Oman: Remarks by the High Representative at the signing ceremony for the establishment agreement of the EU Delegation to the Sultanate of Oman

Dear Minister Al Busaidi, it is really good to connect with you today. 

As you know, Oman is a very valued partner to the EU and it is really a pleasure to sign today this Establishment Agreement for the new EU Delegation in Muscat. This is long overdue.

Oman stands at the heart of Middle East maritime trade. Your strategic position at the crossroads of the Gulf, the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea make you an indispensable actor for regional stability. 

Opening an EU Delegation in Muscat is a milestone in our relations. And it is a clear signal of our commitment - to Oman, to the Gulf, and to stronger security partnerships with the region. 

The European Union has a network of 145 delegations around the world, which is one of our greatest strategic assets. Today, we are expanding our diplomatic footprint where it matters the most. 

The war between the US and Iran is again intensifying and comes with a rising casualty count. There is little chance of diplomacy between the two sides at the moment. But you know this much better than we do.

The collapse of the memorandum follows Iran’s unacceptable attacks on its neighbours and shipping in of the Strait of Hormuz. I want to express the EU's full solidarity with Oman following the attacks on your territory and on commercial shipping off your coast.

Before the war, the Strait was open to shipping without tolls or fees. And it must remain open to shipping without tolls or fees after the war. Navigation must be unimpeded.

Last week, the EU and Gulf representatives discussed how we can work together to support freedom of navigation, including in the Strait of Hormuz and in the Red Sea. 

These two waterways cannot be viewed in isolation. The Houthi threat persists, and Operation ASPIDES continues to make an important contribution to protect shipping as I have seen firsthand in the region last week. 

Dear Minister Al Busaidi, European and Gulf security are closely linked. That is precisely why today's signature matters. 

We are ready to appoint an EU Ambassador to Oman as soon as possible and to establish a full diplomatic presence in Muscat.

Together with you we will deepen political dialogue and expand cooperation.