ECONOMIC FOCUS
ISSUE 1 VOL 10 WINTER 2015 MAGAZINE OF THE ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
> REPORTS IN ENGLISH AND ARABIC
> PHARMACEUTICALS SECTOR
> BRITISH ECONOMY
> DEVELOPING MENA TALENT
> STOCK EXCHANGE
> FOCUS INTERVIEW
> IT SECURITY FOR BUSINESS
> ARBITRATION
> CHAMBER ACTIVITIES
www.turkishcargo.com | +90 850 333 0 777
Whatever your viewpoint...
it’s a land of opportunity! The Saudi British Economic Offset Programme brings together overseas companies with local Saudi partners to develop new profitable business opportunities. British Offset offers a unique package of advice, support and project financing to companies interested in starting new joint ventures in Saudi Arabia Wherever you might be from, if you have an idea, we want to hear about it.
In the United Kingdom
In Saudi Arabia
British Offset Office 4th Floor, Cromwell House Dean Stanley Street London SW1P 3JH Tel: +44 (0)30 6770 2349 britishoffset@dgsap.mod.uk
British Offset Office P.O. Box 1003 Riyadh 11431 Tel: 00966 (0) 11 445 9400 ext 3436 Fax: 00966 (0) 11 445 9406
www.britishoffset.com
ECONOMIC FOCUS
12
14
32
68
Economic Focus is an Arab-British Chamber of Commerce publication. Editorial Team Abdeslam El-Idrissi, Chief Editor Cliff Lawrence David Morgan Dr Yasmin Husein Arab-British Chamber of Commerce 43 Upper Grosvenor Street London W1K 2NJ Tel: +44 (0) 20 7235 4363 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7245 6688 economicfocus@abcc.org.uk www.abcc.org.uk
Production & Design Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk
Advertising Distinctive Publishing Tel: 0845 884 2343 john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk
Disclaimer Distinctive Publishing or Arab-British Chamber of Commerce cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and ArabBritish Chamber of Commerce.
ISSN No: ISSN 1751-4339
CONTENTS Focus Reports
Special Features
What GCC Businesses Need to Consider When Expanding into the UK
Language and Culture
20
6
Export
38
Focus Interview: Philip Chapper & Company Ltd
10
Conferences and Exhibitions
60
London and Casablanca: Forging Global Ties
12
Chamber News
Resilient Leadership: Developing the MENA Region’s Natural Talent 14
Chamber Activities
68
IT Network Security for Businesses in the Middle East
Members News
88
New Members
93
26
Growth of International Arbitration
32
British Quarterly Economic Survey
48
Arabic Section
126
HELPING TRADE FLOW
Europe Arab Bank is uniquely positioned to help your business take advantage of Europe and North America trade flow and investment opportunities in MENA. As part of the Arab Bank Group, with the largest banking network in the Arab region, you gain seamless access to 16 MENA countries and a network of 600 branches around the world. Learn more: www.eabplc.com +44 20 7315 8500 Š Europe Arab Bank plc 2014 All Rights Reserved. Registered in England and Wales number 5575857. Registered Office: 13-15 Moorgate, London EC2R 6AD. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Not all products and services are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.
UK
|
AUSTRIA
|
FRANCE
|
GERMANY
|
ITALY
|
SPAIN
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
WHAT SHOULD GCC BUSINESSES CONSIDER WHEN EXPANDING INTO THE UK? By Tom Marchbanks, Middle East Regional Manager, Scottish Development International
2014 was a big year for Scotland – the Commonwealth Games, the Ryder Cup and the independence referendum alone have attracted unprecedented interest from all corners of the globe and provided an incredible platform to sell Scotland and what it has to offer. But long before the hot debate in the political arena on the potential of Scotland as an independent country and on the Eurozone debt crisis, GCC companies have been looking to Scotland as an attractive investment location. Of course many ‘home grown’ brands would like to expand beyond the GCC, but targeting any new global territory can be daunting. However, with Europe’s wealthy consumer base, skilled labour force and well-developed technological and innovative clusters, the region cannot be ignored despite the multiple languages, time zones, currencies and political outlooks. Armed with the proper resources and tools, companies are faced with bountiful opportunities. Companies don’t have to act by themselves when breaking into Europe. In fact, a company based in the GCC that is hoping to expand its research and development, manufacturing, finance or back office operations into Europe will be greeted with open arms from Europe’s inward investment agencies, which can be an important resource to any business person that needs to better understand the ins and outs of foreign direct investment.
Ryder Cup 2014
As the Middle East Regional Manager of Scottish Development International, I have the opportunity to work with so many companies in the Gulf region that benefit from the many advantages that Scotland offers, including its outstanding infrastructure, a highly educated workforce and a shared language. There are already strong links between the UAE and Scotland with the UAE importing $807 million from Scotland in SDI’s most recent Global Connections Survey. Contributing to trade from the GCC to Scotland are family-owned businesses, such as the Al Tajirs who own the UK’s largest producer of naturally sourced bottled water, and government-related entities such as the
regional airlines that help facilitate trade between the GCC and Scotland with their direct flights. Earlier in 2014, Emirates celebrated 10 years of routes between Dubai and Glasgow in April and Qatar launched its first direct flight between Doha and Edinburgh in May. Whether or not companies in the GCC expand to Scotland, they should first prioritise their criteria for overseas investment and define the medium to long term goals of their business. With that in place, working with investment agencies to understand and overcome any obstacles (or perceived obstacles) standing in the path can help optimise expansion success.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Overcoming barriers
7
Edinburgh University
The main concerns companies usually voice relate to employment law, the availability of industry clusters, transport links and the overall cost of doing business in Europe (salary costs, property costs, tax, etc.) knowing that taxes are not a factor here. Access to skilled labour is another key consideration for every company looking to invest overseas. One example is The Al Maktoum Institute in Dundee where the Dubai Deputy Ruler and UAE Minister of Finance, Sheikh Hamdan acts as its patron and sponsor. This investment in Dundee was launched in February 2013, where 48 female Emirati students received training from the Institute that is designed to prepare the students in key contemporary global issues of multiculturalism, leadership, cultural engagement and global awareness. Availability of experts in the education field in Scotland was a pre-requisite for the UAE government’s investment decision. This fact was a strong attraction for Sheikh Hamdan. The high and historical educational level and the financial support from local governments also played a part in the UAE’s decision to open here.
On-the-ground support Apart from practical concerns, GCC companies looking to do business in Europe are often concerned about intangible cultural differences. This is an area where local government agencies, like SDI, can help investors better understand the business landscape in which they might be operating as well as the cultural issues they might not have considered. Support from SDI allows GCC corporations to de-risk a potential investment. We can provide key due diligence information that may not have been available to executives otherwise including salary costs, property choices and availability of talent as well as intelligence about the overall business environment. We are also able to facilitate introductions to businesses that are already established in a market so that prospective investors can learn from the experiences of others. TAQA (Abu Dhabi National Energy Company) is one such business that
benefited from SDI’s on-the-ground expertise. Through this relationship, the company expanded its existing operations to five platforms from 13 fields in the North Sea, directly employing around 600 people in Aberdeen along with a further 1,500 contractors.
Long-term relationships improve performance The benefits of building relationships with local partners extend far beyond the initial settling-in period. SDI conducted an independent evaluation of its activities and found that almost 50% of investors reported that because of the support received from us, they had met customers and partners that they would not have otherwise been able to meet. Our analysis also shows that investor companies that were assisted by government agencies displayed higher wages, higher employment numbers and higher labour productivity figures, and that most of these companies were conducting more R&D and had broadened their product range.
business. Spend time considering and prioritising your criteria for overseas investment, and work closely with local agencies to map what the country or region can offer against these criteria. Developing strategic alliances with GCC companies that have successfully entered the European market, or even with Scottish companies that have successfully developed relationships with GCC businesses, can also pay dividends in learning from those who have gone before you. There is a wealth of information and support out there for GCC companies looking to expand into Europe, and the only consideration for ambitious companies in this region is likely to be where to go and when to begin.
CONTACT Tom Marchbanks Regional Manager Middle East Scottish Development International The British Embassy Dubai
Making the move
T: +971 4 309 4259
The best advice for a GCC company considering investing in Europe is first and foremost to do what is best for your
www.sdi.co.uk
E: tom.marchbanks@scotent.co.uk
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
LAND, SEA, AIR OR UNMANNED… RUBB HAS GOT ALL VEHICLES COVERED AT IDEX doors in each gable end for easy access to and from the facility. At the MoD’s request, Rubb also included a roof mounted crane with a Safe Working Load of 1,500kg in the hangar’s design to support ongoing Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul procedures. This hangar is clad with insulated fabric panels and can accommodate at least two amphibious vehicles for maintenance and storage. It will also be used to store and protect spare parts, tools and equipment.
Rubb returns to IDEX in the UAE this month to highlight a new UAV hangar from its respected military building range. Rubb Buildings Ltd has found there is a significant demand for a smaller sized hangar with a wide door opening to allow Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in and out of the building. The company has now introduced a new UAV storage and maintenance facility to its EFASS range of fabric structures. The facility, designed with a lower internal volume, is easier and more cost effective to power (electrics, HVAC). It is designed to suit military loadings (100kg/ m2 snow loading and 41.6m/s effective wind speed). Other advantages of the system include: l
Rapid building times with minimal use of machinery to aid construction
l
Fully relocatable and will fit into containers for transport and storage
l
Lightweight to aid air transportation
l
The building can easily be adapted to make it longer to store more aircraft
l
The gable end configurations can also be adapted to suit the access/egress requirements of the aircraft storage arrangement
l
Can include an internal gantry crane if required
The 23m span x 12m long aluminium framed UAV POD is the seventh hangar to be introduced to Rubb’s Expeditionary Forces Aircraft Shelter System (EFASS) range. Managing Director Ian Hindmoor said: “We pride ourselves on our R&D and the new UAV POD meets the requirements listed in feedback from our clients and
end users. We are looking forward to showcasing this latest product from the EFASS range at IDEX 2015. We are also keen to highlight some of our recent military and aviation projects.” The company has had a busy year in the military and aviation sector. The UK MoD ordered seven 20.4m span EFASS structures (aluminium framed, fabric covered aircraft shelters) featuring Trident doors at each gable end. Each hangar packs into one 20ft ISO container for transport and includes Zone 1 electrics and insulated fabric cladding. Rubb was tasked with ensuring that hangars from the range are packed for airfreight according to strict specifications from the Joint Air Delivery Test and Evaluation Unit (JADTEU) at RAF Brize Norton. These packing arrangements have been carried out for the 20m EFASS (Trident/Trident), the 18m EFASS Sunshade and the 25m span EFASS (Heli-Door, closed gable). Rubb also provided a storage and maintenance hangar for all terrain armoured vehicles at a British Forces base in Bielefeld, Germany. The 20.4m span x 40m long fabric military building from Rubb’s EFASS range features 9.8m wide x 5m high roller shutter
Rubb’s refurbishment service has also been in demand, with eight military buildings brought back to new standards in 2014, including a 20m span x 20m long EFASS vehicle storage facility. It was also future proofed to support an overhead gantry crane. This project was an Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) that was needed within two weeks, but delivered in just 10 days. Rubb’s Rapid Erect Structures feature aluminium framework that has been designed to maximize strength, minimize weight and still be robust enough to withstand the most challenging environments. The high quality 6082 T6 structural aluminium is annodized black and steel components are hot dipped galvanized to protect from corrosion. The tough PVC covering tensioned membrane forms the protective barrier between the environment and the vehicles and equipment inside. Rubb Buildings Ltd’s work in the UAE includes three 23.4m x 36m steel and aluminium hybrid EFASS helicopter maintenance hangars for Horizon Flight Academy at Al Ain International Airport. Visitors to IDEX can meet the Rubb team and find out more about this and other defence and aerospace hangar projects at Stand 06-A38, ADS UK Pavilion, ADNEC, Abu Dhabi from 22 – 26 February 2015.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
FOCUS INTERVIEW- PHILIP CHAPPER & COMPANY LIMITED Economic Focus speaks to Jonathan Chapper, the new Chief Operating Officer of Philip Chapper & Company Limited.
What are the company’s main activities? Traditionally, Philip Chapper & Company Limited’s business has been supplying both branded and generic pharmaceuticals, over the counter medicines, hospital supplies and equipment to major government institutions, ministries, pharmaceutical wholesalers, hospitals, clinics and charitable organisations throughout the world. Essentially, our clients will approach us with a list of products they require, we will negotiate the best prices for them from our network of suppliers and then we will consolidate the products in our warehouses before arranging their transportation. Recently, however, an increasing part of our business has been in the active promotion of products to existing and potential clients, where we either handle the worldwide exports for the manufacturer in question or we are the exclusive distributor in the relevant territories.
