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Berlin: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai yesterday visited the Berlin Town Hall, where he was greeted by Klaus Wowereit, the city's mayor.
Wowereit welcomed Shaikh Mohammad and his delegation, saying his visit would contribute to further strengthening relations between the UAE and Germany.
"Your Highness. You are coming from a country which has a special place in the hearts of the German people. Thanks to your efforts and vision, Dubai has become a marvellous fast-growing city with high potential for development in the tourism sector. We look forward to increasing cooperation in the field of tourism," he said.
Red Town Hall
In remarks that he wrote in the visitors' book of the Red Town Hall, Shaikh Mohammad expressed pleasure at visiting Berlin, which he described as "an important destination in the new world, eager for peace, security, construction, justice and solidarity.
"The 20th century's major events started in Berlin and ended there with the fall of the Berlin Wall. This has made Berlin a symbol of global peace and marked the demise of suppression. In this time, the distinguished city is the one that writes its own future, looks forward and provides motivation for creativity and innovation. "I see Berlin and Dubai among these cities," he said.
Historic friendship
Shaikh Mohammad thanked the Mayor of Berlin for the warm hospitality accorded to him and his delegation. "We came here to bolster our historic friendship," he said.
Shaikh Mohammad expressed hope that the visit would reflect positively on the bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries.
The UAE's Vice-President noted that many German companies operate in the UAE, which is considered the fastest growing country in the world.
On Emirates airline starting a direct route to Berlin, Shaikh Mohammad said, "We are not in a hurry as each country has its laws and regulations. On the other hand, our skies will remain open to our friends."
Accompanied by the Mayor of Berlin, Shaikh Mohammad visited the Brandenburg Gate where he was briefed on the history of the structure.
The gate was built in 1788 and is considered one of the city's major landmarks.
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