MEDIA STATEMENT

24 September 2010

MPs’ visit raises New Zealand profile in the United Arab Emirates

The New Zealand parliamentary delegation comprising Metiria Turei MP, co-leader of the Green Party, Craig Foss MP National , and Hon Maryan Street MP Labour, has visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) .

“New Zealand and the UAE have strong and increasing ties, and we have found that there is a positive view of New Zealand throughout the UAE region,” delegation leader Metiria Turei MP said.

The delegation visited the UAE national legislature and the Federal National Council. Members of the national council spoke of the strong friendship between the two countries and the opportunities for future contact.

The UAE is New Zealand’s second largest trading partner in the Middle East. New Zealand companies are already making an impact in the region, supplying a range of services including education, legal and public sector management.

“Our delegation was excited by the huge number of opportunities available for New Zealand in the UAE," Metiria Turei said. "The UAE are keen to explore ways that we can further work together and this is a really positive sign.”

The delegation gave a lecture in Dubai as part of the Hult Business School’s Executive Speaker Series.

A New Zealand Embassy will open in Abu Dhabi in 2011.

Prior to visiting the UAE the delegation attended the 56th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Conference in Nairobi, Kenya from September 13 to 19.

ENDS

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