Muscat, Sultanate of Oman – Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Al Busaidi confirmed that the Sultanate of Oman refuses to impose any fees on ships crossing through the Strait of Hormuz.
He also stressed that his country’s position is based on the rules of international law and aims to guarantee freedom of navigation.
It also aims to maintain the flow of international trade in one of the most important strategic sea lanes in the world.
Refusal to impose navigation fees
The Omani Foreign Minister clarified that the Sultanate of Oman does not support imposing fees
or financial burdens on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
He added that freedom of navigation in international straits is a well-established principle of international law,
and that maintaining open sea lanes is a shared interest of all nations.
He emphasized that this is particularly important given
the global economy’s heavy reliance on trade and energy flows through this strait.
He further stated that his country adheres to the principle of respecting international obligations.
Moreover, Oman believes that guaranteeing freedom of navigation contributes to strengthening
regional stability and mitigating any tensions that could affect the security of global supply lines.
Understandings within the framework of international law
The Omani Foreign Minister stressed that any understandings or arrangements concerning
the Strait of Hormuz must remain within the framework of international law.
This ensures respect for the rights of all states and preserves the international nature of the waterway.
He affirmed that solutions based on consensus and adherence
to international conventions represent the best way to address any issues related to the Strait.
He noted that the Sultanate of Oman supports all efforts that contribute to strengthening maritime security
and stability and enhancing cooperation among the countries bordering the region.
He believes this serves their common interests.
Ensuring the security of the strait and the stability of the region
The Omani Foreign Minister affirmed his country’s commitment to ensuring safe, secure,
and free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz for all. He noted that the Sultanate of Oman continues to work with its regional
and international partners to support the security of maritime routes and protect the movement of commercial vessels.
This aims to guarantee the uninterrupted flow of global trade and energy,
and contributes to reducing tensions and enhancing stability in the region.
