The SuperBridge Summit 2024, held in conjunction with Gitex Global, was inaugurated today. The first day’s sessions commenced on a high note with 11 panel discussions, keynote speeches, and fireside chats. Thought leaders from a wide array of industries, global policymakers, and decision-makers convened at the event to explore the economic growth potential of several regions globally.
The sessions started with the screening of an experiential video highlighting the journey of The SuperBridge Summit, followed by welcoming remarks by Sarah Cocker, the event emcee, and a welcome address by Hadi Badri, CEO of the economic development, Dubai Economy and Tourism, UAE.
Role of strategic investments in economic growth
The initial panel discussion titled ‘Ahead of the Curve: The Next-Gen Economic Powerhouses’ Growth and Challenges’ was moderated by Shane Tedjarati, chairman of VS Partners and co-founder of SuperBridge Council. It highlighted the role of strategic investments in boosting innovation and transforming the country into an economic powerhouse.
The speakers, including Takashi Maruyama, chief investment officer at Asset Management One, Japan, and Zsuzsanna Hargitai, managing director – SME Finance and Development, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, United Kingdom, shared success stories of several individuals and organizations rising from humble origins through strategic investments and innovation. They discussed measures to overcome challenges from inflation, climate crises, and aging demographics in a complex global economy.
Middle East’s transition away from oil
The SuperBridge Summit 2024 also hosted another panel discussion titled ‘Shifting Sands 2.0: The Gulf’s Leap to Global Innovation Epicenter.’ During this session, speakers highlighted the transition of the Middle East to becoming a leader in innovation beyond the oil industry. The session also focused on the role of free-trade agreements in defining the economic landscape of Gulf cities, facilitating innovation, and attracting international business.
Dr. AbdulKhaleq Abdulla, professor emeritus of political science at UAE University delivered the opening statement. Other panel members included Tarek Sultan, chairman of Agility Global, Kuwait; Hans Duisters, founder and CEO of Sioux Group, the Netherlands; and Ian Johnston, chief executive of Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), UAE. In addition, Kevin Li, chairman of Mojia Biotech, China, moderated the session.
“As we come together at the SuperBridge Summit 2024, it is essential to leverage our collective knowledge and creativity to develop solutions that transcend borders. United, we can shape a future for our next-gen where collaboration fuels progress and inclusivity serves as our guiding principle,’ stated Zsuzsanna Hargitai.
Asia’s leading role in globalization
The SuperBridge Summit 2024 also hosted a fireside chat that focused on the theme ‘Human Connection in the Digital Age’. Discussions delved into the significance of human interactions amid technological advancements. The session, which Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group, led, projected the urge for human interaction and the need for balancing technological advancements in bridging the existing digital gap.
Additionally, speakers at the panel ‘Asia for Global’ shed light on the key role of Asian countries in leading globalization. The panel witnessed the participation of Timothy Chen, general partner of ACHI Capital, United States; Dr. Miniya Chatterji, chief executive officer of Sustain Labs Paris; Dr. Karim El Solh, co-founder and CEO of Gulf Capital; and Dr. Karim Alwadi, co-founder of Beltway Group, China. In addition, panel members explored the challenges Asian companies face in the global landscape and the future of these enterprises.
Another session showcased the transformative impact of the topic ‘The Bridge: From Lab to Industry and From IP to IPO’ on global development with cutting-edge products, underscoring the way in which ground-breaking scientific innovations are converted into real-world applications.
AI for climate challenges
SuperBridge Summit 2024 also hosted another key session with the title: ‘Building Environmental Infrastructure for Industrialization: A Sustainable Approach’. This session delved into how cutting-edge technologies such as AI can address climate challenges and create a synergy between technological progress and environmental stewardship.
The session also explored how sustainable industrial development through robust infrastructure can ensure good air quality, water management, waste disposal, and clean power generation.
Read: Global experts gather at key World Economic Forum meeting in Dubai
Advancing Africa’s manufacturing sector
Panel discussions on the first day of the SuperBridge Summit 2024 concluded with an active discussion titled ‘Unlocking Africa’s Potential’. Participants explored how Africa, the world’s least industrialized region, must enhance its manufacturing role in national investment and trade by charting a cleaner, resource-efficient pathway that boosts output without compromising environmental sustainability.
The final day of the SuperBridge Summit 2024 will provide an active platform to discuss future developments across various fields, including global finance, green energy, and innovation. It will also feature a dynamic agenda that includes a ministerial address, panel discussions, and presentations.
For more news on economy, click here.
