MUSCAT, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al-Busaidi and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the rapidly evolving regional situation and efforts to de-escalate tensions in a phone call on Tuesday, the Omani Foreign Ministry said.
The two exchanged views on efforts to contain the repercussions of regional tensions and create conditions for continued diplomatic efforts to address outstanding issues in a way that supports regional security and stability, according to a ministry statement.
They also discussed regional issues of mutual interest and stressed the importance of building on existing Oman-U.S. cooperation and maintaining consultation and coordination through established channels, the statement added.
The call came amid heightened regional tensions and disruptions to maritime navigation.
Earlier, Oman said the Panama-flagged oil tanker ELGAIA was being towed to one of its ports after a fire broke out in its engine room following an attack about 103 nautical miles northeast of Musandam Governorate.
A Royal Navy of Oman vessel evacuated 23 crew members, while search operations continued for two others still missing, according to Oman's Maritime Security Center.
Meanwhile, a meeting between Iran and Gulf states scheduled for Monday in the Omani city of Salalah was postponed. Iran and Oman had been expected to brief regional countries on their consultations over new maritime arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz. ■
