UAE, Oman Discuss Boosting Relations

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan meets with Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat. (WAM)
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan meets with Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat. (WAM)
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UAE, Oman Discuss Boosting Relations

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan meets with Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat. (WAM)
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan meets with Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat. (WAM)

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the longstanding ties between UAE and Oman are characterized by a shared social and cultural fabric based on deep bonds of brotherly relations between the two nations.

Shiekh Mohammed arrived in Muscat Tuesday, marking the start of a two-day state visit to the Sultanate at the invitation of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, who welcomed the President upon his arrival at the Royal Private Airport in Muscat.

Sheikh Mohamed said the UAE and Oman benefit from diverse trade relations, which both leaders seek to expand through collaboration and investment.

He expressed his aspiration to work with Sultan Haitham to strengthen relations between the UAE and Oman in various fields and build solid foundations for the common future of their countries.

The President stressed that his country seeks to strengthen Gulf and Arab joint action and is keen to work with its brothers, starting with Oman.

He expressed his aspiration for more joint work with Sultanate during the coming period to strengthen peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.

Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed with official and cultural celebration upon his arrival at the al-Alam Palace in Muscat, accompanied by Sultan Haitham.

The talks between the leaders addressed the bilateral relations between their countries and ways to develop them to broader horizons of cooperation, coordination, and joint action in all fields to achieve their interests and promote development and prosperity for their peoples.

They addressed opportunities for building upon the growing economic ties between the UAE and Oman and areas where they can increase collaboration, including the investment, financial, industrial, and cultural sectors.

They also discussed the overall Gulf, Arab and international developments and issues of common concern.

After the official talks, Sheikh Mohamed and Sultan Haitham bin Tariq held closed-door talks.



Qatar Considers Shura Council Appointments Instead of Elections

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)
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Qatar Considers Shura Council Appointments Instead of Elections

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has directed the referral of proposed constitutional amendments, including the return to appointing members of the Shura Council, to the Council for consideration.

Speaking at the opening of the Shura Council's fourth ordinary session on Tuesday, Sheikh Tamim said: “Based on my responsibility and duty towards my country and my people for the good of the present and the future, I considered that these amendments fulfill the supreme interest of the state and promote the values of justice and equality in rights and duties among members of Qatari society.”

“I have directed that the draft constitutional and legislative amendments, including a return to the system for appointing members of the Shura Council, are to be referred to your esteemed Council for necessary action in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution,” he added.

“The Council of Ministers will take necessary measures on proposed amendments to laws and other legislative instruments in accordance with the law,” he said, reminding that the Shura Council is not a representative parliament in a democratic system, and its status and powers will not be affected whether its members are chosen by election or appointment.

The proposed amendments will be put to a public vote and will shift from an electoral system back to appointments.

Sheikh Tamim added that “there are many ways to consult with the Qatari people” and acknowledged that competition among Shura Council candidates occurs within families and tribes, affecting local traditions and social cohesion.

On October 1, 2021, Qatar conducted its first legislative elections since the Shura Council was established in 1972.

The Shura Council is the country’s legislative body. It discusses matters referred by the cabinet, including proposed laws and state policies, reviews the national budget, and asks ministers questions for clarification.

The Council can also make recommendations to the government on public policies. However, it does not have authority over defense, security, economic, or investment matters.