MINISTER MICKEL AND SAUDI ARABIAN PRINCE TALK TRADE

Today Queensland Minister for Trade John Mickel met with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, Governor of Riyadh, to strengthen the already solid relationship between Queensland and Saudi Arabia.

Mr Mickel is the first Queensland Minister to lead a trade mission to Saudi Arabia since the opening of the Trade Queensland office in Riyadh in November two years ago.

“His Royal Highness is a long-time friend of Queensland and today’s meeting was a great opportunity to renew this friendship and work toward the Q2 target of a stronger state economy,” Mr Mickel said.

“Queensland’s commitment to robust trade and investment with Saudi Arabia was re-affirmed at today’s meeting. This is illustrated by our position as the first and only Australian State to establish our own trade office in the Kingdom.

“I also invited His Royal Highness to bring a business delegation from Riyadh to Queensland to inspect our State’s major construction and infrastructure projects and to examine other sectors strong such as tourism, agribusiness and education and training.

“We discussed the current business environment in Riyadh and what it might mean for Queensland exporters.

“I was interested to hear His Royal Highness’ views on the possible effects of the world economic crisis in the Middle East, and to listen to his advice on opportunities to increase trade and tourism between Queensland and Saudi Arabia.”

Mr Mickel said he provided His Royal Highness with a copy of the recently released Power in Art DVD package, showcasing the best of our State’s Indigenous artwork.

“Trade Queensland has arranged a number of government and business trade missions to Saudi Arabia; and Indigenous art, as well as water management, and training and education are emerging as key trade markets.

“Since 2006 when the Trade Queensland office in Riyadh was established, significant export deals in construction and infrastructure and agribusiness have been established as well as a clear pathway for Saudi companies seeking access to Queensland markets,” Mr Mickel said.

18 November 2008

Minister Mickel’s office contact : Jane Rowe 3237 1125 or David Robertson 3235 4060