India, UAE to boost trade ties, increase investment opportunities

Dubai, April 23 (UNI) The United Arab Emirates (UAE) today sought more investment opportunities in India as it aims to strengthen bilateral relations in business and industry.

During a meeting between the visiting Minister for Commerce and Industry Kamal Nath and Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum here today, it was agreed to stimulate greater investments from both sides.

Sheikh Mohammed said UAE is pursuing a ''look East Policy'' in which Indian had a special role. He expressed desire to promote mutual investments into both countries and called upon the two Governments to work together in the forging of a new partnership.

Mr Nath welcomed increased investments by UAE in India and invited Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as well as his children Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai to visit India at an early opportunity.

Mr Nath is on an official visit to UAE from April 23-24, 2008.

Earlier in the day Mr Nath held discussions with UAE Minister for Higher Education Sheikh Nahyan Bint Mubarak Al Nahyan, and Dubai Ports World Group Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem.

He also addressed a gathering of the Indian Business and Professional Council, Dubai.

During the visit, Mr Nath will hold bilateral talks with Government of UAE Minister of Economy Sultan Al Mansoori, Emirates NBD Chairman Hisham Alshirawi, and Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vice Chairman Hamad Buamin among others.

Mr Nath will also address a gathering of business leaders at an event hosted jointly by the Ambassador of India Talmiz Ahmad, Dubai Chamber and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry on April 24.

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