The company has been supplying pharmaceutical products to markets around the world for many years. Who are the main people involved in the business today? My father, who set up the business nearly 40 years ago, remains heavily involved in the business as the Executive Chairman and is also, for regulatory
purposes, the Responsible Person. The industry and client knowledge he has built up is invaluable to both me and the rest of our staff. I am both the Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel. We are assisted by two very able Joint Heads of Sales. From a MENA perspective, we are fortunate in having an Iraqi, Dubai-trained, pharmacist working for us in our sales team.
Who are your main customers in the MENA region? As you would expect, the countries where we are doing the most business at the moment tend to be those which are the most stable politically and economically, such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE and Oman. Although we have always had very strong links with Libya, the current political situation makes carrying out business there very difficult. The makeup of our clients is a mixture of government ministries, private hospitals and wholesalers. In the future, we hope to increase the amounts of business we are transacting in other MENA countries such as Kuwait, Egypt, Qatar and Iraq. Approximately a third of our business currently takes place in the Arab world. In the medium term, both Libya and Iraq are promising markets, but there are obvious, hopefully short-term, challenges which need to be overcome before regular and stable business is possible.
In what ways has the pharmaceuticals business changed over the decades with regards to, for example, the changing requirements of customers and the regulatory frameworks for product standards? Inevitably, the regulatory requirements of most countries in the MENA region have become more demanding as the years have gone by. In addition, customers have both become more price-conscious, but also, in a slightly conflicting way, more demanding of recognised European or North American brands, even if generic alternatives are available at much lower prices with no difference in efficacy.
Your company has a wealth of experience of dealing with the Arab markets. To what factors would you attribute your success? Our first client was in the MENA region and we continue to supply them nearly 40 years later. We look to build up long term relationships with our clients, which is especially appreciated in the Arab markets. We have always travelled to see our clients in the region, even to countries which most Westerners were avoiding, and our clients value this approach. We regularly visit clients in the
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
11
Philip Chapper & Co Ltd exhibiting at Arab Health 2014 as part of the UK Pavilion
Arab countries and have been exhibiting at Arab Health in Dubai for many years, which we will be doing again in 2015 as part of the UK Pavilion, and have therefore maintained a strong profile in those countries.
What are the main challenges when exporting to the Arab markets? When doing business with any foreign country, one always needs to be aware of cultural differences and be able to overcome any language barriers. Through experience and regular travel to the region, we have developed a sophisticated cultural awareness and with multilingual, including Arabic-speaking, staff, we are able to communicate effectively with our clients. We are particularly pleased that in times of increasing and sustained global competition in our business, we are able to deepen existing commercial relationships and create new ones.
Philip Chapper & Company Limited has been a member of the ABCC for a good number of years – which services do you
make most use of and what is your experience of using these services? From a practical perspective, being able quickly to obtain Certificates of Origin from the ABCC is invaluable. We also read the daily ABCC newsletter emails, which allow us to keep abreast of commercial and cultural developments in the region. Finally, we regularly attend events hosted by the ABCC.
Looking ahead, what do you see as the new trends in the sector in the future? The healthcare sector is one of the most rapidly-evolving industries at the moment. This can be seen in many ways, for example, in the glut of M&A activity among bigger and smaller pharma players, the massive investment in treatments for diseases such as diabetes (which happens to be particularly prevalent in the MENA region), the crossover of existing technology, such as mobile phones, into the healthcare arena as well as the rush to develop “wearable” technology with healthcare applications. For me, this makes the healthcare sector a particularly exciting sector in which to work.
What is clear is that the increased variety and potential cost of new medical treatments, whether they are pharmaceuticals, devices or procedures, coupled with ageing and increasingly savvy and demanding national populations, will pose massive questions for the governments of countries throughout the world.
Are there any final comments that you would like to add by way of conclusion? Philip Chapper & Company Limited has been serving the Arab markets for nearly four decades and is committed to continuing to do so over future years. We look forward to increasing the amount of business we do in the region and expanding into those few Arab countries in which we do not currently carry out regular business.
CONTACT Jonathan Chapper can be contacted at jonathan@philipchapper.com or on 01923 815547.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
LONDON AND CASABLANCA: FORGING GLOBAL TIES By Nikhil Rathi, Head of International Development and Chief of Staff, London Stock Exchange Group
London Stock Exchange Group continues to expand its global footprint and strengthen its position as one of the world’s leading, diversified exchange groups. Central to this is our ambition to forge strong and long-term ties with emerging market partners and exchanges across the globe. In doing so, we are boosting trade between the UK and these countries, key to the country’s future economic success and that of developing market economies. We have built partnerships with local exchanges in over 30 countries across the world, from as far afield as South Africa, Norway, Mongolia and Sri Lanka. The effect of these deals goes far beyond upgrading infrastructure. Supporting these markets in building advanced technology and the right processes, allows their customers, and importantly local companies, the ability to efficiently access capital. Creating an environment
where businesses can thrive encourages growth and innovation, benefiting economies through employment and economic expansion. Earlier last year we signed a significant partnership agreement with the Casablanca Stock Exchange. Established in 1929, the exchange is one of the most developed markets in Africa, home to companies worth approximately £33 billion, representing 54 per cent of Morocco’s GDP. According to a recent note by Capital Economics, Morocco’s economy is set to strengthen in 2015 and 2016 and will be North Africa’s best performing economy over the coming years. In order to drive economic development, Morocco wants to consolidate its position as a regional financial hub and has a large number of small companies looking to raise growth capital. The
agreement signed in June 2014 saw a delegation from the UK including the Lord Mayor of London and the British Ambassador to Morocco travel to Casablanca to meet with HM The King, Mohammed VI, who was present for the signing of the contract between Xavier Rolet, CEO, London Stock Exchange Group and Karim Hajji, CEO, Casablanca Stock Exchange. The contract has laid the foundation for a strong partnership between both exchanges: London Stock Exchange Group will share its expertise on listing to trading, and from clearing to settlement and supporting SMEs. In October, we were delighted that Mamoune Bouhdoud, the Moroccan Minister for SMEs, was able to open the market in London and witness an extension to June’s agreement. With the ever evolving global regulatory landscape, Morocco has recognised the importance of widening its post trade offering, the processes by which details of a trade are reported, cleared and settled.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
13
The formal signing of the agreement between the LSE and Casablanca Stock Exchange took place in the presence of HM the King Mohammed VI of Morocco
As part of the extended agreement, Maroclear, the country’s central securities depository, has signed a partnership with London Stock Exchange Group for the allocation of Legal Entity Identifiers (LEIs) for the Moroccan market. Endorsed by the G20, the LEI initiative is designed to create a global reference data system that uniquely identifies every legal entity, in any jurisdiction, that is party to a financial transaction. In addition, London Stock Exchange Group’s central securities depository, Monte Titoli, will provide its Moroccan counterpart, with access to European securities settlement infrastructure. This will allow Maroclear clients to settle cross-border trades in Europe and give them access to the TARGET2 Securities (T2S) regime when it is introduced in June 2015. By aligning itself with Europe, Morocco is securing a position for itself as a bridge between North West Africa and Europe. We will continue to support it in strengthening this status. London has long been a natural partner for exchanges across the world, owing
to its unique features – access to a deep pool of international capital, alongside robust, transparent and trusted markets and an advantageous time zone that bridges Asia, Africa, Europe and North America. What is clear from our global experience is the significance in creating robust financial infrastructure to countries’
long term prosperity. A successful economy drives growth, creates jobs and pays the taxes that finance public services and investment. We look forward to continuing to work alongside emerging market economies, ensuring London Stock Exchange Group and the UK remain open for business with the world’s fastest growing regions.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
RESILIENT LEADERSHIP – DEVELOPING THE MENA REGION’S NATURAL TALENT By Dr Philip Hopley, Managing Director, LPP
In December last year the Landmark Hotel, London, was the venue for the very successful GCC-British Economic Forum. The meeting focused on the challenges and opportunities facing the private sector and provided an excellent opportunity for networking and sharing of ideas. LPP were delighted to have been invited to share in the experience.
The Challenge Research shows that as the MENA region continues to develop at a rapid pace young leaders are being thrust into the spotlight of senior management more and more frequently. l
l
The Oxford Strategic Group has estimated that in some Gulf States 6080% of young Arab men will be called upon to step into senior management positions.
to become the next generation of inspirational senior leaders?
Surveys show that rapid population growth and changing social and economic aspirations of young men and women in the MENA are key drivers of change.
As in the world of elite sport the critical element is the mind. Many young talented athletes who have shown incredible promise just slip away into anonymity. Why?
As a result of these factors the effective development of young talent into first class leaders is now an absolute priority for the GCC countries.
For some it is physical injury that gets in the way but for the majority it is a lack of psychological resilience which sees them slip back into the pack.
Rising to the Challenge
Over the last six years LPP have worked with elite athletes and business leaders around the world to develop their ability to perform effectively under pressure. The parallels between sport and business lead to a natural cross-over when it comes to our training. Taking
The important question is: how can we help these young men and women to optimise their natural talent in order to make the successful transition
analogies and examples from the sports field helps people in business to identify, share and work on their own personal challenges arising from stressful work demands. Our coaching and training is based on solid scientific evidence, namely cognitive behavioural work and mindfulness. These approaches are proven to make a positive impact by addressing the way our minds can misfire under pressure. The work that we do is often applied in times of crisis but the best approach is to work proactively in order to equip people with the necessary skills to maintain performance despite significant demands.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
15
Some examples of our crisis intervention work include: l
A resilience programme implemented very quickly to buffer a global team within a multinational company facing a period of unprecedented demand.
l
Our work at London 2012 Olympics where we provided the psychological support team in the polyclinic at the Olympic Stadium. Supporting the 10,000+ Olympians and Paralympians, we helped a number of athletes to cope with the intense pressure of competing on a global stage. All of them went from crisis mode to coping mode and beyond with a number winning medals within days of coming close to melt down.
Examples of our pro-active training include: l
l
l
The roll out of resilience training to the global legal team and other departments of a major energy company. Annual resilience training for all new partners at a magic circle law firm as part of their international induction process. Sport specific resilience training to English County Cricket Clubs, Football League Managers and Premiership Rugby Clubs.
Some of LPP’s leading clients include: A&O, Slaughter & May, Bain, BP, Allen & Overy, Mars, Knight Frank, 3M & Ondra partners. The comments from some of those who have experienced LPP’s training programme speak for themselves: “Great stuff! One of the best sessions I’ve done in 10 years at A&O. Thanks!” A&O “An excellent workshop – very different to other training sessions – interesting approach – very good presenter.” A&O “Fantastic training – credible, well researched and impressively delivered/facilitated. Very personal topic that was sensitively explored in a practical way and relevant to our culture/ team.” A&O “Excellent, one of the best training sessions to date” BP Lawyer Houston
Understanding Resilience Pressure, stress and knock-backs are constants in the life of senior leaders, and nowhere more so than in the MENA region. How well a leader copes with pressure and how quickly he or she is able to bounce-back has a major impact on performance, health, wellbeing and ultimately their effectiveness as a leader. Naturally before we can become effective managers of others we need to understand and manage ourselves effectively. Although we use the words ‘pressure’ and ‘stress’ interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Whilst all leaders are exposed to pressure in the modern era, not all react in the same way. Some deal with pressure very well and experience lower levels of stress than others. In our language they are equipped with better resilience skills.
Personal Resilience Resilience means: l
Thinking clearly under pressure;
l
Knowing what to focus on when under pressure;
l
Keeping our response in proportion to the level of threat.
Resilience also means being smart about how we recover from stressful periods and ensuring that recovery is built into our routine in a sustainable way.
Developing Personal Resilience Our approach to training senior leaders and the next generation hinges on the following critical point: Most people are not born resilient; they learn the skills over time. Professionals who react well under pressure, such as Special Forces personnel and A&E medical specialists, were not born with these skills. They have acquired them through many hours of practice, learning what to focus on and how to react. When individuals such as these encounter adversity, they think, “It will go away quickly; it’s just this one situation, and I can do something about it.” They learn to analyse their beliefs and emotions about failure, and to avoid describing failure as permanent, pervasive and out of their control — interpretations that undermine mental resilience. Therefore these skills can be taught and the good news is that small sustained changes in our thinking and behaviour can lead to significant benefits. We teach people how to develop mental resilience using the latest in cognitive behavioural science by focusing on these four areas: l
Thinking;
l
Perception;
l
Attitude;
l
Behaviour. continued page 16
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 15
Our training programmes involve small groups of employees or managers (1015). The interactive sessions are run over a day with follow up one to one coaching sessions to support the learning.
Developing Resilient Leaders Once participants have successfully completed their personal resilience programme they can move onto the next stages of resilience training which cover: l
Leading for resilience;
l
Technology, wellbeing and performance;
l
Resilience for high performing teams;
l
Sustaining resilience.
