Al Balushi added in an interview with ‘Sputnik’ that the visit holds great significance and is expected to mark the beginning of a new phase of balanced and interest-based cooperation, which serves to stabilize the region and enhances Oman’s international position. Al Balushi discussed the importance of the message conveyed by the Russian Security Council Secretary, Sergey Shoygu, which was a personal message from Russian President Vladimir Putin to the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, during a meeting with him.
Enhancing relations between the Sultanate of Oman and the Russian Federation represents a calculated diplomatic balance amidst global shifts towards multipolarity. It should be noted that for decades, Oman has followed a policy of positive neutrality and quiet mediation, opening communication channels with all international powers without aligning with any axis. Additionally, Oman contributes to regional stability through its mediation diplomacy in hot regional issues (Yemen, Strait of Hormuz, energy security).
Russia is one of the largest exporters of weapons and defense technologies in the world and may show readiness to develop cooperation with Oman in multiple fields. However, it is expected that Oman will keep this cooperation balanced and avoid military alliances that could be perceived as alignment, maintaining Oman’s neutral stance. The cooperation is likely to be technical, logistical, and training-based rather than allied.
The relations between the two countries have seen gradual and quiet development in recent years, characterized by rapprochement in political stances in international forums, especially regarding Middle Eastern issues, as well as mutual official visits at the ministerial and advisory levels. A number of economic and scientific agreements have been signed, particularly in energy, tourism, and education fields. However, the pace remains relatively slow compared to Russia’s relations with some other Gulf countries, making the recent visit an opportunity to revitalize this path.
In the current phase, the main areas of interest between Oman and Russia can be identified as: Cooperation in oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors, which may be significant. Additionally, the exchange of expertise in managing global markets through ‘OPEC Plus’ emerges as an important aspect with positive bilateral, regional, and international implications.
Enhancing cooperation in maritime security may ensure the safety of international waterways in the Arabian Sea and Strait of Hormuz, especially amidst current global conditions. Regarding the economy and investment, attracting Russian investments in Omani ports (Duqm and Sohar) presents important opportunities, alongside cooperation in heavy industries, mining, and agriculture, which are promising sectors in the Sultanate and can greatly benefit from bilateral cooperation.
The education and technology sector is vital in terms of bilateral cooperation, with the exchange of students and researchers in science, engineering, and peaceful nuclear energy, enhancing mutual communication and benefit. In addition to other sectors, the tourism sector targeting the Russian market and enhancing direct flights between Moscow, Muscat, and Salalah is of great importance, especially given the significant influx of Russians to the Sultanate in recent years.
The visit undoubtedly carries profound political implications, highlighting Russia’s interest in strengthening its ties with a country that represents a voice of moderation and wisdom in the Gulf. This step is expected to mark the beginning of a new phase of balanced and interest-based cooperation that serves regional stability and enhances Oman’s international standing. Shoygu said, “Thank you for the warm welcome. I am pleased to have the opportunity to visit the hospitable land of Oman for the first time and to convey to you a personal message from Russian President Vladimir Putin.” He expressed gratitude to the Sultan of Oman for his balanced and thoughtful stance on the situation in Ukraine. Military technical cooperation was also discussed during meetings with Omani leaders in Muscat, and Shoygu emphasized the need to reach concrete agreements on this matter.
