The Philippines and Oman have pledged to maintain consistent dialogue and top-level exchanges to deepen bilateral cooperation across trade, investment, finance, tourism, and education.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi met on the sidelines of the 3rd Philippines-Oman Investment Forum in Makati City on Sunday, July 26.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), both leaders explored strategic paths to solidify economic ties and agreed to sustain frequent high-level visits and regular consultations. The two ministers also reviewed regional and global issues of mutual interest.
During their talks, Lazaro and Albusaidi welcomed the advancement of two major pacts—the Philippines-Oman Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and the Philippines-Oman Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement—expressing confidence that both agreements will be finalized in the coming months.
Addressing the forum, Secretary Lazaro emphasized that the gathering of top business executives highlights the expanding commercial momentum between Manila and Muscat.
“Our bilateral relations have been anchored on trade in energy and the valuable contributions of the Filipino community in Oman. As we look forward, we must build on this solid foundation by maximizing our positions as regional gateways and deepening our commercial ties,” Lazaro said.
Lazaro also expressed gratitude to Minister Albusaidi for attending the 50th-anniversary commemoration of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia on July 24.
Furthermore, she commended Oman’s decision to lift visa requirements for Filipino tourists, noting it will significantly boost tourism, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections.
The discussions coincided with the 3rd Oman-Philippines Strategic Majlis, an initiative aimed at expanding two-way trade, attracting joint ventures, and promoting innovation and regional stability between both nations.