Summary

Burnham and Sultan of Oman set to sign new investment agreement at Downing Street Burnham believes the relationship between Britain and Oman is ‘a friendship which generates real benefits’ Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today.Join today Already a member? Log in Andy Burnham will host the Sultan of Oman at Downing Street on Wednesday as part of the Middle Eastern leader’s three-day state visit to the United Kingdom. Ahead of receiving Sultan Haitham bin Tarik Al Said at No 10, the Prime Minister praised "a friendship which generates real benefits" between Britain and Oman. The visit comes as the United States continues its war against Iran, with Oman serving as a key UK ally in the Middle East. Off the Omani coast lies the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping route, which effectively remains shut to oil tankers due to a blockade orchestrated by Tehran. Ahead of the Downing Street talks, Mr Burnham said: "I’m delighted to welcome His Majesty The Sultan to the UK – the UK and Oman have built a friendship which generates real benefits for people at home, and I look forward to shaping the next chapter of our relationship. "Economic growth, security, defence, education: these are just some of the priorities we share as we plot a course through an increasingly complex world. "Working together, we are leading with our values and creating opportunities for people in both our countries." During the bilateral meeting, both leaders are anticipated to formalise a new two-way investment agreement alongside a maritime security pact intended to increase information sharing. Furthermore, the UK is expected to declare the return of the Chevening educational scholarship programme to Oman. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband and Defence Secretary Wes Streeting will also hold talks with their Omani counterparts as part of the broader cross-government schedule. Mr Miliband said: "The UK-Oman relationship spans almost four centuries and is built on trust and collaboration. His majesty the sultan’s visit to the United Kingdom reinforces this partnership for the future age. "At what is a critical time for the Middle East, our close collaboration has never been more vital. Oman continues to play a valued diplomatic role in supporting the dialogue necessary to support a pathway to peace and regional stability – essential for the global economy and global security. "Driving closer working across defence, trade and investment, and education, ensures that our long-standing friendship is a modern partnership that delivers for both the British and Omani people." The King and Queen welcomed the Sultan to Windsor Castle on Tuesday at the start of the trip. This marks the first state visit to the UK by a Sultan of Oman in 44 years. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their repliesComments