MFA Press Statement: Visit of SMS Zainul Abidin Rasheed to the United Arab Emirates, 5 to 10 October 2009

Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Zainul Abidin Rasheed, who is currently in the United Arab Emirates on an official visit, called on UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Dr Anwar Gargash on 7 October 2009. SMS Zainul and Dr Gargash discussed bilateral cooperation between Singapore and the UAE, cooperation in international fora, as well as regional developments. They also discussed issues pertaining to climate change and renewable energy. Abu Dhabi is the headquarters for the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The UAE is interested in Singapore's Non-Resident Ambassador system and will be sending a delegation to MFA to learn about the system. SMS Zainul also called on Minister of Foreign Trade Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al-Qasimi, and discussed ways to further bilateral economic cooperation. SMS Zainul visited the Higher Colleges of Technology. He called on Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, who hosted a dinner for SMS Zainul.

SMS Zainul will also visit Al Ain, followed by Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. In Dubai, he will attend the "Nusantara Aidilfitri" event organised by the Singapore Muslim Group (SMG) as the Guest of Honour.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
7 OCTOBER 2009