Low resilience. Spot the signs:
The following can all make us less resilient:
l
Loss of mental clarity
l
Excessive weight
l
More prone to distractions and mistakes
l
Raised blood pressure
l
Insulin resistance and diabetes
l
Sleep deprivation
l
Regular timezone changes
l
Social isolation
l
Desk-bound lifestyles
l
Constant stress and anxiety
l
Stimulant and alcohol abuse
l
Being edgy and irritable
l
Not able to relax and sleep
l
Feeling tired as an operational norm
l
Struggling to motivate yourself and others
l
Feeling the ‘drain from blame syndrome’
Benefits of Resilience Training Our coaching programmes have been scientifically proven to cause: l
20% increase in employee engagement;
l
15% reduction in risk of stress-related ill-health;
l
Significantly improved levels of physical wellbeing, sleep quality and need for recovery;
l
Significantly reduced levels of chronic fatigue and cognitive failures (thinking and planning mistakes).
LPP is a leading consultancy specialising in optimising health and enhancing the performance of teams and organisations. Our chartered psychologists are experts in their chosen fields who run global training programmes proven to promote resilience and effective leadership across all sectors of business. Our scientifically backed work delivers measurable benefits across a range of health and performance domains. In 2015 LPP are planning to offer Resilience Training Programmes in Doha as the first stage towards permanently establishing their base for the Gulf region in Qatar. Dr Philip Hopley is a founder and Managing Director of LPP. After
Building resilience: the benefits l
Increased ability to sustain performance during periods of high demand.
l
Improved mindset for dealing with periods of uncertainty
l
Improved physical and psychological wellbeing
l
Improved mental fitness and resilience
l
Reduced likelihood of suffering from anxiety and depression
l
Better task focus
l
Enhanced immune system
l
Problem-solving focus and ability to think clearly under pressure
l
Better sleep
l
Lower risk of heart attack
l
Improved performance
qualifying in medicine with distinction from St Thomas’s Hospital, London, he specialised in psychological medicine and became a Consultant Psychiatrist. Philip’s interest in performance psychology developed from his time as a professional rugby player at London Wasps. In 2012 he was honoured to be the lead Consultant Psychiatrist at London’s Olympic Games.
Plus
CONTACT For further information please contact: Dr Philip Hopley Email: philip.hopley@lpp.org.uk Tel: +44 203 219 3080 Fax: +44 203 219 3088 www.lppconsulting.org
Is your organisation protected from Is your organisation unseen threats? protected from Is your organisation unseen threats? protected from CRI Group provides the unseen expertisethreats? needed to CRI Group provides counter serious risksthe expertise needed to to your business. counter serious risksthe CRI Group provides to your business. expertise needed to counter serious risks to your business.
Our Third-Party Risk Management (3PRM™) strategy and other due diligence services will expose and minimise the threats that have the potential to cause havoc for your organisation. Our Third-Party Risk Management (3PRM™) strategy and other due diligence services will expose and minimise the We specialise in: threats that have the potential to cause havoc for your organisation.
Our Third-Party Management•(3PRM™) and other due•diligence services willsupport expose • specialise Due diligence services Employeestrategy background Legal and litigation We in: Risk and minimise the threats that have the potential screeningto cause havoc for your organisation. • Fraud and white-collar crime • Anti-money laundering • Due diligence services • Employee background • Legal and litigation support investigations • Business risk and controls ... and more screening We specialise in: • Fraud and white-collar crime • Anti-money laundering compliance • and ...litigation and moresupport • investigations Due diligence services • Business Employeerisk background • controls Legal and compliance Local Knowledge. International Scope. screening • Fraud and white-collar crime • Anti-money laundering CRI investigations Group was named Leading Advisor of the Year, Anti-Fraud Advisor of the Year and...Due Firm • Business risk and controls andDiligence more Local Knowledge. International Scope. of the Year for the United Arab Emiratescompliance (UAE) in 2013 by Acquisition International. Our global presence CRI Group was named Leading Advisor of the Year, Anti-Fraud Advisor of the Year and Due Diligence Firm includes offices in London, Dubai, Qatar, Pakistan, New York, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. of the Year for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2013 by Acquisition International. Our global presence Local Knowledge. International Scope. includes offices in London, Dubai, Qatar, Pakistan, New York, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. CRI Group was named Leading Advisor of the Year, Anti-Fraud Advisor of the Year and Due Diligence Firm of the Year for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2013 by Acquisition International. Our global presence includes in London, Dubai, Qatar, Pakistan, New York, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. COnTaCT CRIoffices GROuP TOday Our experts are here to assist you with all of your anti-fraud and due diligence needs.
COnTaCT CRI GROuP TOday
web: CRIGROuP.COM eMaIL: zanjuM@CRIGROuP.COM PhOne: +44 20 7712 +44 20 3478 2449 Our experts are here to assist you with all of your anti-fraud and1626 dueOR diligence needs.
COnTaCT CRI GROuP TOday
web: CRIGROuP.COM eMaIL: zanjuM@CRIGROuP.COM PhOne: +44 20 7712 1626 OR +44 20 3478 2449
Our experts are here to assist you with all of your anti-fraud and due diligence needs.
Arab Economic Focus ad.indd 1
CRIGROuP.COM Arabweb: Economic Focus ad.indd 1
eMaIL: zanjuM@CRIGROuP.COM PhOne: +44 20 7712 1626 OR +44 20 3478 2449
1/7/15 11:45 PM 1/7/15 11:45 PM
Limited places available on... MSc Project Management MA Leadership & Management MSc Healthcare Management MA Data Centre Leadership & Management ...and many more. Continue your journey at www.anglia.ac.uk/abcc
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
19
ADVERTORIAL
HOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE WITH AN ONLINE POSTGRADUATE DEGREE Many employers require you to have at least an undergraduate degree before they offer you a job, however to move up the ladder you often need more to demonstrate your potential. With a postgraduate degree, many employees will find they can set themselves apart from the competition and take their careers to the next level. Whether it is an MBA, MA, MSc, Certificate or Diploma, there are many options out there for the aspiring professional to gain the qualification they need. However, how do you study for one of these courses whilst maintaining your career? The answer is distance learning. With an online course, you can continue your career AND study for your postgraduate degree at the same time. Anglia Ruskin University provide over 30 postgraduate qualifications that can be studied anywhere via online distance learning. Some of the courses on offer include…
MSc Project Management This course is designed for people from a number of different career backgrounds who want to develop or progress their career in project management or project-based environment. Successful project management requires good managerial and organisational skills, therefore this course is built upon a strong foundation of management knowledge and skills, supplemented with specialist project management modules. You will develop a thorough understanding of the knowledge, principles and techniques involved in the practice of project management in a stimulating and challenging learning environment. What’s more, this course is accredited by the Association of Project Managers.
MA Leadership and Management If you are keen and ambitious to lead and organise in the workplace, our MA in Leadership and Management is your ideal launch pad. The dynamic course will significantly enhance your existing abilities and help you to develop key leadership and management expertise within a professional, work-related context. We’ll equip you with the skills and confidence to make decisions and devise strategies as we build on your existing work experience. Importantly, the course allows you to relate your learning to fresh workplace situations, giving you the opportunity to propel your career prospects.
MSc Healthcare Management This course is aimed at supporting health and social care practitioners who wish to develop managerial and leadership roles within the health or social care sector. In addition, it covers the international factors which shape and influence management and leadership within both of these sectors. The course will enable overseas students from large emerging markets such as China, India and Africa to share existing knowledge as well as acquire the new knowledge and skills needed to manage and lead in a changing marketplace.
MA Data Centre Leadership and Management Become part of the elite group of data centre professionals across the globe with our Masters Degree (MA) in Data Centre Leadership and Management. Data centres are complex facilities that are expected to deliver financial
results and faultless service in a context of rapidly changing technologies, business pressures and environmental expectations. In order to achieve this, data centres need highly capable leaders and managers – individuals who are capable of dealing with business complexity and technological change with the knowledge and skills to ensure their teams deliver against consistently challenging objectives. Our MA Data Centre Leadership and Management brings together the expertise of CNet Training and Anglia Ruskin University to create a unique programme to advance data centre professionals worldwide.
What our students say… “Distance learning is really great when you are working full time. I think the support has been excellent. It’s reassuring to know help is only an email away.” – Tracey Collins
Graduate in the UK Upon successful completion of your studies you will be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at our home in Cambridge, Chelmsford or Peterborough in the UK. It is a great way to round off your studies in style, and gives you a chance to explore our beautiful campuses and the cities they are based in.
CONTACT Take your career to the next level. Explore our postgraduate degrees at www.anglia.ac.uk/abcc or call (+44) 0845 196 6707 and speak to a specialist adviser.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
WHY GOOD TRANSLATION IS IMPORTANT FOR ACHIEVING EXPORT SUCCESS By Manal Nakli MBE, a Member of the Institute of Translation & Interpreting (MITI) and Chartered Institute of Linguists (MCIL).
In an increasingly export-driven world it is important that companies should think about using good translation to convey their messages and propositions to their target audience overseas. I’ve spent many years promoting UK plc in Arabic across a wide range of subjects: political, trade and investment, legal, cultural, defence, humanitarian aid, PR & marketing to every part of the Arab world. In the past twenty years I’ve seen commercial and economic and ties between Britain and the Arab world increase immeasurably. The UK and the region have a shared political and economic history and although it can never be taken for granted, British products and expertise often have a reputation for quality and excellence which can give them a competitive edge. And whilst in the Arab world, as elsewhere, there is no substitute for face-to-face networking and personal contacts, it shows respect for the customer and professionalism to promote your business, correspond with the customer and be able to hand over key documents in written Arabic. Here are some considerations when doing business in the Arab world with particular reference to translation.
Choosing a translator Because a native Arab speaker speaks competent English, that does not mean he/she is a translator. Always choose an experienced translator with
a professional qualification and good references. Ask to see examples of their work and if possible have it checked by a third party. The Institute of Translation and Interpreting (ITI) and the Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) are both good starting points for identifying accredited professional translators & interpreters.
afterthought in a project, leaving the translator faced with unrealistically tight deadlines. And they will frequently have a list of questions to discuss or clarify with the client before a job is finalised and signed off. In the case of printed publications the final version requires careful proof-reading to eliminate mistakes and typos. This all takes time.
Time factor
Cultural sensitivities
Ensure to allow sufficient time for the translator to do a professional job. Sometimes a translation is not factored into the production process of a document, letter or publication. The translation will emerge as an
It pays to be aware of cultural sensitivities. The Arab audience is generally quite conservative in its values and outlook, and text and images which might appear innocuous to us can be misinterpreted or cause offence in the
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
21
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
Technical translation
Middle East. There are also differences from one Arab country to another as to what is acceptable. It is important to seek professional advice and if possible run the language and messaging past local contacts before proceeding.
This can be a specialised field, although given sufficient time to undertake research and with the aid of a technical dictionary, most good translators can tackle a technical translation. It is helpful to assign a qualified staff member to work with the translator on any queries that may arise.
Regional variations I’m occasionally asked to translate a piece into ‘Egyptian’ or ‘Saudi’ Arabic. There is no such thing, and standard or classical Arabic is read and understood across the Arab world. There are colloquialisms which are peculiar to certain countries but these are generally spoken not written. It is of course acceptable to vary linguistic style and use a less formal tone when translating, say, PR or advertising copy.
Clarity of expression
UK Trade & Investment UK Trade & Investment (www.ukti.gov.uk) gives valuable support and advice to British businesses on a range of export and sectoral issues both via its London HQ and from embassies overseas. They are a useful starting point for a company thinking of exporting to the Middle East. Edward Hobart HM Consul General in Dubai
In the commercial world I often come across phrases, sentences or even whole paragraphs which make little sense in English, let alone Arabic. Jargon or ‘corporate speak’ is the bane of a translator’s life. When I seek clarification from the client for an impenetrable piece of text, the responses have varied from: ‘I’m not sure myself, just translate it as it is’, to, ‘This was written by a management consultant and is typical of the nonsense they speak’. Not much help to a translator.
Digital and social media
I once translated some marketing material for a brand of processed cheese named ‘Eureka’ in the West. The European HQ had unaccountably (possibly using Google Translate) decided to call the brand ‘I Found It’, the literal ancient Greek meaning in Arabic, and even registered this translation as a brand. The notion of Middle East housewives requesting a pack of ‘I Found It’ cheese was bizarre. Fortunately I eventually managed to persuade the company to transliterate the word ‘Eureka’ into Arabic. It has a similar resonance for an Arab audience as it does for an English one.
It may be necessary to consider having at least part of your website translated into Arabic. Or, better still, create a standalone Arabic website. The translator will need to work closely with your digital agency to ensure page layouts and navigation are properly displayed. Reversing the page inevitably throws up lots of technical issues. For some sectors such as fashion, leisure, food and drink, etc., social media can be an important means of gaining local exposure. Mobile devices have huge penetration in the Middle East and the Arab audience is generally highly IT literate.
