table of contents - parliament.qld.gov.au · 3 program program update - 14 november 2008 time zones...

TABLE OF CONTENTS

OBJECTIVES.............................................................................................................16 OFFICIAL DELEGATION MEMBERS........................................................................17 BUSINESS DELEGATION MEMBERS � SAUDI ARABIA ........................................18 BUSINESS DELEGATION MEMBERS � UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ......................19 MEETING BRIEFS - SAUDI ARABIA ........................................................................22 MEETING WITH AUSTRALIAN AMBASSADOR TO SAUDI ARABIA, MR KEVIN MAGEE ......................................................................................................................23 MEETING WITH DR EMAD SHUBLAQ, MANAGING DIRECTOR, ARCHITECTRONICA.................................................................................................25 MEETING WITH SAUDI OGER LTD .........................................................................27 MEETING WITH THE COUNCIL OF SAUDI CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY.................................................................................................................29 NETWORKING FUNCTION AT THE RIYADH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY.................................................................................................................30 INFORMAL RECEPTION HOSTED BY THE AUSTRALIAN SENIOR TRADE COMMISSIONER, MR MICHAEL KAVANAGH .........................................................32 MEETING WITH HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE SALMAN BIN ABDUL AZIZ, THE GOVERNOR OF RIYADH..........................................................................................35 MEETING WITH THE GOVERNOR OF THE SAUDI ARABIAN GENERAL INVESTMENT AUTHORITY (SAGIA), HE AMR ABDULLAH AL DABBAGH............36 MEETING WITH THE GOVERNOR OF THE TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING CORPORATION (TVTC), HE ALI BIN NASSER AL GOFAIS .................37 MEETING WITH SAUDI ARABIAN MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, HE ABDULLAH ZAINAL ALIREZA.............................................................................39 MEETING WITH SENIOR EXECUTIVES OF THE JEDDAH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY..................................................................................41 NETWORK SESSION AND PRESENTATIONS AT THE JEDDAH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY..................................................................................43 MEETING WITH MMC INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS .............................................45 SITE VISIT TO KING ABDULLAH ECONOMIC CITY IN RABEGH...........................47 MEETING BRIEFS UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ........................................................48 MEETING WITH SUNLAND GROUP � DUBAI OFFICE ...........................................49 OPENING OF THOMSON ADSETT ARCHITECTS DUBAI OFFICE........................51 MEETING WITH HYDER CONSULTING MIDDLE EAST LTD..................................54 BRIEFINGS FROM GHD, LEIGHTON CONTRACTING AND NASA MULTIPLEX ...56 MEETING WITH DUBAI PORTS WORLD (DP WORLD) ..........................................58 MEETING WITH DUBAI PORTS WORLD (DP WORLD) ..........................................58 SITE VISIT TO AL RAHA BEACH DEVELOPMENT .................................................59

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MEETING WITH THE UAE MINISTER FOR FOREIGN TRADE, HE SHEIKHA LUBNA .......................................................................................................................61 MEETING WITH THE CHAIRMAN OF ABU DHABI DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT, HE ABDULLAH RASHID AL OTAIBA................................................62 MEETING WITH THE UNDERSECRETARY OF THE ABU DHABI DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMY AND PLANNING, HE MOHAMMED OMAR ABDULLAH .................63 WALK THROUGH THE BIG 5 EXHIBITION ..............................................................65 MEDIA RELEASES....................................................................................................68

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PROGRAM Program Update - 14 November 2008 Time Zones Time in bold indicates local time Time in normal font indicates Brisbane time Time Differences Singapore 2 hours behind Brisbane Saudi Arabia 7 hours behind Brisbane UAE 6 hours behind Brisbane Saturday 15 November 2008 – Brisbane / Singapore NB � Weekend Day 6:00pm Check in at Brisbane International Airport

8:00pm

Depart Brisbane for Dubai via Singapore Emirates Flight EK433 Travel time: 7h 30m

Sunday 16 November 2008 – Singapore / Dubai, UAE / Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 1:30am 3:30am

Arrive Singapore

2:50am 4:50am

Depart Singapore for Dubai Emirates Flight EK433 Travel time: 7h 15m

6:15am 12:15pm

Arrive Dubai

11:40am 5:40pm

Depart Dubai for Riyadh Saudi Arabian flight SV563 Travel time: 2h

12:40pm 7:40pm

Arrive Riyadh You will be met and escorted from the airport by Commissioner Miski and a VIP delegate from the Saudi Arabian Government. Allow from 12:40pm � 2:00pm for customs clearance

2:00pm � 2:45pm 9:00pm � 9:45pm

Transfer from airport to hotel by car Travel time: 45m

2:45pm 9:45pm

Check in at Holiday-Inn Riyadh-Ala Qasr

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3:30pm � 4:00pm 10:30pm -11:00pm

Travel from the hotel to Embassy Travel time: 30m

4:00pm � 5:00pm 11:00pm � midnight

Meeting with the Australian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mr Kevin Magee CONFIRMED Venue: Australian Embassy Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 1 488 7788 Fax: +966 1 488 7973 Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: No

Overnight Riyadh Holiday-Inn Riyadh-Ala Qasr Olaya Main Rd, Olaya District Riyadh

Monday 17 November 2008 – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 7:00am � 8:00am 2:00pm � 3:00pm

Formal breakfast with delegates Venue: Holiday-Inn Alqasr

8:00am � 8:30am 3:00pm � 3:30pm

Depart hotel by car for meeting at the Australian Embassy Travel time: 30m

8:30am � 9:30am 3:30pm � 4:30pm

Meeting with Dr Emad Shublaq, Managing Director Architectronica CONFIRMED Venue: Australian Embassy Diplomatic Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 1 488 7788 Fax: +966 1 488 7973 Speech: No Delegates: Yes Gift: Yes

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9:30am � 10:00am 4:30pm � 5:00pm

Travel to hotel by car Travel time: 30m

10:00am � 11:30am 5:00pm � 6:30pm

Brisbane liaison time

12:30pm � 1:00pm 7:30pm � 8:00pm

Travel to next meeting by car Travel time: 30m

1:00pm � 2:30pm 8:00pm � 9:30pm

Meeting with Saudi Oger Ltd CONFIRMED Venue: Saudi Oger Ltd Sitteen Street � Malaz Quarter Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Speech: No Delegates: Yes Gift: Yes

2:30pm � 3:00pm 9:30pm � 10:00pm

Travel to hotel Travel time: 30m

3:00pm 10:00pm

Arrive at hotel

3:00pm � 4:30pm 10:00pm � 11:30pm


4:30pm � 5:00pm 11:30pm � midnight (Tues)

Depart hotel for next meeting by car Travel time: 30m

5:00pm � 5:30pm Midnight (Mon) � 12:30am (Tues)

Meeting with a Senior Executive of the Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry CONFIRMED Venue: Office of the Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry King Fahad Road Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

5:30pm � 6:00pm 12:30am � 1:00am (Tues)

Travel to networking function by car Travel time: 30m

6:00pm � 8:00pm 1:00am � 3:00am (Tues)

Networking Function at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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CONFIRMED Venue: Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry Dabab Street Riyadh Speech: Yes Delegates: Yes Gift: Yes

7:30pm 2:30am (Tues)

Minister to travel in car with Senior Trade Commissioner to residence. Travel time: tbc

8:30pm � 10:00pm 3:30am � 5:00am (Tues)

Informal Reception hosted by the Australian Senior Trade Commissioner, Mr Michael Kavanagh CONFIRMED Venue: Trade Commissioner�s Residence Diplomatic Quarter Speech: No Delegates: Yes Gift: No

10:00pm � 10:30pm 5:00am � 5:30am (Tues)

Depart from the reception to hotel by car Travel time: 30m

Overnight Riyadh

Tuesday 18 November 2008 – Riyadh / Jeddah, Saudi Arabia 8:30am � 9:30am 3:30pm � 4:30pm

Meeting with the Saudi Arabian Minister of Water and Electricity, HE Abdullah Al-Hussayen CONFIRMED Venue: Ministry of Water and Electricity King Fahed Road Riyadh 11233, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 1 205 6666 Fax: +966 1 205 0557 Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

9:30am � 10:00am 4:30pm � 5:00pm

Depart hotel for meeting by car Travel time: 45m

10:00am -10:30am Meeting with His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin

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5:00pm � 5:30pm Abdul Aziz, the Governor of Riyadh CONFIRMED

10:30am � 11:15am 5:30pm � 6:15pm

Travel to next meeting Travel time: 45m

11:30am � 12:30pm 6:30pm � 7:30pm

Meeting with the Governor of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), HE Amr Abdullah Al Dabbagh CONFIRMED Venue: Office of the Governor SAGIA Al Mhamadia District Saudi Arabia Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

12:30pm � 1:00pm 7:30pm � 8:00pm


1:00pm � 2:00pm 8:00pm � 9:00am

Meeting with the Governor of the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC), HE Ali Bin Nasser Al Gofais CONFIRMED Venue: Office of the Governor TVTC main building Training Centre building, near Prince Sultan University Saudi Arabia Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

2:00pm � 2:30pm 9:00am � 9:30am

Travel to meeting by car Travel time: 30m

2:30pm � 3:30pm 9:30am � 10:30pm

Meeting with Saudi Arabian Minister of Commerce and Industry, HE Abdullah Zainal Alireza CONFIRMED Venue: Ministry of Commerce and Industry King Abdulaziz Street, Ministries Road Riyadh 11162, Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 1 401 2222 Fax: +966 1 403 8421

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Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

3:30pm � 4:00pm 10:30pm � 11:00pm


4:00pm � 5:00pm 11:00pm � midnight (Tues)

Light meal and check out of hotel

5:00pm � 6:00pm Midnight (Tues) � 1:00am (Wed)

Travel to airport by car Travel time: 1hr

6:00pm 1:00am (Wed)

Arrive at King Khalid Airport

6:45pm 1:45am (Wed)

Depart Riyadh for Jeddah Saudi Arabian Airlines flight SV1061 Travel time: 1h 40m

8:25pm 3:25am

Arrive Jeddah (no customs)

8:25pm � 9:10pm 3:25am � 4:10am

Transfer to hotel by car Travel time: 45m

9:10pm 4:10am

Check in at the hotel

Overnight Jeddah Crown Plaza Hotel Jeddah Al Hamra Corniche Jeddah, 21531 Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 2 661 1000 Fax: +966 2 660 6326

Wednesday 19 November 2008 – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia 8:30am � 9:45am 3:30pm � 4:45pm


