Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman and the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria are working to elevate their half-century-old fraternal relations, as both nations continue to see growth in political, economic, and cultural areas. This collaboration includes projects in renewable energy, petrochemicals, desert agriculture, technology, and tourism. The bilateral relations are marked by shared visions on regional and international issues, contributing to Arab solidarity and regional security.
According to Oman News Agency, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik is set to make a historic state visit to Algeria, meeting President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. This visit highlights the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. During President Tebboune’s visit to Oman last October, eight memoranda of understanding were signed, covering sectors such as investment, education, and media, along with the establishment of a joint investment fund.
Saif Nasser Al Badai, Oman’s ambassador to Algeria, emphasized the significance of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s visit, noting the progress in bilateral relations. The visit is expected to yield positive outcomes for future cooperation. The ambassador highlighted the creation of a joint investment fund that will facilitate projects in energy, petrochemicals, and other sectors.
In February, an Omani ministerial delegation visited Algeria to discuss investment opportunities. Similarly, an Algerian delegation visited Oman to enhance cooperation in transport and logistics. The ambassador expressed optimism about the future of economic partnerships and noted a significant increase in registered companies with Algerian contributions.
Cultural and academic collaborations are also a focus, with efforts to increase Omani student scholarships in Algerian universities. The Omani-Algerian Joint Committee has played a pivotal role in advancing partnership initiatives since the 1990s, resulting in numerous agreements to reinforce cooperation.
Faisal Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, spoke about the upcoming visit as a historic step to deepen trade and economic collaborations. He stressed the importance of these relations in driving both economies toward sustainable development.
Preliminary data indicates a 48% increase in trade volume between Oman and Algeria in 2024, reflecting the strengthening economic ties. Notably, SOGEX Oman became the first Omani company to invest in Algeria, developing power and desalination plants. The Suhail Bahwan Group also formed a strategic partnership with Algeria’s Sonatracb, establishing a urea complex to enhance Algeria’s petrochemical industry.
The ambassador and business leaders remain optimistic about the prospects of these collaborations, anticipating further growth and partnership opportunities in the coming period.