Muscat (HRNW)- Oman has expressed its opposition to the imposition of mandatory transit fees on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, stating that international shipping lanes should remain free from compulsory charges.
In an interview with the French radio station Monte Carlo Internationale, Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi said that Muscat does not support charging transit fees for ships using the strategic waterway.
The foreign minister explained that while Oman opposes mandatory fees, it is open to discussions on voluntary service charges if they are linked to specific maritime services provided to shipping companies or beneficiary countries.
According to Al Busaidi, such services could include improving the safety and efficiency of shipping lanes, enhancing protection against marine pollution, and strengthening preparedness for maritime accidents and emergency response operations.
He emphasized that any fees related to these services should be based on mutual agreement rather than being imposed as compulsory transit charges.
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