The first Senior Official Meeting between the EU and Oman took place in Brussels on 19 September as foreseen in the Cooperation Arrangement between the EEAS and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Oman signed last year. The meeting was co-chaired by Helga Schmid, Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS), and Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali bin Issa Al Harithy, the Omani Undersecretary for Diplomatic Affairs. During the encounter, EU and Omani officials discussed about the latest regional developments in the Gulf, with particular attention to the rising tensions between Gulf countries and Iran. They also exchanged on the need to find a solution to the humanitarian crisis in Yemen by supporting the UN-led process. Besides, they addressed the situation in Iraq and Syria, the Middle East Peace Process and maritime security in the Horn of Africa. Apart from the political dialogue, EEAS and Commission officials engaged with representatives from Omani ministries and governmental bodies on topics such as trade and investment, energy, education, research or technology and how to find ways to enhance bilateral cooperation. Next Senior Official’s Meeting will be held in 2020 in Muscat, Oman.