Your Excellencies
Honourable Mayors;
Distinguished Guests;

Ladies and Gentlemen:

First of all, let me express, on behalf of the Dubai Government, United Arab Emirates, and, in particular, Dubai Municipality, our utmost appreciation to the Metropolis Organization Committee and the Board Members for having initiated and co-hosted this Congress. We also express our gratitude to the Government of South Korea for having facilitated the use of its premises for this significant international event.

This meeting comes at a very important time where cities are facing renewed challenges in delivering key civic services to their residents keeping pace with the constant growth in population, a fact that places a lot of pressure on the level and quality of services and functions offered by the cities. In this regard, the Metropolis 2002 Seoul comes as an ideal event that gives us the opportunity to explore various means that would strengthen the city governments to become more open, efficient and responsive to meet the complex challenges of the new millennium.

Representing the City of Dubai, we share our experience and offer our opportunities of growth and development to you. Our city witnessed extensive growth and massive development over the past 30 years and the Municipality of Dubai has undertaken massive development projects across the Emirate to ensure that its infrastructure and level of services and facilities are on par with the international standards.

Dubai is the commercial capital of the United Arab Emirates. It is also one of the most important trade and financial hubs of the Arabian Gulf and the Middle East. Due to its modem infrastructure, and many other outstanding services it provides, Dubai has become a leading city among the cities of the civilized world. Built by its sincere citizens and protected by their vigilant eyes, Dubai is an oasis of stability. It provides its citizens, residents and visitors with safety and security. Dubai succeeded in attracting enormous capitals, and manpower to live, work and invest in it.

Ladies and Gentlemen:

I am strongly convinced that through this friendly exchange, we can together explore the opportunities for creating a new world that is capable enough to face the challenges that lie ahead.

Thank you very much.