Advertisers (1) Oman LNG LLC (2) PEIE (3) Elixir Holistic Centre (4) HYATT (5) Hilton Salalah (6) OMAN FIBER OPTIC CO. SAOG (7) Oman Tourism A Special International Report Prepared by The Washington Times Advertising Department Written by Ayan Ahmed Project Director Hala Nasreddine For more information, call The Washington Times International Advertising Department at (202) 636-3035 (202) 635-0103 fax e-mail: natlad@wt.infi.net Copyright © 2000 News World Communications, Inc.		Y2K problem is not much of a threat The Omani government is well aware of the Y2K problem, also known as the “millennium bug,” which can have widespread dangerous consequences on the global economy and world trade, and has given it much attention. The government has studied and analyzed the impact on the local economy, as well, and held educational seminars throughout the country to inform the public of issues related to this particular problem. “I’m glad and happy to say that the United States Government has foreseen the problem in advance, and we (Omani Government), have worked hard with the public sectors and the society in educating them on updating their systems,” says the Minister of Information, Abdul-Aziz bin Muhammad Al-Ruwas. He adds that although Oman is new to the computer field, he is confident that as the year 2000 approaches, the problem will have already been tackled before it can have an opportunity to do any damage. In a recent speech, His Majesty pointed out that he had long ago issued directives to all government departments to ensure that the country faced no serious problems while entering the new millennium. All authorities have performed the necessary Y2K validations and funds were allocated to effectively tackle the problem, His Majesty added, expressing delight with the efforts. Even developed countries will not be free from minor problems relating to Y2K, “but as long as everyone is carrying out his duties, such matters will not affect us,” His Majesty said.		Table of Contents (1) The backbone to Oman’s structural growth is Sultan Qaboos (2) Rapid growth continues into a new century (3) U.S. and Oman: An enduring relationship (4) A message from H.E. Ambassador Abdulla Bin Mohamed Al-Dhahab (5) US Ambassador John B. Craig comments on 200-year relationship (6) Why should the U.S. invest in Oman? (7) Coordination paves the way for diversification (8) National economy is moving toward growth (9) A potential successor speaks out briefly on foreign affairs (10) New port breaks into top 20 league (11) Promoting industrialization by giving it a boost (12) OFO seeks to be a global market leader (13) Al-Felaij Castle Theatre awakens cultural enlightenment (14) Y2K problem is not much of a threat (15) Historical Frankincense of Oman (16) LNG emerges as a major contributor to the national economy (17) OMAN AT A GLANCE (18) Omani women enjoy liberation as they hold to traditions (19) The Grand Hyatt Muscat: A youthful hotel possessing old heritage and millennium flare (20) Oman: The Hidden Jewel of the Arabian Peninsula (21) What Can Tourists See and Do in Oman?