Kim Hyun-bin began his journalism career at Arirang TV from 2012 to 2017, specializing in defense, foreign affairs and the economy. In 2018, he joined The Korea Times, covering society and business, and is currently responsible for embassy affairs.
Omani envoy highlights deepening ties with Korea at National Day reception
Omani Ambassador to Korea Zakariya Al Saadi speaks during Oman National Day events in Seoul, Thursday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin
By Kim Hyun-bin
Omani Ambassador to Korea Zakariya Al Saadi reaffirmed the two countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation in clean energy, security, culture and economic development as Oman celebrated its National Day in Seoul on Thursday.
Speaking at the reception, Al Saadi said relations between Oman and Korea continued to grow “as a distinguished model of friendship and cooperation founded on mutual respect and shared interests.” He highlighted the momentum gained through high-level visits and expanded political and economic dialogue, noting that celebrations for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties — established in 1974 — underscored the historic depth of the relationship.
Al Saadi said bilateral trade surpassed $5.66 billion this year and praised Korea’s investments in energy, green hydrogen and infrastructure projects that aligned with Oman Vision 2040, a government development program. He cited “tangible progress” in green hydrogen cooperation, reflecting the countries’ shared commitment to a global clean-energy transition.
He also said cultural and tourism exchanges have broadened, helping strengthen people-to-people ties. Domestically, Oman is continuing its modernization drive under His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, with non-oil sectors now contributing more than 65 percent of GDP and new environmental policies supporting Oman’s target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
“The Sultanate advances with confidence toward its strategic aspirations, balancing development with environmental preservation and upholding values of justice and tolerance,” he said. He thanked the Korean government and private sector for their support and partnership.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister for Public Affairs Lee Jae-woong delivered congratulatory remarks, praising Oman’s long-standing commitment to peace, dialogue and inclusiveness in the Middle East. “It is my honor to join you this evening as we celebrate the National Day of the Sultanate of Oman, a nation that has long championed stability and mutual understanding,” he said.
Lee said Korea and Oman have built “a strong and mutually beneficial partnership” over the past five decades and are now entering “the beginning of another half-century of expanded cooperation.” Korea, he said, is focused on transforming potential areas of collaboration into concrete outcomes across traditional and emerging sectors.
He highlighted clean energy cooperation as a central pillar, pointing to the completion in January of the 500-megawatt Manah Solar Power Project, Oman’s largest solar initiative, with participation from Korea Western Power. “This project enables Oman to generate substantial clean electricity and demonstrates the value of our cooperation in sustainable energy,” he said.
Lee also noted ongoing defense and maritime cooperation, including the successful deployment of Korean naval units to the Gulf of Aden since 2009, supported by Omani coordination that “has strengthened maritime security in the region.”
He emphasized the rapid rise of cultural and educational exchanges, saying K-pop, Korean dramas and other cultural content are increasingly popular in Oman, and that many Korean students study Arabic and Omani culture at institutions such as Sultan Qaboos University. “These people-to-people exchanges among the younger generation are the foundation for broader future cooperation,” he said.
Lee added that President Lee Jae Myung’s recent Middle East diplomacy — including his state visit to the United Arab Emirates — reflects Korea’s commitment to deepening ties with the region. He underscored Oman’s role as “a friend to all,” saying Korea seeks to work closely with Muscat to promote peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and across the Middle East.