Creativity 'key to new economy'

Regional business leaders have a great opportunity to turn discussions during the Emirates International Forum (EIF) into a major turning point in the region's economic progress, according to Dubai Crown Prince and UAE Defence Minister General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The two-day event, which begins here today, is expected to be addressed by Secretary General of the Arab League Amr Moussa.

In a message to forum delegates, Sheikh Mohammed said vision and creativity are key components of the new economy. "Together, creativity and vision can take us to heights we sometimes cannot foresee, but should be prepared to explore."

He said new economy imperatives are upon us. "More realities will emerge as technology continues to develop. Vision is a key component of the new economy – the vision to see where technology can lead us, how we can positively utilise it and how it will benefit the worldwide community.

"Our new economy vision should encompass all public and private sector organisations irrespective of role or size or geographic location. With globalisation an accepted fundamental of the 21st century operations, our decisions will impact much further afield than our own doorsteps. Hence the need to interact with each other, to create a world of network and exchange.

"In the region, we have seen both the public and private sector determinedly committing to sourcing innovative ways of maximising the value of the region's core resources – and technology has proved to be an excellent tool in this quest," he said.

He said the speaker profile of the forum "reflects our worldwide approach and our desire to seek the opinions, and harness the experience of international as well as regional experts."

Sheikh Mohammed said he anticipated "some exciting and far-seeing recommendations from it."