UAE delegation promotes closer links

THE VISIT by a high-level ministerial and business delegation from the United Arab Emirates to New Zealand last week highlighted the closer links that are developing between the two nations.

The delegation, headed by His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayad Al Nahyan, included representatives of the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Trade, the National Council for Tourism & Antiquities, sovereign wealth funds, and a range of businesses interested in developing closer ties with New Zealand.

The short visit included meetings with the Prime Minister and other senior ministers.

Kensington Swan hosted a New Zealand Trade & Enterprise investment seminar and networking function for the business delegation. Kensington Swan recently opened a branch in Abu Dhabi, becoming the first New Zealand legal firm to do so.

Kensington Swan chairman Clayton Kimpton said the visit was highly significant and demonstrated how much the United Arab Emirates-New Zealand relationship has developed over the last year. “This visit builds on the recently announced Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council.”

“There is huge commercial potential for businesses from both countries, and it is now up to us to build on the work of our respective governments,” he said. “We have committed to developing our relationship with the United Arab Emirates and we encourage other businesses to explore the wide range of opportunities in this dynamic country.”

“The opening of our Abu Dhabi office is significant not just for Kensington Swan, but also for the New Zealand professional services sector, and increased trade opportunities between the two nations.”

Kimpton said the move would not have been possible without the strong backing of the New Zealand Government, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.