Week 0 - Introduction to Oman's Foreign Policy

Hey everyone! I’m Jay!

The world is filled with wars and strife, but recently, the Middle East has been in the limelight for major conflicts. But through the crises, one country has stood strong, not only surviving, but thriving as well. Oman, a coastal country in the southern Middle East, has gained a reputation for promoting peace and mitigating conflict. But how has Oman remained so stable, while the world around it descended into chaos?

My grandfather, a resident of Oman since 1970, has been a part of the country’s prosperous trajectory from the very beginning. His establishment of a food manufacturing company, Oman Foodstuff Factory LLC, exporting products across the Middle East and Africa, put him at the intersection of commerce and diplomacy. Through his business, I observed firsthand the connections between economics and diplomatic relations, and this sparked my interest in Oman’s foreign policy and its real-world implications. I believe that Oman’s foreign policy, which is based on non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs, desire to stay away from trouble, and tolerance has given Oman stability, respect, and global prominence.  

Furthermore, my visit to the United Nations earlier this year, where I had the privilege of meeting with the Ambassador of Oman to the United Nations, Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan, reinforced my interest in the foreign affairs of Oman. The collaborative and inspired environment at the UN left me in awe, further fueling my curiosity about the global impact of Oman’s foreign policy.

This research project seeks to dive into Oman’s foreign policy, focusing on the nation’s unique position of neutrality and security in the volatile Middle East. This study will concentrate specifically on Oman’s foreign relations, examining how the country has achieved and maintained its peaceful stance amid regional conflicts and diplomatic challenges. The aim of this project is to unravel the pattern of events that define Oman’s foreign policy, exploring the reasons behind its consistent commitment to mediation, peace diplomacy, and global engagement.

I’ll keep you guys posted every week! Come back to discover why Oman is so successful at keeping foreign peace!