Dubai: The Public Diplomacy and Government Communication Forum (PDGCF) kicked off on Sunday at the Dubai Trade Center.
The forum, which was launched under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aims to help government organisations explore more effective communication strategies through a discussion of global best practices and success stories from both the region and the world.
In a session titled ‘Crafting key messages and holding statements,’ former White House press secretary Job Earnest discussed the use of social media by governments and highlighted the influence of journalists and the media on public opinion.
Earnest explained the important role of journalists in holding those in power accountable for their words and actions.
He referred to the US government’s methods of dealing with the Ebola outbreak and ensuring public safety through engaging the media.
Meanwhile, Sultan Bin Sulayem, chairman of DP World, shared insights on how diplomacy expands business opportunities for the global port operator. His comments came during his talk on the Trade and International Affairs session.
Sulayem, who is also chairman of Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, shared a story of how he won the confidence of an indigenous community in Canada that had a difficult relationship with the Canadian government.
He flew there with a chef, met the tribesmen on their ancestral land, cooked for them and served them personally “out of instinct”.
The locals were impressed and welcomed DP World, to the surprise of the Canadian government. DP World went on to purchase a port company in the area.
Also among the speakers today are Alastair Campbell, former Downing Street press secretary and director of communication and strategy for Tony Blair, former UK prime minister, and Lt Gen Shaikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.
The first edition of the forum had brought together experts and professionals in government communication, as well as seasoned communication consultants from the region and across the world. The event will also provide a platform for a rich and varied discussion through workshops and interactive sessions.
