ALKHOBAR, 13 March 2007 — In efforts to promote bilateral trade between Saudi Arabia and the UK, The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, made his first visit to Eastern Province in almost eight years.
Arriving in the region on Sunday, Andrew, who is a special representative of the UK Trade and Industry Department, was received by the British Charge D’affaires, Andrew Turner, accompanied by Terry Evans, the head of the British Trade Office (BTO) in Alkhobar.
The prince had flown in from Abu Dhabi, continuing his 16-day Middle East mission. He had earlier traveled to Riyadh for consultations with senior Saudi government officials.
Andrew visited Saudi Aramco where he had discussions with senior Saudi Aramco officials including the company’s President and CEO Abdallah S. Jum’ah. He was later accompanied to the South Rub Al-Khali Company (SRAK) offices. SRAK is a joint venture between Shell, Saudi Aramco and Total. SRAK CEO Patrick Allman Ward explained the company’s current operations and new exploration in the Empty Quarter.
Andrew then held meetings with representatives of Saudi businesses. He also visited Saad Specialist Hospital where he was welcomed by Maan A. Al-Sanea, chairman of the Saad Group.
The Saad Group has strong links with the UK.
In cooperation with Ulster University, the group has formed a partnership to deliver a BSc Nursing Program starting this autumn, aiming to train1,000 nurses.
In addition, City University, London, has an online e-learning facility in radiographic imaging with Saad Specialist Hospital.
Andrew’s visit was timed to coincide with the Middle East Oil & Gas Show and Conference (MEOS) in Bahrain. A reception at the residence of the British Ambassador to Bahrain, Jamie Bowden, enabled Andrew to meet with Saudi and British companies taking part in the trade event.
On Sunday evening, a reception in honor of Andrew was held at the BTO. He later attended a private dinner hosted by Samir Al-Binali, president of Ahmad N. Al-Binali & Sons.