Presentations
Legal contracts
When making a pitch or presentation to a client, although the likelihood is that they will understand English and be happy to receive a presentation in English, it will enhance your credibility to have PowerPoint slides, handouts
When faced with a legal contract in Arabic, always produce an English version for signature by both parties to ensure consistency and accuracy. And try to ensure both sets of lawyers are (reasonably) content.
or supporting documents translated into Arabic beforehand. This not only shows professionalism and respect for the customer, but also ensures that key messages are captured in the client’s language for further consideration and/ or wider circulation to decision makers not present. Similarly as a matter of courtesy important letters to customers should be translated into Arabic.
Edward Hobart, HM Consul General in Dubai, who leads the UK’s commercial effort in the UAE, emphasises the importance of UK companies maximising their chances of success by deploying good Arabic translation: “In a competitive marketplace, UK companies can help to differentiate their offer with the considered use of professionally translated product and marketing material.” I hope this gives some insight into how to approach the translation cycle and win the trust and business of existing and prospective customers.
The author is an Arabic translator and interpreter based in London. She was born in Damascus but grew up in Kuwait and has a degree in English Language and Literature from Kuwait University. In 1991 she joined the British Embassy, Kuwait as Press and Public Affairs Officer. She is a Member of the Institute of Translation & Interpreting (MITI) and Chartered Institute of Linguists (MCIL). In 2014 she was awarded the MBE by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office for ‘Promoting British-Arab Understanding’. manal@ebla.co.uk
ADVERTORIAL
TALKING THE LANGUAGE OF BUSINESS Languages and Intercultural Studies (LINCS) at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh has an outstanding international reputation built on our specialism of research and training in interpreting and translating. For over 40 years, we have been producing graduates with international communication skills of the highest quality. Our graduates come from all corners of the globe and work in international organisations, government ministries, education, journalism and international businesses in the UK, the Middle East and beyond. LINCS is one of only four UK universities that belong to CIUTI (Conférence Internationale d’Instituts Universitaires de Traducteurs et Interprètes), the prestigious international body which confers a quality seal on our specialist interpreting and translating degree programmes.
Teaching With a focus on translating and interpreting, our degree programmes develop professional language and communication skills designed to meet the needs of aspiring professional interpreters, translators and communicators and their prospective employers. Our postgraduate taught programmes offer training in key interpreting skills (consecutive, simultaneous, and liaison interpreting); key translation techniques such as localising content, subtitling and technical writing; and key business communications approaches, for example, negotiating across cultures and writing for international audiences. Students also explore how to deal effectively with intercultural issues inherent in multilingual environments. LINCS provides a rich learning environment – intellectual, cultural, social, technological and physical – where students are inspired and fully
engaged, supported and encouraged to take advantage of diverse curricular and cocurricular opportunities. With state-of-the-art digital interpreting and language laboratories, self-study facilities and dedicated media resources LINCS staff work collaboratively to support students in developing strong intellectual foundations and the transferable skills needed for professional success. Our portfolio of languages includes Arabic, British Sign Language (BSL), Chinese, English, French, German, and Spanish. Find out more at www.postgraduate. hw.ac.uk/sml/languages/
Research Research in LINCS focuses upon acts of meaning-making and intercultural interpretation across spoken, signed, written and audio-visual media, and their social implications and impact.
of the impact that LINCS research has on the economy, society and culture was given a score of 90% and classed as ‘outstanding’ – placing us 2nd in the UK for languages.
Services for Business We also offer bespoke programmes to provide businesses with the opportunity to enhance the intercultural and/or language skills of their staff and to acquire the tools to work effectively across cultures and languages, both abroad and here in the UK. Programmes include: l
How to work with an interpreter in your meeting or conference
l
Working across cultures
l
Business in the international context
l
Business language skills
LINCS is home to two research centres: l
l
Centre for Translation and Interpreting Studies in Scotland (CTISS) is an internationally recognised centre with leading expertise in translation, interpreting and applied linguistics research. (http://ctiss.hw.ac.uk) Intercultural Research Centre (IRC) undertakes research to address key intercultural issues arising from the changing global context in the twentyfirst century. (http://irc.hw.ac.uk)
In the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 – an audit of research performance across the UK’s 154 universities - the ‘reach and significance’
Find out more at www.sml.hw.ac.uk/ languages/business
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
arabmag2.pdf
1
13/01/2015
11:31
It’s a well-known fact that relationships are vital to doing business in the Middle East. Being culturally aware and understanding some Arabic speeds up the relationship-building process and thus positively impacts the bottom line. Dialogue offers language solutions to help ease the transition into the Arabic-speaking world.
C
Cross-cultural Coaching An immediate, productive impact by focusing on the practical aspects of living and working in the Middle East.
M
Y
CM
Language Training A building-block approach to learning Arabic that encourages you to speak and use it from day one. Maybe even offer English training to your clients!
MY
CY
CMY
K
HOOKED YET? Contact www.dialogueuk.com
+44 1793 513 321 info@dialogueuk.com
MUCH MORE THAN TALK..
Profit from knowledge We’ve been at the forefront of business education since 1966. Our MBA and Masters programmes are consistently ranked among the best: with a decade of triple accreditation and our research excellence (1st in Scotland, top 10 UK: REF 2014), perhaps that’s no surprise. Whether you study in Scotland or in one of our four centres in UAE, Bahrain and Oman, you can be assured of a quality education from one of the best business schools in the world. Excellence is our bottom line.
www.strath.ac.uk/business
Translating, Interpreting & Localisation Communicate your message accurately and in the style that suits your intended audiences. Consultancy Support Build an effective corporate language policy to enhance your reputation and maximise your business opportunities.
Dialogue is offering 15% discount on all business placed before June 2015 using code DA101
23
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
STAR GROUP – YOUR PARTNER FOR GLOBAL COMMUNICATION Local knowledge where you need it
When trading internationally, it always helps to have some local knowledge. As the one of the few global translation service providers with an office in the Middle East, STAR is ideally placed to help you with all your language requirements. Our long-established office in Cairo is staffed by native language professionals who are experienced in dealing with business texts of all sorts. The value of nativespeaking translators working in the region where a translated text will be used is well-known. Native speakers have a better “feel” for the right word or phrase in the context, and when living and working in-country, will have a superior grasp of current usage and cultural norms. STAR’s mission is to provide a local presence wherever you need it. We can liaise directly with your representatives in-country while you maintain contact with our UK PM team, or we can act as your linguistic and cultural consultants to advise on transcreation and translation issues. You can be sure that your message is accurately conveyed to your target audience while respecting cultural differences. Flexible, customised solutions and long-term partnerships STAR’s goal is to develop an individual solution for every customer, regardless of size. Over the last 30 years, it has become clear to us that no two customer requirements are the same – some need their work at low cost, some prioritise creativity and quality, and often speed of turnaround is paramount. Or maybe even a combination of all three! From our very first discussions with you, our experienced project managers will take the time to find out what is
important to you and then we will devise a realistic solution that will work. We are experts in what we do and we can advise on the most efficient, effective way to take your message to the world. We don’t make promises we can’t keep and we are committed to always working in the best interests of our clients. In this way we hope to create long-term partnerships which will be of benefit to all parties.
l
Year end reports
l
Terms and conditions
CONTACT STAR UK Ltd
l
Contracts
33 Chertsey Road, Woking, Surrey, GU21 5AJ
l
Tenders
00 44 (0)1483 215060
l
Export documents
l
Technical manuals
l
Training material
l
Websites
l
Marketing collateral
info.uk@star-group.net www.star-uk.co.uk
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
TOP MODERN UNIVERSITY IN LONDON* A modern university but with a distinctive collegiate history, The University of Roehampton has been providing education through its colleges for more than 170 years. We are known for our rich educational history, traditional campus experience, high-quality teaching and world-class research and a strong focus on student support. At Roehampton, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities, we are committed to driving the integrity and potential of individuals, and we have a passion for the highest standards of education. University of Roehampton is internationally recognised for its research, our vibrant research culture attracts students from all over the world and boasts one of the most diverse student communities of any university in the UK with over 140 nationalities represented.
Student: Ebanan Aldarweesh – Saudi Arabia, MA Special and Inclusive Education
We also pride ourselves with over 92% of our graduates are in employment or further studies within six months of graduation, this is one of the best rates in London “Studying in London has allowed me to develop not only my academic, but also my personal and social skills. Roehampton is special. It has a peaceful atmosphere and the staffs are supportive. As a Muslim, I appreciate the respect of our religion and the way a prayer room is provided. I have made a lot of exceptional friends from different cultures. With them my experience has been amazing” Contact us now (quoting ABCC001) to find out more, email international@roehampton.ac.uk or call +44 (0)20 8392 3232. To apply direct please visit our website www.journeytoroehampton.co.uk or www.roehampton.ac.uk *The Sunday Times Good University rankings 2015
Study Translation and Interpreting at London Metropolitan University We are members of CIUTI (Conférence Internationale Permanente D’Instituts Universitaires de Traducteurs et Interprètes) and AICC (Association International des Interprètes de Conference) and work in close collaboration with professional associations such as the Chartered Institute of Linguists and the Institute of Translation and Interpreting. For our compulsory work placement and internship we collaborate closely with the translation and interpreting industry as well as the institutions of the European Union and the United Nations. Our courses are taught by academics as well as professional translators and interpreters in a welcoming and professional atmosphere and include:
BA Translation MA Translation MA Interpreting MA Conference Interpreting Professional development and Teacher training We also provide professional development and consultancy services to individuals and organisations both in the UK and Overseas
Find out more at www.londonmet.ac.uk/interpretingandtranslation Admissions +44(0) 20 7133 4200
25
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
IT NETWORK SECURITY FOR BUSINESSES IN THE MIDDLE EAST By Haritha Ramachandran, Industry Manager, Information and Communications Technologies Practice, Middle East and North Africa, Frost & Sullivan
Across all geographies, protecting IT infrastructure and reducing the risk of data breaches from targeted attacks, and assisting in compliance with regulations, is the top most priority. An increasingly complex and voluminous threat environment, coupled with a lack of inhouse expertise, exacerbates the need of a resilient security service provider in the Middle East. Enterprises continue to constitute the main segment of Managed Security Services (MSS) in the region. Frost & Sullivan believes that, in terms of market value, the enterprise segment will continue being dominant. Web application protection, web server protection, cloud security, mobility and encryption are likely to be the top services on demand from enterprises. Among the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), unified communication and collaboration as a service is likely to experience high momentum, creating demand for security as a service during the next three years.
to complement signature-based scanners. l
l
l
The following are the key trends shaping the network security market in the Middle East: l
Signature-based Detection: Increased and focussed malware attacks are predicted to be the key carters. Recent targeted attacks clearly show that such threats will never be detected by signaturebased tools before they are identified and their signatures are added to the signature database. Hence, more research should be devoted to heuristic anomaly detection tools
Cyber-attacks and its Awareness: With growing security concerns and an increasing number of cyberattacks in the US and Europe, investments in network security solutions will remain strong as network security is considered the most fundamental piece in information security, especially for the firewall and IPS/IDS segment. Security as a Service: A growing adoption level of security services such as managed security or securityas-a service in Middle East is likely to increase the demand for network security solutions. Service providers are expected to have strategic partnerships with OEMs in India to tap the mid-sized markets offering the pay per use security service model Mobility: “Access anytime, anywhere, any device – on demand”, namely Mobility shall be one of the key trends shaping the security market. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) and mobile technologies are gaining high traction in the market, driving new technology segments such as mobile-device management, containerisation tools and mobile data protection.
From the customer point of view, these are the key areas: l
Market Receptiveness: Ability to respond, change direction, and be flexible, as market dynamics change.
l
User Experience: The way customers receive Service Level Agreements
(SLAs), technical, and account support, etc. l
Market Knowledge: Understand buyer’s wants and needs, and translate them into services.
l
Pricing: Ability to bundle solutions and price differently.
l
Vertical Understanding: Resources, skills, and offerings to meet the specific needs of the market.
l
Security Expertise: Core competency, broad service portfolio, and proven track record.
Managed security services Managed Security Services (MSS) is witnessing the fastest growth among all the managed services in the Middle East. The MSS market is predominantly based on Customer Premises Equipment (CPE). In the region’s IT market, cloud computing and virtualisation are the current buzz words. The Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) focus is on offering customer support for providers of cloud services, who offer various service delivery models such as Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), or Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Cyber-espionage and internal threats are becoming noticeable trends in the enterprise landscape. The demand for forensic and risk assessment services is also steadily on the rise. Few vendors who are able to leverage on their expertise in network security experience high revenue growth. Regulatory compliance has been a major factor in accelerating the adoption of
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Application layer (Layer 7) attacks are gaining prominence due to their higher levels of sophistication. These attacks target specific vulnerabilities in datacentre servers and require lower amounts of traffic compared to normal flood attacks, making them undetectable to solutions that monitor based on network traffic levels.
