Over 25 countries to take part in 19th Asian International Stamp Exhibition hosted by Emirates Post

An agreement to this effect was signed between FIAP and Emirates Post in Dubai today. The document was signed by Mr. Gongvatana Surajit, President of FIAP and Coordinator of Dubai 2006, and Mr. Salem Al Shaya, Assistant Director General, Operations, Emirates Post, along with Mr. Abdulla Tayeb Khoory, President of Emirates Philatelic Association.

FIAP has been holding regular exhibitions around the world for the past 30 years as part of its mission to promote philately. The last FIAP exhibition was held in Taipei in August 2005. More than 50 stands will showcase stamps from the participating countries at the Dubai exhibition.

"Emirates Post is proud to host the 19th Asian International Stamp Exhibition which will bring together stamp collectors and enthusiasts from all over the world," said Mr. Al Shaya, after signing the agreement. "The patronage of FIAP will ensure that we will have a world-class stamp exhibition in Dubai. We expect the event to give a major boost to philately in the region."

The 19th Asian International Stamp Exhibition will coincide another major international postal event -- the UPU Strategy Conference 2006 -- which will be hosted by Emirates Post at Grand Hyatt Dubai from November 14 to 16, to be attended by over 1,000 delegates from 130 countries.

The 12th GCC Stamp Exhibition, the annual event for postal corporations from the region, will also be part of the 19th Asian International Stamp Exhibition.

"The 19th Asian International Stamp Exhibition and the UPU Strategy Conference 2006 will raise further the status of Emirates Post and the UAE on the global postal map," said Mr. Al Shaya. "Incidentally, both events are being held in the Middle East for the very first time, an indication that the world is giving this region its rightful place and recognition."