An important step of the visit was an in-depth conversation with His Excellency Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Foreign Minister of Oman. On this occasion, they exchanged views on the importance of genuine commitment to promoting peace through balanced diplomacy requiring enhanced collaboration, by speaking truth to problems. The role of academic institutions in supporting policy-relevant research on these topics played a key role in their discussion.

Professor Degila’s discussion with the Foreign Minister also delved into Oman’s vision of constructive neutrality, as well as its economic diversification towards sustainable development, which represents an important lever in promoting peace and stability. Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi highlighted Oman’s ongoing initiatives to facilitate dialogue and mutual understanding, and put emphasis on long-term partnerships including with research institutions. Professor Degila shared insights from his work on Pan-Africanism and the role of Africa in reshaping global governance, migration, and South-South cooperation. He also echoed the importance of collaborative frameworks that connect scholarly research with know-how policy solutions that promote renewed and holistic understandings of peace, and value contributions of all players in a changing world.