MSS among the retail and consumer segments. Organisations in the media and entertainment, and business services—in particular legal and consulting services segments have adopted MSS to protect their IP, and, in many instances, the IP of their customers. MSSPs recognise that it is fundamental to have in-depth knowledge on the applicable regulations in a vertical. This specifies that an IT infrastructure may have in that vertical, and the role this infrastructure plays within a business context. However, a majority of MSSPs expressed that the core of their MSS offering does not change considerably from one vertical to another. MSSPs typically exhibit stronger performance in two or three selected verticals. The financial services tend to rank high in the MSSPs’ revenue split by vertical.
Advanced persistent threat solutions market Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a term that generally means a coordinated and targeted attack or vulnerability that uses sophisticated intelligence to inflict the targeted objects. APT includes threats that are unable to be detected by a conventional signature- and/or reputation based malware detection tools. An APT essentially consists of an advanced malware typically built on zero-day vulnerabilities and some form of botnets. The targeted nature of an APT attack often means that it will involve some form of social engineering methods before the attacker establishes a target or puts a foothold in the network. Methods used by hackers typically involve spear-phishing for entry. The actual adoption of APT solutions remains low and this is primarily due to the low levels of awareness toward APTs across most verticals, with the exception of the government, BFSI, or service providers. Moreover, the lack of a clear market definition of an APT solution is also causing confusion and wariness among organisations, resulting in a low mindshare towards the technology among them. Vendors such as Trend Micro, Sourcefire, Palo Alto, and Lastline also made certain contributions to the APT solutions market, which, however are still modest at the moment. As government agencies become the primary targets of these attacks;
27
especially many of the APT attacks are very political in nature, this forces the governments across the region to rank measures that protect themselves from these targeted attacks as the highest priority. BFSI is the second-largest contributor to the market. With growing risks of being attacked by the increasingly financially motivated threats, financial institutions and insurance organizations need to invest in advanced solutions to prevent and to protect themselves from being attacked.
Denial of service (DDoS) protection market Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) protection solutions are appliances that not only detect, but also mitigate a broad spectrum of DDoS attacks with high accuracy, to ensure business continuity. These solutions use a combination of attack detection, behaviour-based traffic classification, and response tools to forward legitimate traffic after filtering and scrubbing. This is done to maintain Web functionality and prevent overutilisation of bandwidth following a DDoS attack. Increasing publicised attacks on governments and high-profile organisations such as Google, eBay, and Amazon have brought the seriousness of the threat into light, and enterprises and service providers are seeking comprehensive solutions to combat it. Enterprises are looking to avoid clean-up costs following a DDoS attack as well as the loss in reputation and revenue due to disruption of services. Pro-active attack detection and mitigation solutions are required.
The Banking and Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) vertical has also seen a fair share of DDoS attacks seeking to disrupt consumer banking and transactions over the Internet. Governments in almost all countries in Europe and APAC have faced the need to employ DDoS protection solutions due to the number of targeted attacks by cyber criminals or hacktivist groups. Arbor Networks, Radware, NSFOCUS, Fortinet, Check Point, Juniper, F5, and Array Networks are few of top Global players in the DDoS protection market.
Conclusion Vendors must educate customers about the value-add of next-generation firewalls. For businesses that are cautious about investment and have a perception that new technologies are associated with costly and complex deployments, security vendors must provide marketing materials to dismiss these misconceptions Vendors must move towards advanced security analytics and information to improve upon their security solutions, know which areas of the network needs protection, and be able to know what is happening in the environment. Convergence of network security technology is likely to drive the demand for next generation fire walls. Security vendors are expected to focus on next generation fire walls and unified threat management devices that will feature added functionalities in one device.
CONTACT For more information contact Paroma Bhattacharya at paromab@frost.com
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
THE EMERGING THREAT OF TRADE-BASED MONEY LAUNDERING IN TRADE FINANCE By Henry Balani, Head of Innovation, Accuity
Money laundering is a global phenomenon, evident in many parts of the world. Techniques have ranged from simple bulk cash movements across borders to more sophisticated techniques hidden in trade transactions. As trade between the Middle East and the rest of the world continues to grow, the threat of trade based money laundering becomes more real. Many countries in the Middle East depend on trade to grow their economies. This growth is dependent on an open, transparent and predictable process that importers and exporters can rely on to buy and sell goods to meet customer demand. According to the World Bank¹, the United Arab Emirates’ percentage of merchandise trade as a share of GDP rose from 136% in 2010 to 157% in 2013. Dubai in particular has seen the growth of gold trade from $6 billion in 2003 to $75 billion, accounting for 40% of global trade². This demonstrates the increasing reliance on trade as an engine of growth. Money laundering has the potential to disrupt this growth. As criminals become more sophisticated in their methods of moving illicit money, they see trade as an opportunity. The principal method by which criminals launder money is through value transfer of goods traded. For example, if drug traffickers in Mexico want to launder money, they would consider entering a trade transaction by raising a letter of credit. They could set up a fictitious import company in the United States that would ‘buy’ goods from an exporter in Mexico and pay higher than normal prices. The trade documents would
reviewing the United States Department of Commerce Census Bureau trade data³, there are multiple examples of goods that are over or under-invoiced. For example, cooking stoves exported from the United States to Colombia for $77 per unit when the world average price was $425 per unit.
reflect the value of the goods being shipped. The importer would pay for the inflated goods through a bank to the seller in Mexico. This seller could also be a ‘front’ company based in Mexico. The seller in Mexico would then receive the funds through a local bank. From the bank’s perspective, the transaction would be proper, since relevant documents were used. However the value of the goods was misrepresented, resulting in transfer of money through the trade. In this example, the buyer in the United States would pay $100 per unit for a pen typically valued at $1. The seller in Mexico would mark up the invoice to $100 per pen and ship the goods. Once the seller receives payment from the buyer for $100 per pen, $99 has been transferred from the United States to Mexico due to overvaluation of the goods. There are occurrences of these trades happening globally. When
Why is this significant? Arguments can be made where mis-invoicing goods distorts the true value of goods in an economy causing unpredictable patterns of trade. “Bad” money may be directed to consumption or investment activities that benefit the money launderers, potentially at the expense of the region’s economic development. Banks have a role to play in minimising the impact of trade-based money laundering by reviewing the trades that financed and conducting due diligence checks on customers to determine the legitimacy of those trades. Regulators are increasingly focused on ensuring that banks identify where the goods are being shipped; what transportation is used; and whether the goods are potentially used for dual use purposes. By ensuring banks implement comprehensive Know Your Customer (KYC) checks, bad actors will quickly learn that trade becomes an unattractive avenue for laundering their ill-gotten gains.
1) http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/TG.VAL.TOTL. GD.ZS 2) Arab British Chamber of Commerce Focus magazine: Issue 2 Vol 9, 2014 p. 5 http://issuu.com/distinctivepublishing/docs/ abccef07 3) https://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/
Accuity’s Trade Finance Solutions Effectively mitigate trade-based money laundering risk The most comprehensive coverage of trade related data sets
A configurable workflow solution to help you better manage matches
Switch your processes from paper-based to automated with a centralised audit trail
Providing solutions to banks and businesses worldwide for over 175 years
To find out more go to www.accuity.com/trade-finance or contact Daniel Black at daniel.black@accuity.com or call + 971 (0) 50 6216067
www.accuity.com
Abu Dhabi / Boston / Chicago / Hong Kong / London / New York San Diego / Sao Paulo / Shanghai / Singapore / Sydney
For50 years,we’ve measured success just one way: We only win when our clients win. Investment Banking
Equities
Jefferies is a valued partner for corporate clients globally. Our talented professionals provide a full range of advisory and underwriting services through creative and idea-driven M&A, leveraged finance, equity & equity-linked financing and restructuring & recapitalization solutions. Our industry expertise spans a range of sectors including aerospace & defense, banks, business services, chemicals, construction & building materials, consumer, energy, gaming, general industrials, healthcare, insurance, maritime, media & telecom, metals & mining, real estate, retailing, specialty finance, technology and transportation & logistics. We also have one of the largest and most experienced groups dedicated to serving the private equity community.
Jefferies Equities is focused on providing best-in-class ideas, execution, and service to our clients, with superior sales, trading and research products. With one of the largest, most experienced institutional sales forces, Jefferies has dedicated equity trading desks across the U.S., Europe and Asia. We provide seamless execution and outstanding liquidity with a focus on minimal market impact. We serve a network of more than 2,000 institutional investors around the globe. Our U.S. equity trading business consistently ranks among the Top 10 investment banks in market share and trading quality. • Equity Research • Cash Equities • Electronic Trading Solutions • Convertibles
• Equity Capital Markets
• Equity Derivatives
• Debt Capital Markets
• Prime Services
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Corporate Access
• Restructuring & Recapitalization
INVESTMENT BANKING
|
EQUITIES
|
FIXED INCOME
• Commission Management Services
|
FUTURES
|
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
© 2014 Jefferies LLC. In the United Kingdom, Jefferies International Limited and Jefferies Bache Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
|
JEFFERIES.COM
Jefferies, the global investment banking firm, has served companies and investors for over 50 years. Headquartered in New York, with offices in over 30 cities around the world, the firm provides clients with capital markets and financial advisory services, institutional brokerage and securities research, as well as wealth management. The firm provides research and execution services in equity, fixed income, foreign exchange, futures and commodities markets, and a full range of investment banking services including underwriting, mergers and acquisitions, restructuring and recapitalization, and other advisory services, with all businesses now operating across the Americas, Europe and Asia. Jefferies is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Leucadia National Corporation (NYSE: LUK), a diversified holding company.
Fixed Income
Futures
Wealth Management
Jefferies Fixed Income is comprised of a highly experienced team of sales, trading, capital markets, research and strategy professionals who deliver a complete range of investment banking services. Our knowledge-driven sales and trading professionals provide best-in-class trade execution and 24-hour liquidity in the global markets, with the highest level of service to our clients. Jefferies is a leading market maker in the full spectrum of fixed income products
Jefferies is a global leader specializing in exchange-traded futures and options, commodities, and over-thecounter products. Our dedicated sales and trading professionals partner with producers, consumers and institutional investors to provide liquidity and 24-hour market access. Our open architecture, robust technology and global connectivity allow us to meet clients’ execution, clearing, reporting and risk management requirements.
Jefferies provides tailored wealth management services designed to meet the unique needs of highnetworth individuals, their families and their businesses; private equity and venture funds; and small institutions. Our advisors provide access to all of Jefferies’ institutional execution capabilities and deliver worldclass financial services. Our commitment to providing an open architecture platform affords clients with access to products and services from both within Jefferies and from a variety of other major financial services institutions.
• Base Metals & Ferrous Markets • Precious Metals
• Government Securities
• Foreign Exchange
• Mortgage- and Asset-Backed Securities
• Financial Futures & Options
• Corporate Credit
• Energy
• Portfolio Management
• Emerging Markets
• Softs
• 10b5-1 Selling Plans
• Municipal Securities
• Agriculturals
• Directed Share Programs
• Capital Markets
• Institutional Futures Prime Services
• Insurance Solutions
• Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
• Commodity SWAPs
• Structured Notes
• OTC Prime Brokerage
• Research, Strategy & Economics
• FIX Connectivity Solutions
Clients First–Always
SM
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
THE GROWTH OF INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION Alec Emmerson, Consultant and independent arbitrator at Clyde & Co in Dubai, answers questions about his experiences of international arbitration over the last thirty years.
Alec, let’s start by talking about your legal career, and how you became involved in international arbitration. I joined Clyde & Co almost 37 years ago, and before that I was an insolvency lawyer for 5 years for another firm in the City. When I joined Clyde’s, we were only doing shipping, international trade and insurance related work, and the main forms of arbitration we did were London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA) and the Society of Maritime Arbitrators in New York (SMA).
Was arbitration a relatively novel form of dispute resolution at that time? Yes, there really wasn’t that much other arbitration in the ‘70s. I did my first International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) arbitration after I moved to Hong Kong in late 1983 to run the firm’s office there. My first appointment as an arbitrator was also in Hong Kong – it was an interesting one because there were four parties, each of a different nationality and based in a different part of the world. It involved a chain of contracts.
And were you appointed as sole arbitrator? Yes, so my very first experience as sole arbitrator was in an arbitration consolidated by agreement. Consolidation is now relatively
commonplace in certain jurisdictions, but it was quite innovative at the time. It was complex, and I had to work out how to run it and make an award which survived appeal but, thankfully, when it went to appeal the judgment upheld the award. It did take me a while to write the award because it was really challenging – I wanted to make it bomb proof and I’m glad it was! Since then, I’ve been involved in hundreds of arbitrations as party counsel. A number of years ago, I decided to sit more as an arbitrator and was planning to retire from Clyde & Co, but we reached an agreement that I would split my time across both roles.
