WAM Abu Dhabi, Jun 08th, 2012 (WAM)--Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research has stressed that the UAE and France enjoy distinguished relations, citing joint interests in areas of business, financing, banking, tourism, scientific research and others.

Addressing the annual ceremony of the French Business Group at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, Sheikh Nahyan said "our political, trade and educational relations have been excellent at a time the world is witnessing more divisions and conflicts." He underlined that the relations between the two countries are reflected in partnership, especially in the sectors of health, education, environment and sciences.

Sheikh Nahyan said the UAE and France have pledged to further boost the humanitarian work for the common good of humanity, indicating that "the education provides for us joint intellectual language because it helps in understanding other cultures and encourages tolerance." For his part, French Ambassador to UAE Alan Azwaw hailed the UAE and France relations, which he said dates back to 40 years. He referred to the progress being witnessed by the UAE in general and Abu Dhabi in particular.

The French envoy added that Abu Dhabi is a unique model for growth in all fields. Azwaw said the French Business Group had set up over year 100 Companies in Abu Dhabi at growth rate of 10 per cent annually. He noted that France exports to UAE stood at 3.65 billion euro in 2011.

WAM/MN