Belt Road Initiative in Oman: Lessons from the East

Abstract

This paper uses the experience of Kazakhstan, East Asian economies and Southeast Asian countries in economic development to provide suggestions for Oman on her participation in the One Belt One Road project by China. From the experience of Kazakhstan, the paper recommends that Oman actively draw China’s massive resources and knowhow in to help Oman in economic development and diversification led growth. From the examples of South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore, the paper suggests that Oman encourages economic exchanges with China and transfer of technology and knowhow and flows of foreign investments from China to upgrade the Omani economy. From the experience of Southeast Asia nations, the paper advises that Oman makes good use of its strategic location and membership in the Gulf Cooperation Council in her dealings and bargaining with China to get the best deals.