New york: The Sultanate of Oman participated in the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF), held under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. Abdulhalim Mubarak Al Rawahi, a member of the Permanent Mission of the Sultanate of Oman to the United Nations, emphasized Oman's commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by integrating its goals into Oman Vision 2040 and its development plans.

According to Oman News Agency, Al Rawahi highlighted the Sultanate's focus on economic diversification, digital transformation, and investment in human capital, which are key elements of Oman's 11th Five-Year Development Plan (2026-2030). He outlined efforts in sustainable water management through desalination projects and the reuse of treated wastewater, aimed at enhancing water security amid climate change.

Al Rawahi further noted Oman's accelerated expansion of renewable energy and green hydrogen projects, aiming for net-zero carbon neutrality by 2050. He stressed the importance of funding and technology transfer for an equitable energy transition. The forum's timing was deemed critical, with global challenges such as conflicts and climate change necessitating renewed commitment and international cooperation.

Oman's focus on industry, innovation, and digital transformation is central to its economic diversification, supported by infrastructure development, digital economy promotion, and SME support. Al Rawahi emphasized balanced spatial development policies and improved decentralization to enhance city quality and basic services.

He reiterated the significance of international partnerships in achieving sustainable development, highlighting Oman's efforts to improve its investment environment, financial sustainability, and national statistical system. These efforts support evidence-based decision-making and efficient monitoring of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Al Rawahi concluded by asserting that peace and development are interconnected, with Oman's foreign policy rooted in dialogue and peaceful coexistence. He underscored Oman's collaboration with the United Nations and global partners to achieve fair and sustainable development for a better future.