Muscat: The Shura Council today concluded discussions on two draft laws, namely amendments to certain provisions of the Cultural Heritage Law and the Cybercrime Law, referring them to the State Council to complete their legislative cycle.

According to Oman News Agency, this took place during the Council’s 12th regular session of the second annual convening (2024-2025) of its 10th term (2023-2027), chaired by Tahir bMabkhout Al Junaibi, Deputy Chairman of the Shura Council.

At the outset of the session, Abdullah Hamad Al Harthy, Head of the Shura Council’s Media, Tourism, and Culture Committee and its rapporteur for this session, presented the committee’s report on the proposed amendments to the Cultural Heritage Law. Meanwhile, Dr. Talal Said Al-Mahrouqi, Deputy Head of the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee, provided clarifications on the legal drafting and the compatibility of the draft’s provisions with relevant existing laws.

Members of the Council discussed the proposed amendments, with several offering observations and suggestions regarding the committee’s recommendations. They emphasized the importance of updating legislation related to cultural heritage preservation to keep pace with developments.

The Council also reviewed the Legislative and Legal Affairs Committee’s report on the Cybercrime Law. Dr. Ahmed Said Al-Saadi, Head of the committee and its rapporteur, elaborated on the draft’s key provisions and amendments deemed necessary to modernize the legislative framework in light of expanding digital and technological advancements.

The session included interventions from members, who submitted their observations and proposals on certain provisions. Following discussions, the Council approved the committee’s report on the Cybercrime Law, paving the way for the completion of legislative procedures.

Additionally, the session discussed and approved the report of the Public Services and Utilities Committee on the draft air services agreement between the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of the Netherlands related to Cura§ao. The committee’s report noted that this agreement represents a significant step toward enhancing bilateral cooperation in civil aviation, opening new prospects for air transport, facilitating passenger and cargo movement, and encouraging mutual investments in aviation and related services. This aligns with Oman’s aspirations to strengthen its position as a regional and global logistics hub.

It is worth noting that the Council will hold its 13th regular session tomorrow (Wednesday), dedicated to discussing the statement of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion.