UN chief Ban Ki-moon praises Oman for promoting peace, stability in region

Muscat: United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon praised the Sultanate’s efforts in promoting peace and stability in the region and solving the existing crises by peaceful means.
He commended the Royal efforts of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in this regard, as well as His Majesty the Sultan’s belief in dialogue as a means for settling disputes and conflicts among countries as this would save the world woes of armed conflicts and wars.
He also thanked His Majesty the Sultan and the Sultanate for hosting the negotiations between Iran and 5+1 Group, as well as its prominent role in solving the Iranian nuclear file and releasing hostages in a number of countries.
He said it has been proved that Oman’s visions and stances towards several issues have been based on careful study of such issues and the best way to address them. He also touched on Oman’s role towards documenting the historic heritage, in collaboration with a number of countries.
Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah received the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in his office on Monday. The leaders reviewed cooperation between Oman and the UN and means of enhancing them.
When questioned about the main points of the meeting with Alawi, the UN Secretary-General said: “I am here to express my sincere thanks to the government and people of Oman for their support and contribution in the international and regional peace, security, development and human rights.
He added: “Oman has been providing a very valuable venue for the UN Special Envoy and development agencies, engaged in peace mediation, as in the case of Special Envoy to Yemen Ismael Weld Al Sheikh Ahmed to facilitate peace talks in Yemen.
“We also hope to strengthen our partnership in implementing the sustainable development goals and climate change in the future with the UN.”
He concluded: “We are very much happy, and through this visit, I hope to be strengthen the partnership in the future”.
The meeting was attended from the Omani side by Dr. Ali bin Ahmed Al Isa’ee, Acting Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Diplomatic affairs and officials in the Foreign Ministry. Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Harib Al Busaidi, Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs also met Ban Ki-moon. Sayyid Badr wished the guest a successful visit to Oman. The two sides discussed matters of common concern.