Muscat: The State Council today concluded its deliberations on the 'Draft Law on Combating Cybercrimes' during its third session of the third ordinary sitting of its eighth term. The session was chaired by Sheikh Abdulmalik bin Abdullah Al Khalili, Chairman of the Council, and focused on a series of legislative projects and amendments aimed at strengthening the national legal framework.

According to Oman News Agency, the State Council emphasized the positive outcomes of the recent meeting with the Council of Ministers, which was conducted in alignment with the Council of Oman Law. This meeting highlighted the ongoing commitment to enhance cooperation and coordination among the Council of Ministers, the Council of Oman, and other state institutions to formulate unified visions that support national objectives, strategic plans, and development initiatives.

During the session, special attention was given to the 'Draft Law on Combating Cybercrimes'. Dr. Hamad bin Salim Al Rawahi, Head of the Technology and Innovation Committee, stressed the necessity for the legislative framework governing cybersecurity to adapt to the continuous and rapid advancements in this critical area to maintain its relevance and effectiveness.

The Council also assessed the Social and Cultural Committee's advisory opinion regarding the 'Draft Law Amending Certain Provisions of the Cultural Heritage Law'. Dr. Mohammed bin Said Al Hajri, Head of the Social and Cultural Committee, explained that the proposed changes aim to enhance the capabilities of relevant authorities to protect and manage archaeological sites, historical landmarks, and cultural heritage assets in accordance with international standards. This involves establishing clear mechanisms for official registration, administrative oversight, and legal protection of these sites.

Additionally, discussions included a study by the Special Committee on the 'Mechanism for Diversifying Income Sources in the Sultanate of Oman'. Sheikh Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Hinai, Head of the Special Committee, outlined the study's goals, which focus on identifying challenges to fiscal sustainability and income diversification, addressing inefficiencies and financial leakage, and proposing recommendations to ensure the stability of public finances under the Eleventh Five-Year Plan framework, with an emphasis on legislative and governance reforms.