9:45am � 10:15am 4:45pm � 5:15pm


10:15am � 11:00am 5:15pm � 6:00pm

Meeting with Senior Executives of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry Venue: Jeddah Chamber of Commerce Al-Bogdadia Al-Gharbia

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across from King Fahad Coastal City Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

11:00am � 1:30pm 6:00pm � 8:30pm

Network session and presentations at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry CONFIRMED Venue: Jeddah Chamber of Commerce Al-Bogdadia Al-Gharbia across from King Fahad Coastal City Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Speech: Yes Delegates: Yes Gift: Yes

1:30pm � 2:00pm 8:30pm � 9:00pm

Return to hotel by car Travel time: 30m

2:00pm 9:00pm

Arrive at hotel

2:00pm � 5:00pm 9:00pm - 12:00noon

Brisbane liaison and cultural awareness

Overnight Jeddah Crown Plaza Hotel Jeddah Al Hamra Corniche Jeddah, 21531 Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 2 661 1000 Fax: +966 2 660 6326

Thursday 20 November 2008 – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia / Dubai, United Arab Emirates NB - Weekend Day 8:00am � 8:30am 3:00pm � 3:30pm


9:00am � 10:00am 4:00pm � 5:00pm

Meeting with MMC International Holdings CONFIRMED Venue: MMC Offices Al-Azzam Commercial Centre Al-Mua�adi Street Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

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Speech: No Delegates: Yes Gift: Yes

10:00am � 11:30am 5:00pm � 6:30pm

Travel to next meeting by car An opportunity for Brisbane liaison time Travel time: 1h 30m

11:30am � 1:30pm 6:30pm � 8:30pm

Site visit to King Abdullah Economic City in Rabegh CONFIRMED Venue: King Abdullah Economic City in Rabegh Main Building (100km North of Jeddah) Speech: No Delegates: Yes Gift: Yes

1:30pm � 3:00pm 8:30pm -10:00pm

Return to hotel by car Travel time: 1h 30m

3:00pm � 6:00pm 10:00pm (Thurs) � 1:00am (Fri)

Brisbane liaison and cultural awareness

6:45pm � 7:15pm 1:45am � 2:15am (Fri)

Check out of hotel and travel to airport by car Travel time: 30m

7:15pm 2:15am (Fri)

Arrive at the King Abdul Aziz International Airport

8:45pm 3:45am (Fri)

Depart Jeddah for Dubai Emirates Airlines EK804 Travel time: 2h 30m

Overnight Dubai Friday 21 November 2008 – Dubai, United Arab Emirates NB - Weekend Day 12:15am 6:15am

Arrive Dubai Met by Commissioner Rae at airport. Allow 30m for customs clearance.

12:45am � 1:00am 6:45am � 7:00am

Transfer by car from airport to hotel Travel time: 15m

1:00am Check in at hotel

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7:00am Dubai Burjuman Rotana Trade Centre Road Crossing Khalid bin Al Waleed Street Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 0 4 352 4444 Fax: +971 0 4 352 7666

9:00am -10:00am 3:00pm � 4:00pm


10:00am � 10:30am 4:00pm � 4:30pm


10:30am � 12:00noon 4:30pm � 6:00pm

Meeting with Sunland, Dubai Office CONFIRMED Venue: The Lobby Lounge (Al Fayrooz Lounge) Al Qasr Hotel Madinat Jumeirah Dubai, UAE Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

12:00noon � 12:30pm 6:00pm � 6:30pm


12:30pm � 1:45pm 6:30pm � 7:45pm

Opening of Thomson Adsett Architects Dubai Office CONFIRMED Venue: Thomson Adsett Architects Dubai Office 3rd Floor AP25 Building Phase 1 Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE Speech: Yes Delegates: No Gift: Yes

1:45pm � 2:05pm 7:45pm � 8:05pm


2:05pm � 3:00pm 8:05pm � 9:00pm


3:00pm � 4:30pm 9:00pm � 10:30pm

Meeting with Hyder Consulting, Middle East Ltd CONFIRMED Venue: Burjuman Rotana Hotel Trade Centre Road Crossing Khalid bin Al Waleed Street

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Dubai, UAE Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

Overnight Dubai Burjuman Rotana Hotel Trade Centre Road Crossing Khalid bin Al Waleed Street Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 0 4 352 4444 Fax: +971 0 4 352 7666

Saturday 22 November 2008 – Dubai / Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates NB - Weekend Day 7:15am � 7:45am 1:15pm � 1:45pm


7:45am 1:45pm

Walk to venue adjacent to hotel. Travel time: 5 minutes

8:00am � 8:30am 2:00pm � 5:00pm

Informal introduction by Minister for companies participating in the briefing and site visit 8:00am � 11:00am Briefing to Business delegation from GHD, Leighton Contractors and Nasa Multiplex Venue: Burjuman Rotana Hotel Trade Centre Road Crossing Khalid bin Al Waleed Street Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 0 4 352 4444 Fax: +971 0 4 352 7666 Speech: No Delegates: Yes Gift: Yes

11:30am � 12:45am 5:30pm � 6:45pm

Meeting with Dubai Ports World (DP World)) Venue: Jabel Ali Port Dubai, UAE Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: No

1:00pm � 2:30pm 7:00pm � 8:00pm

Formal lunch with delegates

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Venue: The Gallery Restaurant Burjuman Rotana (tbc)

2:30pm 8:30pm

Check out of hotel

2:45pm � 4:15pm 8:45pm � 10:15pm

Depart Dubai by car for Al Raha Beach Development Travel time: 1h 30m

4:15pm � 5:30pm 10:15pm � 11:30pm

Site visit to Al Raha Beach Development CONFIRMED Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

5:30pm � 6:00pm 11:30pm � midnight (Sat)

Travel to the hotel Travel time: 30m

6:00pm midnight (Sat)

Check in at hotel Le Royal Meridien Hotel Sheikh Khalifa Street Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: +971 2 674 2020 Fax: +971 2 6950 434

Overnight Abu Dhabi Sunday 23 November 2008 – Abu Dhabi / Dubai, United Arab Emirates (NB � times for Sunday are TBA, subject to the confirmation of official meetings) am Brisbane liaison time

am Check out of the hotel

8:30am � 9:00am 2:30pm � 3:00pm

Depart hotel for meeting by car Travel time: TBC

9:00am � 10:00am 3:00pm � 4:00pm

Meeting with UAE Minister for Foreign Trade, HE Sheikha Lubna Venue: Ministry of Foreign Trade Cnr Airport Road and 29th Streets Abu Dhabi Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

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10:00am � 11:00am 4:00pm � 5:00pm

Meeting with Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport, HE Abdulla Rashid Al Otaiba CONFIRMED Venue: 7th Floor, C2 Tower Bateen Towers Bainunnah Street Abu Dhabi Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

11:15am � 12:30pm 5:15pm � 6:30pm

Travel by car to next meeting Travel time: 30m

12:30pm � 1:30pm 6:30pm � 7:30pm

Meeting with the Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economy and Planning, HE Mohammed Omar Abdullah CONFIRMED Venue: Department of Economy and Planning Salam Street Abu Dhabi Speech: No Delegates: No Gift: Yes

2:00pm � 4:00pm 8:00pm �10:00pm

Depart Abu Dhabi for the Big 5 Exhibition by car An opportunity for further Brisbane liaison time Travel time: 2hr

4:00pm � 8:00pm 10:00pm (Sun) � 2:00am (Mon)

Walk through the Big 5 Exhibition CONFIRMED Venue: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai, UAE Speech: No Delegates: Yes Gift: No

8:00pm � 8:30pm 2:00am � 2:30am

Depart the Big 5 Exhibition for hotel by car Travel time: 30m

8:30pm 2:30am

Check in at hotel

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Overnight Dubai Burjuman Rotana Trade Centre Road Crossing Khalid bin Al Waleed Street Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 0 4 352 4444 Fax: +971 0 4 352 7666

Monday 24 November 2008 – Dubai, United Arab Emirates / Brisbane 6:00am 12:00noon

Depart the hotel for airport Travelling time: 30-40m

6:40am 12:40pm

Check in at the airport An opportunity for Brisbane liaison time

8:40am 2:40pm

Depart Dubai for Brisbane Emirates Airlines EK432 Travel time: 15h 55m

Overnight In flight Tuesday 25 November 2008 – Brisbane 6:35am Arrive Brisbane

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OBJECTIVES

• To consolidate Queensland�s trade and investment activities in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, particularly in construction and infrastructure.

• To strengthen relationships with key government and business leaders in the Middle East and promote the capabilities of Queensland companies.

• To build on opportunities for Queensland through its Trade and Investment Commissioners in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, and reinforce at senior government and commercial levels the high priority the Queensland Government places on trade and investment relationships with the Middle East.

• To raise Queensland�s profile and promote Queensland as a culturally diverse destination particularly in relation to the attraction of tourists and students wishing to study.

• To raise the profile of Queensland Indigenous art in the Middle East and promote a greater appreciation of its unique and distinctive qualities.

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OFFICIAL DELEGATION MEMBERS

The Honourable John Mickel MP

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations

Mr Martin Bradshaw Policy Advisor to the Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations

Mr Loftus Harris Special Representative to the Middle East and India, Trade Queensland (UAE)

Mr Hassan Miski Queensland Government Trade and Investment Commissioner � Saudi Arabia (Saudi Arabia)

Ms Susan Rae Queensland Government Trade and Investment Commissioner � United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Mr Youhanna Yassa Director, Middle East and North Africa, Trade Queensland (Saudi Arabia and UAE)

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BUSINESS DELEGATION MEMBERS – SAUDI ARABIA

Mrs Elena Gosse Executive Director Australian Innovative Systems

Mr Kerry Gosse Managing Director Australian Innovative Systems

Ms Nataliya Galasyuk Financial Controller Barlina Pty Ltd

Mr Scott Peterson Director Barlina Pty Ltd

Mr Tony Murphy Manager J M Kelly Group

Mr Geoff Murphy Managing Director J M Kelly Group

Mr Brett Rewald Manager J M Kelly Group

Mr Joshua Kennedy-White Strategic Business Development Executive - Queensland Laing O�Rourke

Mr Phillip Perkins Director Lectel

Mr Brett Young Operations Manager Lectel

Ms Lorraine Catalano Director of Exports Quikcorp

Mr Paul Martins National Sales Manager Ritek Building Solutions Pty Ltd

Mr Alan Emblin Director Ritek Building Solutions Pty Ltd

Mr Mal Close Director Suncoast Waste Water Management

Mr Tom Gill Manager Tapepro Dry Wall Tools

Mr Dayne Mearns Principal Thomson Adsett Architects

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BUSINESS DELEGATION MEMBERS – UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Ms Cassandra Prucha General Manager

