King Charles III praised Oman's efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and its diplomatic mediation in the regional conflict with Iran during a state banquet at Windsor Castle on Tuesday night, the BBC reported. The Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tarik Al Said, is undertaking the first UK state visit by an Omani ruler in 44 years, since 1982.
Speaking in English with greetings in Arabic, the King commended Oman's "noble efforts in trying to keep open one of the world's most important shipping routes," Al Jazeera reported. He also highlighted the country's role as a trusted interlocutor seeking "where common ground might be found" in the conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran. Around 160 guests attended the banquet in St George's Hall, including Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Catherine and senior Cabinet members.
Sultan Haitham reaffirmed Oman's commitment to diplomacy in his response, saying his country "seeks solutions... we believe in dialogue." Addressing the gathering, he said the Middle East had known too much conflict, adding: "Oman has chosen a different path, an independent path; we take positions for dialogue, for understanding and for peace."
On Wednesday, the Sultan heads to London for talks with Prime Minister Andy Burnham at 10 Downing Street, where the two are expected to sign an agreement generating more than £1 billion in new mutual investment, according to the BBC. The visit comes amid heightened regional tensions, with the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route bordering Oman, effectively closed during the ongoing conflict.
The formal programme began on Tuesday with Prince William meeting the Sultan at his residence before the pair travelled to Windsor together. A ceremonial reception took place at the Royal Dais on Datchet Road, where the King and Queen greeted their guest as royal salutes were fired in Home Park and at the Tower of London, followed by a carriage procession through Windsor town and a Guard of Honour in the castle Quadrangle, the BBC reported.
After lunch in the State Dining Room, the Sultan was shown a specially curated display of Oman-related items from the Royal Collection. The visit, the first by a Sultan of Oman since March 1982, underscores the historic ties between the two countries, with the King highlighting a joint expedition project undertaken by Prince William and the Sultan's son as a symbol of a living relationship passed from one generation to the next.