Recent Developments in the Middle East and the Role of Oman

The Europäische Akademie Berlin is honored to host a high-level breakfast briefing with Her Excellency Maitha Saif Al Mahrouqi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Germany. This roundtable will bring together diplomats, political decision-makers, researchers, and private-sector experts to discuss the evolving dynamics in the Middle East and Oman’s distinctive role as a mediator and partner for Europe.

The session will focus on Oman’s foreign policy of neutrality and mediation, its contributions to regional conflict resolution, and its strategic partnership potential with Germany and the European Union—particularly in the fields of sustainable energy, innovation, and economic diversification under Oman Vision 2040.

Due to the limited number of seats, this event is by invitation only!

Programme Overview

• Welcome remarks
• Keynote address by H.E. Maitha Saif Al Mahrouqi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Germany
• Framing input by Dr. Ali Fathollah-Nejad, Academic and Policy Expert
• Open roundtable discussion with selected invited participants
• Informal networking continuation over light breakfast

Themes of Discussion

• The unique position of Oman as a neutral actor and trusted mediator in the Middle East
• Current geopolitical developments in the region and their implications for Europe
• Opportunities for cooperation in green hydrogen, renewable energy, and scientific exchange
• The role of Oman’s Vision 2040 in shaping economic diversification and sustainable partnerships

Format

A confidential high-level roundtable with 10–15 selected participants. The format allows for open exchange, knowledge sharing, and direct dialogue with the Ambassador of Oman.

Context: INSPIRE 2040 Initiative & Europabrücke Berlin

The breakfast briefing is the kick-off activity of the INSPIRE 2040 Initiative, designed by EAB as part of Europabrücke Berlin. Europabrücke Berlin is EAB’s umbrella for connecting diplomacy, culture, and civic dialogue in Berlin with European and global partners—building long-term bridges between institutions and societies.

This initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040 by strengthening international cooperation, youth empowerment, sustainable‑energy diplomacy, and knowledge partnerships.

Further Reading

13 May 2025 — Ambassador’s Visit to EAB

In May 2025, H.E. Maitha Saif Al Mahrouqi visited EAB to discuss future cooperation and exchange programmes. The meeting highlighted civil‑society dialogue, background briefings and cultural events—all reinforcing EAB’s role as a bridge‑builder. “EAB is a gateway to the world for international exchange,” noted Director Dr. Christian Johann.