On October 27, 2026, Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Oman, delivered a lecture at Girton College, University of Cambridge, UK, titled “Inclusive Security in the Gulf.” The statement, released as an unofficial English translation of an Arabic report, details twelve key points focusing on regional security. The statement does not address the specific audience present at the lecture, nor does it mention any attendees beyond the University of Cambridge.
Context
The lecture’s focus on “Inclusive Security in the Gulf” reflects a sustained diplomatic effort by Oman to contribute to stability within the region. The statement does not mention any specific security threats or challenges driving this focus. The twelve key points, as outlined in the infographic accompanying the statement, serve as a framework for Oman’s approach to regional security dialogues. The infographic, released alongside the lecture, is accessible at
Prior statements by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs demonstrate a commitment to supporting dialogue and peace, respecting sovereignty, and promoting sustainable development. In March the ministry said it reaffirmed the Sultanate of Oman’s steadfast approach to supporting dialogue and peace, respecting the sovereignty of states and international law, and promoting security, stability, and sustainable development. This lecture represents a continuation of this approach, as does the infographic released alongside it. The statement does not mention any changes to this approach.
On October 26, 2026, Minister Albusaidi met with the Speaker of the UK House of Commons. The statement does not mention the specific details of this meeting, but it underscores the importance of maintaining high-level diplomatic engagement. The meeting follows a call made by the Minister on October 26, 2026, where he called on Gulf states to take responsibility for their own security. The statement does not mention any disagreement or tension surrounding this call.
What to Watch
Should the visit yield further discussions on regional security, Oman will likely continue to advocate for a multilateral approach, emphasizing dialogue and respect for international law. If the visit yields further discussions, the statement does not mention any specific countries or organizations with whom Oman intends to collaborate.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also held a call with South African counterpart on October 26, 2026, and is in ongoing communication with the United Kingdom. The statement does not mention any other recent diplomatic engagements.
The statement does not address Oman’s broader foreign policy objectives in the Gulf region, nor does it outline any specific security commitments. The statement does not mention any plans to increase military spending or deploy additional forces to the region.
The statement does not address any potential ramifications of the lecture’s content on ongoing diplomatic relations with Iran or Iraq, nor does it address Oman’s position on the GCC.
