Sheikh Hamdan receives the Irish president

Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Finance Minister, yesterday discussed with Irish President Mary McAleese ways to boost ties of friendship and co-operation.

Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed with President McAleese the current financial crisis and economic slowdown and means to address their negative impact on the development programmes worldwide. He said the UAE was considered one of the world's least-affected countries, due to its self-reliant investment policies. President McAleese expressed her country's desire to build a viable long-term partnership with the UAE.

The meeting was attended by Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Economy Minister, Dr Hanif Hassan, Minister of Education, Obaid Humaid Al Tayer, Minister of State for Financial Affairs and other officials.

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