Sheikh Saud holds talks with Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade on enhancing bilateral economic ties

During the meeting they held wide ranging discussions aimed at boosting business and investment relations between Ras Al Khaimah and The Netherlands.

Sheikh Saud welcomed the Minister and expressed hope that the visit would open up new avenues of cooperation between Ras Al Khaimah and Netherlands, especially in industry, tourism and renewable energy sectors.

Outlining the current developmental initiatives in Ras Al Khaimah, Sheikh Saud said that the emirate has embarked on a comprehensive development plan which would enable Ras Al Khaimah to attain rapid and sustainable growth in all sectors.

"The development plan for the emirate, which is currently under implementation, has taken care to put in place a pro- business environment and to remove all impediments that might create hassles for entrepreneurs while establishing businesses in Ras Al Khaimah. Towards this goal, the Government has established entities like Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA) to play a proactive role in helping businesses succeed in RAK," he added.

Welcoming Dutch investments to the Emirate, Sheikh Saud said that Dutch industries could make use of the locational, cost and infrastructural advantages offered by Ras Al Khaimah to become more competitive and which would also enable them direct access to markets of more than 2 billion people in the region and beyond.

Frank Heemskerk said his country was quite interested in activating the trade relations with UAE in general and between Ras Al Khaimah and The Netherlands in particular. "The bold vision and the rapid economic growth that we see in Ras Al Khaimah is sure to open up new avenues for bilateral cooperation and new economic partnerships," he added.

The Minister said that Netherlands was looking forward to having new partnerships involving sharing of experience and technical know-how in the fields of sustainable energy, water management and other areas.

Dr. Khater Massaad, Advisor to the RAK Crown Prince and CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA), made a presentation on the investment opportunities and new developmental initiatives currently underway in Ras Al Khaimah.
Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK Finance Department and RAK Free Trade Zone, Keis Van Spronsen, Dutch Consul General, and a number of officials were present at the meeting.