Oman envoy highlights 50 years of ties with Bangladesh

Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman Jamil Haji Ismail Al Balushi has said Oman is home to around 700,000 Bangladeshis who play a significant role in supporting the Sultanate's economic development, reflecting the enduring human and social bonds between the two countries.

He made the remarks at a reception marking Oman's National Day and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Oman, held at the Dhaka Sheraton Hotel on Thursday.

The ambassador said long-term agreements for the supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Bangladesh have strengthened energy cooperation between the two nations. Oman, he added, remains committed to supporting Bangladesh's peace, stability and economic progress, and looks forward to deepening collaboration with the transitional government and the next elected government.

He noted that 2025 marks 50 years of diplomatic engagement between the two countries—a milestone underscoring strong bilateral ties and shared aspirations in political, economic and cultural cooperation. Bangladesh established its mission in Oman in 1983 at the level of Chargé d'Affaires, upgrading it to ambassadorial level in 1995. Oman opened a Representative Office in Dhaka in 2001 and a fully accredited embassy in 2012. Oman appointed its first resident ambassador to Bangladesh on 2 October 2022.

Reflecting on Oman's National Day, the ambassador said the observance honours a national journey that began with the founding of the Al Bu Said State in 1744 by Imam Ahmed bin Said Al Busaidi. He united the country under a single banner and laid the foundations of the modern Omani state, built on sovereignty, unity and dignity.

He said the occasion also pays tribute to Oman's Sultans, who preserved national unity and prosperity while strengthening the country's regional and international presence. Since the Renaissance of Oman began in 1970 under the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, and continuing under the leadership of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the country has pursued an ambitious development vision through Oman Vision 2040.

In 2025, Oman recorded significant progress in economic and financial modernisation, including improved public spending efficiency, investment-grade credit ratings, new agreements supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, and preparations for a progressive income tax to ensure social justice. Non-oil sectors now account for more than 65 per cent of GDP, while public debt has decreased to around 35 per cent.

Oman is also advancing environmental sustainability with a commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The National Centre for Net Zero Emissions has been established alongside new frameworks for carbon trading and environmental performance certification. The number of natural reserves has increased to 31, with more than three million trees planted nationwide.

Professor Dr Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, Education Adviser to the interim government, attended the event as chief guest. Politicians, economists, diplomats, business leaders, civil and military officials and members of the media were also present.