Diplomatic SOCIETY spoke with the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Austria, H.E. Yousuf Aljabri, about the political, cultural and economic connections between the two countries.
You have been Ambassador to Austria and the International Organization in Vienna since 2019, before that, you were Chief of Political Affairs at the Minister’s Department, what are the main objective for your work in Austria?
As an accredited ambassador to the Republic of Austria, the main responsibilities are to foster and maintain strong diplomatic relations between Oman and Austria, and to enhance the bilateral cooperation in various sectors such as trade, culture and education as well as to strengthen the mutual understanding and cooperation between the two countries. This involves engaging with various stakeholders, such as government officials, media representatives, civil society organizations, as well as business and cultural communities in Austria.
In recent years, my focus has been on Economic Diplomacy, aimed at boosting Oman’s economic growth and improve the well-being of the Omanis. My efforts involve facilitating trade, increasing Omani exports to Austria, attracting Austrian direct investment into Oman and fostering technology transfer and sustainable development. Additionally, creating the opportunities for joint ventures between Omani and Austrian companies, through targeted initiatives and business delegations, to develop and promote economic and technical cooperation.
I am a strong advocate for cultural and educational exchange programs, which foster academic partnerships to enrich and deepen mutual appreciation and understanding between our societies. Apart from my routine tasks, I organize and attend events such as receptions, speeches, visits, and exhibitions to highlight Oman’s achievements, values, and culture.
As a permanent representative to the International Organization in Vienna, I represent Oman in various international meetings and conferences. In the line of my work I am trying to promote cooperative relations and technical programs between Oman and these organizations.
This is your second posting to Austria, having been here in 1995, what are the changes that you notice when returning to Austria?
Austria is a country rich in culture, civilization, and arts. When these elements are combined, the country maintains its features and preserve its distinctive character. Its architecture, society and people represent the endurable essence of the country. From my perspective, there have been few changes since 1995, aside from the growth of business and the expansion of major cities like Vienna.
Since 1995, Austria has continued to preserve its rich cultural heritage while embracing modern advancements. The country’s unique and enduring character is reflected in its traditions, architecture, and strong societal values.
Austria is still evolving, balancing its historical identity with innovation in technology, sustainability, and economic growth. The Austrian people with their deep appreciation for both history and progress ensure that the country remains a thriving center of culture, business, and quality of life. Furthermore, development is being driven by business growth and economic expansion, with Vienna becoming a key hub for various industries.
Austria’s versatility will be impressive, regardless of how a personal tour through Austria is arranged, whether it is focused on landscapes or cities, or whether the route follows a scenic trail or a feudal trail.
Austria is still a humane country that welcomes its guests to explore its beauty, experience its delights, and become attached to it in multiple ways. Saying goodbye is the hardest part of leaving Austria.
How would you describe Omani-Austrian relations?
Since 1973, Oman and Austria have maintained friendly diplomatic relations, establishing a solid foundation for political, economic and cultural engagement. High-level visits in the past have led to meaningful partnerships in areas of mutual interest. Cooperation has expanded into fields of vocational training, energy and technology. Both countries express their desire to strengthen their collaboration in environmental and water management, education, investment, mining, and business-to-business development.
Oman and Austria also agree to intensify political consultations and mutual visits. They share common values, and they have a strong commitment to international law and diplomacy. They believe that dialogue is the only way to resolve regional and international issues, achieve global security, and everything that would enhance security and stability in the region and the world.
Cultural ties between Oman and Austria are being strengthened through the connection of cultural institutions, broadening of contacts between Austrians and Omanis in the arts, and encouragement of joint projects. Many artistic activities, including musical performances and fine art exhibitions, have been conducted in both countries
In light of the steadily increasing number of Omani tourists traveling to Austria, and the rising number of Austrian tourists visiting Oman following the COVID-19 pandemic, both sides have expressed interest in establishing a direct flight connection between the two countries, such a direct flight will give additional impetus to tourism and enhance trade exchange.
There are various opportunities for cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the field of infrastructure development, construction, tourism, mining and renewable energy. Austrian companies are encouraged to invest in Oman, where attractive incentives are offered for foreign investment.
How does the situation in the Middle East affect your country?
When we talk about the situation in the Middle East, the Palestinian question is the core issue that affects the stability and security of the entire region. Resolving this issue would have a positive impact on all other issues in the Middle East.
Therefore, Oman believes that the only solution for this matter, is through a peace process in the Middle East, to enable the Palestinian people to gain all their legitimate rights by establishing their independent state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on the two-state solution, the Arab Peace Initiative, and all relevant United Nations resolutions.