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Guide to Countries
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Countries
A Guide to the United States' History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: Oman
Summary
United States interactions with the Sultanate of Oman in the 1830s were some of America’s earliest official dealings with the Middle East. Relations were sporadic over the next century and a half, but became more regular following the appointment of the first U.S. Ambassador to Oman in 1972.
Modern Flag of Oman
Recognition
The first formal act of diplomatic engagement and recognition between the United States and the Sultanate of Oman occurred on September 21, 1833, when a bilateral treaty of Amity and Commerce was signed at Muscat by Special Agent Edmund Roberts and His Majesty Seyed Syeed bin Sultan of Muscat.
Consular Presence
The United States established a consulate in Muscat in 1880, which lasted until 1915, at which time American interests in Oman were handled by U.S. diplomats in other countries.
Diplomatic Relations
Diplomatic Relations were established on April 17, 1972, when American Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary William A. Stoltzfus, Jr. presented his credentials to the government of Oman. Stoltzfus was accredited to Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates as well, and he was resident in Kuwait.
The United States Embassy in Muscat was established on July 4, 1972, under Chargé d’ Affaires ad interim Clifford J. Quinlan. William D. Wolle was the first resident Ambassador to Oman, presenting his credentials to the Sultanate of Oman on July 17, 1974.
Resources
- Bevans, Charles I. Treaties and Other International Agreements of the United States of America, 1776-1949. Volume 10, Nepal-Peru. Department of State Publication 8642, August 1972.
- Department of State Background Note: Oman
- Department of State Country Information: Oman
- Langer, William L. An Encyclopedia of World History. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1968.