Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi reviews final preparations for Government Communication Forum 2013

Scheduled to be held from 24 - 25 February, at the Expo Centre in Sharjah, the event is themed "Effective Communication...Unified Message".

As part of his review, His Excellency Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi met with the forum's Higher Organizing Committee in the presence of the heads and members of the sub-committees. During the meeting, he evaluated the work in progress and received a briefing on up-to-date arrangements. He also offered his guidance and recommendations on several aspects of event management.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi also visited media organisations to update them on the latest developments of GCF 2013. His visits included the National Media Council (NMC), Abu Dhabi Media, Dubai Government's Media office, Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI), as well as leading local newspapers such as Al Ittihad, Gulf News, Emarat Alyoum and Al Bayan. The international and regional media organisations on his itinerary included Sky News, CNN, MBC, Alarabiya and Reuters.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi said: "Preparations are nearly complete to successfully host the conference. We have left no stone unturned in putting together the event. We are confident that this year's edition will bring together the largest number of elite experts in government communication to share best practices and case studies. We look forward to developing the concept of communication with the public. In addition to improving the methods and channels of communication between governments and their people, the event seeks to increase the effectiveness of employees in the communication departments of all government institutions."

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qassimi also visited the Expo Centre in Sharjah to oversee the logistics towards ensuring the success of the event. He reviewed the overall preparations and facilities that will be provided to the guests of honour and the forum speakers.

The Forum's Organizing Committee has divided its working force into five major committees for different tasks and responsibilities. The Operations Committee provides technical and logistical support for VIPs and guests while coordinating with the Protocol Committee that is responsible for receiving them and managing their hotel bookings. The Support and Follow-up Committee is responsible for collating the necessary information about the participants and handling the registration, while the Events Committee manages all advertising and promotional matters. The Media Committee is responsible for all media-related matters.

Since the inception of the Government Communication Forum by Sharjah Media Centre, five specialized committees comprising Sharjah Government employees have been set up to oversee the logistics, media and organisational aspects of the forum. The committees are also mandated to review the agenda and content for the event.

Government Communication Forum (GCF) seeks to develop a reliable platform for dialogue and information exchange on challenges and best practices in government communication within Sharjah, the UAE, the region and beyond.