Aqualine International

Mr Beno Prucha Director Aqualine International

Mr Michael Chan Director Archidiom Design

Mr Jacques De Bedout Associate Archidiom Design

Mrs Elena Gosse Executive Director Australian Innovative Systems

Mr Kerry Gosse Managing Director Australian Innovative Systems

Ms Nataliya Galasyuk Financial Controller Barlina Pty Ltd

Mr Scott Peterson Director Barlina Pty Ltd

Mr Shawn Goodwin Director Base Architecture Pty Ltd

Mr Tim Stewart Director Base Architecture Pty Ltd

Mr Garry Sweet Partner Fibreglass Pool Manufacturing Pty Ltd

Mr Michael Kramer General Manager FKM Technology

Mr John Moriarty Chief Research and Development Officer FKM Technology

Mr Peter Moloney Deputy Research and Development Officer FKM Technology

Mr Gerharde Kempe Managing Director Golonaise Pty Ltd T/A Kempe Australia

Ms Mary-Ann Meek Marketing Manager Golonaise Pty Ltd T/A Kempe Australia

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Mr Tony Murphy

Manager J M Kelly Group

Mr Geoff Murphy Managing Director J M Kelly Group

Mr Brett Rewald Manager J M Kelly Group

Mr Stan Jacques Director Jacques Electronics Pty Ltd

Mr Joshua Kennedy-White Strategic Business Development Executive - Queensland Laing O�Rourke

Mr Phillip Perkins Director Lectel

Mr Brett Young Operations Manager Lectel

Mrs Lucille Scott Business Development Manager Lightweight Structures

Mr Trevor Scott Managing Director Lightweight Structures

Mr Noel Robinson Chief Executive Officer Noel Robinson Architects

Mr Ross Palmer Principal Palmer Acoustics (Aust) P/L

Mr Mohammad Ketabchi Managing Director QIDO International

Mr Massoud Hatami Managing Director QIDO International

Ms Lorraine Catalano Director of Exports Quikcorp

Mr Paul Martins National Sales Manager Ritek Building Solutions Pty Ltd

Mr Alan Emblin Director Ritek Building Solutions Pty Ltd

Mr Mal Close Director Suncoast Waste Water Management

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Mr Mohammad Tabrizi Managing Director Tabrizi Property Group

Mr Tom Gill Manager Tapepro Dry Wall Tools

Mr Dayne Mearns Principal Thomson Adsett Architects

Mr Bernie Scott Director Unison Joints Pty Ltd

Exhibitors

Ms Mary Lou Kelly Managing Director

Ecospecifier

Mr David Tilbury Managing Director

Intralux Lighting

Ms Jo Mitchell Director

Quikcorp

Mr Grant Mitchell Chief Executive Officer

Quikcorp

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MEETING BRIEFS - SAUDI ARABIA

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MEETING WITH AUSTRALIAN AMBASSADOR TO SAUDI ARABIA, MR KEVIN MAGEE

Date: Sunday 16 November 2008

Time: 4:00pm � 5:00pm

Venue: Australian Embassy

Diplomatic Quarter

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

ATTENDEES

Mr Kevin Magee Australian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• This meeting was my first opportunity following my arrival in Saudi Arabia to receive an intelligence briefing from the Ambassador on the market.

KEY POINTS

• I provided the Ambassador with an overview of my program and the key objectives of my mission.

• A key objective of my trade mission was to support the activities of my business delegation at a range of meetings targeting opportunities in a range of sectors including The Big 5 exhibition, in Dubai.

• I sought the Ambassador�s views and advice to ensure my mission was effective.

• I sought the Ambassador�s advice about key cultural and religious issues in Saudi Arabia that I should be aware of during my official and business meetings.

• I discussed with the Ambassador the flow of tourists from Saudi to Queensland and the need for direct flights from Saudi to Queensland. I asked the Ambassador when next meeting Saudi Airlines to express our interest in seeing them flying to Brisbane.

• I discussed with the Ambassador the recent visit of the Australian Federal Minister for Trade to Saudi Arabia and the complaints that were raised by the Saudi side regarding some customs officers tough handling of tourists. The main issue of concern was that Saudi tourists were not fully aware of their responsibility to declare any food items the are bringing into Australia.

• I sought the Ambassador�s views on the change of the American Presidency on the region. The Ambassador�s advice was that the Saudi�s are expecting that the strong established relationship with the United State will continue.

• The Ambassador advised that Saudi Arabia is interested in buying more wheat, barley and lentils. Also opportunities exist in the services areas of education, infrastructure, airports and water recycling.

• I discussed with the Ambassador the recent announcement during the G20 Summit in Washington by His Royal Highness the King of Saudi Arabia of injecting US$400 billion by the Saudi Government in infrastructure projects across the Kingdom and the opportunities that this would present to Queensland companies.

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MEETING WITH DR EMAD SHUBLAQ, MANAGING DIRECTOR, ARCHITECTRONICA

Date: Monday 17 November 2008

Time: 8:30am � 9:30am

Venue: Australian Embassy

Diplomatic Quarter


ATTENDEES

Engineer (Dr) Emad Shublaq

(pronounced e-mad shoo-blak)

Managing Director, Architectronica

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I received a briefing from the Australian citizen Engineer Emad Shublaq on the state of the Saudi Arabian economy, the current construction boom in the Kingdom and the activities of Architectronica.

• This was the first meeting I attended with Queensland business delegates in Saudi Arabia and it was an opportunity for me to get to know each of the delegates in a conducive environment prior to meetings with native Saudi Arabian companies.

• The briefing by Engineer Shublaq provided me with an opportunity to develop a strong general understanding of the market and issues which were applied in subsequent meetings over the course of my program.

KEY POINTS

• Engineer Shublaq�s briefing outlined the key challenges and issues faced by Architectronica in establishing its business in Saudi Arabia.

• I sought advice on key projects and supply opportunities in the market that match the delegation�s capabilities and I was able to establish Engineer Shublaq�s capacity to facilitate introductions. Engineer Shublaq responded by saying that he is happy to assist with introductions whenever he can and commented that the Economic Cities offer great opportunities for Australian companies.

• The meeting also included a powerpoint presentation covering:

• the Saudi Arabian economic and business environment;

• an overview of the construction and infrastructure sector in Saudi Arabia; and

• Architectronica�s major projects and resulting business opportunities.

• Eng. Shublaq advised that in Saudi Arabia foreign companies could now own 100% of their own business in Saudi Arabia.

• Eng. Shublaq highlighted the wealth of Saudi Arabia including possessing 25% of the world oil reserves.

• Among the huge development programs in Saudi Arabia, Eng. Shublaq spoke about the plans to build 4.5 million housing units over the next 20 years. The large five Economic Cities across Saudi Arabia including King Abdullah�s

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Economic City, which is under construction, will cost US$26.6 billion. There are also plans to develop the petrochemical industries costing around US$45 billion over 25 years.

• Eng. Shublaq also spoke about the large rail projects, real estate developments and tourism projects worth tens of billions of US dollars.

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MEETING WITH SAUDI OGER LTD


Time: 1 00pm � 2:30pm (includes lunch)

Venue: Saudi Oger Ltd

Sitteen St


ATTENDEES

HE Sheikh Ayman Hariri Deputy General Manager

M. Oussama Al Kaed Assistant Division Manager � TSSD

Mazen Fayed Director of Corporate Communications

Munzer Kahwaji Corporate Business Development Manager

Ahmad Dorra Procurement Division Manager

Jamal F. El Zein Assistant General Manager - Maintenance

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I was accompanied by my business delegates to meet with Saudi Oger Ltd (pronounced O-jay) and I discussed opportunities relating to mega projects, such as the Economic Cities, in Saudi Arabia.

• I discussed the company�s involvement in the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) which is under construction, and I sought to establish potential business opportunities on behalf of the Queensland delegates.

• My presence at this meeting added to the delegation�s credibility and ensured a strong engagement between Saudi Oger Ltd and my business delegates. Saudi Arabian companies highly regard foreign companies strongly supported by their own government.

• My presence led to an acceptance from the Deputy General Manager to send a delegation to Queensland early next year to source more products and services from Queensland. The program for the visit will be organised by Trade Queensland.

KEY POINTS

• On behalf of my business delegates, I was briefed on the activities and capabilities of Saudi Oger Ltd, in the areas of construction, infrastructure and architectural design, with the view to discovering gaps in capability or supply and potential business opportunities.

• On behalf of my business delegates, I obtained an overview on the process and practice of contracting in Saudi Arabia, particularly relating to construction and supply opportunities for mega projects, including the KAEC residences.

• I promoted the capabilities of the Queensland companies and encouraged Saudi Oger Ltd to actively engage with delegation members with the view to possibly developing business links in the future.

• I obtained information on the Saudi Oger Training Institute, including the sectors covered and the programs on offer, as well as investigated opportunities for

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collaboration and/or exchange with Queensland companies and educational institutions.

• It is obvious, that due to the size of projects that Saudi Oger has undertaken, and as well as being well connected in the market, there are a number of potential opportunities for Queensland companies in the design, architecture, construction goods and services that Queensland companies are interested to pursue. This will be followed up on during the expected visit by a delegation from Saudi Oger to Queensland in the first quarter of 2009.

• Saudi Oger gave a PowerPoint presentation to the delegation regarding some of their large and prestigious projects in Saudi Arabia.

• Each company in my delegation was able to introduce their projects and services to the key decision makers of Saudi Oger.

• His Excellency explained that his company completed the construction and furnishing of all the university utilities of King Abdullah�s University which has grown 500,000 square meters in less than 18 months.

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MEETING WITH THE COUNCIL OF SAUDI CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY


Time: 5:00pm � 5:30pm

Venue: Office of the Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry

King Fahad Road


ATTENDEES

Dr Fahd Al-Sultan

Secretary-General

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with Dr Fahd Al-Sultan from the powerful Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry (the Council) � the peak body for all the various Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Saudi Arabia.

• This meeting was important because the Queensland Government�s relationship with the Council (established through its Deputy Chairman, Mr Abdulrahman Al-Jeraisy) which has proven valuable in opening doors in the Saudi Arabian market.

KEY POINTS

• I reiterated that this was the first trade mission led by a Queensland Minister since November 2006, when former Premier Beattie met with the Council�s Deputy Chairman, Mr Al-Jeraisy in Riyadh. He responded by requesting more delegations to visit Saudi Arabia.

