The Omani / British Journalism Forum, organized by the Omani Journalists Association (OJA), in collaboration with Oxford University, the Reuters Centre, the media attaché of the Ministry of Information and the Omani / British Friendship Society, was launched at Oxford University on Tuesday.

Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak al-Araimi, OJA Chairman, expressed his delight to host the forum by Oxford University, pointing out that this famous edifice witnesses an aspect of the academic cooperation between the Sultanate and the United Kingdom, represented by “Sultan Qaboos Chair” at Oxford University.

Professor Eugene Rogan, Director of the Middle East Centre at St. Anthony Oxford College, said that the Sultanate played an important role in the wider Gulf region and the Middle East.  He added that the Sultanate has strived to achieve balance with its neighbors and has always been a mediator between superpowers and regional powers.

“We are all benefiting from the dialogue between Omani and other international journalists and between the academy and the press, wishing that this forum will link Oxford community with the Sultanate of Oman” Rogan said.

Afterwards, a documentary was screened on the development enjoyed by the educational, political, industrial and social aspects in the various governorates of the Sultanate.  The documentary also highlighted the ancient civilization of Oman, especially with regard to history and culture.

Dr. Al-Araimi, OJA Chairman and Professor E. Rogan, Director of the Middle East Centre at St Anthony’s College in Oxford, presented OJA shield to the President of the Middle East Centre for Studies at Oxford University and to a number of researchers from both the Omani and British sides.

During the forum, a photo exhibition was held, the most important of which was a picture of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said when His Majesty received Queen Elizabeth II of Britain and the Commonwealth and a visit by Prince Charles to the Sultanate.

The exhibition also displayed photos of the beauty of Omani nature and some handicrafts.