Oman Roundup: Establishment of AI, lunar eclipse in Oman, MoU with Kazakhstan

Oman, Kazakhstan sign MoU on financial market

The Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of Kazakhstan signed an MoU on the sidelines of the Astana Financial Conference to enhance cooperation in financial regulation, expertise exchange, and market infrastructure. The deal, signed by Abdullah bin Salem Al Salmi, CEO of Oman’s Financial Services Authority, and Madina Abylkasimova, Head of Kazakhstan’s financial regulator, covers support for the ‘Tabadul’ platform to enable cross-market trading and boost regional integration. It also includes sharing regulatory expertise, joint research, capacity building, fintech collaboration, and initiatives in financial education and inclusion.

Omanis watch lunar eclipse in awe

Crowds gathered outside their homes and on rooftops to witness the total lunar eclipse on Sunday. The spectacle began with the penumbral phase at 7:28 pm Muscat time, followed by the partial eclipse at 8:27 pm, and reached its peak at 9:31 pm when the Moon was fully immersed in Earth’s shadow. For nearly an hour, the Moon glowed in deep crimson, a phenomenon popularly known as the “Blood Moon.” Unlike solar eclipses, which are harmful to view with the naked eye, lunar eclipses can be safely watched without special equipment. To mark the occasion, astronomers set up telescopes and large screens, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the celestial event in greater detail.

Falaj project completed in Sur

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has completed the rehabilitation of Falaj Al Jeela in Sur, South Al Sharqiyah. The falaj, one of five in Oman listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list, underwent maintenance that included renovating the water collection area, a 150-metre open channel, and repairing damaged sections. Salah Salim Al Mahjari, Head of Dams, Aflaj and Protection Walls Division, noted that Oman’s aflaj represent not only water sources but also a historic and cultural heritage that sustained communities. Falaj Al Jeela, an eye falaj in Al Jeela village, stretches 415 metres and draws its water from the upper course of Wadi Al Shaab.

Proposal to establish a centre for artificial intelligence in Oman

The fourth symposium on security and safety in vital facilities wrapped up in Salalah after three days of presentations and knowledge exchange. Over 30 experts from Oman, the Gulf, Arab countries, and Europe presented research and shared real-world experiences, making the event a prominent annual platform for security and safety dialogue. The symposium addressed challenges, proposed solutions, and explored future trends. Key recommendations included establishing a regional AI centre in Oman, enhancing early warning systems in smart cities, promoting community resilience, protecting documents and archives, and adopting virtual simulations for emergency training. Brigadier General Eng. Saeed bin Suleiman Al-Asimi praised the symposium’s scientific approach and highlighted Oman’s readiness to become a regional hub for facility and AI safety.

Oman participates in 164th session of Arab Foreign Ministers Council in Cairo

Oman took part in the 164th session of the Arab Foreign Ministers’ Council in Cairo, led by Sheikh Khalifa Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary for Political Affairs. The Council condemned Israeli actions in Gaza, called for an immediate ceasefire, and urged unimpeded humanitarian aid. It also praised states recognizing Palestine, urged wider recognition, and reaffirmed rejection of interference in Arab affairs. The Council called for ending Israeli occupation, halting settlements, and placing all regional nuclear facilities under IAEA supervision to advance peace and security.