Syrian President receives Sheikha Lubna

Damascus - Dec 29, 2010 (WAM)- President Bashar al-Assad of Syria received here yesterday UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi who is currently leading a high level business and investment delegation on a visit to Syria.
President al-Assad reviewed with Sheikha Lubna ways to strengthen bilateral relations in commercial and investment fields, as well as means to tap business and joint investment opportunities. Also discussed were the outcome of the 45 strong UAE delegation and cooperation among the private sectors in the two countries.
Sheikh Lubna conveyed to President al-Assad greetings of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and their wishes of further progress and prosperity to the Syrian people.
President al-Assad asked Sheikha Lubna to pass his greetings to Sheikh Khalifa and Sheikh Mohammed. He said that his country was keen on promoting ties with the UAE and underlined the opportunities and the perfect climate for economic and commercial cooperation.
He also stressed the importance of leveraging cooperation to establish strong and sustainable partnerships and joint investments.
He referred to the growth witnessed by the Syrian economy and urged UAE businesses to increase their investments in Syria, particularly in the fields of water, foodstuff and healthcare.
Sheikha Lubna briefed President al-Assad on her talks with the Syrian officials and the discussions among representatives of the UAE and Syrian private sectors. Two-way trade between UAE and Syria witnessed a significant growth, reaching US$322 million in 2009. – Emirates News Agency, WAM