Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum this evening received at Zabeel Palace the Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Sir Peter Cosgrove, who is currently visiting the UAE as part of a regional tour.

Sheikh Mohammed and Sir Peter Cosgrove discussed a number of issues relating to bilateral relations and ways to enhance them, particularly in the fields of tourism, education, trade and air transport.

The meeting also touched upon current regional developments and the means to boost opportunities for peace and stability in the region and the world.

Further, the Governor General reflected on the great advances in the relationship over the past 20 years, saying there are now 144 direct flights per week between Australia and the Emirates. Also, over 700 Emirati students study at Australian universities and about 25,000 Australian live and work in the UAE.