Dubai: The UAE is proposing collective efforts by Gulf countries to combat the effects of the global economic crisis on the region and promote growth.

Abdullah Bin Ahmad Al Saleh, Director-General of the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade, outlined suggestions to maintain trade growth in the Gulf region during a speech at the third Investment Horizons International Exhibition and Forum in Riyadh.

He emphasised that the UAE government remains committed to completing ongoing infrastructural projects and that additional developments would be announced despite the global economic recession.

He said there are several steps that the region can take to combat "the present and future effects of a crisis" and suggested the establishment of a common Gulf mechanism to handle such problems.

"One important aspect that has helped the Gulf avoid most of the negative effects of the crisis is the active commercial relations among its members. In 2007, trade within the region amounted to Dh40.4 billion, an increase of 12 per cent.

"Most of the Gulf countries rank among the top 10 trading partners of the UAE. Our volume of trade with Arab countries rose to Dh32.3 billion in 2007, a solid 13 per cent growth," Al Saleh said.

"We could manage our industries to complement each other, and encourage diversification so that we can reduce our dependence on products and services provided outside the region. We can also establish centres that promote inter-Arab exports and focus on competitiveness, particularly in non-traditional markets," he said.

In addition, he called for more market openness and avoidance of protectionist policies.

He suggested improved relations with developing countries, and Asian countries in particular.

Al Saleh said the crisis should be used as an opportunity to invest further in trade and commerce infrastructure.

He said the UAE has drawn from lessons from the past to maintain a trade policy that focuses on diversity.

Al Saleh said the UAE government has excellently handled the hardest phases of the financial crisis and has outlined the appropriate solutions for immediate implementation.