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De Gaulle Fleurance strengthens its activity in Abu Dhabi with the arrival of Laurence Vanderstraete

Firm Life 17 January 2025

Laurence Vanderstraete, senior counsel lawyer at De Gaulle Fleurance, is now assisting both public and private actors with their transactions from the Abu Dhabi subsidiary.

 

Having been with De Gaulle Fleurance since 2016, Laurence Vanderstraete has extensive experience in corporate law and M&A.

She has developed extensive expertise in the extractive sector, advising governments and international groups with mining and oil projects.

In addition, she frequently assists companies active in the telecommunication and new technologies sector, as well as in the areas of infrastructure, energy and project finance (including Islamic finance structuring).

Having grown up in Africa, Laurence Vanderstraete maintains a close connection with the continent and is actively involved in its development, with a particular interest in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her knowledge of local and regional challenges as well as applicable legal frameworks, notably OHADA business law, is a strategic asset for our clients.

This internal move strengthens De Gaulle Fleurance’s presence in the speedily expanding United Arab Emirates market. From Abu Dhabi, Laurence advises groups established in the region, as well as those wishing to set up or expand in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Latin America.

Abu Dhabi offers a favourable business environment, strategic location and international culture, making it a prime destination for investors.

 

“Laurence Vanderstraete's arrival in Abu Dhabi is fully in line with our international growth strategy. Her deep knowledge of the key sectors driving the development of emerging markets and of sub-Saharan Africa, and her privileged links with leading Emirati groups, are decisive assets in strengthening our presence in the region”

Jean-Baptiste Santelli, partner at De Gaulle Fleurance and CEO of the Abu Dhabi subsidiary

“The United Arab Emirates, and Abu Dhabi in particular, have established themselves as a true crossroads of opportunities in the context of the global investment flows’ realignment. I'm thrilled to continue my activity in this strategic region, and leverage my expertise to help local and international companies overcome their challenges”

Laurence Vanderstraete
Laurence
Vanderstraete
Lawyer - Partner

About

De Gaulle Fleurance is a leading player in business law. We support our clients in France and abroad, with:

  • Over 200 people dedicated to client relationships built on excellence, responsiveness, and creativity;
  • A full-service practice supporting businesses and public entities with their structural needs (mergers and acquisitions, corporate and project financing…) and their operational activities (commercial contracts, public procurement, joint ventures…);
  • An expertise recognized by the business community (Chambers, The Legal 500, Best Lawyers);
  • Offices in Paris, Brussels, Geneva, and Abu Dhabi;
  • A multinational culture and international reach with a highly efficient network of correspondents all over the world.

Press contacts :

Constance Baudry, +33 (0)6 82 43 69 62, constance.baudry@agence-constance.fr

Sarah Maouchi, +33 (0)7 57 76 83 97, sarah.maouchi@agence-constance.fr

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