Oman Risk: Muscat pushes provinces to develop, regional diplomacy continues

GSN’s latest Risk Management Report maintains Qatar’s B3 rating but with a negative economic and financial outlook. Oman played an important balancing role in the region during Sultan Qaboos’ reign, and while this role has been less pronounced in Sultan Haitham’s first two years Muscat remains an important diplomatic hub in the GCC. Key meetings with Iranian officials, have underscored Oman’s efforts to enable diplomacy – not least in regard to the Yemen war – and provide a reliable link between Tehran, Houthis and other actors. Relations with Saudi Arabia are warming and strong links with the United Kingdom appear to have persisted.