Muscat | April 2025
Continuing a series of high-level economic diplomacy meetings between Iran and Oman, Iranian entrepreneur and export strategist Soheil Moarefi held a key discussion with Rashed al Rashedi, Advisor to the Omani Minister of Industry, focusing on strengthening bilateral trade and industrial cooperation. The meeting, which blended professionalism with a spirit of regional camaraderie, conveyed a clear message: Iran and Oman are poised to elevate their economic partnership to new levels.
A Brotherhood of Economies in the Making
Speaking candidly, Rashed al Rashedi described the deep cultural and economic ties between the two nations, stating:
“We consider Iranians our brothers. Nothing is more gratifying than seeing our economic relationship become broader and more diversified.”
In response, Soheil Moarefi reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to regional trade integration, emphasizing Oman’s strategic place in Iran’s export roadmap:
“Iran has consistently worked to diversify its export base to more effectively contribute to meeting the economic needs of its neighbors. Oman has always been among our top strategic priorities.”
Diverse Export Portfolios on the Negotiation Table
The core of the discussion centered on Iran’s multifaceted export capabilities. From medical equipment and pharmaceuticals to petrochemicals, food products, and industrial goods, Iran’s non-oil sectors were presented as key assets. Rashed al Rashedi praised the country’s efforts to shift away from oil dependency:
“What stands out about Iran is its reduction of reliance on oil revenues and its growing focus on non-oil exports. The ability to export everything from carpets and pistachios to advanced industrial goods reflects a mature production infrastructure and globally accepted product quality.”
He further noted that Iran’s export diversity presents an opportunity for Oman to establish new frameworks of cooperation that can now be transformed into actionable partnerships.
Non-Oil Exports as a Tool of Modern Diplomacy
Moarefi highlighted Iran’s evolving economic policy and the country’s transition away from a mono-commodity economy:
“What positions Iran as a significant player in regional trade today is not just its energy resources, but the breadth and depth of its export portfolio. It shows that Iranian manufacturing has earned trust across a wide range of international markets.”
Toward Practical Implementation
The two sides concluded the meeting with a mutual commitment to move discussions into practical territory. Proposals were exchanged regarding supply chain integration, joint investments, and trade facilitation for businesses in both countries. In response, Rashed al Rashedi said:
“Why not? If both countries hold real potential, then it’s our responsibility to turn that into tangible benefits for our people.”
A Strategic Step Toward Economic Modernization
This meeting stands as a testament to Soheil Moarefi’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Iran’s economic ties across the region—particularly through a targeted focus on non-oil exports, market diversification, and an informed approach to international engagement. It represents yet another step toward redefining Iran’s role in the global trade ecosystem.
