Nakheel to participate in World Economic Forum 2004 in Jordan

Nakheel has announced that it will be participating in the World Economic Forum 2004, taking place at the Dead Sea, Jordan, from May 15-17, 2004. Chairman of Nakheel, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem and Executive Director of  Commercial and Operations, Mr. Wahid Attalla, will join other business and political leaders to discuss the economic prosperity of the region.

Held with the support of His Majesty King Abdullah, the forum will serve as the region's premier platform for engaging business and government in a process focused on implementing policy reform. 'Partnering for Regional Reform' and 'The Global Agenda: Impact on the Region' are just two of the key areas that will be open for debate.

Speaking about the forum recently, King Abdullah II of Jordan said: "Success will only come when nations work together to ensure justice, peace and opportunity on a global scale. It is my hope that this forum will mark the beginning of a genuine and focused effort to enhance cooperation and advance a new dynamic partnership amongst nations, as I firmly believe that sustainable peace and development can only be created when the world achieves a greater degree of cooperation and a more equitable balance among nations."

As the property development company behind some of Dubai's most stunning and innovative projects, Nakheel is in an ideal situation to participate in discussions about the Construction / Infrastructure and Travel / Tourism industries, two of the industries that will have a special focus at the event.

"We are pleased to be invited to participate in the World Economic Forum this year. The Middle East's position in the global economy is of great importance and it is highly worthwhile to participate in open discussions regarding the economy in detail, and to share ideas and opinions with other business professionals," said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman, Nakheel.

This year's forum, under the theme 'Facing the Real Challenges: Partnering for Change, Peace and Development', will be co-chaired by Alan L. Boeckman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Fluor Corporation, USA; Thierry Breton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, France Telecom, France; and Naguib Sawiris, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Orascom Telecom Holding, Egypt. There will be 650 participants, six Heads of State and more than 30 ministers attending.

The World Economic Forum is an independent international organisation committed to improving the state of the world. The forum provides a collaborative framework for world leaders to address global issues, engaging its corporate members, in particular, in global citizenship.

"The region has a 20-year track record of strong economic growth and many cities offer high standards of education and healthcare with solid infrastructures. The construction and infrastructure industry is expanding rapidly in the region with new residential and tourism property projects being developed in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE," said bin Sulayem.

"We look forward to attending the forum and to discuss ways in which Nakheel can contribute to the economic longevity of the region. As more and more countries in the region take steps to reform, we are confident that the Middle East will continue to prosper and enhance its presence in the global economy," bin Sulayem added.