The Olympic torch arrived Monday in Oman amid tight security and expectations of a smooth relay of the flame on the Middle Eastern leg of its round-the-world tour. Officials said the flame arrived at Oman International Airport from Tanzania and was received by Omani sports minister Ali bin Masoud al-Sunaidy.Oman, a Muslim country at the southern end of the Arabian peninsula with a booming tourism industry, has strong economic ties with China, which is a major importer of its oil.
Authorities have promised a trouble-free torch relay with a party-like atmosphere, including musical performances and traditional dances to be held along the planned 12-mile relay route throughout the streets of the capital, Muscat, and along its scenic water front.
Officials said they expect none of the protests that have marred torch relay in other countries, adding that any attempt to disrupt the parade will be severely dealt with.
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