H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, on Thursday attended the opening of the Family Business Network 25th Global summit, being held in Dubai under the theme of "A proud past, a sustainable future".
Dubai has the honour of hosting the prestigious event during the 25th anniversary of FBN International. The landmark year not only affords an opportunity to reflect on past achievements, it will act as a springboard for the next 25 years of supporting family businesses as they look to secure a sustainable future for the next generation.
Thierry Lombard, Family Business Network International (FBN) Chairman, said his welcoming address that Dubai has become the meeting point of cultures, nations and an important gravity centre for economic activities.
He told delegates and members attending the first Family Business Network International event to be held in the Middle East that there is no better place than Dubai to host our annual summit on the occasion of our Silver Anniversary.
Taking the podium, Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State, spoke about the significant role family businesses play in the Gulf economies, noting that the U.A.E. has made an unprecedented renaissance thanks to the accumulated visions of the wise leaders and founding fathers.
She stressed the important role of future generations in promoting the culture of innovation for building a promising future and sustainable economic development.
Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, President of FBN GCC, also addressed the opening session.
The Summit is taking place for the first time in the Middle East, reflecting the truly international nature of the Federation. Members from over 50 countries will gather together to explore the most pressing issues of importance for family business in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Through a program of insightful plenary sessions, interactive workshops and world class social events, families across generations will have the opportunity to engage with one another through peer to peer learning and invaluable experience sharing.