So you’ve seen a lot of changes in terms of how arbitration has developed and increased in popularity over the years? There’s certainly been a lot of change. Modern arbitration originated from maritime and commodity trade arbitrations. These industries set up arbitration as a cost effective way of dealing with disputes; the idea being that those involved would be business peers and professionals immersed in the industry. For example, the idea of the LMAA was that it would be relatively cheap, cheerful and flexible; and I think it still is. It provides rules for expediting arbitrations and small cases, and it doesn’t have heavy-handed institutional touches. Then, with the advent of globalisation,
international trade grew exponentially and companies are increasingly involved in business and transactions outside their home jurisdictions, often in places where there’s a lack of confidence in the local courts. Essentially, international arbitration has grown and evolved to fulfil a need to resolve disputes through trusted neutral forums that are sufficiently flexible for the international arena. The size of disputes has also changed. In the early 1980s, ‘big’ arbitration cases were over $1 million. Whereas now, claims and counterclaims for tens and hundreds of millions of dollars, sometimes many billions, are commonplace. So, as the world’s economy has grown and progressed geometrically, the value of disputes has increased similarly. Probably because of the vast sums at stake, the whole approach to arbitration has become more technical, with party counsel now pursuing every possible technical point – both legal and procedural. I think this, in particular, has resulted in the development of arbitration specialists around the world.
That’s in line with the increase in the number of arbitrations that I’ve witnessed, particularly as a preferred method of dispute resolution in contracts between international and local
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
33
Alec Emmerson
commercial parties. But I’ve also noted a misconception that arbitration is a quicker and more cost effective form of resolution than court proceedings. Was this how arbitration was advertised and promoted in the past? Arbitration should never be entered into with the view that it’s going to be cheap or particularly quick. With a few exceptions, in a ‘reasonably quick’ case, it takes approximately a year to get to the hearing, potentially followed by a month of written post hearing briefs/closings, and another couple of months for the written award. Most cases are done within 12 to 18 months from the time the tribunal is constituted, some in less than a year, but that assumes a measure of cooperation between the parties and that nobody’s adopting guerrilla tactics to try and string it out.
What type of tactics have you seen? Increasingly, and I alluded to this earlier, there’s a tendency toward aggressive
debate around technicalities: not letting points go, even if they’re not especially good points. To be fair, it typically stems from disputes involving stakeholders from different countries with unfamiliar legal systems. I think what happens is that the parties, not just party counsel, really want to give the case their best shot and not leave anything out – whether they have inhouse legal teams or not. But, inevitably, it can generate a lot of documents, and complex legal arguments, which both take time and cost money. Investor/state disputes are notorious for dragging on, often because of jurisdictional issues even in disputes that are not massive.
Yes, the reality is that, depending on the size and complexity of the case, arbitral proceedings can take longer, and cost more, than court proceedings. Do you think this puts some commercial parties off having arbitration provisions in commercial contracts?
Occasionally, on big disputes, investor/ state treaty based arbitration seems like an odd route and you do wonder whether other routes might have been more appropriate and perhaps weren’t fully explored. For international commercial disputes (rather than investor/state disputes) arbitration is usually best because it offers better international enforcement options. Some institutions have rules for expedited hearings, or no hearings (deciding cases on the papers), on the basis that both parties opt in but there seems to be a reluctance to use these alternatives even in the smaller cases for which they were designed. I’ve been involved in a number of claims as a sole arbitrator where, despite my efforts to suggest to the parties that the process can be done quickly and on documents only, usually one of them wants the whole process. It’s their right but I think it’s often the parties’ counsel who won’t risk a cheap and dirty approach. I’m actually quite a fan of expedited procedures and I think they could even be used for relatively large disputes, but it’s unlikely to happen because parties won’t agree to it. There’s probably also reluctance from lawyers who may be keen to avoid the blame if an expedited process goes wrong. continued page 34
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 33
A common tactic in the Middle East is for defendants to be recalcitrant and try to delay and frustrate the proceedings as far as possible. In Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) arbitrations, defendants often refuse to contribute or pay any advance on costs to try and frustrate the whole process, and also refuse to have simple cases heard on the papers. The Rules oblige a Tribunal to hold a hearing if either of the parties requests it, which adds to costs and causes delay in the issuance of awards. There are a couple of problems with the DIAC Rules that need to be fixed. For instance, there’s an issue as to whether or not tribunals can award legal costs and unwilling respondents may exploit this tactically, pushing up costs by being difficult – knowing that they’ll never agree in the terms of reference to the tribunal having the power to award costs, other than the actual institution’s costs and the tribunal’s own costs as specifically provided for in the Rules. It’s problematic but fair game because there’s a known issue. However, if you look at ICC Rules and the issue of respondents not paying their share, it’s also a problem there. Ultimately it may depend upon where the seat is as to whether tribunals can make an interim final award on costs awarding the claimant an amount equal to the advance on costs that the respondent failed to pay. It also depends on the tribunal’s view of whether this can or should be done.
What’s your most recent frustration in any given case in relation to costs? I’m a co-arbitrator in an Abu Dhabi Commercial Conciliation & Arbitration
Centre (ADCCAC) case where the request for arbitration was first made in June 2013 and I was only appointed in February 2014, after nomination in October 2013. However, despite me and the other co-arbitrator agreeing the chair very quickly, we still haven’t received the file and have had to work with the parties and chase up the institution to get things moving. We have actually moved the case forward without getting the file from the institution, though we expect that necessary procedural step will occur very soon!
So there’s not much transparency from the centre? Yes that’s right. It’s also true of certain other institutions. Tribunals often don’t really know what’s going on in terms of the deposits until some sort of application is made. Ideally, there should be full transparency, with all communications copied to everyone, so that the tribunal knows what’s happening in terms of the deposits, what disagreements there are and why there’s been a delay. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case and in many cases fiddling around getting the money does cause delay. Courts are a public service so comparatively their fees are not huge, although they are going up. For example, in England and Wales a 3% cap on court fees has been introduced for Commercial Court cases. Essentially the UK Government’s questioning why it should run a nearly free service for high value commercial cases. Looking ahead, litigating commercial disputes is likely to become hugely expensive compared with arbitration. However, it’s also possible that as public courts increase their fees, arbitral institutions will follow suit.
Sticking to the theme of costs, and in terms of how arbitrations could be better managed by party counsel, we recently discussed an arbitration case where you encountered certain costs
concerns. Tell me more about that. Actually, it wasn’t just one case. I think many arbitrations are “over-lawyered” and / or “over-experted” and there are multiple layers of costs that could be reduced if the individuals involved were able and willing to focus on the key issues at hand.
Is this due to a lack of experience by lawyers or is it tactical? I think it varies. You probably experience this as party counsel yourself. There’s real diversity of skill and expertise of counsel, and even between experts. There are also individuals who spend a lot of time and money going down a blind alley. It’s easy to advocate focusing on the key issues but it’s tricky to implement with a client or legal team that needs to demonstrate to management that no stone has been left unturned. I’ve certainly been involved in cases where the tribunal has to deal with lots of side issues, lacking in real relevance to the claim or the defence. But those non-core issues still generate a lot of irrelevant and non-core disclosure, so the volume of data and paper increases significantly.
As a Tribunal, how do you deal with that – do you have any tips? And do you try to point parties in the right direction? You can try but it’s much more difficult than you’d think because you can’t absolutely stop a party: parties have the right to be heard and must have a fair hearing – that applies to the whole process, not just the hearing itself. That said, you can make suggestions. For instance, if you’re looking at a complex set of issues which appear to be a bit all over the place, you can go back to parties and suggest they focus on issues ‘x, y, z’ and question whether they have considered whether issues ‘f, g, h’ actually need to be included in their pleadings. Posing open-ended questions sometimes has an effect but it doesn’t generally tend to solve the problem.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
35
Parties don’t ignore it per se but they’re often reluctant to depart from the arguments they first advanced. A related point is that cases evolve and develop with the personnel running them. At the beginning, a case is often resourced by a couple of associates supervised by a partner but as the arbitration progresses, the team gets bigger – particularly around disclosure, when paralegals become involved. As the hearing approaches, the advocate appears on the scene (whether it’s an English barrister, a US trial lawyer or an advocate from the law firm itself) often a bit too late in the game, which can result in a lack of ownership. The advocate who has been introduced to the case late may well say “of course I didn’t draft these pleadings” and produce an opening that does not correspond with the way the case has been put on paper. It’s very interesting that litigation and arbitration funders usually want to know who the whole team is at the beginning of any case, including who the advocate will be. I completely agree with this and think the advocate, subject to timetables, should be involved from the beginning.
I agree that bringing barristers on board much later down the procedural line is often not the most efficient or effective way of running a case. I think it’s something to do with the money but it’s a false economy to have the case run only by people who are often less experienced than those doing the advocacy. Ideally, the person who will actually be doing the advocacy should look at the strategy and be involved right at the beginning to review the statements of claim or defence. Although doing that incurs some extra costs early on, it potentially saves a huge amount later if it avoids going down unproductive avenues. Arbitrators often lament the lack of involvement of a senior advocate at an earlier stage but we can’t tell people their pleading is wrong, we can only encourage them to try to think about it a bit more. Having said all that, a change in advocate is sometimes unavoidable
and whoever is brought in may have a different view of the case.
than one seat, people would have been quite doubtful.
I guess these challenges and dealing with difficult issues is why people get involved in arbitration as arbitrators.
Now it offers both a civil law seat subject to UAE procedural law and a common law seat subject to DIFC law, including its Arbitration Law which closely follows the UNCITRAL Model Law. Dubai’s success in the business of arbitration replicates the physical and commercial growth of the City and its success as a business hub.
We’ve talked about how arbitration has grown over the last 15 to 20 years and covered some of what the future impact may be. What other key changes and developments do you envisage and what are your predictions? We started off with a handful of international institutions, such as ICC, AAA/ICDR and LCIA, and those are still the institutions whose Rules seem to be very transportable and not linked to a specific seat. But since then, regional institutions have been established – some quite successful, others less so – and those which have done well are in places with a lot of trade and business, geographic accessibility and developed legal infrastructures. I’m thinking of Hong Kong’s HKIAC and Singapore’s SIAC in particular. Also, if anyone had said 20 years ago that Dubai would be a significant place for arbitration, or that it would have more
So, going forward, I think regional centres, and not just the most commonplace ones, but others like KCAB in Korea, for instance, will grow in popularity and become increasingly important. I don’t see there being a big change in the global three but I think the arbitration pie will increase in size for the reasons we discussed at the beginning. However, I think the ingredients for the slices in the pie will be different, with greater regional representation. Of course, we haven’t mentioned China which probably conducts more arbitrations than anywhere else in the world but that’s a discussion for another time. This interview was carried out by Susie Abdel-Nabi, Legal Director at Clyde & Co, and first appeared in Clyde & Co’s specialist arbitration magazine, “Thirdly”, and appears in Economic Focus with the firm’s approval. Clyde & Co is a member of the ABCC
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
THERE NEEDN’T BE A GULF BETWEEN US! The latest economic forecast produced by the Centre for Economics and Business Research in conjunction with the Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales predicts that GDP growth rates in the key Middle Eastern economies will continue to accelerate in the coming years.1 Recent success stories, including Dubai’s successful bid to host the World Expo 2020 mean that many British exporters have the Middle East and North Africa regions firmly in their sights. One of the most common frustrations and hurdles faced by companies doing business in this growth region, though, is the complex web of documentary requirements. In fact, a survey by the British Chambers of Commerce2 has found that one in five companies exporting to the Middle East believes that the regulatory environment poses a significant barrier to its ability to increase sales. Unlike in the UK, it is almost always necessary to have documents notarised if you want to set up a company or branch in the region, send an employee to work in the Middle East or appoint a distributor as your sales agent, for example. However, Saville & Co., one of the largest firms of notaries in the UK, can help you minimise the burden of this perceived bureaucratic hurdle.
Accurate documentation avoids problems later down the line Historically, notaries have always played a crucial role in facilitating international trade. They act as a bridge between different legal systems. Saville & Co. will ensure that your documents, contracts and agreements are properly executed, giving you and your partners confidence in the integrity of the transaction. Having dealt with every country in the region, Saville & Co. is also aware of the specific local law requirements, and all its notarial certificates are drafted accordingly.
Guiding you through the legalisation jungle One of the most challenging aspects of preparing the necessary export documentation is ensuring that the documents themselves will be accepted for use in the foreign country – a process known by various names, including ‘legalisation’, ‘consularisation’ or ‘getting an Apostille’. Each country has its own formalities and rules, and these are subject to regular change. The experienced notaries at Saville & Co. constantly keep abreast of the changing legalisation requirements, leaving your export department free to focus on more profitable tasks.
