'Arab world in 2010' to be the theme of Dubai Strategy Forum 2004

This will be the focus of the upcoming Dubai Strategy Forum that will be held in Dubai from April 18 - 20, 2004 under the theme 'Arab World in 2010'.

Mohammed Al Gergawi said, "There is great disparity between Arab countries with respect to their development and progress, which raises crucial questions. Inspite the economic development achieved by some countries and the knowledge economy of others, the Arab world needs to reflect on critical issues especially in view of the socio political events of last year which will be discussed at the Forum."

"The region is facing great challenges in terms of the lack of diversity in the economy, increasing unemployment and the need to activate the role of the private sector. In addition to these the other challenges involve the political and security issues. The Dubai Strategy Forum will shed light on these challenges and discuss the overall strategy to tackle them."

Al Gergawi pointed out that the Organising Committee of Dubai Strategy Forum has been analyzing over the last year the issues that need to be addressed at the Forum and based on this it has been decided that the Forum will focus on three vital issues: Arab Governments and Society in 2010, the Arab Economies in 2010 and the Arab Business Scenario in 2010.

He added that the commitment and vision of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Minister of Defence, to offer a conducive environment to discuss important issues and address critical questions would help propel the Arab world towards a better future. Therefore, a gathering of the kind that the Dubai Strategy Forum brings will be of utmost importance for countries in our region. It is a crucial forum for policy makers and private and public sector, all of which are partners in the development of the regional economy added Al Gergawi.

The Dubai Strategy Forum is a think tank that has been created by His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed to bring the best in international thought and best practices to Dubai. It is a gathering of the world's best experts in the field of economic development - both from the private sector and the government - who will gather in Dubai for three days to discuss where the region is heading and how does Dubai fit into the regional and international context.

The Dubai Strategy Forum has come to be regarded as the key platform to meet and discuss the regional potential and assess and evaluate the progress made. Over the past two years, the Dubai Strategy Forum has attracted over 3,000 eminent delegates from all over the world and over 70 international speakers.