Muscat: His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, in the company of French President Emmanuel Macron, attended the Omani-Franco Business Forum in Paris as part of His Majesty's official visit to France. The event highlighted the strengthening economic and investment ties between the two countries.
According to Oman News Agency, the forum, organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) and Business France, with support from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and the Oman Investment Authority (OIA), aimed at enhancing cooperative relations. His Majesty praised the growing partnership between Oman and France, emphasizing the need to explore new investment opportunities for future collaborative ventures.
The forum saw the signing of various agreements in sectors such as energy, industry, education, technology, aviation, and space. Notably, Omani spaceport company "Etlaq" partnered with French firm "Latitude" for rocket launches, while "Ankaa Space and Technologies" inked a deal with "Thales" to upgrade air traffic control systems in Oman. In transport, Al Hashar Group and Renault agreed on vehicle distribution, and Mohsin Haider Darwish Group teamed with "Michelin" for tire supply.
In the energy sector, National Energy and Engineering Company partnered with "Sagemcom" to produce smart electricity meters, while Al Fajar Al Alamia Company and "Saint-Gobain" explored natural gypsum investments. A significant partnership between Amouage Perfumes and L'Or©al aims to advance fragrance manufacturing and talent development.
The forum also announced a 120-megawatt wind power plant project, set for completion in 2025 through a partnership between Bahwan Group and EDF Group. A satellite development contract between Oman's Space Communication Technologies and Airbus Defence and Space was also unveiled.
Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of OCCI, highlighted the forum as a testament to Oman's commitment to fostering strategic partnerships under His Majesty's leadership, enhancing its reputation as a reliable economic partner. The agreements signed at the forum are seen as steps towards economic diversification, aligning with Oman Vision 2040.
The forum's outcomes represent a deepening of Omani-French economic ties, paving the way for broader cooperation across various sectors and supporting mutual aspirations for sustainable development. The event was attended by His Majesty's official delegation, along with French officials and business leaders.