Omani Official Honored with Italian Order for Cultural Contributions

On May 26, 2024, in Muscat, Oman, His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said, Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers, was awarded the 'Ordine della Stella d'Italia' (Order of the Star of Italy) for his contributions to strengthening cultural relations between Italy and Oman.

The award highlights the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international relations and promoting mutual understanding. This recognition can lead to further collaborations and exchanges between Italy and Oman, promoting greater cultural and economic cooperation.

The prestigious award was conferred in recognition of His Highness's dedicated efforts in promoting cultural relations between Italy and Oman through his work with the Royal Opera House Muscat since 2006.

The ceremony was officiated by Pierluigi D'Elia, Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to the Sultanate of Oman, on behalf of the President of Italy. During the ceremony, His Highness emphasized the importance of friendship in the international arena and the collaboration between Italy and Oman, stating that the Royal Opera House Muscat has become a symbol of excellence in programming and promoting friendship and understanding.

Since its inauguration in 2011, the Royal Opera House Muscat has hosted a series of acclaimed productions from Italy's prestigious opera houses, including 'The Barber of Seville', 'L'Elisir d'Amore', and 'Le Nozze di Figaro'. The collaboration has also led to the creation of three original co-productions: Bizet's 'Lakmé', and Verdi's 'La Traviata' and 'Rigoletto'.

In his speech, His Highness remarked, 'The conferral of the Order of the Star of Italy is more than a reflection of personal achievement as it also signifies the inestimable value of friendship in the international domain and of the fruitful collaboration between Italy and Oman.'

The Order of the Star of Italy is bestowed on expatriates and foreigners who achieve extraordinary results in preserving and promoting Italy's national prestige and in augmenting bilateral relations between Italy and other countries. The patron of the Order is the President of Italy.

H E Pierluigi D'Elia, Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to Oman, praised His Highness's vital role in strengthening cultural relations between Italy and Oman through the Royal Opera House Muscat, specifically in promoting performances, exhibitions, and initiatives related to Italian Opera and music in the Sultanate and supporting Omani cultural initiatives.

Looking ahead, His Highness emphasized the importance of continuing to deepen the bonds between Italy and Oman, drawing from their shared experiences and the universal language of music, to build a legacy of understanding and cultural enrichment that transcends borders and resonates across time.

The conferral of the Order of the Star of Italy upon His Highness Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said is a demonstration of his significant contributions to the cultural relations between Italy and Oman, promoting the rich tradition of Italian Opera and music in Oman, while also supporting Omani cultural initiatives.

Key Takeaways

• HH Sayyid Dr. Kamil Fahad Al Said awarded Order of the Star of Italy for cultural diplomacy.
• The award recognizes his efforts in strengthening Italy-Oman cultural relations.
• He was honored for his work with the Royal Opera House Muscat since 2006.
• The collaboration has led to several acclaimed productions and co-productions.
• The award promotes further cultural and economic cooperation between Italy and Oman.