WAM ABU DHABI, 14 May 2012 (WAM) -- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Offset Program Bureau (OPB) and General Dynamics hosted an industrial conference at the Shangri-La Hotel in Abu Dhabi which attracted the participation of several UAE-based aerospace and defense companies.

The conference, attended by Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, Chief Executive Officer of OPB '&' Tawazun Holding, and Michael H. Corbin, U.S. Ambassador to the UAE, was designed to introduce General Dynamic's various companies to participants and provide them with a forum to network and discuss mutual business interests for future collaboration in manufacturing, technology development and offsets.

Matar Ali Al Romaithi, Chief Officer of the OPB's Industrial Development Unit, highlighted the Bureau's efforts to align its operations and policies with the vision of the UAE's leadership by contributing to economic diversification, sustainability and technology transfer.

"This workshop provided an excellent opportunity for the local business community to hold open and candid discussions on a wide range of important issues currently being considered for establishing long-term relationships. The purpose of this workshop is to fulfil our mutual objectives of strengthening the relationship between local and foreign industries, and facilitating new business opportunities for future cooperation and partnerships," he said.

At the event, General Dynamics presented its business structure, products and core capabilities while small breakout sessions allowed local business leaders to introduce their capabilities and discuss areas for future collaboration with General Dynamics.

"The purpose of this conference is to provide a forum for mutual understanding with a focus on building a closer relationship with the local industry and academia in the UAE," said Steven Saiget, Regional Vice President of Industrial Participation at General Dynamics.

The OPB manages and operates the UAE Industrial Development Program. Since its establishment in 1992, the OPB has become a center of excellence in the development and fast-track execution of new and diverse commercial projects. Its trade conferences link together international contractors and the local private sector with the aim of encouraging the creation of joint ventures in the UAE.

General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and, information systems and technologies.

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