The United Arab Emirates has invited companies in the south Pacific region to be a part of the growth of the region. The country has introduced the 'Partnership in the Pacific Program' for extending formal invitation to the companies.

UAE is keen to establish strong diplomatic and business ties with the island states. The UAE Foreign Minister Shaikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan has conveyed the message to these states in his five-day visit to Tuvalu, Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Palau and the Kingdom of Tonga.

Shaikh Abdullah discussed various issues of business and strategic importance with the senior officials of these nations. He expressed UAE's desire to enhance co-operation especially in the renewable energy sector.

Abdullah informed that UAE has reserved a Dh183 million fund under the program for enhancing co-operation with Pacific Islands in the areas of education, social and health care services, and infrastructure and energy sector.

Shaikh Abdullah added, "This program is consistent with the UAE's long-standing record of international cooperation and its diverse foreign aid efforts which have been a key pillar of the President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed al Nahyan's international affairs strategy."