Sultan Haitham bin Tarik Al Said has begun a landmark state visit to the United Kingdom, becoming the first Omani ruler to make an official state visit to Britain in 44 years.

The Omani monarch received a ceremonial red-carpet welcome at Windsor Castle, where he was greeted by King Charles III, Queen Camilla and other members of the British royal family.

A state banquet in honour of Sultan Haitham is scheduled to be hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla as part of the three-day visit, underscoring the longstanding ties between the two countries.

Talks to focus on strategic cooperation

As part of his programme, Sultan Haitham is scheduled to hold talks with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham at 10 Downing Street on Wednesday.

The discussions are expected to cover bilateral relations, trade, investment, defence cooperation, energy, regional security and other issues of mutual interest.

Britain and Oman have maintained close political, economic and military relations for decades, with the two countries cooperating in areas ranging from defence and maritime security to education, infrastructure and investment.

First state visit by an Omani Sultan since 1982

The visit marks the first official state visit to the United Kingdom by an Omani sultan since March 1982, when Queen Elizabeth II welcomed the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Since assuming power in 2020, Sultan Haitham has pursued efforts to strengthen Oman's international partnerships while continuing the country's long-standing policy of balanced diplomacy and regional engagement.

Longstanding partnership

The United Kingdom remains one of Oman's closest international partners, with the two countries sharing deep historical ties dating back more than two centuries.

Their cooperation extends across defence, trade, energy and security, while Oman continues to play an important diplomatic role in promoting dialogue and stability in the Gulf region.

Sultan Haitham's visit is expected to reaffirm the strategic partnership between Muscat and London and provide an opportunity for both sides to discuss regional developments and ways to further expand bilateral cooperation.(ILKHA)