Nothing wrong in DPW move to take over the US ports, say expatriates

DUBAI — Several foreign expatriates living in the UAE have said there was nothing wrong in Dubai Port World taking over six US ports. Speaking to Khaleej Times, most of them expressed dismay over the controversy currently raging over the issue and said it was unfair on the part of some American politicians and commentators to cast aspersion on a country which always stood for international harmony and peace.

Amira Agarib

Published: Fri 24 Feb 2006, 11:18 AM

Last updated: Sat 4 Apr 2015, 6:52 PM

Linda Smith, a Canadian national who came to the UAE for the first time to start a business in Dubai, said that the DPW move to take over the US ports was a great step as it had proven its competence time and again. "The entire world meets here in Dubai, because it is a secure place. The problem with most Westerners is that they know very little about this part of the world. They get news from the Western media which is prejudiced. They must come here and see for themselves," she added.

Andries Radyn, a South African and Manager of Thomas Cook, Al Rostamani, said that being a peaceful country with an unblemished record, it is well within its rights to get into the port deal. The deal will be beneficial to both countries in many ways, he hoped.

Andrea Plotof, a Russian businessman said that it was illogical to punish a country for the wrongdoings of two of its nationals who participated in 9/11 attacks. "Many Americans have committed crimes in different countries. No one has prevented the US from doing business in those countries," he pointed out.

T. Bazit, a foreign banker, argued that actually it was the DPW which should be praised for getting into the deal, because the US did not have a stable business atmosphere. They have strange and rigid laws which, if applied, could put the whole business in danger. They have a record of freezing foreigners' accounts and blocking business at the drop of a hat. They even unilaterally cancelled contracts with other governments," he pointed out.

Caloy Srrano, a Filipino, Sales and Marketing in charge of Philippine Remittance said: "I came to Dubai before 14 years and it has been a safe place. We don't know much about the deal in question. But I am sure it is a good thing for both the countries."

Asim Beshr, a lecturer at UAE university, said: "I am shocked that the US Congress is not taking into account the good relations between the two countries while criticising the deal. The US claims that UAE had recognised Taleban. Even the US itself supported Taliban before they came to power. And there is no proof to link Dubai with any terrorist acts."

Rima Shetty, an Indian working at the New Medical Centre, said that Dubai had a stable economy and balanced foreign relations. "It is respected by all the nations for the help it provided to humanity and for its support to many countries during disasters and tragedies. There is no reason whatsoever to fear security threats because of the deal," she pointed out.