The second meeting of bilateral military dialogue between the Defence Ministries of the Sultanate of Oman and Japan was held in Tokyo on 01 May 2025.
The meeting was chaired by Brigadier Ahmed Ibrahim Ambusaidi, Director General of International Cooperation at the Omani Ministry of Defence, and Kegoya Masanori, Director General for Global Affairs (Cyber Security) at the Japanese Ministry of Defence.
The two sides reviewed aspects of military cooperation and related opportunities and discussed different topics on the agenda, Oman News Agency (ONA) briefly reported.
In another development, the Royal Navy of Oman’s (RNO) vessel Shabab Oman II departed Wednesday from Said Bin Sultan Naval Base, embarking on its seventh international voyage, “Glories of the Seas,” toward Europe.
The vessel carries the essence of Oman’s rich maritime heritage and the achievements of its bright present, embodying the nation’s enduring approach of fostering bonds of friendship, peace, and harmony among the peoples of the world.
A formal farewell ceremony was held at Said Bin Sultan Naval Base under the patronage of Sheikh Abdulmalik Abdullah Al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council. The event featured a visual presentation showcasing Oman’s illustrious maritime history across the ages, highlighting the nation’s seafaring legacy, contributions to navigation, and its role in strengthening ties between Oman and other civilizations. The Royal Oman Navy Band performed a musical display, presenting a variety of compositions.
Sheikh Al Khalili, along with dignitaries, military leaders, and senior guests, toured Shabab Oman II and received a briefing on the vessel, its voyage route, and the national objectives of this journey. A visual presentation then highlighted the vessel’s accomplishments during its regional and international voyages, as well as its role in promoting Omani culture worldwide.
Attendees also inspected the vessel’s facilities and advanced maritime equipment, ensuring its readiness for the mission. The Naval Arts Team performed traditional maritime folk arts.
The ceremony was attended by several Ministers, senior military and security officials, Ambassadors from Arab and friendly countries, senior retired officers, Military Attachés, and other distinguished guests.
During its seventh international voyage, Shabab Oman II will visit 30 destinations, docking at 24 ports across 15 countries. It will participate in the Bremerhaven Sail Festival, Amsterdam Sail Festival, and the Tall Ships Races, along with other maritime festivals and celebrations. The six-month journey will cover over 18,000 nautical miles round trip.
Accompanying the crew are 84 trainees from the Sultan’s Armed Forces, other military and security services, and the Directorate General of Scouts and Girl Guides at the Ministry of Education. The trainees will undergo a specialized program covering sailing techniques, marine navigation, astronomy, and other skills aimed at honing their practical and field capabilities. They will also help convey Oman’s message of friendship, love, and harmony to the world.
Shabab Oman II seeks to strengthen ties between Oman and nations worldwide by introducing Omani culture at each stop, showcasing the country’s proud maritime history, ancient traditions, and modern progress.
It is worth to mention that the Royal Navy of Oman’s Shabab Oman program for sustainable peace and cultural dialogue has been recognized by the UNESCO as one of the best practices for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage - an international achievement resulting from the vessel’s dedicated efforts in fostering cross-cultural and civilizational communication.
