Press Releases

Under the umbrella of The Omani Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Oman Air will be participating in the events and activities of the 11th Arab-German Economic Forum which will be held at the House of German Business, during the period from 25-27 June 2008. Between 900 and 1000 Arab and German officials and businessmen are expected to attend to discuss prospects of Arab-German business relations. The participation of business delegations from all Arab countries underlines the status of the most important and largest Arab-German business platform in Germany. The Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Ghorfa) will host the Forum in cooperation with the Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK) and the General Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture for Arab Countries.

In this regard Usama bin Karim Al-Haremi, Head Corporate Communication and Media of Oman Air said that the 11th Arab-German Economic Forum which has become one of the most important channels of dialogue and communication, furthermore the most important and largest Arab-German business platform in Germany, will see the participation of the Sultanate of Oman as a major partner of the forum this year, hence will spur the process of promoting economic and trade ties between Germany and Oman to greater heights. Oman Air assessed the need to participate in this important conformance, which will be held under the patronage of the Federal Minister for Economy and Technology, H.E. Michael Glos, whom along with H.E. Maqbool bin Ali bin Sultan, Minister of Commerce and Industry, together with Dr. Martin Wansleben, CEO of the Association of German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (DIHK), will mark the opening ceremony. The forum will explore opportunities for strengthening existing business partnerships, and opening new avenues for further economic cooperation between the Arab countries and Germany in the various domains, especially the trade and investment ones.

Al Haremi stated, that the national carrier of Oman had pronounced its preparation to launch services to Frankfurt in the near future, adding that the participation in this key event is of special importance not only since it represents Oman air longing to strengthen its presence in Europe, however also reflects the company's strategic plans to extend its services and promotional programs to cover various parts of the world. He also said we look forward to establish closer business ties between Oman and Germany in particular, by attracting further tourists from this important region in the near future. I believe the forum will be a key platform to promote and develop bilateral trade opportunities between Oman and Germany same wise. Further strengthening of economic ties could open up broader links between the two friendly nations, since increase trade and tourism, both vital  to our economy. Germany he said is one of the top business locations in Europe, moreover its companies and infrastructures enjoy international reputation in various lines of business. It is located in the centre of Europe and this is important. We want to promote tourism and business between the two countries by launching such a direct flight services.

Al-Haremi added it is well known that Germans are eager to visit new tourist destinations, and with the opportunity of providing direct flights to one of the most desired tourist destination that is Oman, the logical choice to travel will be Oman Air. We believe promoting the national carrier of Oman through this forum, comes at an appropriate time. Head Corporate Communication and Media of Oman air also said that the distinguished geographical location of Oman makes it a perfect stop over destination. In the past years, Oman has developed into a worldwide distinct tourist destination. We will seek through our stand in the event to introduce the high quality services of Oman Air as well as the sturdy growth in the carrier's expandable network, which now comprises of 27 destinations. He explained that through direct coordination with the Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Oman Air will be present exclusively among all Arab participants, showcasing Oman at the reception that will be held at the at the City Hall of Berlin, which is the office of the mayor of Berlin.

Highlighting the importance of the forum, Al Haremi said that the remarkable developments in economic relations between the Arab countries and the Federal Republic of Germany in recent years is moving at an accelerated pace, as the value of trade exchange between the two during 2007 arrived at 34 billion euros. In accord with these important positive developments the Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry plays and active role to boosting up these relations to higher levels, moreover persuade further cooperation between Arab countries and Germany.

Al-Haremi also indicated that the activities of the forum has evolved in terms of quantity and quality to cope with the positive trends that made it a major forum for Arab-German economic dialogue through the complexity of the topics covered and the level of representation of the participants including politicians and businessmen. The program of the year 2008 Forum will discuss

important aspects of German-Arab economic relations and explore ways to further develop cooperation in the areas of infrastructure, energy, training, and rehabilitation and encourage mutual investments and transfer of technology and financial services, in addition to the definition of economic and social developments taking place in Arab countries. Usama bin Karim Al Haremi, Head of Corporate Communications, and Media concluded saying it is expected that the forum will be an important economic event both at the level of attendance or the level of the topics raised and discussed. In addition, it will represent an opportunity for Arab and German businesspersons for consultation exchange Views, promotion of projects and identify opportunities of partnership and cooperation. At the end, he added that the forum would be the main topic in the Arab German media, which without any doubt will follow up closely its activities.