Oman's large growth is a source of inspiration for most developing countries, particularly in areas concerning human development, local media reports. The most important event in the modern history of the Sultanate of Oman was the takeover of power in a bloodless achievement by the then 29-year-old Sultan Qaboos from his father on 23rd July, 1970. Though every passing year reminds us of the achievements Oman has been making under the wise leadership Sultan Qaboos, 2010 has special significance because the Omanis completed four decades of nation-building and are about to usher in a new phase of development. When the people of Oman look back, their hearts are filled with satisfaction, pride and fulfillment for being able to attain most of the goals they aspired to. If we look at the contemporary modern history of nations, we realize that a country takes decades to lay the foundation of a modern state and fine-tune its domestic and foreign policies. But the Sultanate of Oman has proved to be an exception to the rule. In just years 40-plus it has showcased the country as an oasis of peace with modern infrastructure, a high standard of living, state-of-the-art institutions and above all a clean, efficient and proactive government. The Sultanate's domestic and foreign policies and its principled stand on regional and global issues have won accolades from world leaders and international organizations, raising the country's standing and profile in the community of nations. Oman's impressive growth is a source of inspiration for most developing countries, particularly in areas concerning human development. It is cited as an ideal form for improving the living standards of millions of economically weak people across the globe. Sultan Qaboos expressed a similar view at the opening of the annual session of the Council of Oman in Salalah October 4th last year: “The Sultanate is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its progress, during the course of which its achievements in many fields are plain for all to see and have changed the face of life in Oman, enabling it to assume a position of eminence at both regional and international levels.” In the coming years, the Sultanate continues to tread the same clearly-defined path as it has been all these years to harness its human potential and exploit its natural resources for the greater benefit of its people. The modern Sultanate envisioned by Qaboos is based on the country's ability to mobilize all the energies of its people and resources to achieve national unity and development in all fields. Since the dawn of the Renaissance, the Sultan insisted on the participation of Omani citizens in the development process. The Sultanate emphasizes on equality and rule of law to guarantee the rights of its people. BM
