Oslo Forum Brings Together Middle East Powers in Push for Regional Diplomacy
Published on June 11, 2025 | By Today International News
Oslo, Norway – In a rare and significant diplomatic gathering, foreign ministers from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Egypt, and Oman convened this week in Norway for the annual Oslo Forum, an international platform dedicated to dialogue and conflict resolution. The high-level meeting focused on finding diplomatic solutions to rising tensions across the Middle East, from Syria to Yemen and beyond.
Hosted by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, the 2025 Oslo Forum comes at a time of renewed volatility in the region, including ongoing proxy conflicts, economic instability, and concerns about nuclear proliferation.
A Critical Moment for Regional Diplomacy
The participation of traditionally rival powers such as Iran and Saudi Arabia marked a notable shift toward engagement rather than confrontation. After years of estrangement, the two nations have gradually reopened diplomatic channels since their China-brokered détente in 2023. However, trust remains fragile.
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met behind closed doors during the forum, discussing regional security and the future of energy cooperation. Sources suggest the talks were “candid but constructive”.
Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi, often seen as a neutral mediator in Gulf diplomacy, played a key role in facilitating side meetings and bridging gaps between delegates.
Syria and Yemen: Calls for De-escalation
The Syrian conflict, now in its 14th year, was a central topic at the forum. Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad appealed for increased humanitarian assistance and an end to international sanctions, while Egyptian officials emphasised the importance of a political transition under UN oversight.
In a panel discussion on the Yemen crisis, participants acknowledged modest progress in recent ceasefire talks but warned that humanitarian conditions remain dire. All sides agreed that a durable solution requires inclusive dialogue involving both local factions and external stakeholders.
Shared Concerns: Terrorism and Economic Stability
Beyond armed conflicts, ministers highlighted shared concerns around the resurgence of extremist groups, especially in regions of Syria, Iraq, and northern Africa. Security experts at the forum stressed the need for enhanced intelligence cooperation and joint counterterrorism efforts.
Economic instability, youth unemployment, and climate stress were also key themes. Egypt and Oman emphasised the need for regional economic integration, suggesting investment in green infrastructure, water management, and food security could act as tools of peace.
“The Middle East has resources, talent, and heritage,” said Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. “What we lack is sustained cooperation.”
Norway’s Role: A Neutral Platform for Dialogue
Norway, long known for its role in international peacemaking—from the Oslo Accords to mediation in Colombia—continues to position itself as a neutral facilitator of global diplomacy.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide opened the conference by urging all parties to “listen not just to respond, but to understand”, framing diplomacy as the only viable long-term path to peace.
The Oslo Forum, held annually since 2003, brings together top diplomats, mediators, and policymakers in a closed-door setting designed for frank conversations and creative problem-solving away from media glare and political posturing.
Outcomes and Next Steps
While no formal agreements were announced, diplomats described the forum as a vital confidence-building measure that could help reduce hostilities and foster cooperation on pressing issues. Joint working groups on humanitarian access, border security, and economic development were reportedly proposed for future engagement.
Analysts suggest the real value of the forum lies in its informal channels, allowing adversaries to explore solutions without political cost.
Conclusion: Small Steps Toward Regional Stability
As conflicts rage across parts of the Middle East, the 2025 Oslo Forum offered a glimmer of cautious hope—a space where adversaries sat face-to-face and talked, rather than fought. Whether these conversations yield meaningful peace will depend on the will and courage of leaders to prioritise diplomacy over discord.