A significant trade relationship between the US and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is to receive a further boost after a ‘Sister Ports’ agreement was signed between the Department of Seaports & Customs, government of Sharjah, in the UAE, represented by Sheikh Khaled Bin Abdullah Al Qasimi of the Department of Seaports & Customs, and the Canaveral Port Authority of Florida in the USA, represented by Jerry Allender, Chairman, Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners.
The signing ceremony was hosted by Gulftainer and was held at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce in the presence a number of officials, including Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Head of the Department of Government Relations in the Emirate of Sharjah, Badr Jafar, Vice Chairman of Gulftainer and Managing Director of Crescent Group.
The agreement confirms the two ports’ status as ‘sister ports’ in order to extend their mutual understanding for the development of economic resources, international trade and logistics.
A ‘Joint Declaration of Collaboration and Cooperation’ entered into will also explore new opportunities to develop cooperation between the ports and enable private companies within the catchment area of the respective ports to collaborate on trade and investment prospects.
To read a Technical Paper on the flexibility at Sharjah Container Terminal, click here
The port authorities also committed to exchange information and knowledge between themselves and develop commercial, technological and cultural ties for their mutual advancement.
The USA and the UAE enjoy a strong trade and investment relationship, with the UAE being the USA’s largest trading partner in the Middle East region, a relationship the UAE has held for six straight years.
Since 2009, bilateral trade has grown more than 80 per cent exceeding more than US $24 billion in 2014. This represents one of the fastest growing USA economic partnerships, both globally and especially in the Gulf region.
Sheikh Khaled Bin Abdullah Al Qasimi of the Department of Seaports & Customs, Government of Sharjah, said: “The ‘Sister Ports’ agreement strengthens our ties with an already strong partner of the UAE and reflects our commitment to establishing strong international relationships to boost the country’s economic development.”
Gulftainer will play a key role in enhancing communications between both organisations, as well as the various clients and private companies currently calling at their ports.
Peter Richards, Managing Director of Gulftainer, concluded: “This will positively impact our operations and we will continue to strive to strengthen the bond that exists with a view to contribute even further to the economy of both port areas.”
