More than 1,000 researchers, business leaders and public sector officials from 76 countries are attending the "Academy of International Business" Conference commenced today in Dubai.
Themed "The contribution of MNEs to building sustainable societies", the conference is being held under the patronage of The Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government, MBRSG, a research and teaching institution focusing on public policy in the Arab world, until 5th July.
Inaugurated by Professor Raed Awamleh, Dean of MBRSG, sessions on the opening day discussed a wide array of research papers that focused on the contribution and role played by multinational companies in building sustainable communities, both at home and in host countries. The sessions also discussed ways to anticipate current and future global business trends and identify ways in which businesses can contribute to sustainable development.
Delegates, including senior executives and CEOs from the UAE, the MENA region and the wider world, discussed ways to overcome the challenges facing multinational companies in host countries, as well as how they can increase their support for national economies. The sessions also discussed how MNEs can advise governments on the operational framework of multinationals, and the mechanics needed to improve their contribution to sustainable development.
Dr. Ali Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, said, "We are proud to host the conference, held for the first time in the MENA region. This consolidates leading position of Dubai and the UAE in business and in economic governance world-wide, and highlights its pivotal role in enhancing communication between the public and private sectors, helping to drive ever greater sustainable development at the highest levels."
He added, "The UAE leadership continues to place a huge importance on achieving sustainable development, due to its impact on the well-being of people’s lives and on economic stability. Therefore, our aim through this conference, and in co-operation with our strategic partners, is to find new ways to increase companies’ contribution to achieving sustainable development, and explore the means to enhance the role played by MNEs in achieving the UAE Vision 2021."
During his keynote address, Professor Awamleh said, "The conference underlines the role of MBRSG in supporting efforts by academics and researchers from around the world in finding new ways to achieve sustainable development, in addition to enhancing coordination between enterprises, academics, and businesses."
He also reiterated MBRSG’s readiness to host similar conferences and events that create opportunities for stakeholders and academics to further cooperate at every level.
The conference will include open dialogues, sessions and business meetings, with the participation of top professionals, economic and academic experts in various fields, as well as representatives from international institutions and companies, relevant government authorities and other public and private entities.

Source: WAM