interest in Omani business opportunities. Belgian Ambassador Pascal H. GRÉGOIRE highlighted the significance of the Sultan's visit, noting the longstanding mutual respect and shared values between Oman and Belgium. He pointed to collaborative projects like the Port of Duqm and Hyport Duqm as examples of successful partnerships in maritime and renewable energy sectors. The visit is anticipated to explore further investments in emerging industries, such as life sciences and aerospace, and foster policies beneficial to economic growth. Cultural and academic ties continue to play a crucial role in enhancing people-to-people connections, with both nations committed to knowledge-sharing and innovation. The visit is anticipated to bring the bilateral relations to new levels, with a focus on sectors such as health, biopharmaceuticals, and space. Both nations aim to shape a peaceful and interconnected global future through dialogue an d collaboration. Faisal Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the economic potential of the visit, highlighting sectors such as logistics, energy, and tourism. Reggy Vermeulen, Honorary Consul of Belgium to Oman, underscored the importance of showcasing investment opportunities, particularly in minerals and hydrogen.