Bahrain Mirror: Oman and Britain signed on Thursday (February 21, 2019) a joint defense agreement which was previously announced during Exercise Saif Sareea 3 in October.

The agreement was signed by Oman's Defense Minister Badr bin Saud bin Harib Al-Busaidi and British Secretary of State for Defence Gavin Williamson.

According to the official news, this deal underscores the importance of launching joint military actions to ensure security and stability of the two countries and to prepare for further military cooperation and joint exercises.

Bader bin Saud, the Omani Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs said in a statement after signing the agreement: "This agreement culminates the efforts of both countries' leaderships to enhance the existing bilateral cooperation and the strategic partnership between them. It is a milestone in the history of both nations. The signing of this agreement today reaffirms the importance of optimizing the joint military efforts to ensure the security and stability of both friendly countries and pave the way for more cooperation in the field of defence and joint exercises in pursuance of the agreement objectives."

For his part, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson commented "Gulf security is our security, and it is crucial that we expand our horizons and become a truly global Britain after we leave the European Union."

Arabic Version