The Secretary-General of the Union of Arab Chambers, Dr. Khaled Hanafi, during his participation in the opening of the conference and exhibition "Arab-African Investment and International Cooperation", which was held in Aswan / Arab Republic of Egypt, under the slogan "Economic ties ... Tourism.. Industry.. Agriculture.. Under the patronage of Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Chairman of the Council of the Ministry, and organized by the Union of Arab Women Investors, and in the presence of the First Lady of the Republic of Serbia, Ms. Tamara Vucic, Ms. Susan Muhuizi, an official representative of Ms. Janet Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports, wife of the President of Uganda, Mrs. Eunice Ortum, wife of the former President of the Nigerian state of Benue, and Ms. Gilan Kapina, sister of the President of the Congo and member of the Parliament, Mrs. Ibtihaj Al-Ahmadani, member of the Board of Directors of Qatar Chamber and Chairman of the Qatari Businesswomen Forum at the Chamber and a representative of businesswomen and investors in Qatar, Sheikha Maryam, founder and head of the Mariam Al-Khair volunteer team from Kuwait, Ambassador Elena Klilini, First Deputy of the Russian Women's Union, and Dr. Elena Matviva, Head of the Department of the Trade and Economic Committee of Russia and Egypt, said that strengthening trade and investment cooperation between our Arab countries and the world is no longer an option, but an urgent necessity to face the challenges we all live in.
"Today, we are at a stage that requires us, as leaders in the world of economy and trade, to intensify efforts and work together to develop sustainable projects and create innovative investment opportunities that meet the needs of the future. Climate change, shifts in energy markets, and rapid technological developments force us to rethink traditional ways of collaborating and seek to build new models of economic partnerships based on innovation, technology, and sustainability."
He stressed that the Union of Arab Chambers has been and continues to be a driving force behind efforts to promote Arab economic integration. Over the years, he has facilitated several agreements and initiatives aimed at promoting intra-regional trade, stimulating joint investments among Arab countries, and building strong cooperation networks with our international partners. We have seen the fruits of these efforts manifested in successful projects and increasing numbers that reflect the rapid growth in Arab and global trade and investment.
Dr. Khaled Hanafi said we still have a lot to achieve. Despite what has been achieved, there are many untapped opportunities in the Arab region, both regarding natural resources and human potential. We desperately need to exploit these opportunities and develop economic policies and strategies focused on achieving sustainable and inclusive development.
The Secretary-General pointed out that this summit is an exceptional opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences and learn about innovations in the fields of investment, as we live in an era where markets are intertwined in an unprecedented way, and digital technology plays a key role in reshaping economic sectors. Therefore, we must be ready to embrace these changes and work to strengthen technological capabilities in all sectors.
In his speech, Dr. Khaled Hanafi highlighted that issues such as green economy, renewable energy, and digital transformation have become central to any talk of investment and development. As representatives of the private sector and Arab governments, we have a great responsibility to create the right environment to promote these sectors and direct investments towards environmentally friendly and sustainable projects. In this context, it is important to empower youth and women in the fields of investment and trade, as these groups form the backbone of our economic future. We also need policies and programs that support entrepreneurship and open the way for youth and women to participate actively in the economy.
It is worth noting that the Secretary-General of the Federation of Arab Chambers, Dr. Khaled, was awarded an honorary shield during the conference, which he received from the President of the Arab Women Investors Union, Dr. Hoda Yassa, in appreciation of his efforts in supporting the progress of Arab women in the field of business and investment. As well as supporting efforts to strengthen economic, trade, and investment relations between Arab and African countries and the rest of the world.
Source (Union of Arab Chambers)