On July 1 2025, Ambassador Beresford-Hill met with H.E. Ambassador Omar Said Al Kathiri, Permanent Representative of the Sultanate of Oman to the UN, for a wide-ranging discussion on diplomacy, interfaith dialogue, and regional cooperation.

Ambassador Beresford-Hill began the meeting by thanking Ambassador Al Kathiri for attending the Order’s recent reception celebrating the feast of St. John the Baptist. He commended Oman’s principled foreign policy and its longstanding role as a neutral and effective mediator in the Middle East. Oman’s commitment to interfaith engagement, grounded in its Ibadi Islamic tradition and constitutionally enshrined religious tolerance, was highlighted as a model for fostering peace and understanding.

The two ambassadors discussed Oman’s influential role in regional peace efforts, including its contributions to dialogue around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Iran nuclear agreement, the war in Yemen, and broader intra-GCC relations. Ambassador Al Kathiri noted that Oman’s diplomatic posture reflects its deep-rooted history of neutrality and constructive engagement.

Ambassador Al Kathiri responded positively affirming Oman’s appreciation for the Order’s humanitarian efforts and nuanced understanding of regional dynamics. He reiterated Oman’s dedication to inclusive dialogue and bridge-building across cultures and faiths.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued dialogue and future collaboration between the Order of Malta and the Sultanate of Oman.