Geneva - Arab Today
Relations between U.A.E. and Switzerland are growing steadily in different spheres thanks to the keen interest of the leaders of the two countries, said Droin Antoine, President of the Grand Council of Geneva.
"The two countries are making steady progress toward successfully implementing a plan drawn up in 2012 to enhance bilateral cooperation in fields such as environment, water, development and scientific research," the head of the legislature of the canton of Geneva, in an interview with WAM, said adding that Switzerland supports U.A.E.'s positions on many international issues, and expressed his country's preparedness to contribute to U.A.E.'s efforts to make World Expo 2020 a successful international event.
"We are looking forward to advancing our economic relations to the same level of our unique political relations." Mr. Antoine affirmed his country's interest in increasing the exchange of luxury commodities and mutual investments, in sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare, industry and specialised research, with U.A.E.
Mr. Antoine described the international stature of U.A.E. as spectacular, thanks to the great efforts of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Their Highnesses, the Supreme Council Member and Rulers of the Emirates.
He also hailed the growth of U.A.E. cities, noting that he holds a special admiration for Dubai which he said is associated in the minds of the Swiss people with modernity, openness, development and staying up-to-date with technological advancements.
The Swiss official noted that Switzerland is interested in achieving a strategic partnership with U.A.E. in different spheres including investment, economy, culture, tourism, higher education, research, environment and healthcare.
Mr. Antoine also noted that the government and people of his country take pride in the fact that U.A.E. is Switzerland's top economic and trading partner in the Middle East as their trade exchange achieved an unprecedented growth.
Source: WAM