• I enquired of my host about his own familiarity with Queensland and I provided some background on Queensland and its economy, including my role as Trade Minister.

• I reiterated that the Queensland Government values the Council as key partner in developing Queensland�s business relationships in Saudi Arabia.

• I was briefed on the current business environment in Saudi Arabia, including the encouragement by the Saudi Government for foreign companies to establish business in Saudi Arabia by cutting red tape. We also discussed the key areas which present opportunities for greater engagement with Queensland through improving the awareness on both sides about opportunities and capabilities to work together in joint ventures of mutual interest.

• I invited Dr Fahd Al-Sultan to lead a business delegation to Queensland to explore potential business partnerships and investment opportunities in Queensland and I offered the assistance of Trade Queensland to achieve this. He responded by mentioning that there is a plan by the Council to visit Australia in August 2009 and will consider Queensland to be part of the visit.

• His Excellency commented that there is a need for closer economic ties between Australia and Saudi Arabia especially during the current global financial situation and this will be best achieved through exchange of visits by trade and investment delegations from both sides.

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NETWORKING FUNCTION AT THE RIYADH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY


Time: 6:00pm � 8:00pm

Venue: Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Dabab Street


ATTENDEES

Mr Hamad Bin Al-Homaidan Deputy Secretary General

EVENT SYNOPSIS

• I accompanied Queensland business delegates and made a short speech at a networking function hosted by the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

• Queensland delegates had the opportunity at this network session to give company presentations to the members of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry before being briefed on opportunities in Riyadh, and this was followed by one-on-one meetings with interested Riyadh Chamber members.

• My participation at this event raised the profile of the Queensland delegation in the eyes of attending Saudi Arabian companies and enhanced networking opportunities for delegates.

KEY POINTS

• In my speech I:

• provided an introduction to Queensland, Australia;

• provided an overview of the Queensland � Saudi Arabia trade and investment relationship;

• provided a platform for my business delegation�s presentations by introducing the delegation and outlining its broad capabilities and objectives; and

• encouraged attendees to examine opportunities for doing business.

• Queensland business delegates also had the opportunity to provide a short PowerPoint presentation to the seated audience (2-3 minutes each) on their company and particular product and/or service.

• Following the presentations there was time for one-on-one meetings between the Queensland and Saudi Arabian companies. Mission participants feedback indicated that they are following up on the leads. However, because of the 10 day �Eid Al Adha� holidays in Saudi Arabia which ended on Friday, 12 December, combined with Australia�s Christmas holidays, follow-up may be delayed.

• A run sheet outlining the order of events is attached.

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Run Sheet

Networking Function at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Riyadh, Monday 17 November 2008

Venue:

Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Dabab Street


6:00pm � 6:30pm

Networking and refreshments

6:30pm � 6:45pm Welcoming speech from host

Response from Minister Mickel

6:45pm � 7:30pm Presentations by Queensland business delegates

(number presenting to be advised)

7:30pm � 8:00pm One-on-one meetings between Queensland and Saudi Arabian companies

(networking)

7:30pm Opportunity to depart for function

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INFORMAL RECEPTION HOSTED BY THE AUSTRALIAN SENIOR TRADE COMMISSIONER, MR MICHAEL KAVANAGH


Time: 8:30pm � 10:00pm

Venue: Trade Commissioner�s Residence

Diplomatic Quarter

ATTENDEES

Mr Michael Kavanagh Senior Trade Commissioner, Austrade Saudi Arabia

Mrs Linda Kavanagh Wife of the Senior Trade Commissioner

Austrade staff

EVENT SYNOPSIS

• Austrade Senior Trade Commissioner, Mr Michael Kavanagh hosted my business delegation and me at an informal reception at his private residence.

• This informal reception was an opportunity to review leads secured by my business delegates and assess the need for follow-up assistance to be provided by Trade Queensland and/or Austrade Saudi Arabia.

KEY POINTS

• I thanked Mr and Mrs Kavanagh for hosting the delegation.

• I discussed potential opportunities for Queensland companies, including the construction of large numbers of housing units and other construction and infrastructure projects identified by my business delegates during the Networking Function hosted by the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

• I offered Trade Queensland�s services in providing follow-up on any opportunities identified by delegates.

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MEETING WITH SAUDI ARABIAN MINISTER OF WATER AND ELECTRICITY, HE ABDULLAH AL-HUSSAYEN

Date: Tuesday 18 November 2008

Time: 8:30am � 9:30am

Venue: Ministry of Water and Electricity

King Fahed Road

Riyadh 11233, Saudi Arabia

ATTENDEES

HE Abdullah Al-Hussayen Minister of Water and Electricity

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• Saudi Arabia is highly dependant on alternative water sources, and the purpose of my meeting with Minister Al-Hussayen was to introduce him to Queensland and explain how the State has successfully responded to similar challenges currently faced by Saudi Arabia in the water sector.

• This initial meeting was to establish the credentials of Queensland�s water sector and provided a platform for the potential development of collaborative activities in the future.

KEY POINTS

• I provided a brief overview of the Queensland Government�s response to the State�s worst drought in 100 years, particularly the planning and delivery of the Queensland Water Grid Project.

• I explained that Queensland is emerging as an exporter of water sector technologies and services and I provided the Minister with a copy of the Water Sector Action Plan which maps its core capabilities.

• I was briefed on the Saudi Arabian water sector and how Saudi Arabia has very limited supply of natural water resources due to the scarcity of rain and that almost all of the water used in Saudi Arabia comes from desalinated plants situated on the Gulf or on the Red Sea.

• The Minister highlighted that as the water supply is limited, they are working on ways to control the demand and educate people on the importance of the wise use of water. I agreed and discussed the similarities between the challenges faced by both Queensland and Saudi Arabia.

• I invited HE Abdullah Al-Hussayen to lead a delegation to Queensland.

• I also raised the profile of Queensland Indigenous art in the Middle East and promoted a greater appreciation of its unique and distinctive qualities.

• I discussed and provided a copy of the recently launched DVD and other marketing collateral in relation to Queensland�s Indigenous Arts.

• His Excellency advised that Saudi Arabia receives an average of 60 millilitres of rain per year thus their reliance on other water resources like desalinated water and the need to minimise the demand and the importance of recycling technologies.

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• His Excellency mentioned that in 1900 the world population was 1 billion and by 2050 the population will reach 9 billion with the same water resources for domestic use, irrigation, food etc.

• His Excellency mentioned that Saudi Arabia is looking at privatising water and considering all possible water saving methods.

• His Excellency highlighted the fact that the Saudi economy is 10 times stronger than the United Arab Emirates economy and the Saudi population is 25 million compared to 4 million in the United Arab Emirates.

• He commented that the Saudi market is now open to international competition and there are new players entering the market, such as Chinese, and also the State of New South Wales.

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MEETING WITH HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE SALMAN BIN ABDUL AZIZ, THE GOVERNOR OF RIYADH


Time: 10:00am � 10:30am

Venue: Palace of the Governor of Riyadh

Qasar Al-Hukm, Deira District


ATTENDEES

HRH Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Governor of Riyadh

Chairman, Riyadh Development Authority

Mr Raafat Al-Sabbagh Personal Assistant

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with His Royal Highness (HRH) Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud to continue to enhance this relationship, forged through meetings by the former Premier, the Honourable Peter Beattie in 2000 and 2006.

• I reiterated that the Queensland Government wants to develop stronger relations with Riyadh.

• I addressed issues relating to the broader Queensland � Saudi Arabia trade and investment relationship and initiated dialogue on issues specific to Riyadh.

KEY POINTS

• I noted that Prince Salman is a long term friend of Queensland, having led an official visit to the state in 2000, and hosting a reciprocal visit by the former Premier Beattie in November 2006.

• I discussed how Trade Queensland�s representation in Saudi Arabia has, since then, been an effective spearhead for the Queensland Government�s strategic push into Saudi Arabia.

• I sought the Prince�s view on the current economic environment in Saudi Arabia and discussed the key areas which he believes present opportunities for greater engagement with Queensland including the recent announcement by His Royal Highness the King of injecting US$400 billion in infrastructure projects.

• I invited the Prince to return to Queensland with a business delegation to witness how dramatically the state has grown since his last visit in 2000.

• I discussed and provided a copy of the recently launched DVD and other marketing collateral in relation to Queensland's Indigenous Arts.

• HRH explained to me in detail how his time in Queensland was very enjoyable and he intends to come back and bring his family with him. I welcomed and encouraged the Prince�s visit and had the opportunity to promote Tourism in Queensland.

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MEETING WITH THE GOVERNOR OF THE SAUDI ARABIAN GENERAL INVESTMENT AUTHORITY (SAGIA), HE AMR ABDULLAH AL DABBAGH


Time: 11:30am � 12:30pm

Venue: Office of the Governor

SAGIA

Al Mhamadia District

Saudi Arabia

ATTENDEES

HE Amr Abdullah Al-Dabbagh Governor, Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA)

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with the Governor of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), (identified by former Premier Beattie�s trade mission in 2006) as a key organisation with which Queensland should develop links during.

• I was the first Queensland Government Minister to meet with SAGIA.

• My meeting with His Excellency Al-Dabbagh established Queensland�s relationship with SAGIA and allowed me to assess the potential for that relationship to facilitate opportunities for Queensland companies in major investment projects across Saudi Arabia.

KEY POINTS

• I was provided with a briefing on major investment projects in Saudi Arabia, particularly the Jazan and King Abdullah Economic Cities that are worth tens of billions of dollars. The Governor advised that there is enough Saudi Government support to ensure that the projects will go ahead.

• I encouraged His Excellency Al-Dabbagh to lead an investment delegation to Queensland to which he agreed. A suitable time will be confirmed at a later stage for early next year.

• I reinforced the Queensland Government�s commitment to developing links with SAGIA to capitalise on opportunities associated with major investment projects in Saudi Arabia �particularly regarding Saudi Arabia�s planned investment in the transport sector.

• His Excellency highlighted the fact that Saudi Arabia is targeting value adding in plastics, glass and aluminium industries.

• I discussed with His Excellency the importance of Saudi Airlines to fly to Australia to assist in the transfer of the increased number of tourists and students coming to Australia. His Excellency was supportive of the idea and mentioned that he is willing to make the introductions.

