Sultan Haitham Reaffirms Oman’s Commitment to UNESCO

Paris, The Gulf Observer: Sultan Haitham bin Tarik reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation in education, science, culture and sustainable development during a visit to the headquarters of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris on Tuesday as part of his official visit to France.

Upon his arrival at UNESCO headquarters, Sultan Haitham was received by UNESCO Director-General Dr. Khaled El-Enany, Omani Minister of Education Dr. Madiha bint Ahmed Al Shaibani, Oman’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO Amina bint Salem Al Balushi, and senior officials of the organization.

The Sultan toured the “Oman and UNESCO” exhibition, which highlighted the longstanding partnership between Oman and UNESCO and showcased the country’s achievements in the fields of education, culture and heritage preservation.

Addressing a gathering at UNESCO’s main hall, Director-General Dr. Khaled El-Enany welcomed the Omani monarch and praised the Sultanate’s contribution to promoting dialogue, mutual understanding and cultural cooperation among nations.

In his keynote address, Sultan Haitham emphasized Oman’s unwavering support for the international rules-based order and UNESCO’s mission of promoting peace through education, science and culture.

He said the visit reflected Oman’s longstanding commitment to strengthening international partnerships, fostering intercultural dialogue, promoting mutual understanding and advancing sustainable development to ensure global stability and prosperity.

The Sultan noted that Oman has actively supported UNESCO’s objectives since joining the organization in 1972, guided by the belief that protecting cultural heritage, advancing knowledge and investing in human capital are essential foundations for building a sustainable future.

He highlighted Oman’s efforts to preserve its civilizational heritage, including the inscription of several cultural and natural sites on UNESCO’s World Heritage List and the recognition of prominent Omani historical figures and events within UNESCO’s commemorative programmes.

During his address, Sultan Haitham announced the launch of the UNESCO–Sultan Haitham Prize for Intangible Cultural Heritage, an international award designed to recognize institutions, research centers, cultural organizations and governmental and non-governmental bodies working to safeguard intangible cultural heritage around the world.

He said the initiative builds on Oman’s continued support for environmental conservation, scientific research, knowledge development and UNESCO-affiliated academic chairs.

The Sultan also reaffirmed UNESCO’s central role in promoting quality and inclusive education, empowering young people, encouraging innovation and strengthening dialogue among cultures.

Addressing emerging global challenges, he stressed the importance of establishing ethical frameworks for artificial intelligence that protect human rights and human dignity while promoting media and information literacy to build informed and resilient societies.

On climate action, Sultan Haitham said Oman views combating climate change as a shared global responsibility requiring effective international partnerships and innovative solutions that balance economic development with environmental protection. He highlighted the country’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality through expanding renewable energy and green hydrogen projects, improving resource efficiency and supporting clean technologies.

The Omani leader further emphasized that promoting coexistence among religions and cultures has become a strategic necessity for achieving international peace and security, underscoring the importance of dialogue, tolerance, mutual respect and acceptance of diversity in building a more stable and just world.

Reaffirming Oman’s support for UNESCO’s evolving institutional role, Sultan Haitham said the organization’s priorities are closely aligned with Oman Vision 2040, and pledged continued cooperation with the international community to strengthen UNESCO’s work in education, science, culture and communication.

Following his address, Sultan Haitham signed UNESCO’s Distinguished Visitors’ Book, expressing appreciation for the organization’s efforts in advancing education, preserving global cultural heritage and serving humanity.

The visit concluded with an exchange of commemorative gifts, during which UNESCO presented a souvenir to Sultan Haitham, while the Omani monarch gifted the organization a replica of the historic Shabab Oman vessel as a symbol of Oman’s maritime heritage and longstanding engagement with the international community.