Boeing stimulates top-level discussions on the future of technology

Topics focused on the future of air travel, the challenges to global security, communications and associated technologies.

The one-day summit - entitled "What will the future hold?" - was held under the patronage of HH Lt General Staff Pilot Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Deputy Crown Prince and Chief Staff of the UAE Armed Forces. It was hosted by Harry C. Stonecipher, President and CEO of The Boeing Company and moderated by one of the Arab world's best known and popular media personalities, Emad Adeeb.

In his opening address, Stonecipher said: "I don't believe in hoarding technology. I believe in sharing technology and in reaching out to others with good ideas on how you can do things differently and do them a whole lot better.

"I would like to think of this Summit as a small but important step in this direction - it's as much about relationships and people as it is about technology, systems and products."

He added: "At Boeing, we are actively collaborating with other companies and with universities and schools around the world in the development of innovative new products and in the application of highly advanced technologies."

Each of the four panel discussions comprised experts in their fields from the Middle East together with senior Boeing executives. They engaged the audience in a broad exchange of views highlighting a range of subjects relating to the advancement and future of technology in the region and providing an insight into some of Boeing's most advanced technologies.

As part of its strategy as the global aerospace technology leader, Boeing began the Summit program four years ago to explore new opportunities locally by enhancing collaboration with government and industry and by building on strong existing partnerships. Summits have been held in London, Madrid, Berlin and Rome.

The Boeing Company is the world's leading aerospace company and one of the United States' leading exporters. It is NASA's largest contractor and the leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners and military aircraft. The company's capabilities in aerospace also include rotorcraft, electronic and defense systems, missiles, rocket engines, launch vehicles, satellites and advanced information and communication systems. The company has an extensive global reach with customers in 145 countries.