1 Economic Insight – Middle East: Quarterly Briefing Q3 2014, Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales (2014) 2 Exporting is Good for Britain: Market Barriers, British Chambers of Commerce (2012)
Are you a busy senior executive doing international business in the Middle East or North Africa? Do you have property overseas? Are you relocating abroad for work? Do you need to see a notary at a time and place that suits you?
Saville & Co. provide a complete notarial service including: • Notarising Your Signature • Drafting & Translating • Apostille & Consular Legalisation • Couriering Abroad
Examples of different legalisation requirements Bahrain: Apostille only, within 24 hours Oman: Apostille only, within 24 hours UAE: Stamp of UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office followed by UAE Consulate, within 48 hours Egypt: Stamp of UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office followed by Egyptian Consulate, within 48 hours Algeria: Stamp of UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office followed by Algerian Consulate (together with a copy of the documents), takes 2 weeks
Helping you cut your legal spend by standardising processes Complying with the various legal requirements in different Middle Eastern jurisdictions is seen by many businesses as adding unnecessary extra cost. However, as every successful business manager knows, repeatability is the key to saving money. Saville & Co. can advise you on ways to standardise your documentation processes, thereby allowing you to keep your legal costs to a minimum. By establishing a regular partnership, you will benefit from costsavings that will keep your products and services priced competitively and ensure your profit margins are not eroded. Further info: www.savillenotaries.com
• Certificates in any Language • Same Day Service Available For convenient appointments at your office or home call us on 020 7920 0000 or email gx@savillenotaries.com www.savillenotaries.com
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
37
ADVERTORIAL
COMMITTED TO YOUR SUCCESS National Bank of Egypt (UK) Ltd
We are a wholly owned subsidiary of National Bank of Egypt – Cairo, the largest and oldest bank in Egypt.
With total assets approaching USD55 billion, it is also one of the largest banks in Africa and the Middle East. NBEUK is a British bank with major connections in Egypt and around the world and, with origins dating back to 1898, is also amongst the oldest banks operating in London. If you are looking to do business in Egypt, you’ll need the benefit of an experienced guide. In addition to providing the normal
range of banking services, National Bank of Egypt (UK) Ltd can also help you with: l Business Contacts l Trade Finance l Documentary Credits l Guarantees and Bonds l Foreign Exchange
We invite you to visit our website for more information about our services at www.nbeuk.com or contact us now at: +44 (0)20 7389 1280 to speak to a member of our Business Development Team 11 waterloo place, london sw1y 4au telephone: 020 7389 1200 , fax: 020 7930 8882, swift nbeggb2l, telex: 916625 nbeldn g
l Introduction to Local Capital Markets
Knowledge Seekers UK • High quality customised training • In-house courses • Degree programs • Language courses
Upcoming featured course:
”Everything You need to know Tomorrow delivered Today”
Need more details? Please contact:
www.kseekers.co.uk | +44 (0) 20 8686 3167
nemanyte@kseekers.co.uk | +44 (0)776 2952092
“Understanding Change Management & Organisational Renewal” April, 2015, London, UK Ms. Gintare Nemanyte, KS UK Events manager
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
EXPORT
CONTAINER SHIPPING INDUSTRY LOOKING FOR GROWTH IN 2015 2015 is shaping up to be a make or break year for the container shipping industry. Carriers are dependent on continued growth in the main haul liner trades to revive their fortunes, which despite some revival in 2014 remains below the 10% annual rate of growth in container trades prior to the recession.
Much is clearly riding on continued global recovery, and with revenue per TEU reported to have declined for the third year running and new capacity due to come on stream in 2015 it’s certainly going to be a challenging year. The main carriers have thrown their weight behind global alliances and further investment in a new generation of mega 20,000 plus TEU vessels in a bid to reduce costs and return to profitability. This is hardly a new strategy, after all, cooperation and the establishment of consortia and alliances have been the cornerstone of the industry’s approach for at least the past forty years. The only difference is the scale. It remains to be seen whether this is a sustainable business model for the modern era and if this strategy will avert or precipitate a shake-out in the sector reporting substantial collective losses. From a customer perspective, it is difficult to discern at this point whether this is a short term strategy response to the impacts of the global economic recession and “crisis” besetting the industry, or a longer term vision of the future. In many respects some of the impacts of the “strategy” suggest it is more the former than the latter. If it isn’t then is the long-term value proposition one of continuing delays, port congestion and poor schedule reliability? There are signs shippers are reviewing their sourcing strategies to mitigate lengthening supply chain lead times and unreliable delivery times, an issue of particular concern to high-street
retailers. As a result, some European shippers are reverting to re-shoring and off-shoring of manufacturing or sourcing from nearer locations, such as Eastern Europe and Turkey to reduce the risks associated with unreliable and extended shipment times from Asia. In addition, air cargo which has been in the doldrums for many years due to the global recession is showing signs of resurgence. Many shippers who switched to container shipping to reduce their costs are switching back to air freight in response to steps by the air cargo operators to win back lost business by improving the quality and competitiveness of their services. This suggests that if the new global container alliances are to convince their customers that this is a sustainable business model they will have to demonstrate they are not just a strategy response concerned solely about reducing costs at all costs, but also
about improving the quality of services and providing enhanced value. At the end of the day, the most successful businesses are those that provide a superior value proposition to customers. Even the legendary Michael O’Leary, CEO of Ryanair, notorious for calling his customers “stupid” and for inventing all manner of surcharges-including a proposal to charge for using the toiletfinally woke up to the fact that hacking off the customer was not good business. It’s a salutary reminder that businesses exist to meet a customer need, and while remaining cost effective is essential for all businesses, it is not the end in itself.
Chris Welsh Secretary-General Global Shippers’ Forum
+44 (0)1634 818344
www.kg-logistics.co.uk info@kg-logistics.co.uk
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
EXPORT
AN UNRIVALLED SERVICE Ross Consular Services have been providing expert advice and service to the Travel, Export and Legal Industry for over 40 years and are one of the longest serving Consular agents in London, with many of our staff providing a combined total of over 150 years experience.
We are accredited Agents with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, UK Passport Office, Embassies and Consulates, a Member of the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce and an ABTA Partner. Our speciality is in the difficult task of obtaining both business and tourist visas and UK passports, along with processing export and legal documentation quickly and efficiently. We pride ourselves on providing an excellent service throughout and taking the stress away from our clients.
Adding Value
Whether you are an individual traveller or corporate client, your application documents are rigorously pre-checked by our experts
before our couriers attend the issuing authority on your behalf.
Tracking
When you open an account with us you can track your application using VisaTrack™.
Expertise
Our reputation for reliability and timeliness has ensured close co-operation from the many different Embassies, Consulates, Government Ministries, Chambers of Commerce and Banks involved. The result is an unrivalled service to the world of exports and travel.
Ross Consular Services Limited
Beech Court, 29 Summers Road, Burnham, Bucks SL1 7EP Tel: 01628 666001 Fax: 01628 666511 Email: docs@rossconsular.com
www.rossconsular.com n UK Passport Renewals n 2nd Passport Applications n Childrens UK Passports n Visas n Russian Invitations
n Export Documentation (Certificates of origin, EUR1s, ATR1s) n Notarial Work n Foreign Office
n Collection/Delivery – Same Day – Overnight/International Couriers
n Embassy Legalisation n Translations
n Airport Meets (Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton & Stansted) Others on request
www.rossconsular.com
Established 1973 Registered Agents with IPS and Foreign & Commonwealth Office in London
Consolidated Contractors Company www.ccc.gr
Global reach for Aramex About Aramex
Import Express
Aramex is a leading provider of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions. Established in 1982 as an express operator, the company rapidly evolved into a global brand recognized for its comprehensive delivery solutions and innovative multiproduct offering. Aramex today has a global reach with over 354 locations and strong alliance network providing worldwide presence.
Aramex provides a global solution for importing time-sensitive documents and parcels door-to-door from around the world that will meet your every need. With Import Express, we bring the world closer to your doorstep in smarter ways.
The range of services offered by Aramex includes integrated logistics solutions, international and domestic express delivery, freight forwarding, information management solutions, e-business solutions and consumer retail services.
International Express With International Express, you can ship your time sensitive packages, large or small, door-to-door and to anywhere in the world with complete online tracking. Aramex offers a range of reliable international shipping solutions to meet your needs, allowing you to balance cost and speed.
Domestic Express Domestic Express offers reliable doorto-door solutions for urgent packages to be delivered within your country or city. Aramex picks up and delivers your packages within agreed delivery times and enables you and your customers to track the status of y our packages online through aramex.com
Freight Forwarding Whether it is land, air, or ocean freight, import or export, a small package or oversized cargo, Aramex utilizes its extensive and smart freight network and expertise to fulfil your business needs. Aramex provides you with versatile and comprehensive solutions, covering full door-to-door delivery service, documentation, customs
brokerage and legalization, all coupled with real-time online tracking.
Logistics Solutions With a team of logistics experts and extensive facilities, you can rely on Aramex to manage complex logistics challenges and provide you with costeffective, tailor-made solutions. We cover all stages of your supply chain from the moment your inventory leaves your suppliers or factories until the moment it reaches your retailers or end customers
E-commerce Our e-commerce services and solutions will enable your business to sell products and services online, conveniently and reliably. Aramex will deliver online orders from your website to your customers locally and globally, offering full supply chain solutions from storage of your products to order fulfillment coupled with the latest technologies.
SOLICITORS LLP
We offer a range of legal services, providing advice and experience to our clients in their business and personal affairs. We put every effort into building a rapport with our clients enabling us to build relationships that last for years. Recognised as leading property solicitors in prime central London, we also advise and assist our clients on a comprehensive range of legal matters including: n
high
value commercial and residential property
n
leasehold
enfranchisement
n
corporate
and commercial services
n
commercial
n
cultural
n
matrimonial
n
wills,
n
employment
litigation and dispute resolution
property and art law and family law
trust and other private client services
Streathers Solicitors LLP are members of ALEP (the Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners), a professional association encouraging best practice amongst solicitors working in the area of enfranchisement. ALEP vet solicitor organisations to ensure they have significant expertise in order to maintain a high level of service throughout this area of law.
Streathers Solicitors LLP are also registered and listed with LEASE – the Leasehold Advisory Service.
Streathers Solicitors LLP
44 Baker Street
T: +44 (0)20 7034 4200
London W1U 7AL
www.streathers.co.uk
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
45
ADVERTORIAL
RIGHT TO EXTEND YOUR RESIDENTIAL LEASE A long lease is essentially a ‘wasting asset’. As the years go by the value of the lease diminishes and as a result a leaseholder with a short lease may find it difficult or even impossible to sell their property without a lease extension as most mortgage lenders will not lend to potential purchasers.
By law, a leaseholder has a right to extend their lease by a further 90 years in addition to the existing term with the ground rent reducing to nil (£0). In order to qualify for this right, a leaseholder must satisfy the following two conditions: 1. They must have owned the property for a minimum of 2 years; and 2. The original term of the lease must have been more than 21 years.
Making a claim to exercise your right To exercise the right to extend the lease, a leaseholder must serve a formal notice of claim on the landlord. The premium offered in the notice for the lease extension should be the lowest possible price that the leaseholder is prepared to pay for the extended new lease. This is NOT the final price the leaseholder will pay, it is merely the lowest possible offer for the purposes of opening negotiations with the landlord. The notice must be carefully drafted and the amount offered in the notice must be realistic otherwise the claim for a new lease could be declared invalid which would mean the leaseholder has to wait another 12 months before making another claim. It is therefore imperative to instruct specialist solicitors and valuers who are experts in this area of work.
Following service of the notice, the landlord has the following rights:
months following the date of the counternotice or the claim to extend is lost.
1. access to the property in order to carry out a valuation for the purposes of responding with a counter-notice.
Timing
2. to request a 10% statutory deposit (being 10% of the price offered in the notice). 3. to request the leaseholder to provide evidence of title. 4. Once the notice is served, a leaseholder is responsible for the reasonable legal and valuation costs of the landlord in addition to their own costs. The landlord must then reply to the notice with a counter-notice by the date specified in the notice, which must be at least two months following the date of service of the notice. Upon receipt of a valid counter-notice from the landlord, a period of negotiations will then commence between the landlord’s valuer and the leaseholder’s valuer to agree the price of the new lease. Once the price has been agreed, the detailed terms of the new lease will then be agreed between the solicitors.
The time scale involved for a lease extension from start to finish invariably depends upon the landlord and their willingness to accept a fair and reasonable price. We advise that the process will take a minimum of six months even if the landlord is keen to reach a reasonable agreement.
How we can help If you are considering extending your residential lease or buying or selling a property with a short lease, we are able to help you. We are experts in this field and also members of the Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners (ALEP). For an initial discussion regarding extending your lease and to discuss the options available to you please get in touch with our solicitors using the details below.
