Muscat: Common grounds between Oman and Britain have strengthened the relationship between the two countries, according to British Foreign Secretary, William Hague.

"Both countries (Oman and UK) have looked for the foreign world to build good relations with their neighbours," he said in an interview to government-owned Oman News Agency (ONA), on Saturday.

Hague added that the other the common ground between both countries was that both have rich marine history.

He stressed that both the countries have realised that there was a need for building strong friendships and alliances with the rest of the world.

"Both countries are also known for their strategic location," the British Foreign Secretary pointed out.

"While, the Sultanate overlooks the Indian Ocean the UK overlooks the Atlantic Ocean," he added.

As for the developments witnessed by Oman since the Queen Elizabeth visit to the Sultanate 31 years ago, the British Foreign Secretary said that the Sultanate has witnessed major developments and growth during this period. "I myself have seen this positive development during my recurrent visits to the country in the last 10 years."

He also pointed out to the constant development witnessed in the education sector in Oman, which, he feels, provides Omanis with many opportunities for growth and development.

He affirmed that with such great development made, the British government has the desire for stronger relations in economic, trade and education fields in the coming period. He also hailed the achievements made by the Sultanate in its march towards progress and development.

As for the agreement which was signed on Saturday between the Sultanate and the UK, he pointed out that the agreement is a step forward as it will make access to UK for holders of diplomatic and special passports process easy and fast. The agreement will also help the governments in both countries to cooperate more closely.

He affirmed that the main reason behind Britain's strict visa requirements is that many people manipulated the visa arrangements in the past. He added that the British government reviews the visa regulations from time to time and it will try to soften the UK entry visa requirements for citizens of the friendly countries.