Dubai, Oct 13 (IANS/WAM): DP World, one of the world's major marine terminal operators based in Dubai, has sought close trade ties with India.

"Indian exporters and importers have been among DP World's most valued business partners and will remain so for a long time to come," said Mohammed Al Muallem, senior vice president and managing director of the company.

Al Muallem said: "Dubai, with its superior supply chain infrastructure, is the preferred commercial gateway to the UAE and other GCC markets."

Trade between Dubai and India soared in the first six months of 2011 reaching over 123 billion dirhams (about $33 billion), compared to about 182 billion dirhams in the corresponding period last year.

India is the top non-oil trading partner of the UAE and the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) nations.

Pointing out that the GCC region remains a major export destination for Indian businesses, Al Muallem said: "Our relationship is founded on centuries of close ties and cultural affinity."

"India has always been an important commercial partner of the UAE and an important destination of DP World's investments in port infrastructure."

"We are committed to building on this partnership, with our flagship Jebel Ali Port continuing to play its role as a trade catalyst between India and the rest of the world," Al Muallem added.

DP World operates five marine terminals in India and is developing a new terminal in Kulpi in West Bengal. Its Vallarpadam International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT), inaugurated in February, is a $600m public-private partnership (PPP) venture.

Al Muallem made the remarks in a message to the 7th India Shipping Summit held in Mumbai Oct 10-12.

He said: "The India Shipping Summit provides a great networking opportunity for the port and shipping industry to explore ways to contribute to India's growth."

DP World operates more than 60 terminals across six continents.