Omanis lured by South African proposition

Residents of Oman are beginning to consider the investment and tourism proposition presented by South Africa.

South African Ambassador in Muscat, Major-General Lungile Chris Pepani told The Times of Oman newspaper: “We continue, as a country, to enjoy cordial relations with Oman. A vibrant interface between the business communities of our two nations is increasing, and so are the tourist levels.

“We expect fruitful results from these interactions and visits in the form of even more business opportunities for a win-win situation for both countries.” 

Pepani told the national Omani daily that South Africa continues to make its mark in lobal world of tourism. “South Africa’s beaches, hotels, restaurants, nature reserves, fashion lines and routes are putting our country constantly on the world stage,” he stated.

The South African Embassy said in a statement that South Africa’s unique tourism attractions and innovative operators continue to garner global recognition.

Pepani said South Africa is open to doing business with Oman.

He added that the Oman-South Africa Friendship Association (OSAFA) is now a legal entity in Oman, having had its constitution approved by the government of Oman.

OSAFA events and meetings provide South African and Omani companies a platform to explore opportunities for business tie-ups and investments in both countries.

“As an Embassy, we support the association and, with two business-networking functions under the belt already this year, and a promising work programme for the year, OSAFA seems raring to go,” he said.

“South Africa remains an attractive investment destination. The recent introduction of code share operations between SAA and JetBlue Airways on the Washington D.C. and Accra route, ensuring seamless travel for business and leisure, and the huge budget set aside for the building of new port facilities across the country, are testimony to enhanced efforts to attract investment into the country,” he said.

Pepani said the South African community is also encouraged by the raft of initiatives pursued by the government in its diversification drive, paving the way for a post-oil future.

“It is gratifying indeed, to say the least, to be witness to the large-scale investments in infrastructure and the gallant efforts for developing small and medium enterprises,” he added.