Extract from the speech by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to his people on the day of his Accession 23rd July, 1970.

I promise you to proceed forthwith in the process of creating a modern government. My first act will be the immediate abolition of all the unnecessary restrictions on your lives and activities.

My people,

I will proceed as quickly as possible to transform your life into a prosperous one with a bright future. Every one of you must play his part towards this goal. Our country in the past was famous and strong. If we work in unity and cooperation, we will regenerate that glorious past and we will take a respectable place in the world.

My people, my brothers,

Yesterday it was complete darkness and with the help of God, tomorrow will be a new dawn on Muscat, Oman and its people.

God bless us all, and may he grant our efforts success.