Developing Vietnam relations

On the eve of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Oman (June 9, 2002 – June 9, 2022), Ambassador of Oman to Vietnam Saleh Mohamed Ahmed Al Sagri shared about achievements and prospects. develop deeper and more comprehensive relations between the two countries.

During the 30 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have constantly made efforts to strengthen and develop bilateral relations in all fields and levels. Typically, mutual support in international forums; exchange of high-level official visits and trade promotion meetings of businesses of the two countries.

The two countries have signed about 10 agreements/agreements and 3 memorandums of understanding in various fields such as politics, economy, investment, and trade.

Vietnam is the world’s largest rice exporter while Oman has strengths in exporting liquefied petroleum gas and has high oil reserves; development of renewable energy and seaports. Oman has many large-capacity seaports, but the two countries do not have a direct sea route…

Are the above potential data an important driving force to promote cooperation between Vietnam and Oman in the current period, Ambassador?

It can be seen that agreements, memorandums of understanding, joint meetings and mutual visits are all within the framework of consolidating and strengthening the friendly relations between the two countries. It is a continuous, dynamic process between the two parties. We hope that the relationship will continue to grow, and see more direct water and land visits in the near future.

Bilateral trade can grow significantly if shipping lines and direct flights are opened between the two countries. We are working to accomplish this goal in the near future.

Oman is the bridge connecting Vietnam with the Middle East and Africa

The Vietnam-Oman Sovereign Investment Fund (VOI) is considered a typical model for bilateral investment activities, how do you rate this fund’s role?

VOI is considered as an important bridge between the two countries. From the initial committed capital of 100 million USD in 2009, through VOI we have disbursed more than 300 million USD to date.

VOI Fund has continuously invested in many different fields in the North, Central and South regions; which focuses on the fields of health, healthcare, services, renewable energy, clean water, high-tech agriculture, and many other areas that support sustainable development in Vietnam.

In particular, the Fund pays great attention to human development in Vietnam and has expanded its investment in education; implementing many social security projects: building schools in the Central region; supporting masks and medical supplies to accompany the Government and people of Vietnam in the prevention and control of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Oman is the bridge between Vietnam and the Middle East and Africa, do you think the ability of Oman to open direct sea routes from Oman to Vietnam is necessary and beneficial? What support do we need from the two governments to make it happen?

The position of the two countries cannot be denied, the Kingdom of Oman and Vietnam are both located in strategic locations. The two countries can find suitable mechanisms to connect the two countries by sea and by air. This is a favorable point to serve the interests of cooperation in the future, especially the communication link between the two countries.

How do you evaluate the prospects and opportunities to elevate the relationship between Vietnam and Oman after 30 years of good development between the two countries?

We believe that the good efforts of the leaders of the two countries will continue to raise the level of cooperation between Oman and Vietnam in extensive fields, in line with common interests, serving the peoples of the two countries. recommended.

Bao Duc