Sheikh Khalifa, UAE leaders greet Sultan Qaboos on Oman’s 46th national day

Sheikh Khalifa and UAE leaders have sent cables to Sultan Qaboos on the occasion of Oman's 46th national day.

Omani leader Sultan Qaboos attends a military parade during National Day celebrations in Muscat, Oman. REUTERS

ABU DHABI // Leaders of the UAE have congratulated Oman’s Sultan Qaboos and his people on the nation’s 46th national day.

The President, Sheikh Khalifa, sent a message on Friday with his best wishes to Sultan Qaboos for the occasion.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rash-id, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, also sent messages of congratulations.

“We would like to extend our warm congratulations to the Sultanate of Oman on the occasion of its 46th National Day,” Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid tweeted.

“Congratulations to my brother Sultan Qaboos for such glory and people. History is witness to the brotherly and friendly ties between the UAE and the Sultanate of Oman, which are strengthened by our geography and by the great love and continuing communication between our peoples.”

The Omani leader appeared on Friday at national day celebrations wearing a military uniform and appearing to be of good health.

Sultan Qaboos, 75, was greeted by high-ranking officials before presiding over the parade.

He has ruled since 1970, making him the Middle East’s longest-reigning monarch.

The UAE and Oman have enjoyed close relations for decades, highlighted by the establishment of the UAE-Oman Higher Joint Committee in 1991.

The committee was set up to promote cooperation and coordination in economy, commerce, culture and education.

It has held 18 sessions, with the most recent taking place in Muscat less than a month ago.

Yas Mall on Friday paid tribute to Omani heritage with cultural activities. The event was inaugurated by the Omani embassy.

“The Sultanate of Oman and the UAE have long historical relations that remain to be as strong,” the embassy said.

“The event with the title ‘Omani Open Day: Oman and Emirates, the Soul of Friendship and Trustworthiness, strives to further deepening the relationship between the two countries.”

“We are thankful to the management of Yas Mall for giving us this opportunity to express and show our gratitude to the UAE.”

In 1993, the UAE and Oman became the first in the GCC to allow citizens to travel between the two countries using their national ID cards. It was later adopted by the rest of the bloc.

Oman has declared next Wednesday and Thursday national day holidays for public and private-sector employees.