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MEETING WITH THE GOVERNOR OF THE TECHNICAL AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING CORPORATION (TVTC), HE ALI BIN NASSER AL GOFAIS


Time: 1:00pm � 2:00pm

Venue: Office of the Governor

TVTC main building

Training Centre building, near Prince Sultan University

Saudi Arabia

ATTENDEES

HE Ali Bin Nasser Al Gofais Governor, Technical and Vocational Training Corporation

Mr Saleh Alamr Vice Governor for Development

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with the Governor and Vice Governor of the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC) to discuss the key challenges facing the Saudi Arabian vocational education and training sector, particularly in relation to improving the quality of training provided.

• TVTC�s desire to improve training quality by developing strong international partnerships presents opportunities for Queensland institutions and I was able to discuss opportunities which included working with TVTC to build teacher capacity on curriculum development, training methods and the provision of training.

KEY POINTS

• I was briefed on the two key issues affecting the vocational education and training sector in Saudi Arabia as follows:

• As the large projects of construction, infrastructure, tourism, oil and gas are developing, there is a lack in skilled operators to support these developments.

• In the past there had been significant support for higher education, however, little for vocational training.

• I noted similarities between Saudi Arabia and Queensland including the fact that Queensland is a high-growth state which needed to address challenges in relation to the supply of skilled labour, especially in the construction sector.

• I discussed the potential for cooperation between TVTC and Queensland institutions in building teacher capacity, curriculum development, training methods and training provision.

• I invited the Governor to lead a delegation to visit Queensland to see first-hand what Queensland can offer in this sector.

• The Governor explained to me that the Government of Saudi Arabia is offering a number of scholarships in the vocational training area for Saudi Nationals to be trained in different countries including Australia.

• The Governor mentioned that Saudi Arabia will be building a number of TAFE colleges to be operated by the private sector.

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• The Governor suggested that a vocational training delegation from Queensland would be beneficial to visit Saudi Arabia and discuss the Saudi requirements in more detail. QETI is already considering a visit to the Middle East, to include Saudi Arabia, in 2009.

39

MEETING WITH SAUDI ARABIAN MINISTER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, HE ABDULLAH ZAINAL ALIREZA


Time: 2:30pm � 3:30pm

Venue: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

King Abdulaziz Street, Ministries Road

Riyadh 11162, Saudi Arabia

ATTENDEES

HE Abdullah Zainal Alireza Minister of Commerce and Industry, Saudi Arabia

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with the Saudi Arabian Minister of Commerce and Industry, His Excellency Abdullah Zainal Alireza, to discuss the progress of Queensland � Saudi Arabian trade and investment relations since the establishment of permanent Queensland in-market representation in 2006. I also discussed opportunities to continue to enhance the relationship.

KEY POINTS

• The former Premier, the Honourable Peter Beattie met with Minister Alireza�s predecessor in Riyadh in November 2006 to officially launch the Trade Queensland Saudi Arabia representation.

• I reiterated how Trade Queensland�s representation in Saudi Arabia has been an effective spearhead for the Queensland Government�s strategic push into Saudi Arabia including:

• bringing a number of government and business trade missions to Saudi Arabia throughout 2006-08;

• facilitating significant export deals in construction and infrastructure, agribusiness and education and training; and

• providing a gateway for Saudi Arabian companies seeking to access the Queensland market.

• I signalled the Government�s commitment to increase trade and investment between Queensland and Saudi Arabia and I discussed opportunities to enhance the relationship like increased Government official visits, trade missions and tourism opportunities.

• The Minister shared his views on the proposed Australia − Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in which he is supportive.

• I had the opportunity to raise the profile of Queensland Indigenous art in the Middle East and promote a greater appreciation of its unique and distinctive qualities. I discussed and provided a copy of the recently launched DVD and other marketing collateral in relation to Queensland's Indigenous Arts. The information was politely received.

• I outlined the considerable work that has been undertaken since the establishment of Trade Queensland representation in Saudi Arabia to expand trade and investment linkages between Queensland and Saudi Arabia. I advised

40

that the representation has delivered significant results in 2007-08, including A$12.9 million in export outcomes in the Saudi Arabian market.

• His Excellency expressed his strong support to Queensland and the Queensland delegation and his willingness to assist in any matters that Queensland would request.

• He also highlighted the excellent relationship he has with Mr Simon Crean who he met a couple of times.

• His Excellency mentioned that he believes many countries would suffer from the Global Economic Crisis, however, he believes that the effect on Saudi Arabia would be minimal.

41

MEETING WITH SENIOR EXECUTIVES OF THE JEDDAH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Date: Wednesday 19 November 2008

Time: 10:15am � 11:00am

Venue: Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Al-Bogdadia Al-Gharbia

across from King Fahad Coastal City

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

ATTENDEES

Mr Mustafa Sabri Secretary General, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Mr Othman Ba Sabri

Deputy Secretary General, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with senior executives from the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry ahead of a networking session with my business delegation and members of the Chamber.

• This meeting was an opportunity to gain further information, on behalf of my business delegation, on key member companies from the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, used to improve networking opportunities.

KEY POINTS

• I provided background on Queensland and its economy, including my role as Trade Minister.

• I relayed that a key focus of my trade mission was the building and construction sector, and I outlined the capabilities of my business delegates who attended the networking session.

• I invited the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry to lead a business delegation to Queensland to further explore Queensland�s capabilities first hand and offer the assistance of Trade Queensland to achieve this.

• The Secretary General mentioned that the Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce is planning a visit to Australia in 2009 and I responded by inviting them to visit Queensland and offered assistance with the Queensland visit program.

• Mr Sabri extended his support to the visiting delegation and expressed his willingness to assist Queensland businesses to get entry visas to Saudi Arabia by issuing a support letter to the Saudi Embassy in Australia.

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• Mr Sabri highlighted the fact Saudi Arabia is keen to make better use of water and is interested in water recycling and water technologies. Mr Sabri indicated that the Saudi Arabian Government is planning to send technical experts overseas to investigate experience gained by other countries in water technology.

43

NETWORK SESSION AND PRESENTATIONS AT THE JEDDAH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

Date: Wednesday 19 November 2008

Time: 11:00am � 1:30pm

Venue: Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Al-Bogdadia Al-Gharbia

across from King Fahad Coastal City


ATTENDEES

Mr Mustafa Sabri Secretary General, Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Ms Ohoud Al Amoudi Jeddah Marketing Board, International Relations Coordinator

EVENT SYNOPSIS

• My role at this event included making a short speech.

• Queensland delegates had the opportunity to give PowerPoint presentations to the members of the Chamber before being briefed on opportunities in Jeddah. One-on-one meetings followed with interested Jeddah Chamber members.

• My participation at this event elevated the profile of the Queensland delegation in the eyes of attending Saudi Arabian companies and enhanced networking opportunities for delegates.

KEY POINTS

• In my speech I:

• provided an introduction to Queensland, Australia;

• provided an overview of the Queensland � Saudi Arabian trade and investment relationship;

• provided a platform for my business delegation�s presentations by introducing the delegation and outlining its broad capabilities and objectives; and

• A run sheet outlining the order of events is attached.

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Run Sheet

Network Session and Presentations

at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Jeddah, Wednesday 19 November 2008

Venue:

Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry


11:00am � 11:20am Networking and refreshments

11:20am � 11:30am Welcome speech by Mr Mustafa Sabri

11:30am � 11:40am Response from Minister Mickel

11:40am � 12:30pm Presentations by Queensland business delegates

12:30pm � 1:30pm One-on-one meetings between Queensland and Saudi Arabian companies

(networking)

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MEETING WITH MMC INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS

Date: Thursday 20 November 2008

Time: 9:00am � 10:00am

Venue: MMC Offices

Al-Azzam Commercial Centre

Al-Mua�adi Street


ATTENDEES

Mr Mohammed Ghazali Director Projects

Mr Clifford Goh Director Ports

Engineer Ali Taher Dabbagh Head of Engineering, Jazan Economic City

Mr Stewart Lim Senior Manager, Business Development Division Jazan Economic City

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I was accompanied by business delegates to meet with MMC International Holdings (MMC) and I discussed opportunities associated with its role as master developer for the US$30 billion (A$44 billion) Jazan Economic City.

• I was briefed on MMC�s recent agreement with the Aluminium Corporation of China (CHALCO) to consider building one of the Jazan Economic City�s first major projects, a US$3.5 (A$5 billion) aluminium smelter.

• Queensland�s association with CHALCO on the proposed alumina refinery project at Bowen may present opportunities for Queensland companies to become involved in the aluminium smelter project at Jazan Economic City.

KEY POINTS

• I was provided with a briefing on the progress of the Jazan Economic City development.

• I discussed Queensland�s background as a resource-rich state with strong capabilities in minerals-processing industries in the context of how this may present opportunities to work with MMC on projects in the Jazan Economic City � particularly it�s proposed aluminium smelter project with CHALCO. I mentioned that we are willing to share our know-how and expertise. I also asked the Directors� to liaise with our Commissioner in Riyadh if they needed to follow-up on this.

46

• I followed-up on opportunities associated with the Jazan Economic City, such as port, aluminium smelter, and marinas, as well as the housing units, which were identified in my meeting with the Saudi Arabia General Investment Authority (SAGIA).

47

SITE VISIT TO KING ABDULLAH ECONOMIC CITY IN RABEGH

Date: Thursday 20 November 2008

NB � Weekend Day

Time: 11:30am � 1:30pm

Venue: King Abdullah Economic City in Rabegh

Main building (120 km North of Jeddah)

ATTENDEES

Mr Fahd Al Rasheed CEO, Emaar, The Economic City

Mr Joseph Kilar Chief Operating Officer, Emaar, The Economic City

Mr Sami Al-Halabi Senior Director, Commercial, Emaar, The Economic City

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I was accompanied by my Business Delegation.

• This site visit enabled me to experience the scale of the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC; pronounced CAKE) which is a mega project covering some 173 square km (approximately the size of Moreton Island) with the view to identifying existing or future opportunities for the business delegates.

KEY POINTS

• I observed the size of the entire city project which is expected to house some 2 million permanent residents on completion. This project, anticipated to progress to completion over a period of 20 years, and running over four phases, has the potential to provide the Queensland business delegates with significant long-term business prospects through design, building material supply and electrical equipment manufacture and supply.

• I gained an understanding of the phases of the development, the expected timeframes for completion, and types of sectors that will have the highest prospect for this project with the view to matching Queensland delegates to potential partner companies.

• The delegation and myself were hosted to lunch at the marketing office of Emaar, the Economic City by the CEO, Mr Fahad Al-Rasheed.

