Mashreq Forum 2012 hosts Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi

Mashreq, one of the UAE’s leading financial institutions recently organized its annual function ‘Mashreq Forum 2012’. The forum hosted Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade.

His Excellency Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, CEO of Mashreq along with more than 250 CEO’s, CFO’s and business leaders in the corporate industry attended the function.

H.E. Sheikha Lubna keynote speech inaugurated the Forum, which outlined the growth of the UAE economy and the ongoing initiatives to make the UAE a significant regional hub for trade & investments.  “The UAE Government has successfully pursued a strategy to create an enabling business environment that is conducive to economic growth. This has heavily contributed to the world-renewed status of the UAE as an international centre for trade, finance and services attracting reputable global companies. The UAE has always focused on strengthening its stance as a hub for private commerce.”

Sheikha Lubna stated that the UAE’s total foreign trade continued its growth to reach 22% in 2011.

H.E. Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, CEO of Mashreq stressed on the significance of similar forums to exchange views and expertise to discuss trends and challenges in the market. “It’s essential for businesses to focus on long-term sustainability and development. The UAE offers an excellent platform with a diversity of investment to boost the overall economy and it’s important for all sectors to participate and contribute towards this goal.”

The panel speakers included Sanjay Manchanda, CEO of Nakheel, Nilesh Ved, Chairman of Apparel Group and David Hadley, CEO of Emirates Healthcare Group.

Julio De Quesada, Head of Corporate Investment Banking Group, Mashreq said: “Our customer relationships and developing the UAE’s banking industry are central in all Mashreq’s activities. The Forum offers the best platform to exchange ideas and thoughts between Business Leaders. Mashreq Forum is a reflection of the various initiatives pursued by the bank in demonstrating its commitment to its clients to build a strong partnership between us and themselves, hence grow their businesses.”