February 25, 1999 (2:00 p.m. EST) No. 39

MARCHI OPENS NEW CANADIAN EMBASSY

IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

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.

"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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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."

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Leslie Swartman

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874