Rustam Minnikhanov and Marat Khusnullin speak at the Russia–Oman Business Forum

On May 14, at the Russia–Oman Business Forum held with participation of Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Marat Khusnullin on the sidelines of the XVII International Economic Forum “Russia-the Islamic World: KazanForum”, the Rais(Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov delivered welcoming speech.

The representative delegation from Oman arrived in Kazan to participate in the International Forum “KazanForum 2026.”

Khusnullin stated that Russian-Omani relations have significantly improved in recent years. Visit of the Sultan of Oman to Russia and his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin gave significant impetus to this. A wide range of issues were discussed, and several agreements and a Memorandum of Cooperation were signed.

Khusnullin also noted that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Despite a decline in trade turnover in recent years, positive dynamics are now emerging, he said. He highlighted the strong potential for mutual tourism exchanges and noted the growing interest among Russian tourists in visiting Omani resorts.

Among the areas for further cooperation, Khusnullin named industry, energy, agriculture and construction.

“We see great potential for the participation of Russian companies in Oman’s construction sector,” he stressed.

Speaking during the meeting, the Rais (Head) of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov thanked the participants for their interest in the International Economic Forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum.”

“We attach great importance to developing ties with your country aimed at strengthening Russian-Omani relations. We feel the support and involvement of the Sultan of Oman,” Minnikhanov said.

The Rais of Tatarstan emphasized that he also had the opportunity to participate in the high-level Russian-Omani talks during the Sultan of Oman’s visit to the Russian Federation and he also had recently paid a productive and intensive visit to the capital of Oman, where numerous official meetings took place.

“One of the results of our contacts was the opening of a representative office of the Republic in Oman, which will contribute to further rapprochement and the implementation of our joint plans and projects” Minnikhanov specified.

Minnikhanov said that it is necessary to intensify cooperation in energy, industry, automotive and shipbuilding, petrochemicals, digitalization, logistics and other sectors.

“Tatarstan, as a center of interaction with the Islamic world, can serve as a platform for investment,” he continued, noting that the republic is actively promoting partner banking and the halal industry.

Minnikhanov particularly emphasized that the annual “KazanForum” serves as an excellent platform for mutual business contacts.

The Rais of Tatarstan recalled that Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Marat Khusnullin chairs the organizing committee of the forum, which has been granted federal status.

“Cooperation with Islamic countries has always been a priority of our foreign economic activity,” Minnikhanov said.

The Rais of Tatarstan also briefed about the economy and industrial potential of the region.

In conclusion, he wished all participants successful work and new business contacts.