Pakistan, Oman Set Up Joint Working Groups

Pakistan and Oman have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening and expanding bilateral cooperation across a broad range of fields. The resolve was expressed at a joint press stakeout by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi in Islamabad, after the conclusion of the 8th Session of the Pakistan-Oman Joint Ministerial Commission.

Key Outcomes

• Joint working groups: Dar said the main outcome was strengthening the institutional framework by establishing and operationalising several joint working groups, including in trade and investment, agriculture, oil and gas, and labour and human resource development. These mechanisms will ensure regular engagement and effective implementation of the commission’s decisions.

• Business forum: Both sides agreed to hold a business-to-business investment and promotion forum in Pakistan soon.

• Labour mobility: They reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation in labour mobility, vocational training and human resource development, and to creating new opportunities for skilled Pakistani professionals and workers. Dar acknowledged the contribution of the Pakistani community in Oman as a bridge between the two countries.

Regional Peace

Dar said the two sides exchanged views on the situation in the Gulf, stressing restraint, de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy, and the importance of the safety and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab for regional and global food and energy security. He said Pakistan remains committed to contributing constructively to diplomatic efforts for peace and stability. He condemned attacks on Saudi Arabia, reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with its leadership and people, and expressed commitment to its sovereignty and security under the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. Dar also reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people and called for unhindered humanitarian aid to Gaza, and he raised the Jammu and Kashmir issue with the Omani minister.

Oman’s Remarks

Al-Busaidi appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in facilitating dialogue and supporting diplomatic efforts in the region, including its role in negotiations between Iran and the United States. He said discussions focused on expanding economic and commercial cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, connectivity and logistics, food security and technology.

GCC Free Trade Agreement

Replying to a question, Dar said the Pakistan-GCC Free Trade Agreement will help expand business activities between Pakistan and GCC member countries.