King's visit will put spotlight on growing business opportunities

Abu Dhabi: King Juan Carlos I of Spain arrived on Saturday on an official visit to the UAE, to attend a business forum today hosted by the Spanish Embassy.

He is being accompanied by Miguel Sebastian, Spanish Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism and the heads of 45 Spanish companies.

King Juan Carlos last visited the UAE in 1982.

The meeting is aimed at projecting Spain as a foreign investor with a high degree of liberalisation in its economy.

Manuel Valle, economic and commercial counsellor, Spanish Embassy Dubai, said: "The forum in Abu Dhabi is aimed at boosting the image of Spanish companies in sectors such as railways, air transport, banking and renewable energies. We have strong expertise that we're keen to share."

Commercial relations between Spain and the UAE have been growing steadily, with total trade figures standing at $1.13bn in 2006, and $1.32bn in 2007.

King Juan is likely to attend a state dinner hosted by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister and Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and to hold talks with General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.