UAE keen to further boost Chicago ties 

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) The UAE's Ambassador to the United States, Yousef Al Otaiba, conducted a public diplomacy outreach visit to Chicago recently, with the aim to enhance the already-strong relations between Chicago and the UAE on commercial, social and cultural levels.

The ambassador was received by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel at a luncheon hosted by World Business Chicago, or WBC, and the mayor in the ambassador's honour. The luncheon was attended by 14 senior executives from leading business groups in the region.

During the luncheon, Al Otaiba, Emanuel and WBC vice-chairman Michael Sacks made remarks underscoring the importance of economic development through strong trade partnerships between Chicago and the UAE.

"I am honoured to visit Chicago and thank Mayor Emanuel and the city for their warm welcome," said Al Otaiba. "Chicago is the perfect representation of the growing bilateral economic relationship between the US and the UAE with outstanding commercial ties spanning industries like aerospace, manufacturing, services, travel and tourism."

"We are global partners in economic growth," said Mayor Emanuel. "Chicago is one of the most diverse cities in the world and continues to focus on embracing global partnerships that are beneficial in job creation, economic development and cultural enrichment."

In addition, hundreds of Chicago-area children celebrated the grand opening of the brand new UAE"Manchester City Field at Haas Park in Chicago. The field was a gift to the community by the UAE Embassy in Washington, DC, the Pritzker Traubert Family Foundation and Manchester City Football Club. The event was attended by Al Otaiba, Emanuel, Chicago Park District CEO Mike Kelly, Manchester City club ambassador Mike Summerbee, Dr Bryan Traubert and Penny Pritzker from the Pritzker Traubert Family Foundation, and many local Chicago officials.