48

MEETING BRIEFS UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

49

MEETING WITH SUNLAND GROUP – DUBAI OFFICE

Date: Friday 21 November 2008

Time: 10:30am � 12:00noon

Venue: The Lobby Lounge (Al Fayrooz Lounge)

Al Qasr Hotel

Madinat Jumeirah

Dubai, UAE

ATTENDEES

Mr Soheil Abedian Managing Director, Sunland Group Middle East

Mr David Brown Chief Operating Officer, Sunland Group Middle East

Ms Anne Jamieson General Manager, Sunland Group

Mr Sabha Abedian Managing Director, Sunland Group

Mr Matthew Weidmayer Chief Financial Officer, Sunland Group

Mr Mark Fewell Chief Operating Officer, Sunland Group Australia

Ms Kerry Ovens-Brown

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with the Dubai Office of the Queensland-based Sunland Group to receive an update on the status of their projects.

• This meeting was also an opportunity for me to identify supply opportunities which may exist for Queensland companies.

KEY POINTS

• I thanked Mr Soheil Abedian and the rest of the attendees for taking time from their weekend to meet with me.

• I promoted my large business delegation of companies from Queensland�s building and construction industries which have come to pursue opportunities associated with major infrastructure developments in the Middle East.

• I enquired about the progress of Sunland�s two existing developments underway in Dubai, the Palazzo Versace and D1 (which have included work by Hyder Consulting Queensland Office) and I discussed further opportunities for Queensland companies, including asset management and advanced building technologies.

50

• I congratulated the Sunland Group on its recent deal with Brisbane-based EWM Group for the proposed A$2.2 billion Atrium Tower in Dubai and discussed opportunities for other Queensland companies to become involved in this development.

• I discussed Sunland�s plans for further developments in the region and offered support of Trade Queensland�s offices for potential entry into the Qatar, Saudi and Abu Dhabi markets.

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OPENING OF THOMSON ADSETT ARCHITECTS DUBAI OFFICE


Time: 12:30pm � 1:45pm

Venue: Thomson Adsett Architects Dubai Office

3rd Floor AP25 Building

Phase 1 Dubai Healthcare City

Dubai, UAE

ATTENDEES

Mr Dayne Mearns Principal, Thomson Adsett Architects

Ms Carmen Cheung Health Facility Planner, Dubai Office, Thomson Adsett Architects

Ms Zareen Hussain Business Development Manager, Austrade Dubai

Ms Quinita Braggs Business Development Manager, Austrade Dubai

Mr Bill Douglas Director, MCD

Mr Tony Suttle Project Director, MCD (Dubai)

Mr Albert Janian Manager, MEP, Webb and Erbas

Mr Ian Foy Director, Electrical, Webb and Erbas

Stephan Frantzen P & T Architects

Mr Kaltun Mohamed P & T Architects

Mr Ben Kho Former employee of TA

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I delivered a speech to open the Thomson Adsett Architects (TAA) Dubai office.

• I congratulated the company on its success and expansion and underlined the innovation and growth of Queensland companies into the United Arab Emirates market.

KEY POINTS

• In my speech, I:

• Reiterated that I was honoured to have the opportunity to open the TAA office in Dubai;

• referred to TAA as an example of the numerous Queensland companies finding export success in the UAE;

• highlighted Trade Queensland�s assistance to TAA and other Queensland exporters;

• A run sheet outlining the events is attached.

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Run Sheet

Opening of Thomson Adsett Architects� Dubai Office

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Friday 21 November 2008

Venue:

Thomson Adsett Architects� Dubai Office

3rd Floor AP25 Building

Phase 1 Dubai Healthcare City

Dubai, UAE

12:30pm � 12:40pm Minister Mickel�s party arrives at the office and is welcomed by Mr Dayne Mearns, Principal, Thomson Adsett Architects

12:40pm � 12:50pm Thomson Adsett Architects representative briefs Minister Mickel on the reasons behind establishing the office, the work they are doing and the opportunities they are seeking in Dubai.

12:50pm � 1:00pm Minister Mickel responds and unveils a plaque.

Photo opportunity.

1:00pm � 1:45pm Light lunch and networking

1:45pm Departure

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MEETING WITH HYDER CONSULTING MIDDLE EAST LTD


Time: 3:00pm � 4:30pm

Venue: Burjuman Rotana Hotel

Trade Centre Road

Crossing Khalid bin Al Waleed Street

Dubai, UAE

ATTENDEES

Mr Mario Pirishi Regional Operations Director, Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd

Mr Grant Gowen Director of Property, Dubai, Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd

Mr Steve Pittam Regional Sector Leader for Land Development, Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd

Mr Ian Burns Regional Sector Leader � Property, Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd have advised they are trying to utilise Queensland�s skill base in infrastructure, acoustics and environmental engineering in the delivery of its major projects in the Middle East.

• My meeting with Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd enabled me to identify its future priorities in the Middle East and discuss how the development of partnerships with Queensland companies could complement its approach to opportunities in the region, extending the life cycle of buildings through improved build quality.

KEY POINTS

• I noted Hyder Consulting�s Queensland office has contributed structural design work for a number of the company�s property sector projects in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

• I was briefed on Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd�s future priorities in the region − particularly in other sectors beyond property, such as water and transport − and I discussed the potential for Queensland companies to provide support through the development of partnerships, especially in the area of asset management.

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• I noted Hyder Consulting Middle East Ltd�s two major PPP contracts for wastewater treatment and management in Jeddah and I discussed the potential for the company to work with Queensland water sector companies to target opportunities identified during my meeting with the Saudi Arabian Minister of Water and Electricity on Monday 17 November 2008 in Riyadh.

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BRIEFINGS FROM GHD, LEIGHTON CONTRACTING AND NASA MULTIPLEX

Date: Saturday 22 November 2008

Time: 8:00am � 11:00am

Venue: Burjuman Rotana Hotel

Trade Centre Road

Crossing Khalid bin Al Waleed Street

Dubai, UAE

ATTENDEES

Mr Paul Morris Business Development Manager, UAE, GHD

Mr David Savage Managing Director, Leighton International

Mr Terry Martin Executive Project Director, Nasa Multiplex

Mr Glenn Raphael Construction Manager, Nasa Multiplex

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I received briefings from representatives of GHD, Leighton International and Nasa Multiplex on their companies� major projects in the UAE and discussed issues associated with their rapid expansion in the region.

• These briefings enhanced my understanding of the market from an Australian perspective.

KEY POINTS

• I made introductory comments prior to the presentations.

• Each company gave a 45 � 60 minute PowerPoint presentation.

• I noted the key challenges and issues faced by each company in establishing their businesses in the UAE which may apply to Queensland companies also pursuing market entry. It is very clear that companies need to select partners and clients carefully, to ensure their long term viability, especially in this difficult financial climate.

• I used the companies� view of the outlook for the design, engineering and construction sector in the UAE to assess the implications for Queensland companies seeking to enter the market. There is a growing preference for green building technology in which Australia is seen as a world leader.

• A run sheet outlining activities for this event is attached.

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Run Sheet

Briefings to Business Delegates from GHD, Leighton Contracting and Nasa Multiplex

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Saturday 22 November 2008

Venue:

Burjuman Rotana Hotel

Dubai, UAE

7:55am Minister Mickel�s party arrives and is introduced to the presenting company representatives

8:00am � 8:10am Introduction from Minister Mickel (approx 10m)

8:10am � 9:00am Presentation from Paul Morris, GHD �The Construction boom in the UAE�

9:00am � 9:50am Presentation from David Savage, Leighton International �An introduction to the Al Habtoor Leighton Group and dealing with the impact of the global economic crisis�

9:50am Morning tea

10:10am � 11:00am Presentation from Glenn Raphael, Multiplex

Multiplex developments in the UAE and requirements and strategies for marketing products in the UAE

11:00am Depart Venue

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MEETING WITH DUBAI PORTS WORLD (DP WORLD)


Time: 11:30am � 12:45pm

Venue: Jabel Ali Port

Dubai

ATTENDEES

Mr Suhail Al Banna Senior Vice President, Government Relations

Mr Andrew Adam Vice President, Global Operations

Mr Abdul Raheem Al Hashemi Manager, Business Relations

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I received a full presentation, including PowerPoint slides, about Dubai Ports (DP) operation worldwide.

• The briefing enhanced my understanding of DP worldwide operations and their focus as well as priority markets.

• I was taken on a site visit to Jabel Ali Port and was briefed on the fast modern container loading and unloading operations including modern cranes that handle two 40ft containers at one time.

KEY POINTS

• I thanked Mr Suhail Al Banna and Mr Andrew Adam for seeing me at very short notice.

• I briefed them about my role in leading a large Queensland trade mission to the region and my interest in meeting with them to strengthen further the relationship between DP and Queensland.

• I was briefed by Mr Andrew Adams on DP world operations in general, and on their shareholding interests in the Brisbane Ports facility.

• Mr Adam mentioned that DP ownership is 80% owned by the Dubai Government through Dubai World Holding Company and 20% public shares. DP World has interests in 48 container terminals worldwide.

• Mr Adam highlighted the fact that he is very happy for the frank and positive relationship DP has with the Port of Brisbane.

• Mr Adam advised that DP World has a 20 year lease with the Port of Brisbane with an option of extending another 20 years.

• Mr Adam commented that DP is committed to a A$250m investment in the Port of Brisbane. This investment will go ahead as they are pleased with the long term contract.

• Mr Adam also mentioned that DP receive 12 million containers a year. Only 1-1½ million containers are for Dubai, the rest are re-exported.

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SITE VISIT TO AL RAHA BEACH DEVELOPMENT


Time: 4:15pm � 5:30pm

Venue: Al Raha Beach

Dubai

ATTENDEES

Mr Chris Wilkinson Managing Director, Laing O�Rourke

Mr Joshua Kennedy-White Queensland Strategic Business Manager, Laing O�Rourke

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I visited the site of the Al Raha Beach development, a major waterfront mixed-use lifestyle precinct which will serve as the maritime gateway into Abu Dhabi.

• My site-visit to Al Raha Beach was an opportunity to gauge the size of the project, observe how Queensland expertise has been applied in its development, and ascertain what other opportunities may exist for Queensland companies in the design and construction through their offices in Queensland.

• I visited the worker accommodation and was impressed by the workplace safety standards and the quality of accommodation and facilities for the workers.

KEY POINTS

• I was briefed on the progress of and completion timeframe for the Al Raha Beach development.

• I discussed what opportunities in design and construction there may be for Queensland companies to become involved in projects at Al Raha Beach, including facilities management to cater for the anticipated worker accommodation.

