Arab Strategy Forum 2010 relaunched with broader agenda

The new format includes a series of focused events that will be organised in different Arab countries in the run-up to ASF 2010.

Dr. Sulaiman Al Hattlan, CEO of Arab Strategy Forum, made the announcement at a press conference held at the Dubai Press Club on 14 October.

Dr. Al Hattlan said: "Part of our aim is to institutionalize ASF as an entity that provides equal opportunities for everyone to participate in dialogue and share their opinions on issues that concern their communities. ASF will serve as an active change agent for the Arab world through its dual role as knowledge generator and disseminator."

Dr. Al Hatlan explained that since its inception, the Arab Strategy Forum was held bi-annually until the Foundation took the forum under its umbrella as its knowledge platform.

He added: "Since the establishment of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, it became clear that both ASF and the Foundation share the same vision for the region and a common interest in promoting knowledge in the Arab world."

Dr. Al Hattlan announced that the ASF, with its new format, will debut with the launch of the Arab Knowledge Report (AKR), a joint effort between the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation and the UNDP. The launch of the report is scheduled for 28 October, 2009 at Mina A'Salam and will be followed by a series of discussion sessions titled 'Towards a knowledge society in the Arab world'. The two-day event will bring together around 30 researchers and intellectuals to debate on the status of knowledge in the Arab world.

The Arab Strategy Forum will offer a unique combination of unparalleled network, debate-driven sessions and custom-made knowledge products that will provide participants with the tools they need to shape viable action plans for the region.

Dr. Al Hattlan added:

"With the Arab Strategy Forum adopting the new set up, we aim to reach out and engage communities across different cities in the region. If we are to succeed in this mission, it is important for us to effectively use interactive communication channels such as websites and live feeds for ensuring our debates gain a wider audience."

Launched in 2001 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to identify solutions to the region's issues through a constructive and collaborative approach, the Arab Strategy Forum has remained a crucial platform for policy makers to network and share knowledge pertaining to economic, geopolitical, social and cultural issues.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation is a non-profit organisation that aims to drive the region towards becoming a knowledge economy. With a $10bn endowment, the Foundation seeks to identify and develop promising institutions and individuals for guiding the region on the road to economic and social progress.