site.btaFirst Official Visit of Omani FM to Bulgaria Marks Milestone in Bilateral Ties

In a historic first, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, paid an official visit to Bulgaria from July 2 to 4, 2025, at the invitation of Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev. The visit marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations and laid the groundwork for a strategic partnership between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Sultanate of Oman.

The visit, the first of its kind since the establishment of diplomatic ties, was described by both sides as a historic beginning. It was aimed at elevating bilateral cooperation across key areas including energy, trade, investment, innovation, and regional security.

A central highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on energy cooperation between the Ministries of Energy of the two countries. Signed during a trilateral meeting involving Bulgarian Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov, Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev, and Minister Al Busaidi, the MoU outlines mutual commitments in energy security, renewable energy development, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade. The agreement establishes a framework for joint investments, technology transfer, and long-term public-private partnerships. Both sides emphasized the strategic value of such cooperation, with Bulgaria underscoring its role as a regional energy hub and Oman expressing strong interest in Bulgaria's experience in energy diversification.

Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov also conferred with Al Busaidi and expressed deep gratitude for Oman’s pivotal role in securing the release of Bulgarian sailors from the hijacked Galaxy Leader ship in January. Zhelyazkov praised Oman’s “responsible and decisive” conduct in resolving the humanitarian crisis, calling it a testament to the strong spirit of friendship between the two nations.

Both leaders voiced determination to build on the momentum of this visit by institutionalizing bilateral dialogue and enhancing collaboration in sectors such as digital transformation, tourism, education, and artificial intelligence. The upcoming visit of Oman's Minister of Economy to Bulgaria was noted as a key opportunity to strengthen economic ties and potentially establish a joint mechanism for regular consultations.

During a news conference, Foreign Minister Georgiev announced Bulgaria’s intent to open a diplomatic mission in Oman, voicing hope that Muscat would reciprocate by opening an embassy in Sofia. He highlighted the shared values and balanced foreign policies of both countries, as well as their mutual roles in promoting regional peace and dialogue – particularly in the Middle East and Europe.

Minister Al Busaidi reaffirmed Oman’s commitment to furthering cooperation and lauded Bulgaria’s hospitality. He emphasized that Oman’s actions—particularly in assisting Bulgarian citizens—were rooted in friendship and a sense of moral duty. The Omani delegation expressed enthusiasm for activating business, cultural, and scientific exchanges, and welcomed Bulgarian investors to Oman.

In recognition of his humanitarian efforts and contribution to international stability, Minister Al Busaidi will receive the Badge of Honour of the President of Bulgaria, following his earlier decoration with the Golden Laurel Badge of Honour by the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry.

Both countries reaffirmed their alignment on global issues, including the importance of peaceful conflict resolution. Al Busaidi reiterated Oman’s support for diplomacy in regional disputes, such as the U.S.-Iran nuclear dialogue, and expressed openness to sharing experiences in fostering moderate and stabilizing policies.