Dubai, Gold Coast discuss cooperation

This came during a meeting at Dubai Municipality between Qassim Sultan, Director General of the Municipality, and Ron Clarke, Mayor of Gold Coast, who led a high-level delegation to the city consisting members of the Gold Coast City Council as well as senior executives of some 15 corporations.

The delegation had been briefed by Dubai Municipality officials on the development process taking place in the city as well as the future infrastructure projects the civic body intends to undertake.

Mr. Sultan explained to the delegation the investment opportunities available in the emirate as well as the facilities offered by the government in starting up and running businesses in Dubai.

The Australian businessmen, accompanying the delegation, have shown interest in the Dubai Metro Project as well as the urban development projects that are currently being undertaken in the emirate.

Mr. Clarke hailed the warm relations between Dubai and Gold Coast and noted that future cooperation between the two cities would focus on exchange of expertise in various fields as well as promoting trade and investment.

"We have a strong base in tourism field whereas Dubai has established itself economically. While we are trying to strengthen our economic base, Dubai is trying to attract more tourists. That's why I think there is a genuine need for mutual cooperation between the two cities," said Mr. Clarke.

He noted in this regard that as part of the Sister Cities agreement, signed by Dubai and Gold Coast, a special chamber of commerce has been set up in Gold Coast to promote trade between the two cities.

"We are going to sign a Memorandum of Understanding today with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in a bid to strengthen the trade exchange process," he said.

The delegation later paid a visit to the Children's City and will visit today (Sunday) the Dubai Dry Dock, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Internet and Media Cities, and the Knowledge Village.