Saturday 21 / February / 2026
WASHINGTON; The Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre (SQCC) in Washington hosted a panel discussion for representatives of the Secretariat Center in Muscat, reaffirming its role as a bridge between the Sultanate of Oman and the United States.
The event was held under the patronage of Dr. Majid Al-Khalili, Executive Director of the Centre, and was attended by Counsellor Sabra Al-Hooti, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Washington.
Organised as part of the Centre’s ongoing mission to foster intercultural dialogue and deepen the historic ties between the Sultanate of Oman and the United States of America, the evening brought together diplomats, academics and community representatives for a thoughtful exchange of ideas.
Heba Abdel Khaleq, Program Officer at the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Centre, opened the event with welcoming remarks, highlighting the importance of dialogue in strengthening mutual understanding across cultures.
A key feature of the programme was a presentation titled “A Sacred Trust,” which explored the humanitarian legacy of the Al-Amana Centre in the Sultanate of Oman since 1891. The presentation traced the Centre’s journey from its early contributions in medical and educational services to its present-day role as a leading institution for interfaith dialogue and coexistence. The session was delivered by Justin Myers, Executive Director of the Al-Amana Centre, and Mohammed Ali Al Shuaili, Deputy Director.
Speakers reflected on the Centre’s historical milestones and its collaboration with the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs in advancing programs that promote dialogue, trust-building, and peaceful coexistence.
The evening concluded with a discussion emphasising the importance of experiential learning in moving societies beyond tolerance toward genuine mutual respect and reconciliation. Participants then engaged in an open dialogue on how such values can be promoted across different international contexts.
