Alton,
I'm more optimistic after reading the exceprt a 2nd time as well.
What is comforting is that HE Al-Kindy is the first minister to show surprise and disappointment that this deal has not been finalized. Someone is finally pissed that this deal hasn't been agreed to and is not only showing support, but willing to hold people accountable by pushing this deal to a superior in the sultanate. This is the kind of action I've been waiting for when an additional road block has come into play.
I can get on board with post-Ramadan as a signing date, but I'm a bullish optimist - I'm going pre-Ramadan.