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<title>MARCHI OPENS NEW CANADIAN EMBASSY IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES</title>
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<p><font face="Arial"></font><font face="Arial" size="+1"></font><font face="Arial" size="+1">February 25, 1999 <em>(2:00 p.m. EST)</em> No. 39</font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font face="Arial" size="+1">MARCHI OPENS NEW CANADIAN EMBASSY</font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font face="Arial" size="+1">IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">International Trade Minister Sergio Marchi officially opened the new Canadian Chancery in Abu Dhabi yesterday
during a two-day business development mission to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Minister was
accompanied by 40 Canadian companies looking to explore business opportunities in the Gulf region. </font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">"The expansion of our diplomatic presence here demonstrates the tremendous growth in business between our two
countries," said Mr. Marchi. "This visit is an excellent opportunity for Canadian firms looking to build partnerships in
the UAE."</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">The Emirates represent the fastest-growing market for Canadians in the Middle East. In 1998, Canadian exports to
the UAE reached an estimated $270 million, an almost fivefold increase over the past six years. During this
mission, Mr. Marchi witnessed the signing of five agreements worth $5 million between businesses from Canada
and the UAE.</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Priority export sectors for Canadian businesses in the UAE include telecommunications, information technology,
agri-food and agriculture, construction, building materials and services, and education and training.</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">The Minister met with several senior UAE government officials, including Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al-Nahayan,
Deputy Prime Minister of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh
Sultan bin Mohammad bin Sultan Al-Qassimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. He also met with the Minister for Higher
Education and Scientific Research in Abu Dhabi, and the Minister of Finance and Industry in Dubai.</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Mr. Marchi today attended the Canadian Technology Showcase in Sharjah, the first exclusively Canadian trade
exhibition to be held in the Emirates. A further 22 Canadian companies are participating in this event.</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">In discussions on government-to-government relations, the two countries agreed to conclude a double taxation
agreement at the earliest date. In addition, the Minister indicated that Canada and the UAE would pursue the
completion of a visa agreement, which would facilitate business travel in both directions. </font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Mr. Marchi took the opportunity of this visit to announce the selection of Air Canada as Canada's designated
carrier to provide air services between Canada and the UAE.</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">"We look forward to a speedy conclusion of negotiations on an air services agreement with the UAE," said the
Minister. "Improved air links will certainly contribute to the ongoing growth in trade and tourism between our two
countries."</font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font face="Arial">- 30 -</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">For further information, media representatives may contact:</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Leslie Swartman</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Office of the Minister for International Trade</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">(613) 992-7332</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Media Relations Office</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade</font></p>
<p><font face="Arial">(613) 995-1874</font></p>
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