Washington: The United States congratulated the United Arab Emirates on its selection as host for the 2020 World Expo, the first time the Expo will take place in the Middle East.

This is a significant first as the UAE serves not only as the region’s business hub but also as a global crossroads for a larger region including Africa and Asia, and it underscores the UAE’s unique role as a leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, a White House statement said.

It went on to say, “The UAE remains an important trade and investment partner to the United States, and we welcomed the November 17 announcement of major civilian aircraft agreements between airlines in the UAE and Boeing. These agreements, which will create jobs in the United States, symbolise our growing commercial relationship, and we look forward to continued growth with the UAE in all areas of our partnership.”