Sudanese Al-Bashir to visit United Arab Emirates on Sunday

March 8, 2008 (KHARTOUM) — President Omer Hassan al-Bashir will leave Sunday for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on a three-day visit on the invitation of President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed.

The relations between Sudan and the United Arab Emirates are witnessing a major progress in the political and economic fields, a matter which is being reflected in the big increase in the UAE investments in Sudan and the trade exchange between the two countries.

The UAE investments in Sudan witnessed a remarkable leap in the past six years through establishment of several projects in the agricultural, building industry, communication, financial, banking and other fields.

Al-Bashir will be accompanied by a high level delegation.

The Secretary General of the Supreme Investment Council, Ambassador Ahmed Mahjoub, said that the President of the Republic has given a directive to the council to give much concern and facilitation to the UAE investments in Sudan.

Relations between UAE and Sudan improved significantly in late 90’s after a period of tension between the two countries.

The United Arab Emirates expelled the Sudanese ambassador in Abu Dhabi and six other Sudanese diplomats in 1992, the first move of its kind in the history of the oil rich country.

The UAE has refused subsequent request to restore full diplomatic relationship. In 1999 Sudan and the UAE agreed to restore their diplomatic ties to ambassador level.

(ST)