DUBAI: The visit by Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to United Arab Emirates (UAE) will further raise Malaysia’s profile in the Gulf nation and boost political, as well as trade and investment relations, between the two countries.
“This is his second visit to Abu Dhabi since becoming prime minister in April 2009. It’s a reflection of the growing bilateral ties between Malaysia and Abu Dhabi, as well as the UAE,” said Malaysian ambassador Datuk Yahaya Abdul Jabar.
The Jan 16-19 visit is at the invitation of General Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of UAE.
In 2008, UAE was Malaysia’s 17th largest trading partner, 15th largest export destination, 20th largest source of imports and the largest trading partner in the Middle East.
During January-October 2009, total trade between the two countries stood at RM11.8 billion.
Malaysia’s Dubai-based senior trade commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Mahmud said, there were over 80 Malaysian-registered companies operating in the UAE, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Najib is scheduled to have an audience with UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
During a visit to Dubai, the Malaysian leader is also expected to call on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice-president and prime minister of UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
Another highlight of his visit is delivering a keynote address at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi.
Yahaya said: “The prime minister’s visit is not only to attend the World Future Energy Summit but to strengthen economic and political contacts.
“Malaysia is also actively looking at attracting investments from Abu Dhabi. At present, Mubadala and the Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank have investments in Malaysia.”
The prime minister will also witness a ceremony to hand over five residential towers built by a Malaysian consortium on Reem Island.
“It’s worth mentioning that the growing relations between Malaysia and Abu Dhabi will witness further boost when Sheikh Mohammad, the crown prince, visits Malaysia in May 2010.
“The prime minister of Malaysia has personally invited him to undertake the visit and to speak at the World Islamic Economic Forum in Kuala Lumpur,” said the envoy.
Najib and wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, as well as the Malaysian delegation accompanying him, are currently in Riyadh where the prime minister is wrapping up a four-day visit to Saudi Arabia.
Najib is scheduled to leave for Abu Dhabi tonight. — Bernama