Driving opportunities for investment in South Australia

Professor Christof Rühl, Global Head of Research for the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds, will meet with the State Government today.

Minister for Investment and Trade Martin Hamilton-Smith, who will host the meeting, says ADIA was established to invest funds on behalf of the Government of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

“As a Government we recognise that our ongoing prosperity relies on forging successful national and international relationships and alliances,” Mr Hamilton-Smith said.

“My message to Professor Rühl is that South Australia is ripe with opportunities and is open for business.

“South Australia’s diverse range of investment opportunities – including natural resources, education and training, aerospace and defence, water, and clean technology – offer us the chance to accelerate growth and development through overseas investment.

“Professor Rühl is in Adelaide in his capacity as a visiting professor at University College London’s (UCL) Adelaide campus.

“This is an excellent appointment, as Professor Rühl has an impeccable pedigree in economics and he is now sharing his international perspectives through teaching UCL post graduate students.”

UCL Australia’s Chief Executive, David Travers, will also attend today’s meeting highlighting the synergies between UCL and ADIA.

UCL has a specialist focus on energy and natural resources in Adelaide, but is discussing possible new activities with Mr Hamilton-Smith, including in health, biotechnology and other areas.

“We are looking forward to working more closely with both entities, and we encourage them to look at South Australia as an ideal and diverse investment opportunity. Today’s meeting follows on from one with the ADIA in Abu Dhabi last April as part of my visit to the Middle East with the previous Minister for Investment and Trade.”

ADIA is one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world, with ADIA assets estimated at US$773 billion in 2013. Its board is chaired by the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, H.H. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The ADIA has a team of approximately 1,500 people globally with more than 60 nationalities represented.

Source: News Release Investment and Trade Minister Martin Hamilton-Smith, 25 September 2014