Qatar Airways enters into strategic partnership with World Economic Forum

The Round Tables will bring together more than 200 global leaders from business, government, academia, society and the media to share their insights on commercial, political and economic developments in the region.

The two-day session will also include participation from the 100 members of the Arab Business Council.

At a ceremony held at Qatar Airways' headquarters in Doha, the airline's Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker officially signed the strategic partnership agreement with Frederic Sicre, managing director of the World Economic Forum.

The airline will play the key role in organising the event and flying delegates from around the world to Doha where the first Round Table will be held over two days between April 1-2, 2005. The agreement covers a second Round Table to be held again in the Qatari capital in Spring 2007.

The partnership also covers Qatar Airways' participation in future global events organised by the World Economic Forum.

Commenting on the partnership, Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said: "Qatar Airways is honoured to be associated with such an esteemed event that will take place in Doha this April and in Spring 2007.

"Trade is the lifeline for any economy and as the Middle East has emerged into a powerful economic trading region, it is vital for business and political leaders to share their thoughts on how we can remain competitive and enhance our global competitiveness.

"Competitiveness is in all sectors of business life and as Qatar Airways, we are not immune to the pressures of competitive forces within the aviation industry."

He added: "Qatar Airways is strategically well placed to compete within the region and rest of the world and the airline is a successful example of determination and vision to create a thriving business.

"The Round Tables will also help establish Qatar as a pivotal policy centre in the Middle East."

Added Frederic Sicre, managing director of the World Economic Forum: "We are delighted to be teaming up with Qatar Airways for this extremely important meeting. The Arab Competitiveness Meeting in Doha will attract some of the key business minds from the region and beyond - and it is good to be able to depend on such a trusted and respected carrier as a partner."

Delegates will examine the business, political and social implications of the region's growth, looking at the impact of the wealth of natural resources on regional economies and the impact on trade of emerging economies such as China.