Oman’s Interior Minister Sayyid Hamoud Bin Faisal Al Busaidi and Ambassador Mohamed Salim Alharthy officially opened his country’s new embassy in Seoul on Friday. The diplomatic mission has moved from its former site in Itaewon to the new specially designed building in Jongno-gu.

The opening ceremony was followed by the Oman Tourism and Culture night at the Lotte Hotel organized by the country’s Tourism Ministry. 

“The new embassy building strengthens the current relationship between Oman and Korea and reflects the strong relations and cooperation between the two nations. It will contribute to promoting cooperation in all sectors. The embassy’s facilities allow hosting of cultural and economic events to showcase the Sultanate of Oman in Korean society,” Alharthy said.

Cultural events were then held in central Seoul on Saturday to celebrate the opening in Gwanghwamun Plaza, Techno Mart Square and Han River Park.

The events featured Omani cuisine, traditional arts and dance, a fashion show, photo gallery and henna tattoo artists.

Oman also held a national day at the Yeosu Expo on May 22, which was attended by a high level ministerial delegation.

The theme for Oman’s national pavilion at Expo Yeosu 2012 is “Nurturing Marine Wealth,” showcasing the Sultanate’s ancient and modern relationship with the sea.

By Kirsty Taylor (kirstyt@heraldcorp.com)