Wednesday the 18th of November the Sultanate of Oman celebrates the 50th anniversary of its National Day

Excellencies, exquisite members of Geneva Press Club and Media Representatives,

The 18th November is a cherished date for the Sultanate of Oman as it marks the recognition for the achievements and deep human, societal and economic transformation launched and led by our cherished wise leader, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who passed away beginning of this year, may God rest his soul.

This year’s celebration is different and exceptional, as it is the celebration of  two reigns. On one hand, it is  the 50th anniversary of the Omani Renaissance, the golden jubilee of an extended process of development and construction throughout the nation and in various sectors of life, and on the other hand, it is the first National Day after the departure of the founding Sultan, the builder of the modern Omani renaissance, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, May God rest his soul, and the first National Day celebration under the new reign  of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq.As this year marks the Sultanate of Oman ’s celebration of the 50th Golden Jubilee, we have every confidence in an even brighter future cared for and guided with the same charismatic and respected leadership under the auspices of His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tarik who confirmed that the Sultanate of Oman will keep its long standing internationally recognized wise political tradition of peaceful international relations based on mutual collaboration and respect between the nations for a more sustainable and peaceful world.

Indeed, the principles and foundations on which the Omani foreign policy was based since its blessed renaissance are embodied in the pursuit of dialogue to solve various challenges, supporting the values ​​of tolerance, justice, equality, good relations with neighbours, the rule of law, respecting state sovereignty, non-interference in the internal affairs of others and the peaceful settlement of disputes on the basis of the provisions and principles of the United Nations Charter and the rules of international law. This  strengthened its position regionally and globally until it became a landmark of security and peace.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq affirmed in His Majesty’s first speech the fundamentals of this policy: “On the external level, we will mark the footsteps of the late Sultan, stressing the principles that he laid out for our country’s foreign policy based on peaceful coexistence between nations and peoples, good relations with neighbours, non-interference in the internal affairs of others, respect for state sovereignty and international cooperation in various fields”.
As we stand today for the celebration of  the 50th National Day of the Omani Renaissance, we renew expression of loyalty to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq to continue efforts aimed at the elevation and prosperity of our dear country, and we have every confidence in a bright future witnessing  higher growth and comprehensive and sustainable development in various Sectors.

Due to the prevailing Covid restrictions not allowing us to have the pleasure of welcoming you on a warm live celebration as usual, we are pleased to invite you on a virtual tour in our National Museum with its amazing historical collections, discover the stunning beauty of the Sultanate’s landscapes , and enjoy your preferred piece of music in our refined Royal Opera House  among a rich video selection of world classic masterpieces and Omani and oriental pieces. We are also pleased to enclose herewith “Sultanate Marks 50th National Day.pdf”, a detailed overview on the achievements chartered within the previous 50 years with specific focus on the further steps taken this year with the transition towards the new leadership.

Thanking you in advance for your most appreciated interest in this celebration, and wishing you a nice virtual tour in the Sultanate of Oman’s culture, natural beauty and traditions, please accept, Excellencies, and exquisite readers of UN Special Magazine, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Idris Al Khanjari
Ambassador, Permanent Representative

Permanent Mission of the Sultanate of Oman to the UN and other International Organizations