The local reaction to the announcement that UAE’s Ras al-Khaimah has been appointed the venue of the 2010 America’s Cup is mounting.A statement from the Crown Prince of Ras al-Khaimah points up some of the significance:
Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras al-Khaimah said:
"It is a great moment for us to host the America's Cup here. It is significant because it reflects how the Emirates have become a place for hosting international events.
"It is a reflection on what we have achieved in terms of becoming the destination for tourists and trade and industry and is a reflection of our integration in the world at large.
"This announcement reflects the nature of our country and its aim of becoming host to many nationalities who live side by side in peace.
"It is a hope and dream that this is the kind of space that we want to have on our globe. It is a great moment for us to host this prestigious event and to welcome all the sports people to the UAE and to Ras al-Khaimah to watch this great event; we are looking forward to this successful event."
Link
Andy Sambidge, RAK to Build New Island to Host America’s Cup, Arabian Business. Com, 5 August 2009.
Dr Geoff Pound
Geoff can be contacted by email at geoffpound(at)gmail.com on Facebook and Twitter.
