A high-level delegation representing the Emirate of Sharjah participated in the World Economic Forum (WEF) on the Middle East and North Africa, held from May 19-21 in Jordan, under the theme of ‘Enabling Generational Transformation’. 

Underscoring the importance of Sharjah’s participation in the Forum, the delegation members said it reflected the transparent nature of the Emirate’s economy, its focus on development and its keenness to exchange experiences and knowledge.

The high point of Sharjah’s participation in the WEF on the Middle East and Africa has been the selection of HE Sheikha Badour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq (Sharjah Investment and Development Authority) as the Chair of the World Economic Forum’s Regional Business Council (RBC) for the Middle East and North Africa. This is the first time an Emirati and Arab woman has been chosen for this global leadership position, they emphasised.

This reaffirms the pioneering role and leadership role of Emirati women and an acknowledgement of their outstanding presence and contribution in all walks of life, especially for sustainable development of the UAE and the global economy, said the delegation members. 

The delegation briefed the Jordan Forum on the strides made by Sharjah on the economic and development front. They also exchanged notes with other delegates on the economic, socio-cultural and humanitarian issues facing the region and the world.                                   

Valuable opportunities

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Media Council, lauded the Emirate’s participation in the WEF, which brings together world leaders and economic thought leaders from across the globe, as a testament to the progress made by the Emirate in the economic and development spheres, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

He emphasised that the Forum offers valuable opportunities in various economic fields, pointing to Sharjah’s keenness to take part in such international events for the purpose of exchanging expertise and highlighting the Emirate's qualitative economic leaps.

HE Sheikha Badour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq (Sharjah Investment and Development Authority) said: "The world economy today faces many challenges that require us to be well-prepared to control their negative repercussions. Hence, relying on its investment offerings and diversified economy, Sharjah has been keen to strengthen its cooperation with various countries, particularly in the Arab region and Middle East, as part of its commitment to Arab and regional economic integration. This gives the Emirate greater potential to benefit from opportunities to strengthen its economic stability and promote sustainable development in the region.”

She said: "WEF, which boasts a long history of extensive participation by world statesmen and business leaders, has generated enormous opportunities for building partnerships between Sharjah and numerous countries in the region and the world. Through a series of facilities and competitive advantages offered to investors, the Emirate has managed to enhance its attractiveness and bolster its economy. As a result, it is more capable of meeting the aspirations of entrepreneurs and large companies, as well as regional and international markets, while providing the security and stability necessary for the growth of investment activity. "

Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Executive Chairman of Sharjah Department of Government Relations, said Sharjah’s participation in WEF confirms the strong fraternal ties between Jordan and the UAE and supports all initiatives of cooperation and communication between the two countries.

He termed the appointment of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, as the Chair of the WEF's Regional Business Council for the Middle East and North Africa as an international testimony to the considerable progress made by Emirati women.