In an exclusive interview with SEE, Oman’s ambassador to Egypt and its permanent representative to the Arab League, Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Rahbi, spoke about Oman’s foreign policy, regional crises, Gaza, the Horn of Africa, cultural diplomacy, and economic cooperation with Egypt.
Q: Oman is often described as a trusted partner for Arab states and international allies, maintaining equal distance from all sides and seeking Arab unity. How do you view this role amid the region’s fast-moving developments?
A: Oman’s credibility did not come out of nowhere. It is the result of a long-standing and accumulated policy based on respect for international law, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, and a constant commitment to dialogue and peace.
Q: Oman’s foreign policy is often said to have deep civilizational roots. How have history and geography shaped this approach?
A: Oman has always looked to the sea on three sides, with mountains and desert on the other. This made us understand early on that our destiny is tied to the sea. Through it, Oman connected with major civilizations in Mesopotamia, ancient Egypt, the Indus Valley, India and Persia. Oman chose to be a messenger of peace, carrying its civilization and moral values across the seas, and later spreading Islam through the ethics of trade, not conquest — an Islam of tolerance, openness and peace.
Q: How did this vision take shape in the modern era?
A: During the Renaissance era led by the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Oman’s foreign policy evolved into a comprehensive school that balances national interests with ethical principles, upholds constants, defends rights and stands for justice in a volatile region. Today, under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, this approach continues with the same spirit and direction.
Q: How does Oman view the current crises in Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and the Horn of Africa?
A: These crises directly affect Oman’s and the Arab world’s national security. In Yemen, our position is clear: we reject any foreign interference that undermines the national state, and we affirm that the Yemeni people alone have the right to decide their future. What we see in Sudan and Somalia is largely the result of external interventions and attempts to divide Arab ranks, which is extremely dangerous.
Q: Some argue that regional crises have diverted attention from the Palestinian cause. Do you agree?
A: Unfortunately, this is true. What is happening in Gaza — destruction, famine and a war of extermination — cannot be treated as a secondary issue. Oman has been clear since the beginning: no to war, yes to political solutions, even when that position conflicted with some international allies. History has since proven that those who pushed for war later acknowledged its failure.
Q: How does Oman view Israel’s recognition of what it calls “Somaliland”?
A: This recognition is completely rejected. It is a blatant violation of international law and poses a direct threat to Arab national security, particularly the security of Egypt and Saudi Arabia and the region as a whole. We see it as part of attempts to create chaos and control vital maritime routes, and Arabs must be fully aware of these risks.
Q: On the cultural front, after Oman was guest of honor at the Cairo International Book Fair last year, what about this year’s participation?
A: Being guest of honor was a unique experience, from the pavilion design to the joint seminars that reflected the depth of cultural ties with Egypt. This year, Oman will continue to participate, with a different momentum, but one that still reflects the deep historical relationship between the two countries.
Q: Can you tell us about the cultural salon launched by the Omani Embassy in Cairo?
A: The cultural salon, launched in 2021, is an initiative we are proud of. It builds on similar experiences in Egypt and Jordan and focuses on culture as a form of soft power. Through it, we have produced books and documentary films highlighting more than 3,500 years of Egyptian-Omani relations, in addition to celebrating the Arabic language and Omani figures recognized by UNESCO.
Q: Finally, how do you assess economic cooperation between Egypt and Oman?
A: Economic cooperation is witnessing noticeable growth, with significant Egyptian investments in Oman. The Sultanate offers a safe and stable environment, flexible legislation and advanced logistics infrastructure — exactly what serious investors are looking for.
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