Oman,
Japan Emphasize Importance of Political Solution to De-escalate Tensions

Muscat,
20 Aug 2026 (ONA) — The Sultanate of Oman and Japan emphasized the importance
of reaching a final agreement and a political solution that leads to the
de-escalation of tensions in the region. They also stressed the need to
intensify international efforts to ensure the freedom of maritime navigation in
the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law, and to guarantee the
seamless flow of maritime traffic and energy supplies.

This
came during a joint press conference held today by Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al
Busaidi, Foreign Minister, and Motegi Toshimitsu, Japan’s Minister for Foreign
Affairs.

Sayyid
Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister, affirmed that Omani-Japanese
relations are built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to peace
and stability. He noted that next year marks the 55th anniversary of the
establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, representing
an opportunity to set an even more ambitious course for the future of the
partnership between the Sultanate of Oman and Japan.

He
stated that economic ties are an important pillar of this partnership,
welcoming the growing interest and engagement of Japanese companies in Oman,
particularly in the sectors of energy, renewables and low-carbon technologies,
logistics, and infrastructure.

Sayyid
Badr expressed his optimism that going forward, Omani-Japanese cooperation will
be further enhanced in a number of sectors, including space, green
manufacturing, and advanced technology.

He
pointed out that the Sultanate of Oman looks forward to a positive outcome
regarding the free trade agreement discussions between Japan and GCC countries,
explaining that reaching an agreement would enable the boosting of bilateral
trade, investment, and supply chain security for mutual benefit.

He
also noted the significant increase in tourism and cultural exchange between
the Sultanate of Oman and Japan in recent years, through events led by the
embassies of both countries, as well as participation in the remarkable 2025
Expo in Osaka.

The
Foreign Minister explained that he exchanged views with the Japanese Foreign
Minister regarding regional developments, particularly concerning the Strait of
Hormuz. He affirmed that safe passage through the Strait is inseparable from
the security and prosperity of the wider region, as it is one of the most
important shipping routes in the world, adding that people and economies far
beyond the region depend on the energy and commodities that travel through it.

He
affirmed that the Sultanate of Oman is unwavering in its commitment to maritime
security, international law, and the prevention of further escalation or
conflict. He stressed that guaranteeing sustainable security in the Strait of
Hormuz requires lasting peace in the region through restraint, diplomacy, and
sustained engagement to address the underlying causes of instability, including
policies of exclusion and non-adherence to international law.

The
Foreign Minister reiterated the Sultanate of Oman’s determination to continue
working with Japan and all international partners in support of dialogue,
justice, and peaceful solutions. He pointed out that at a time of considerable
uncertainty in the region and the world, partnerships grounded in trust,
pragmatism, and diplomacy are more important than ever.

He
also expressed his thanks to his Japanese counterpart for the constructive
discussions that took place today, confirming his anticipation to continue the
close cooperation between the two countries as they begin an even stronger
chapter in Omani-Japanese relations.

On
his part, Motegi Toshimitsu, Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed
his appreciation for the longstanding support the Sultanate of Oman provides in
serving international peace and security, noting the agreement to continue
deepening exchanges and cooperation in this field.

He
stated that Japan is currently developing a comprehensive cooperation plan to
strengthen the economic and energy resilience in light of the current situation
in the Middle East. He added that the Sultanate of Oman is actively pursuing
water desalination projects and environmentally friendly steel production,
affirming that his country hopes to play an active role in these areas.

The
Japanese official added that the situation surrounding Iran is reaching a
highly critical stage, expressing his anticipation for candid discussions aimed
at de-escalating the situation as soon as possible, and confirming close
coordination with the Sultanate of Oman toward ensuring free and safe
navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait.

He
affirmed that Japan and the Sultanate of Oman, as Comprehensive Partners, have
been strengthening cooperation in a wide range of areas in recent years, going
beyond cooperation in the energy sector.

He
noted that his meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister covered a number of areas,
including energy, defense, education, and tourism, and witnessed very
constructive discussions that reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to
further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Motegi
Toshimitsu, Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed his country’s
gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman for its longstanding and stable supply of
crude oil and LNG. He affirmed the two countries’ intention to further promote
cooperation in clean energy, including the development of hydrogen and ammonia.

—Ends/AG