Sultan Haitham Chairs Cabinet Meeting, Announces Key Economic and Governance Reforms

Muscat, The Gulf Observer: His Majesty Haitham bin Tarik presided over a meeting of the Council of Ministers at Al Barakah Palace on Monday, during which a series of major economic, governance, social and security initiatives were announced to advance national development and strengthen the Sultanate’s institutional framework.

At the outset of the meeting, His Majesty expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the blessings bestowed upon Oman and prayed for continued security, stability and prosperity for the nation, its people and residents.

As part of efforts to build a competitive economy and strengthen the role of the private sector, the Sultan directed the establishment of the Economic Coordination Council, which will be chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs. The council will work to align government policies with private sector needs, monitor global economic developments, support economic diversification and enhance the contribution of private enterprise to national growth.

In a move aimed at strengthening public participation and promoting women’s representation, His Majesty ordered the allocation of an additional seat for women in each governorate within the Shura Council, increasing the total number of reserved seats for women to eleven.

Reviewing the results of government performance assessments for 2025, the Sultan commended institutions that achieved the highest performance levels and those that recorded the most significant improvements. He emphasized the importance of translating institutional progress into improved public services, greater citizen satisfaction and a more attractive business environment in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.

The Council also discussed the growing influence of digital media platforms on children. His Majesty instructed relevant authorities to study the issue comprehensively and develop regulatory mechanisms to guide children’s use of digital platforms while supporting families in managing online engagement based on international best practices.

Cybersecurity received special attention during the meeting, with the Council stressing the need for all government institutions to prioritize cybersecurity initiatives and continuously address emerging challenges in coordination with relevant authorities amid rapid technological developments.

To improve governance and maximize the value of public assets, the Council approved the establishment of the Government Assets Authority. The new body will oversee the management and investment of state-owned fixed assets, ensuring transparency, enhancing oversight and transforming government assets into sustainable sources of economic value that support the national budget.

The Council also reviewed employment-related initiatives undertaken by government institutions and the private sector. While commending ongoing efforts to create job opportunities for Omani citizens, ministers emphasized the need to raise employment targets and expand initiatives that support workforce development and job creation.

On foreign policy, the Council praised Oman’s launch of the “Muscat Plan” in cooperation with the United Nations, describing it as a reflection of the Sultanate’s longstanding commitment to dialogue, understanding and humanitarian partnership. The Council reaffirmed Oman’s principled stance on respecting national sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs and resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

The Cabinet welcomed the understanding reached between the United States and Iran, expressing appreciation for regional and international efforts that contributed to easing tensions. Particular recognition was given to the role played by member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Pakistan in supporting regional security and stability.

His Majesty also commended the rapid response of Oman’s military and security institutions in safeguarding national interests and stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance to protect security and stability. He reaffirmed Oman’s neutral and balanced diplomatic approach and its commitment to ensuring the safety of maritime navigation and freedom of passage through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.

Addressing the economic impact of recent regional developments, the Sultan praised measures taken by public and private sector institutions to secure supplies, facilitate transportation and maintain the flow of goods and people. He directed authorities to continue strengthening national and regional coordination mechanisms, including joint Gulf cooperation frameworks, to mitigate potential disruptions.

In addition, His Majesty ordered the introduction of a support package for national economic sectors, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises affected by recent developments, to help reduce economic pressures and maintain business continuity.

The Sultan also praised the constructive contributions of Omani citizens and highlighted the role of national media in presenting the Sultanate’s positions with balance, professionalism and a focus on the national interest.

Reviewing Oman’s relations with friendly and sisterly nations, His Majesty emphasized the importance of leveraging the Sultanate’s strong international partnerships to deepen economic cooperation, promote mutual interests and contribute to long-term prosperity and stability across the region and beyond.

Concluding the meeting, Sultan Haitham prayed for continued success in efforts aimed at advancing Oman’s development and ensuring prosperity for its people.