Oman Participates in Gulf-US Summit in Riyadh

Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: On behalf of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, His Highness Sayyid Asa’ad bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs and Personal Representative of His Majesty the Sultan, led the Sultanate of Oman’s delegation at the Gulf-US Summit held in Riyadh today.

Delivering a speech during the summit, HH Sayyid Asa’ad conveyed the greetings of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and his sincere wishes for the success of the high-level meeting. He extended deep appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for their kind invitation and gracious hospitality, and to the United States for its constructive and enduring partnership with the region.

“We meet here today at a historical moment, one that we hope will shape a better future for the Middle East and chart a path of stability, prosperity, and goodwill for all,” HH Sayyid Asa’ad stated. “Gulf-US relations are longstanding and strategic, grounded in a shared commitment to political, economic, technological, and defense integration, and in joint efforts to resolve regional and international crises.”

Highlighting regional challenges, HH Sayyid Asa’ad expressed Oman’s deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing it as the result of decades of illegal Israeli occupation and the international community’s failure to secure a just peace. He affirmed that a comprehensive solution lies in the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, enabling both Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace and dignity.

The Omani representative praised recent steps toward regional de-escalation and peace, including the role of the United States under President Donald Trump in supporting a ceasefire in Yemen and ensuring maritime security in the Red Sea. He also welcomed the ongoing dialogue between the United States and Iran on nuclear non-proliferation, which he said reflects a spirit of mutual respect and practical diplomacy.

“The Trump administration’s pursuit of strategic diplomacy—based on dialogue rather than confrontation—has created a path for real and positive change in our region,” HH Sayyid Asa’ad noted.

His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also addressed the summit, emphasizing the strategic nature of Gulf-US ties and their evolution into a model of cooperative engagement. He stressed the importance of economic partnership, noting that bilateral trade between the GCC and the United States reached approximately $120 billion in 2024.

Prince Mohammed reiterated the region’s aspiration for peace through sustainable development and called for a lasting solution to the Palestinian cause based on the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international resolutions.

In his address, US President Donald Trump lauded the GCC countries for their stability and global economic importance, praising their efforts in de-escalating tensions in Gaza and promoting peace.

Also speaking at the summit, Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, commended Oman’s pivotal diplomatic role in facilitating the US-Yemen ceasefire. He emphasized the GCC’s belief that regional stability is a shared responsibility and reaffirmed the importance of the US-GCC partnership in achieving a balanced and integrated regional order.

King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa of Bahrain expressed hope for deeper cooperation to ensure the region’s security and prosperity. He advocated for a Two-State Solution for Palestine and supported efforts to rid the region of weapons of mass destruction.

GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohamed Al Budaiwi highlighted the robust foundation of the Gulf-US partnership and its potential for expanded cooperation in fields such as technology, clean energy, and artificial intelligence. He echoed calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and stressed the importance of ensuring long-term peace and security for the Palestinian people.

The summit focused on enhancing strategic and economic cooperation between the GCC and the United States, with discussions encompassing regional stability, trade, innovation, and pressing global challenges.