His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, expressed his satisfaction over the expansion of the Dubai Air show's exhibition area and the size of participation, with Emirati companies constituting 25 per cent of the total participation.

He welcomed all Arab and international companies participating in the exhibition and described it as a global cultural, training, tourist and trade forum where the ideas and cultures of the most of the world's peoples get together through creativities and innovations that are transformed into hi-tech industries developed by human mind and used in various walks of life in the service of mankind.

Sheikh Mohammed referred to the importance of the civil aviation sector, which constitutes the bulk and most important part at the Dubai Airshow since its inception in 1989.

"The UAE, with the determination and wisdom of its leaders and people, and their efforts to harness all its financial potential and human capacities, will remain a haven for peace and an icon of innovation, creativity and excellence in various aspects of life,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

He praised the technological development of the air transport industry reflected positively on the convergence of peoples and inter-cultural exchange by making people of various cultural backgrounds and civilisations closer.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the importance of considering the happiness of humankind through the optimal use of these technologies that must serve humankind as the backbone of any civilisation.

He praised the efforts of the organisers of the Dubai Air show, in terms of the organisation, safety, management and the warm welcome of the guests of the UAE, which is proud of its achievements and citizens who are serving their country faithfully and loyally.

Source: Gulf News