Oman and Russia – 40 Years of Distinguished Relations

Russian Ambassador to Oman Oleg Levin gave an interview to Oman news agency on the occasion of upcoming His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s state visit to Russia on 21-21 April. The Ambassador underlined that it will «open new vistas for discussions on priorities and explore fresh cooperation pathways in diverse fields» (https://omannews.gov.om/topics/en/79/show/121836).

1.    How do you assess the significance of His Majesty’s visit to Russia, and to what extent do you believe this visit will contribute to strengthening bilateral relations in various spheres?

On April 21–22, His Majesty Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tarik will make a state visit to our country. In the Kremlin, he will meet with the President of the Russian Federation V.V.Putin, where the leaders of the two states will hold negotiations addressing a wide range of global political issues, furthering bilateral relations and cooperation.

This visit plays a very important role for both countries as it demonstrates long-standing mutual respect and friendship, and also opens up opportunities to discuss priorities and new directions for collaboration in different fields. It contributes to deepening trust between the leaders of our states, creating favorable conditions for closer interaction in trade, energy, investment, infrastructure, culture, and tourism. Moreover, such high-ranking visits help synchronize views on pressing international problems, sign important agreements, and establish closer ties on bilateral projects which will serve the interests of both nations and further strengthen bilateral ties.

2.    Oman and Russia are celebrating the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. How do you assess the progress achieved in bilateral relations, especially in the economic, trade, investment, and energy spheres?

The 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations confirms the steady development and strength of ties between Russia and Oman. Our relations are traditionally friendly. Over the years, the two countries have significantly expanded the range of joint activities, going beyond the traditional trade in raw materials. In the economic and trade fields, there is a gradual increase in trade turnover, although in absolute terms the volumes remain relatively modest. The mutual interest in diversifying cooperation areas—such as tourism and agriculture—emphasizes the willingness to seek new forms of interaction that serve the interests of our friendly countries.

In the investment sphere, both sides actively explore opportunities to implement joint projects in logistics, infrastructure, and high technology, leveraging Oman’s convenient geographic location and Russia’s technological resources. In the energy sector both parties attach great importance to joint initiatives in oil, gas, and renewable energy sources, jointly striving to ensure stability in global energy markets.

3.    Over the past 40 years of close relations, there has been a harmony in the positions of both countries on regional and international issues. How do you assess this harmony, and to what extent has it contributed to the development of relations between Oman and Russia, especially at the political level?

Russia and Oman indeed demonstrate congruence on many current global policy issues, particularly in their commitment to diplomatic methods of conflict resolution, respect for state sovereignty, and non-interference in internal affairs. Such alignment of viewpoints enables our countries to actively cooperate at various multilateral forums and international organizations, including the UN.

This is especially important for maintaining trust at the political level. Regular contacts and delegation visits allow us to discuss urgent issues on the international and regional agendas, develop coordinated approaches, and avoid misunderstandings. As a result, a strong political basis is established, which assists other areas of cooperation, whether in economics, investment, or culture.

4.    What are the main areas of cooperation between Oman and Russia? How can both countries increase mutual trade volumes?

The key areas of interaction between our countries include energy, logistics, infrastructure, agriculture, food security, culture, and tourism. Russia and Oman are considering joint projects for oil and gas exploration, port modernization, and transport logistics, as well as the production and supply of food items and agricultural products. In tourism, we see growing interest among Russian travelers in Oman, and correspondingly, the appeal of Russia as a tourist destination for Omanis.

To increase the volume of mutual trade, it is necessary to step up business contacts, business visits, and exhibitions, as well as simplify customs procedures. Encouraging private-sector partnerships will likewise facilitate trade growth and create new opportunities for its expansion. The agreements to be signed in Moscow will also contribute to this end.

5.    Which key sectors are both countries focusing on when expanding bilateral cooperation?

Although energy, infrastructure, and logistics have long been major areas of cooperation, in recent years there has been a growing emphasis on renewable energy, technology, healthcare, and cultural-educational exchange. Both countries recognize the importance of transitioning to sustainable energy sources and are exploring joint projects in solar energy technologies. In the technology sector, Russia boasts significant scientific and technical expertise, while Oman aims to diversify its economy through innovative investments.

A particularly illustrative element is collaboration in the cultural sphere. Intensive cooperation is underway between the museums of both countries. For example, at the beginning of 2025, a section of the State Hermitage opened in the National Museum of Oman. Additionally, exhibitions of the Kremlin Museums and the Tretyakov Gallery are planned. In 2025, the “Russian Seasons” are also taking place in Oman, which have already brought several ensembles, ballet and opera performances during the first quarter of this year and will continue throughout the year, including cooperation with the Royal Opera House Muscat.

6.    How can both countries strengthen their cooperation? Which major joint projects open up new opportunities for both parties?

Strengthening cooperation requires coordinated efforts at various levels—from business contacts to stimulating the private sector and implementing joint research programs. An important step is to simplify visa procedures and create an attractive tax environment in order to encourage business and investment. Joint research and development centers in the fields of energy, technology, healthcare, and agriculture will enable the accumulation of knowledge and facilitate faster progress toward new discoveries.

Right now, special attention is being paid to projects in the “green” and digital economy. Both countries can benefit from jointly developing solar and wind power in Oman, making use of Russian technologies and expertise. In the digital sphere, innovative clusters dealing with artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analysis hold promising prospects. Furthermore, the development of logistics corridors that link Omani ports (Duqm, Salalah, Sohar) with Russian transport networks will enhance our positions in regional and global markets. All these areas not only contribute to economic growth but also bring our countries closer together in political and cultural spheres, laying a solid foundation for continued partnerships for the benefit of our friendly nations and people.