Khalifa Port inaugurated

Abu Dhabi: President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan officially launched Khalifa Port yesterday, placing another brick in the build-up towards the Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision. The port will act as a hub for trade and shipping activities in the region, connecting it to the world, which sees 90 per cent of its trade achieved through shipping. Notably, UAE ports have been receiving 61 per cent of the region’s cargo.

This unique event marks the roll out of another landmark in the country’s strategic vision towards creating an international business hub, said Sultan Al Jaber, Chairman of (ADPC).

The inauguration, attended by Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, as well as other Shaikhs, senior officials and dignitaries, was intended to coincide at the exact time of 12: 12: 12 on Wednesday December, 12, 2012. This represents a quantum leap for the country’s economy and offers diversity in its economic resources, said Al Jaber.

He added that due to increased international shipping and with Zayed Port reaching full capacity, the UAE needs to expand its advanced infrastructure. This contributes to the diversification of revenue sources and enhances the trade and industry outlook as it increases the capacity that the Emirates shipping infrastructure handles.