Editor's note: Decision Makers is a global platform for decision makers to share their insights on events shaping today's world. Nasser Al Busaidi is Oman's ambassador to China. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC), I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the Party, the General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping and the Chinese nation.

With the strong and wise leadership of the CPC, and through the continued efforts of the Chinese people, the CPC has realized the first centenary goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. And I believe that the CPC and the Chinese people will achieve the second centenary goal of making China into a great modern socialist country in all respects.

I have personally witnessed the development of China in the past 30 years. I first came to China in 1990 as the first Omani student sent by my country to study here and witnessed the "Red Boat" on Nanhu Lake in Jiaxing City, eastern province of Zhejiang, which is also known as the birthplace of the CPC. In the past decades, this boat has sailed through turbulent storms and challenging development and reforms.

China's development today is not only reflected in its strong economic strength and industrial and technological progress, but also the harmonious, friendly, and inclusive attitude of the Chinese people, both among themselves and towards the people of other countries and regions.

The Chinese government has ensured the coordinated development of various regions, including the Middle East and especially Oman. The two countries have a long history of ties. Oman was an important harbor along the old Maritime Silk Road. As early as the 8th century A.D., a famous sailor from Oman, Abu Obide Xinya Tuoluo Qasim, sailed along the "Spices Road" to China's Guangzhou – the first Middle Easterner in written records.

That friendly trade relation has lasted long. Today, China is Oman's largest trading partner and the top importer of Omani crude oil. The economies of the two countries are complementary. Oman's rich natural resources are just what China needs, and China's machines, steel, and textiles are contributing to Oman's economic development.

In 2020, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, China imported over 37.8 million metric tons of crude oil from Oman, an 11.7 percent increase from the previous year. Today, Oman is also an active player in China's Belt and Road Initiative. In March this year, Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Bin Hamad Al-Busaidi in Muscat. The two sides signed a visa exemption agreement and reemphasized their commitment to boosting bilateral cooperation and pushing forward the free trade zone with other Gulf Cooperation Council member states.

They have overcome geographical constraints, reflecting the unity and strength of the Chinese nation under its leadership.

I wholeheartedly endorse the speech of President Xi Jinping about the importance of people at the July 1 gathering. He said, "The people are the true heroes, for it is they who create history," and noted that "the CPC has made seeking happiness for Chinese people as its founding aspiration and mission" and "The Party has always represented the fundamental interests of all Chinese people." In my opinion, all the statements reflect the CPC's people-centered philosophy and its mission, which led to the country's great success and achievements.

Undoubtedly, if there were no people loyal to the motherland and compassionate leaders, China would not have been able to experience such a development in this beautiful land. Over time the Chinese people have proven this unique formula, and the CPC has also demonstrated its achievements and has always worked hard towards its clear vision and goal.

The whole speech is visionary and insightful. It has brought inspiration to all political parties and all countries. Xi emphasized the importance of international cooperation, and the Belt and Road Initiative sincerely contributes to the construction of international relations and the all-round development of mankind.

Amid the unprecedented challenges that the world faces, I think enhancing cooperation and mutual respect, and reaching consensus through consultation and close cooperation have become more urgent than ever before. I sincerely hope China and Oman can maintain this momentum and be an example of mutually beneficial cooperation in these difficult times.

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