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MEETING WITH THE UAE MINISTER FOR FOREIGN TRADE, HE SHEIKHA LUBNA


Time: 9:00 am � 10:00 am

Venue: Ministry of Foreign Trade

Corner Airport Road and 29th Streets

Dubai, UAE

ATTENDEES

HE Sheikha Lubna bin Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi UAE Minister for Foreign Trade

Mr Abdulla Al Saleh Director General

Mr Juma Al Kai Director of Trade Negotiations

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• I met with Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna to continue the strong relationship between the Queensland and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Governments and highlighted the Queensland Government�s commitment to robust trade and investment with the UAE by discussing key issues, including:

• Queensland�s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Abu Dhabi;

• air services between Queensland and the UAE; and

• bilateral trade negotiations between Australia and the GCC.

KEY POINTS

• I provided an update on the progress of Queensland�s MOU with Abu Dhabi noting the recent final draft signing in Brisbane.

• I advised that the Queensland Government is proposing to invite the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi to sign the final MOU with the Premier and I sought HE Sheikha Lubna�s support for this proposal. HE assured me that the Premier would be welcome in Abu Dhabi to sign the MOU.

• I sought HE Sheikha Lubna�s support for increased air services between Queensland and the UAE, noting meetings held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi by Queensland�s Minister for Tourism, the Honourable Desley Boyle MP. (Emirates and Etihad had already announced additional flights to Brisbane in advance of this meeting).

• I asked the Minister to share her views on the Australian Government�s proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). She is keen to see the FTA finalised, and expressed concern at possible protectionist policies by countries like the US.

• Sheikha Lubna praised on the high quality educational system in Australia and emphasised to me the attractiveness of studying in Queensland to Emirati nationals.

62

MEETING WITH THE CHAIRMAN OF ABU DHABI DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT, HE ABDULLAH RASHID AL OTAIBA


Time: 10:00am � 11:00am

Venue: 7th Floor, C2 Tower

Bateen Towers

Bainunnah Street

Abu Dhabi, UAE

ATTENDEES

HE Abdullah Rashid Al Otaiba Chairman, Abu Dhabi Department of Transport

Mr Khalid Mohamed Hashim Executive Director, Land Transport Sector

Mr Mohamed Hareb Al Yousef Assistant Undersecretary - Aviation

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• This meeting was an opportunity to use Maritime Safety Queensland�s successful engagement with the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (Maritime Division) as the basis for examining the potential for broader collaborations between Queensland and Abu Dhabi in the transport sector.

• It was also an opportunity to support the efforts of Queensland�s Minister for Tourism, Regional Development and Industry, the Honourable Desley Boyle MP in Abu Dhabi to develop increased air services between Queensland and the UAE.

KEY POINTS

• I reiterated to the Chairman, the success of the delegation from the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (Maritime Division) which visited Queensland from 3 � 6 November 2008 regarding its MOU with Maritime Safety Queensland and I discussed the possibility those links could lead to broader collaborations with Queensland Transport.

• I sought a briefing on the public transport system in Abu Dhabi, particularly its bus system upgrade, with a view to identifying any innovative initiatives which may inform future policy development in Queensland.

• I sought Chairman Otaiba�s support for stronger air services between Queensland and Abu Dhabi, noting Minister Boyle had met with Abu Dhabi-based airline Etihad Airways on Tuesday 18 November 2008.

• I discussed the initiatives currently under consideration by Queensland Transport to address congestion issues, including dedicated bus lanes, the inclusion of public transport as part of event ticketing, such as for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix race next year, and invited the Chairman to bring a delegation to Queensland to see first hand how we are promoting the use and efficiency of public transport.

63

MEETING WITH THE UNDERSECRETARY OF THE ABU DHABI DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMY AND PLANNING, HE MOHAMMED OMAR ABDULLAH


Time: 12:30pm � 1:30pm

Venue: Department of Planning and Economy

Behind Abu Dhabi Municipality

Salam Street

Abu Dhabi

ATTENDEES

HE Mohammed Omar Abdullah Undersecretary, Abu Dhabi Department of Economy and Planning

Mr Hamad Almass Executive Director, International Relations Sector

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• My meeting with HE Mohammed Omar Abdullah reciprocated his recent visit to Brisbane and provided an opportunity to discuss the finalisation of Queensland�s draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Abu Dhabi.

KEY POINTS

• I thanked the Undersecretary for visiting Brisbane to sign the final draft of the MOU on Friday 17th October 2008 during the Middle East and North Africa Export Network Forum held during Queensland Export Week 2008.

• I encouraged the Undersecretary to invite the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahayan to Queensland to sign the final MOU with the Honourable Anna Bligh MP, Premier of Queensland. HE Mohamed Omar Abdullah suggested that the Premier could visit Abu Dhabi to meet with the Crown Prince and to sign the MOU.

• I discussed options for initiating collaborative projects under the MOU, particularly in its nominated priority areas of construction and infrastructure, urban and master planning, and education and vocational training. The Undersecretary indicated that the Abu Dhabi Municipality was pleased with their delegation�s recent visit to Queensland and is discussing areas of cooperation and transfer of expertise with the Brisbane City Council and private companies.

64

• I requested from His Excellency their support and assistance in opening a bank account for the Queensland Government Office in Abu Dhabi. His Excellency immediately responded by saying he is happy and willing to assist immediately by opening an account at the reputable �National Bank of Abu Dhabi� where he is a board director. He asked Ms Susan Rae to contact him to facilitate the procedure.

65

WALK THROUGH THE BIG 5 EXHIBITION


Time: 4:00pm � 8:00pm

Venue: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

Sheikh Zayed Road

Dubai, UAE

MEETING SYNOPSIS

• Accompanied by Commissioner Rae I walked through the Big 5 Exhibition which involved meeting exhibitors, especially the Queensland companies at the Australian Pavillion.

• The purpose of my walk through The Big 5 was two-fold:

• to support the profile of exhibiting Queensland companies by promoting their capacity to supply to major developments in the UAE and other markets.

• to highlight to the global building and construction industry that there are opportunities associated with procurement for major infrastructure projects in Queensland.

KEY POINTS

• A run sheet outlining my activities at The Big 5 is attached.

• I promoted the capabilities of Queensland participants and encouraged potential clients that I met to share and discuss opportunities with the Queensland exhibitors.

• I highlighted that Queensland is a high-growth state with the Government investing heavily in major infrastructure which presents significant supply opportunities now and in the future.

• I advised that Queensland companies in the sector actively seek to develop strategic partnerships with firms internationally for distribution or joint-tendering opportunities both in Queensland and abroad.

• Seven Queensland companies from my business delegation exhibited at The Big 5:

• Aqualine International

• Australian Innovative Systems Pty Ltd

• Ecospecifier Pty Ltd

• Lectel

• Lightweight Structures Advisory Service

• Tapepro Dry Wall Tools

• Quikcorp

• Other Queensland companies exhibiting at The Big 5 outside of the trade mission delegation, and some who were represented by their local agents included:

• Intralux Australia;

66

• Taiyo Membrane Corporation

• Coolshield; and

• Fabric Solutions

67

Run Sheet

• 4.00 pm Arrive at Dubai Exhibiton Centre, met by Glen Nunn, Trade Queensland

• 4.00 pm � 6.00 pm Visit Australian Pavilion at Big 5 � discussion with each Queensland company.

• 6.00 pm � 6.15 pm Press interview

• 6.15 � 6.45 pm Visit to stands of Ecospecifier and Coolshield International, winner of Gaia gold medal.

68

MEDIA RELEASES

69

Minister to lead Qld’s biggest construction trade mission to Middle East Minister for Trade John Mickel will lead Queensland�s largest ever construction and infrastructure-focused trade mission to the Middle East.

Thirty-eight representatives from 24 Queensland businesses will travel across Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates from 15 November in a bid to increase Queensland�s rapidly growing export.

Mr Mickel said ABS statistics show Queensland�s exports industry have increased by over 80 per cent in the first three months of 2008/09.

�This mission will go a long way toward improving these figures and creating a stronger Queensland economy,� Mr Mickel said.

�This Middle East trade mission will also, for the first time, include a visit by eighteen of these Queensland company representatives to Saudi Arabia from 16 November.

Mr Mickel, who will be assisted on the mission by Queensland�s Special Representative to the Middle East, Loftus Harris, said that Trade Queensland had identified strong opportunities in the Middle East for the State�s construction businesses to supply advanced and environmentally-friendly building products and services.

�Despite the current global economic downturn, the list of large-scale construction projects in the Middle East and North Africa keeps growing, and work continues,� Mr Mickel said.

�Increasing Queensland�s participation in these big-budget construction projects will not only benefit Middle East project partners, but will also help to insulate our State from global economic fallout.

�The value of projects on the books in Gulf Co-operation Council nations in September 2008 was in the order of US$2.17 trillion, an increase of 44 per cent from last year.

�This significant growth confirms the Middle East�s status as a key export market for Queensland. I am leading this mission to make sure key players in Middle East construction are left in no doubt about the Queensland Government�s support for our world-class industries and their mutually valuable participation in the region�s construction projects.

�Importantly, the mission will enable participating businesses to attend Dubai�s BIG 5 Construction Exhibition, the Middle East�s largest and best attended construction trade show.�

Mr Mickel and other members of the mission will also meet with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia as well as holding talks with United Arab Emirates Government officials.

The Minister said the mission would highlight Queensland�s trade commitment to the Middle East, which was advanced by the signing of a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) earlier this month to encourage collaboration between Queensland and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to promote and advance the economic, social and infrastructure development of both states.

Media contact for Minister Mickel: Jane Rowe 3237 1125

16 November 2008

70

Article Daily Mercury � Tuesday 18 November 2008

71

Saudi Arabia trade talks to help boost Queensland exports

Queensland Trade Minister John Mickel was on the lookout for new opportunities for Queensland businesses in the Middle East as he met today with a high-ranking representative of the Saudi Arabian Government.

Mr Mickel met with His Excellency Abdullah Zainal Alireza, Saudi Arabia�s Minister of Commerce and Industry, to discuss the progress of Queensland � Saudi trade and investment relations.

�The establishment of a permanent Trade Queensland office in Riyadh in 2006 has assisted to promote new opportunities to continue developing and enhancing trade relationships and friendships between Queensland and Saudi Arabia,� Mr Mickel said.

�Queensland has a strong advantage as we are currently the only Australian State with our own trade and investment representation in Saudi Arabia, with considerable work undertaken through that office over the past two years to expand our trade and investment linkages.

�Trade Queensland�s Saudi Arabia office delivered strong results in 2007-08, including A$12.9 million in export outcomes in the Saudi market.

