Oman and Bahrain Signs 25 New Agreements
Wide-ranging MoUs and executive programmes aim to boost cooperation in health, education, economy, and more.
Oman and Bahrain have deepened their partnership with the signing of 25 memoranda of understanding (MoUs), agreements, and executive programmes. These initiatives cover diverse fields, including culture, education, health, economy, food security, and renewable energy. The agreements were finalized during Bahrain King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's state visit to Oman.
Key Agreements Across Multiple Sectors
The new collaborations include five MoUs between ministries in both nations. These focus on healthcare, education, labour, media, and agriculture. Notable agreements include:
Meteorology
A partnership between Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority and Bahrain’s Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications.
Human Trafficking
A joint effort by Oman’s National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking and Bahrain’s Labour Market Regulatory Authority.
Public Administration
A collaboration between Oman’s Royal Academy of Management and Bahrain’s Institute of Public Administration.
Other significant deals include MoUs in insurance, social protection, and economic zones, showcasing the commitment to building a comprehensive partnership.
Economic and Taxation Agreements
In the economic sphere, Oman’s Tax Authority and Bahrain’s National Bureau of Revenue signed an agreement to eliminate double taxation, aiming to enhance trade and investment opportunities. Additionally, Oman Investment Authority partnered with Bahrain’s Mumtalakat Holding Company on investment initiatives, while Muscat Stock Exchange and Bahrain Stock Exchange agreed on closer cooperation.
Boosting Food Security and Energy Collaboration
Oman and Bahrain have prioritized food security with agreements between Oman’s Nitaj and Bahrain’s Ghithaa. Renewable energy is another area of focus, with a joint executive programme signed by the two countries' energy ministries to explore electricity and sustainable energy solutions.
Cultural and Educational Ties
Cultural collaboration was strengthened through agreements between the National Museum of Oman and Bahrain National Museum, focusing on museum activities and heritage preservation. Additionally, education authorities in both nations signed an executive programme to enhance school quality standards.
Leaders Committed to Progress
The agreements were signed by top officials from Oman and Bahrain, including Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Hamad Al Busaidi and Bahrain’s Minister of Finance Sheikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.