US, Oman relations have prospered, says ambassador Marc J. Sievers

Muscat: A celebration to commemorate the 240th independence day of the United States of America, which falls on July 4, was hosted by the US Embassy in Muscat yesterday at the city’s Grand Hyatt Hotel.
The celebrations are being held early because July 4 this year falls during the Holy Month of Ramadan, according to an official at the Embassy.
“We are holding the celebrations earlier because July 4 is happening in Ramadan this year,” the official said.
US Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman Marc J. Sievers welcomed the guests to the festivities—including Omani dignitaries from government and private sectors. He also offered his best wishes for the health and prosperity of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, as well as the people of Oman.
Ambassador Sievers also spoke about the strong relations between Oman and the United States, noting, “With the Sultanate, the United States has established a close and productive relationship—a relationship that is now over 183 years old.”
“Like the Omani people, we Americans are very proud of our history and our culture. We are proud of our country’s diversity, our strong morals, and our determination to help others in times of need. These are traits I can easily attribute to our Omani friends, as well,” Sievers said.
He went on to explain the meaning of the US national holiday—Memorial Day—which happens to fall on May 30 this year, saying, “It is our day of remembrance of those who died while serving in the US armed forces.”
Guests at the National Day celebration were entertained by the SHAPE International Band, a US military band from NATO headquarters in Belgium.
The evening also included viewing a multimedia presentation entitled, ‘Fifty American Cities.’