�Our permanent presence here has also assisted Queensland to bring a number of government and business trade missions to Saudi Arabia over the past two years, facilitating export deals in construction and infrastructure, agribusiness and education and training, and providing a gateway for Saudi companies seeking to access Queensland markets.

�The Queensland Government is committed to continue building trade and investment between Queensland and Saudi Arabia and today�s meeting presented an opportunity to confirm this commitment and discuss ongoing trade issues.

�Discussion topics included ongoing negotiations for an Australia / Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement which is strongly supported by the Queensland Government,� Mr Mickel said.

The Minister is currently leading a delegation of 38 representatives from 24 Queensland companies to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

18 November 2008

Minister Mickel�s office contact : Jane Rowe 3237 1125

72

Desert nation to hear about Queensland’s world-class

water management capabilities Queensland�s response to the long-lasting drought is proving valuable to other nations seeking to manage, conserve and maintain precious water supplies.

Minister for Trade John Mickel is today spreading the message in Saudi Arabia that Queensland is well placed to provide water management skills, technology and infrastructure that could be of use to desert nations.

�Saudi Arabia is one such nation, and I will be highlighting Queensland�s world-class water planning and management capabilities in my meeting today with His Excellency Abdullah Al-Hussayen, Saudi Arabia�s Minister of Water and Electricity,� Mr Mickel said.

�This is an excellent opportunity with significant potential to develop Saudi Arabia�s water management capabilities and to work toward the Q2 initiative of a stronger Queensland economy.

�Population growth is placing extreme stress on Saudi Arabia�s water desalination and recycling infrastructure. The government forecasts that up to US$50 billion is needed in Saudi Arabia over the next twenty years to meet the increasing demand.

�I see strong potential for collaborative activities focussing on water supply in the future between the Queensland Government and Saudi Arabia.

�I am very keen to discuss the planning and delivery of the Queensland Water Grid Project with the Minister, as well as the highly successful Target 140 program. It not only reduced household water consumption in the short term, but also successfully educated Queenslanders about the real value of water for the long term.

�At our meeting today, I will provide the Minister with a copy of the Queensland Government�s Water Sector Action Plan which maps the State�s core capabilities in this important area.

�I will also invite the Minister to bring a Saudi delegation to Queensland to examine the State�s water capabilities, and see first hand the innovation that Queensland is leading with in the area of water management.

The Minister is currently leading a trade mission of 38 representatives from 24 Queensland companies to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

18 November 2008

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

73

Queensland building stronger trade ties with Riyadh

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

74

Queensland architects shape up in Middle East market

As part of his current trade mission to the Middle East, Minister for Trade John Mickel officially opened the new office of a prominent Queensland architectural firm, Thomson Adsett Architects.

Located in Dubai, the office will allow Thomson Adsett Architects to provide better service locally and will capitalise on burgeoning construction opportunities, particularly in the region�s health and aged care sectors.

Minister Mickel said that Thomson Adsett Architects had already built a strong international reputation specialising in health-related buildings around the world and that the new office will strengthen this reputation and build on international trade relations between the two regions.

�The office is a partnership between Thomson Adsett and another Australian company, Health Projects International Pty Ltd (HPI) and bears the name Total Alliance Health Partners International Pty Ltd (TAHPI).

�The two companies joined forces to maximise their export potential in providing facility planning and design services to the region�s rapidly expanding health and aged care industries.

�The office is based in Dubai�s Healthcare City and will start out with one staff member relocated from Australia, but with a number of tenders recently submitted by the two companies this is likely to increase quickly.

�Work is already underway on the first project in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), for the Thomson Adsett partnership.

�This project is a partnership with Palmer & Turner Architects & Engineers Ltd, providing master planning for the Al Wasl Hospital expansion which will double the hospital�s capacity to 800 beds.

�It is also anticipated that Thomson Adsett�s Queensland offices will need another 10 to 20 staff over the next 5 years to help meet the needs of the business� expansion into new markets, particularly in the UAE.

�I congratulate Thomson Adsett on its success and growth, and wish the company well as they compete for further business in this fast-growing region. I look forward to hearing more of the company�s successes in the Middle East,� Mr Mickel said.

Thomson Adsett Architects are part of a delegation of 38 representatives from 24 Queensland companies led by Minister Mickel to attend the BIG 5 construction trade show in Dubai.

Mr Mickel cited today�s office opening as an example of an innovative strategy being employed by a home grown Queensland company to better access business opportunities in the United Arab Emirates.

25 November 2008

Minister Mickel�s office contact : Jane Rowe +61 7 3237 1125

75

Queensland company building landmarks in Dubai

Highly regarded Queensland-based development company, the Sunland Group, is helping to shape Dubai�s ever-expanding skyline, with a number of landmark high-rise buildings on the books for construction in the desert city.

Meeting with Sunland Group representatives in Dubai today, Minister for Trade John Mickel said the ASX listed enterprise had built some of Queensland�s most recognisable buildings - including Q1 and the Palazzo Versace Hotel on the Gold Coast - and is a shining example of our State�s export capabilities and Toward Q2 vision.

�The Sunland Group is making a huge impression not only in Queensland, but also globally with exciting architecture and a long record of delivering world class, large scale building projects, particularly for the residential and hotel sectors,� Mr Mickel said

�The company has already built a strong profile in the Middle East, and their latest high-rise residential project will help to further position Sunland as a premier builder in one of the world�s fastest-growing construction markets.

�The Atrium�s curved, merging dual tower design will make it a showcase building for Sunland Group, with 68 residential floors towering 278 metres above the ground,� Mr Mickel said.

�The tower will be located on the water, increasing the value and appeal for investors interested in any of the 500 different sized, differently shaped studios, apartments and penthouses.

�It will also incorporate state-of-the-art wind and solar power generating systems in line with Dubai�s strong environment-friendly building code.

�The Atrium is to be constructed as part of the new Waterfront development, which is unique in that it allows expatriate freehold ownership of beachfront property for the first time in Dubai,� Mr Mickel said.

Mr Mickel said The Atrium is a worthy addition to the Sunland Group�s other ongoing investments, the 80-storey D1 Tower and the new Palazzo Versace Hotel in Dubai, both well advanced in their construction.

�Positioned adjacent to each other, these two projects in Dubai are reminiscent of Sunland Group�s major projects on Queensland�s Gold Coast � namely the Q1 Tower and the Palazzo Versace Hotel.

�I sincerely congratulate the Sunland Group on their successful foray into the competitive high-end Middle East development market, and wish them well with their ongoing projects in this exciting, fast growing region,� Mr Mickel said.

The Sunland Group is celebrating 25 years of operation in November 2008. The company currently employs around 1000 employees, with 750 in offices around Australia and a further 250 based in Dubai.

21 November 2008 Minister Mickel�s office contact : Jane Rowe 3237 1125 or David Robertson 3235 4060

76

Government meetings to help boost Queensland’s trade with UAE

During a recent trade mission, Minister for Trade John Mickel met with high profile Government officials in the United Arab Emirates to help build friendships and further Queensland�s trade interests in the Middle East.

The Minister met with Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the UAE�s Minister for Foreign Trade, to reinforce Queensland�s strong relationship with the UAE Government and to highlight the Queensland Government�s commitment to robust trade and investment with the United Arab Emirates.

�My meeting today with the Minister covered key issues including progress on Queensland�s Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi, pathways to improving air services between Queensland and the UAE, and ongoing bilateral trade negotiations,� Mr Mickel said.

�It was a great pleasure to meet the Minister who is a friend to Queensland and a respected, effective and dedicated member of the UAE Government.

Mr Mickel also met with His Excellency Mohammed Omar Abdullah, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Planning and Economy to discuss progress on the draft MoU with Abu Dhabi. The meeting followed Mr Abdullah�s visit to Queensland on 17 October to sign the draft during Export Week.

�Following our meeting today, I am hopeful an invitation will soon be issued to the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, His Highness General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to visit Queensland to sign the final MoU along with Queensland Premier, Anna Bligh,� Mr Mickel said.

�The Undersecretary and I discussed options for initiating collaborative projects under the new MoU, particularly in construction and infrastructure, urban and master planning, and education and vocational training.

�The aim of the MoU will be to progress collaborative opportunities particularly in agriculture including food processing, tourism, transportation, industry, trade and investment, education, services, knowledge management and technology transfer, information technology and telecommunications.

�We were able to discuss the Abu Dhabi Department of Planning and Economy�s new strategic five-year plan. It offers many opportunities for Queensland businesses to develop collaborative projects under the MoU,� Mr Mickel said.

The Minister has just returned from leading a delegation of 38 representatives from 24 Queensland companies to visit the BIG 5 construction trade show in Dubai.

26 November 2008

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

77

Queensland companies making presence felt at Middle East’s biggest building and construction

exhibition Representatives from 24 Queensland construction and infrastructure companies are visiting Dubai to attend the 2008 BIG 5 Construction Exhibition.

Minister for Trade John Mickel, who led the business delegation to the Middle East, said today that this strong Queensland presence would strengthen the profile of the companies exhibiting at BIG 5, and further promote Queensland�s capacity to contribute to major developments in the UAE and other Middle East markets.

�Ten out of the 60 companies exhibiting through the Australia Pavilion at BIG 5 are Queensland companies. This includes 7 that have representatives on the current Trade Queensland Middle East trade mission,� Mr Mickel said.

�The exhibiting companies represented on our trade mission include Aqualine International, Australian Innovative Systems Pty Ltd, ecopsecifier Pty Ltd, Lectel, Lightweight Structures Advisory Service, Ritek Building Solutions Pty Ltd and Tapepro Dry Wall Tools.

�It is hoped that our attendance at the BIG 5 will draw attention to the world-class capabilities of these and our other Queensland participants,� Mr Mickel said.

The Minister said many of the State�s building sector companies also want to develop strategic partnerships with overseas firms for distribution or joint-tendering opportunities both in Queensland and abroad, and BIG 5 presents a prime opportunity to develop and maintain productive international business relationships.

�The development of these international business-to-business relationships is becoming more common,� Mr Mickel said.

�Given Queensland�s growth in recent years and the Government�s unprecedented investment in new infrastructure, business relationships like these have become increasingly beneficial,� he said.

The Big 5 exhibition is held annually for five days in Dubai and is one of the world�s major building and construction shows. To date, the Queensland Government has led trade missions to attend BIG 5 for six consecutive years. This year�s event, from 23 to 27 November, features more than 3000 exhibitors from 52 countries.

26 November 2008 Minister Mickel�s office contact : Jane Rowe 3237 1125 or David Robertson 3235 4060

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