Arabian cultural landmark: The Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. — Photo Courtesy UAE Embassy

On their 43rd National Day, UAE envoy Khalid Ibrahim Abdulaziz Shohail Alqahtani highlights the prosperity of seven emirates

On December 2, the United Arab Emirates marks its National Day, celebrating 43 years since the state was established in 1971.

For citizens and expatriate residents of the seven component emirates of the federation, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ra's al-Khaimah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain and Fujairah, it has been another year of prosperity, despite the turmoil affecting much of the Middle East.

The economic recovery witnessed over the last few years continued building momentum, with a notable, positive impact on business confidence.

During the past four decades, the UAE's achievements have transformed it into one of the most dynamic economies in the world, with well-developed infrastructure, high-tech science and technology, and an ideal environment for investment, commerce, tourism and employment.

Indeed, it was a great honour for Dubai and the entire UAE that it was selected to host the World EXPO in 2020 and the World Energy Congress in 2019.

This is the first time either event will be hosted by a city in the Middle East.

During the process of its construction and development, the UAE has always been admired and encouraged by international friends, including Viet Nam.

The success of the Second Session of the Joint-Government Committee and the first political consultation between the two ministries of foreign affairs, held in Abu Dhabi in 2014, broadened the two countries' partnership.

The UAE is among Viet Nam's top 10 export markets and one of its key partners in the Middle East. Trade has expanded, along with the bonds of friendship and trust between them.

Economic co-operation between the UAE and Viet Nam has grown significantly in recent years. Bilateral trade climbed from a modest US$67 million in 2002 to US$4.4 billion in 2013.

Bilateral agreements have provided a solid legal foundation on which trade has been able to thrive.

However, even more important than the sound leadership is the entrepreneurial spirit our people have shown, driving this fine relationship forward.

Major UAE groups such as DP World, Mubadala, Borouge, Nakheel, Limitless, Etihad Airways, Emirates Airlines and many other companies have been strengthening their investments in Viet Nam.

On the other hand, the physical distance between the two countries has been significantly shortened: 14 direct passengers flights a week and five cargo flights connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai to HCM City.

This should improve tourism and investment from the gulf region, as well as promote Vietnamese exports to the UAE and other countries in the region.

One important feature of the UAE is the diversity of its population. It hosts millions of immigrant workers from more than 200 nationalities, including more than 8,000 Vietnamese studying and working.

Their presence is testimony to the cultural, social and religious tolerance that is a fundamental part of the philosophy that underpins the country.

The UAE strongly believes that its relationship with Viet Nam can be strengthened, as the two nations build on their fine political relations and multifaceted co-operative efforts, and take advantage of each others' talents. — VNS