DOHA: The first Gulf Economic Forum (GEF), under the theme of ‘Enhancing Contribution of the Gulf Private Sector in Economic Development, will be held on October 25-26 in Doha.
The forum is being organised by Federation of GCC Chambers (FGCC), in association with Qatar Chamber and Exicon International Group. Over 600 companies are expected to attend the event.
The discussions at the two-day Forum will be headed by distinguished economists. The role of private sector in sustainable development, unified GCC markets and the future aspects of customs unifications are among other topics to be debated at the forum. The Emir’s patronage assures his continuing support to the gulf private sector as part of the strategy of enhancing economic sustainable development and overcoming challenges facing growth of this sector, Qatar Chamber senior official said yesterday. Saleh Hamad Al Sharqi, Qatar Chamber Acting General Manager, said in a press conference held at Qatar Chamber: “Organisers of the forum are interested to highlight gulf economic integration benefits that will positively reflect on the region’s welfare and economy”.
Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdulla bin Nasser Al Thani, is expected to open the Forum in the presence of Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani , GCC General Secretary , and Shekih Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani, Qatar Chamber Chairman , and Dr Ali Papa Jan, Turkish Economic Minister, who will be the guest of honour at the Fourm, Al Sharqi noted.
Officials representing GCC ministries of economy, industry, finance, planning will participate in the forum, along with senior representatives of chambers of commerce, concerned entities and interested researchers.
The forum will review regional and international developments and challenges facing GCC states and emphasising the need for more work and effort to enhance economic integration for realizing security and stability of countries in the region by increasing their economic strength.
The forum aims to serve as a platform for the private sector to deliver its vision on regional economic development and removing obstacles hindering commercial exchange between GCC states.
It will review regional and international challenges facing GCC states in light of the economic crisis, regional developments and the decline in oil prices. The forum is targeting 600 companies and 380 companies have confirmed their participation, said Nizzar Zayton.
The Federation is also keen to support the youth, entrepreneurs and businesswomen programs, he added.
The Peninsula
