London, October 20: Sultan Haitham bin Tarik of Oman began a three-day state visit to Britain on Tuesday, with regional security and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz expected to feature prominently in discussions.
King Charles III is scheduled to welcome the Omani ruler at Windsor Castle with a ceremonial reception, including a royal gun salute, a carriage procession and a military guard of honour. A state banquet is also planned for Tuesday evening.
On Wednesday, Sultan Haitham is expected to hold talks with British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and address business leaders in London before concluding his visit on Thursday.
Oman occupies a strategically important position along the Strait of Hormuz, a vital international shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf with global markets. The waterway is particularly significant for the transportation of oil and other energy supplies.
The Gulf nation has sought to maintain a neutral position in the conflict between the United States and Iran while pursuing diplomatic efforts to secure a peaceful resolution. However, Oman has also faced drone and missile attacks attributed to Iran amid the escalating tensions.
According to the British prime minister’s office, Sultan Haitham briefed Burnham on developments in the Strait of Hormuz during a conversation on Monday. The two leaders also discussed peace talks held in Pakistan over the weekend and called for efforts to resolve the conflict without further escalation.
Burnham’s office said the prime minister reaffirmed Britain’s commitment to safeguarding Oman’s security.
The visit comes as Britain seeks to strengthen ties with Oman, a strategically important regional partner with longstanding diplomatic and military connections to the United Kingdom.
Britain has maintained close defence cooperation with Oman since the Gulf nation gained independence in 1951. British Royal Air Force personnel continue to serve in various roles within the Omani air force, while the UK naval facility at Duqm, on Oman’s Arabian Sea coast, supports British military operations across the wider Gulf region.
The Sultan’s visit is expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to discuss regional stability, maritime security, energy supplies and broader bilateral cooperation at a time of heightened uncertainty in the Middle East.
