Seminars, culinary fairs and cultural performances will be part of the 'Chilean Week', opening on the 17th of October

Dubai, 12 October 2009 - Chile, globally acknowledged as a model for economic freedom, openness and stability, today announced its intention to pursue active partnerships in the Gulf with the launch of the 'Chilean Week', to be held in Dubai from the 17th to 24th of October 2009.

Organised by the Chilean Trade commission (ProChile), with the support of the Dubai Economic Development Department (DED), its Foreign Investment Office (FIO) and the Export Development Corporation (EDC) the Chilean Week will showcase the key attractions of Chile as an investment destination and also highlight its export capabilities.

Trade seminars, business meetings, gastronomic delights and cultural activities will be part of the Chilean Week, which will be held across various venues in Dubai. The Week will also see Chile opening its embassy in Abu Dhabi, the first of its diplomatic missions in the GCC.

"The Chilean Week will bring to focus wide-ranging opportunities for engagement between Chile and the Gulf countries, particularly the UAE. The prevailing global economic climate is favourable for Chile and the UAE to build strategic partnerships for future growth and leadership," Carlos Salas, Trade Commissioner of Chile, told a press conference held today to announce the launch of the Chilean Week.

Chile is rated among the most dynamic economies in the world, having trade relations with all major blocs and regions in the world. The country also ranked first in Latin America in the most recent Global Competitiveness Index of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Currently the largest exporter of fresh fruits and other food products in the Southern Hemisphere, Chile has also developed world-class competencies in construction, engineering services, and architecture, with remarkable emphasis on cost efficiency and sustainability.

Trade between Chile and the UAE exceeded US$113 million in 2008, with Chilean exports accounting for US$107.7 million. Fresh fruits, cellulose, and race horses are the chief exports from Chile to the UAE.

Sector leaders from Chile will highlight the export capabilities of their goods and services at a series of seminars held at the Emirates Towers Hotel during the Chilean Week.

A 'Culinary Week' displaying the diversity and variety of Chilean cuisine will also be hosted at the Al Qasr Restaurant, Madinat Jumeirah, from the 19th to 22nd of October 2009. Bafochi, a Chilean group promoting indigenous culture and costumes will perform on all days of the Culinary Week.

"The Chilean Week is a great opportunity to meet and discuss the way forward for strengthening bilateral investments and co-operation between Dubai and Chile. The event will also enable us to assist Chilean entrepreneurs to set up business in Dubai and explore new growth opportunities, which complements DED's vision to strengthen Dubai's position as a regional investment and business hub," said Fahd Al Gargawi, CEO, Foreign Investment Office, DED.

-Ends-

About ProChile 
ProChile, the Chilean Trade Commission, is part of the Directorate General for International Economic Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is responsible for implementing and enhancing Chile's trade policy. ProChile strives to reinforce and project the country's trade policies under four fundamental concepts: supporting small and medium companies in their process of going international; taking advantage of the opportunities arising from the country's trade agreements; association between public and private organisations and positioning the country's brand image in other markets.  For this, ProChile has a network of more than 50 offices and commercial representations, strategically located in the world's most important markets spread over more than 40 countries.

For media requests, please contact:
Phone +971 (4) 337 2824
Email team@tcf-me.com
P.O. Box 29764
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Fax +971 (4) 337 2825

© Press Release 2009