UAE-SPAIN RELATIONS GIVEN BOOST
Uae-spain Economic Forum kicks off in Abu Dhabi; to boost bilateral trade
abu dhabi — King Juan Carlos of Spain has highlighted the depth of relations that bind the UAE and Kingdom of Spain in a strong strategic partnership.
“The UAE and Spain can face the challenges ahead by building a common future of true prosperity through a true and long lasting strategic partnership,” he said in a speech at the opening of the UAESpain Economic Forum on Monday at in Abu Dhabi.
Carlos offered his appreciation to the President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, for their continuous support to maintain strong and fruitful relations between the two countries.
He said that the Emirati economy has become one of the fastest growing markets for Spanish exporters of goods and services and the same is true for emirates exports to Spain as strengths of the UAE’s economy are coupled with ambitious plans such as those under the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, or Dubai Vision, and Expo 2020.
Bilateral trade between the two sides has increased by 55 per cent since 2011, bringing total trade volume to €2.4 billion last year.
He stated that top Spanish companies have been awarded important contracts in oil and gas, renewable energy, transport, infrastructure,
Emirati economy has become one of the fastest growing markets for Spanish exporters
Juan Carlos
electricity, construction and defence sectors. Many more companies are actively participating in the tendering process in the UAE, with exper- tise and leading positions worldwide. He expressed happiness to see that these ties have attracted large numbers of Spanish companies to invest and establish their regional offices.
He also highlighted the role played by the Spanish Business Council in fostering a stronger and more active Spanish business community in the country adding that the Spanish businessmen are fully aware of the advantages offered to investors.
For his part, Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, in his speech during the forum welcomed the King of Spain and added that the forum highlights the prospects of the close ties between the Kingdom of Spain and the UAE.
Shaikh Nahyan expressed hope that the forum will be a strong bridge for successful economic relations between Spain and the UAE.
He stressed that the occasion is a good opportunity representing the UAE’s position and its capital, Abu Dhabi, as a prestigious centre which enjoys strong economic growth and plays an important role in the fields of investment and trade in the world, as well as its commitment to support coordination and cooperation with all countries and peoples.
He expressed pride in the UAE and its comprehensive renaissance and economic progress achieved under its wise leadership, pointing out that the country has a growing and open economy which offers opportunities for everyone to contribute and participate and encourage positive competition.