The 13th edition of the AIM Congress kicked off in Abu Dhabi under the theme “Adapting to A Shifting Investment Landscape: Harnessing New Potentials for Global Economic Development”. The event, which spans over three days until May 9, is being held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
Notable attendees included ministers, government officials and decision-makers from various countries around the world, in addition to investors, major corporations, startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, international organizations, and a large number of visitors.
The event aims to formulate investment strategies and policies, promote investment and economic opportunities, enhance international economic relations, and devise innovative solutions to address current and future global challenges and changes, ultimately striving towards a prosperous and sustainable global economy.
The opening ceremony included keynote speeches, including from Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Vice-Chairman of the Industry Development Council, and live panel discussions involving senior policymakers and top business leaders, aimed at exchanging knowledge, experiences, and insights with participants on how to adapt to global investment landscape transformations and find solutions to address challenges.
Focus on partnerships
In his address, Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar, outlined his nation’s strategic vision for sustainable economic growth and development. Emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships and investment, he underscored Madagascar’s rich potential as an emerging market and its pivotal role in regional trade dynamics.
“To achieve our emergence, we seek the support of potential partners and friendly countries to accompany the long-awaited development desired by the Malagasy people. Madagascar’s geostrategic position and its central place on the world map at the crossroads of maritime routes reveal our crucial role in regional trade and exchanges,” he said.
Stress on AI
Addressing the participants at the opening ceremony, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary General of the League of Arab States, praised AIM Congress for building strong partnerships and benefitting from the diversity of the participants, under the UAE’s strong leadership.
Gheit was also keen to point out the importance of AI for the future of the region.
“Big companies have heavily invested in AI due to its lucrative revenues. Arab countries must allocate resources to research and development, thoroughly study the risks and threats posed by AI, and formulate legislation to regulate the industry. By fostering collaboration and working in harmony, comprehensive growth can be achieved, leading to a better future.”
Meanwhile, the Global Leaders’ Debate saw high-level speakers offering perspectives on economic development, technology, investment, and regional growth.
Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director & CEO – World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) said: “Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) play a pivotal role in economic development. Their ability to streamline licensing procedures and leverage technology to attract investments is paramount. The importance of technological advancements in simplifying processes and facilitating investor engagement is undeniable.”
Claver Gatete, Undersecretary General – United Nations, & Executive Secretary – Economic Commission for Africa, said: “Africa holds a lot of importance in global economic development, particularly in supplying essential raw materials for technological advancements. Africa needs to transition from raw material supplier to an industrial hub.” He emphasized the potential of industrial parks and special economic zones to drive economic growth.
Jamal Al-Jarwan, Secretary-General – UAE International Investors Council, highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on businesses, emphasizing the need for adaptation and increased reliance on technology. He praised the UAE’s economic diversification efforts and transformation into a dynamic hub, attracting significant investor interest across various sectors.
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