President of Singapore holds dinner in honour of His Majesty
President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, held an official dinner at the Istana Palace in honour of His Majesty the Sultan.
Before the dinner, His Majesty the Sultan delivered a speech as follows:
“President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore. Thank you for the warm welcome. I am delighted to see you and to be in Singapore.
“We had a friendly and constructive exchange of views today, confident that we can take further steps to enhance our already excellent relations.
“We enjoy shared perspectives across a broad range of issues, from foreign and security policy to economic cooperation and educational and cultural exchange.
“Oman and Singapore have been in contact for centuries. This is manifested in the Jewel of Muscat, which sailed across the seas and became a prominent symbol of Oman's maritime history since the 9th century.
“We are delighted with the elevation of the status of our diplomatic missions at the start of this year to Embassies. I believe this is an important step in our excellent relations.
“I also feel very satisfied with the discussions that are taking place at various levels of our governments. We are keen to develop our strategic partnership in all areas that benefit both our peoples and nations.
“Both Oman and Singapore will continue to work closely together, learning and benefitting from each other's experiences and strengths to the mutual benefit of both, and of our respective regions.
“In Oman, we are working towards becoming a regional hub for green hydrogen industries and have taken several steps following my endorsement of a target of net zero carbon by 2050.
“We would welcome Singaporean partnership to this end.
“Mr. President, I am eager to promote further cooperation between our two countries and two regions. Cooperation in energy and green industries, in innovation, in startups and SME development, in education, healthcare and tourism, in aquaculture, water management and technology are all highly welcomed.
“Mr. President, I thank you again for your hospitality and your kind invitation. Singapore is a long-standing friend to Oman, and I hope to welcome you in Muscat, where you will be most welcome. Thank you.”
President Shanmugaratnam in turn delivered a speech in which he welcomed His Majesty the Sultan and his accompanying delegation. adding that this state visit marks a new chapter in relations between the two countries.
The Singaporean President said that Oman and Singapore have shared attributes – both countries are maritime nations overlooking strategic waterways, dependent on free and open trade and striving for the preservation of a ruled-based international order.
He added that both countries believe in promoting tolerance, understanding and interfaith dialogue.
The Singaporean President highlighted economic relations between the two countries, in view of the opportunities generated by Oman Vision 2040’s economic agenda, such as in renewable energy and tourism. He also spoke of other areas of cooperation between Oman and Singapore, as well as their shared history.
The dinner was attended by members of the official delegations of Oman and Singapore.
This is an unofficial English version of an Arabic report. To view the official Arabic text, click here.