Iris-Ann Stapleton
Disputes Although the majority of cases are settled by amicable agreement between the parties, if the price or the terms of the new lease remain in dispute then either the leaseholder or the landlord may apply to a Tribunal between two and six months from the date of the counter-notice. This application must be made no later than six
020 7034 4224 istapleton@ streathers.co.uk
Rebecca Rinn 020 7034 4261 rrinn@streathers.co.uk
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
EMISSION’S UNDER CONTROL AS GLOBAL INDUSTRY LEADERS JOIN FORCES ACWA Group managing director Gary Jackson is delighted with the agreement, saying: “This will bring something that no other odour control company has in the Region: Worldclass proven technology backed by strong onthe-ground project co-ordination to support projects locally with fabrication, customs clearance, transportation, installation, local communication and after sales.”
Azzuro CEO/President Bonno Koers (left) with ACWA Group Managing Director Gary Jackson
The Middle East is fertile ground for the deployment of advanced emission control technologies designed to ensure that key industries can offer improved environmental protection whilst sustaining economic growth. With the region’s fragile environment increasingly under stress due to climate change and population growth, preventing future problems is now at the top of the agenda for politicians, industry and regulators alike.
A Powerful Partnership It’s an in-depth understanding of the Region’s unique challenges that underpins an ambitious new partnership dedicated to resolving some of today’s most pressing environmental challenges through the provision of advanced Biological Emission Control Systems. The new partnership sees leading odour control company Azzuro join forces with ACWA, the well-established provider of air pollution control, water and wastewater solutions with the strategic objective to promote and deliver Biological Emission Control Systems in the Region. This strengthened relationship is a logical next move with Azzuro’s highly innovative and efficient biological technologies for the treatment of odorous air at municipal wastewater plants and industrial sites complementing ACWA’s existing product range. But more than this, from a customer point of view the partnership is a ‘dream ticket’ combining the benefits of Azzuro’s global technology with the security of ACWA’s well established local presence in the Region to support engineering, installation and after sales.
ACWA has built a well founded reputation in the Middle East, with high-profile projects that include designing and delivering the desalination systems for the prestigious Palm Jumeirah development, and providing an advanced submerged membrane bioreactor wastewater treatment plant in Muscat, Oman, one of the largest in the world. The ACWA Group have delivered odour control solutions to both the municipal and industrial wastewater sector and the oil, gas and petrochemical industries across the Region. Likewise, Azzuro has a formidable track record as a global technology leader in odourremoving biological air scrubbers for the municipal and industrial wastewater sectors and the chemical, F&B and petrochemical industries. Company CEO/President Bonno Koers explains: “We first introduced this technology in the early 1990s, and we have been able to continuously improve the technology culminating in today’s refined high performance solution. Interpretation of field data and new developments in our media have lead to unparalleled results in a broad range of applications. We have realised more than 350 systems worldwide. Our latest project in the Middle East is the enhancement works pre-aeration OCU at the Ajman wastewater treatment plant, which is already showing exceptional results.”
media packs and undertake a tedious cleaning process, an inefficient process that wasted thousands of man-hours a year. The utility therefore decided that a more capable process with higher quality media was required. Where previously eight reactors have not been able to treat those loadings, impressively Azzuro only needs six reactors, equipped with its Spacious Wire Pac media, to meet ASPCL’s strict performance requirements. Commissioning to exchange the old, unreliable media, began in March, and as of the end of September, the media in five of the six reactors has been replaced. The 60-day testing process for the first bioreactor has already been undertaken and the results to date are proving to be outstanding. The system will be treating a 30,000 m3/h airflow containing contaminants averaging between 500 to 1,000 ppm, with remarkable efficiency – the system is fully removing up to 1,100 ppm of H2S. The entire system, once fully commissioned, is designed to remove between 800 and 1,200 kg of sulphur per day. The bioreactor also demonstrated a remarkably fast start-up time – usually it takes around two weeks for hydrogen sulphide removal applications to reach peak performance, but soon after startup removal at Ajman was complete and the outlet concentration dropped to zero
Ajman Project The Ajman Sewage (Private) Company Limited (ASPCL) in the UAE has recently adopted Azzuro’s acclaimed odour control technology. The original biological odour control system had been installed to treat extremely high loadings of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), but was unable to process the high concentrations involved. This meant that significant deposits of elemental sulphur developed on the synthetic media, causing it to constantly clog and reducing the system’s performance. The operator had been forced to routinely open each of the eight reactors, remove the
Ajman Project
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Worldwide Success
Reliable and Robust
Like ACWA, Azzuro’s solutions enjoy worldwide success, with credentials that include a Biological Odour Control System for Honolulu’s Sand Island wastewater treatment plant and emission control systems for challenging emission reductions including diesel fumes for Petrobras Oil Company in Brazil, and an odour control facility for Melbourne’s Western wastewater treatment plant in Australia.
Azzuro’s systems offer exceptionally efficient solutions for high concentration emissions, or general odour removal with an H2S removal efficiency of up to 99.9%. Its high-performance bioreactors maintain performance during high fluctuations in concentrations and can deal with peaks up to twice the average without break-through.
In every case, Azzuro has proved able to cope with conditions that have defeated other systems and provide a reliable, effective answer to demanding and widely varying conditions. The level of confidence is such that process performance is guaranteed.
Melbourne Western Treatment Plant
despite substantial fluctuations in the inlet concentration. No other system on the market is able to handle such fluctuations while maintaining performance.
47
The system is exceptionally reliable and robust, even in the harshest of hot and cold climates. It requires little or no maintenance and minimal operator input nor does it consume or need chemicals or media replacement. With proven lifetimes of over 17 years, media guarantees of up to 20 years and an expected lifetime of over 25 years it is far and beyond the market standards currently offered.
Cost Effective Solution Conventional scrubber systems can be retrofitted with Azzuro’s high-performance media. This solution provides immediate and substantial cost savings.
www.azzuro.com
www.acwa.co.uk Email: Azzuro@acwa.ae
The perfect partnership for odour control
+ Now you can enjoy all the benefits of Azzuro’s world-class odour removal technology with the security of ACWA’s strong regional engineering, installation and after sales support
• Over 350 high-
performance systems installed worldwide
• Setting the standard
for over 17 years with unparalleled results
• OPEX close to zero - the
lowest in the marketplace
• Guaranteed performance for up to 20 years
• Conventional scrubber
systems can be retrofitted with Azzuro’s Spacious Wire Pac media to generate immediate savings and results
www.azzuro.com www.acwa.co.uk High performance Biological Emission Control Systems for municipal wastewater plants and industrial sites ACWA Azzuro Half Pg Ad (Eco Focus) aw.indd 1
31/10/2014 16:23
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
BRITISH ECONOMIC SURVEY The British Chambers of Commerce Quarterly Economic Survey for the 4th Quarter 2014 received almost 7,000 business responses. The respondents cover the entire United Kingdom, and were surveyed by postal and online questionnaires over the period 10 November to 3 December 2014.
In the manufacturing sector, 1,845 firms, employing approximately 160,000 people, responded. 974 (53%) of manufacturing respondents were exporters. In the services sector, 5,059 businesses with approximately 500,000 employees responded. Of the services sector participants, 1,817 (35%) were exporters. While the majority of respondents employ fewer than 500 people, the sample included many large businesses.
Total responses are weighted according to the actual distribution of companies by size within each region and nation, and each region and nation is similarly weighted within the national aggregates to ensure that the sample provides a truly representative picture of UK commerce and industry. The survey is the largest and most representative of its kind in the UK.
SUMMARY The Q4 2014 results of the QES show improvements in most of the key manufacturing and services balances. The Q4 recovery was stronger in manufacturing than in services, but this partly reverses larger falls in manufacturing balances in the previous quarter. There are exceptions to the general pattern of positive results, with some balances declining in Q4. In manufacturing, there were declines in profitability confidence, employment expectations and in cashflow. In services, we saw
falls in employment expectations and in cashflow. But most of the declines were small. The most important message in this survey points to solid improvements in the key domestic and export balances, for both sectors. The backward-looking employment balances rose to all-time highs in both sectors. Capacity utilisation also remains high. While intentions to raise prices are up for both manufacturing and services, they remain moderate and are weaker than earlier in 2014.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Domestic Market
manufacturing, one balance rose and the other fell. In services, both confidence balances improved in Q4. But the confidence balances remain relatively strong, and are still higher than their average 2007 pre-recession levels in both manufacturing and services.
The national domestic balances improved in Q4 2014 for both manufacturing and services. All the domestic balances are again higher than their average 2007 pre-recession levels and all are relatively high by historical standards. The manufacturing sector’s net balance for domestic sales rose from +23% in Q3 2014 to +36% in Q4 2014, still six points below the record high reached in Q2 2014. The balance for manufacturers’ domestic orders rose from +24% in Q3 2014 to +38% in Q4 2014, still lower than the record highs reached earlier in the year. The services sector’s balance for domestic sales rose from +35% in Q3 2014 to +38% in Q4 2014, the same level as in Q4 2013, and a historically high level. The net balance for services domestic orders rose from +29% in Q3 2014 to +33% in Q4 2014, the same level as in Q1 2014.
Export Market All the national export balances, in both manufacturing and services, recovered in Q4 2014, partly reversing the fall in the previous quarter. But in both sectors the Q4 export balances were still below levels recorded earlier in 2014. In manufacturing, the Q4 2014 export balances are equal to their average 2007 pre-recession levels. In services, the export balances are higher than their average 2007 levels. The manufacturing balance for export sales increased by 10 points in Q4 2014, to +26%. The manufacturing balance for export orders rose by nine points in Q4, to +23%. The net services balance for export sales rose by one point in Q4, to +22%. The services export orders balance rose by seven points in Q4 2014, to +25%.
Employment The backward-looking national employment balances rose for both manufacturing and services in Q4, and are at all-time highs for this survey. But the forward looking employment expectations balances fell slightly in Q4 in both sectors. The employment expectations balance is higher than in 2007 for manufacturing, but slightly lower than in 2007 for services. The backward-looking manufacturing employment balance rose four points in Q4, to +36%. The forward-looking
49
Confidence that manufacturing turnover will improve in the next 12 months rose from +60% in Q3 to +62% in Q4, but is still lower than in the first two quarters of 2014. Confidence that manufacturing profitability will improve in the next 12 months fell from +54% in Q3 +45% in Q4, the lowest level since Q2 2013. Confidence that services sector turnover will improve in the next 12 months rose from +56% in Q3 to +60% in Q4, the same as in Q1 2014 and a relatively strong level.
manufacturing employment expectations balance fell one point, to +33%, still a high level. The backward-looking service employment balance rose four points in Q4, to +32%. The service employment expectations balance fell three points, to +27%, still a relatively high level.
Investment The manufacturing investment balances increased noticeably in Q4. In the services sector, the investment balances recorded very small changes. The balance of manufacturing firms that have revised upwards their plans to invest in plant & machinery rose seven points in Q4, to +36%, just below the all-time high recorded in Q1 2014. The balance of manufacturing firms that have revised upwards their plans to invest in training also rose seven points, to +39%, an alltime high. The balance of service firms that have revised upwards their plans to invest in plant & machinery edged up one point, to +21%, a lower level than in Q1 2014, but still relatively high. The balance of services sector firms that have revised upwards their plans to invest in training stayed unchanged, at +26%, a lower level than in Q1 2014, and also lower than in 2007.
Business Confidence The national confidence balances recorded mixed movements in Q4. In
Confidence that services sector profitability will improve in the next 12 months rose marginally, from +45% in Q3 to +46% in Q4, slightly lower than in Q1 2014 but still a relatively strong level.
Capacity Utilisation and Cashflow The share of manufacturing firms operating at full capacity edged up by one point in Q4, to 41%, a relatively high level but lower than in most of the periods since mid-2013. The percentage of service firms operating at full capacity remained unchanged in Q4, at 46%, a very high level. The Q3 cashflow balances worsened slightly in Q4, but remained satisfactory and above 2007 pre-recession levels for both sectors. The manufacturing cashflow balance fell two points in Q4, to +15%. The services cashflow balance edged down one point in Q4, to +21%, just below an all-time high.
Prices Intentions to raise prices rose slightly in Q4, but in both sectors the balances are well below 2007 pre-recession levels. The balance of manufacturing firms reporting pressure to raise prices rose three points in Q4, to +21%, still a lower level than in Q1 2014. The balance of service firms expecting to raise prices rose two points, to +24%, also a lower level than in Q1 2014. continued page 50
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 49
DOMESTIC Sales and Orders Q
Excluding seasonal variation, domestic sales over the past 3 months are: Up/Same/Down
Q
Excluding seasonal variation, domestic orders over the past 3 months are: Up/Same/Down
The National Perspective After disappointing results in Q3 2014, all the national domestic balances improved in Q4 2014, for both manufacturing and services. For both sectors, the domestic balances are strong by historical standards and are higher than their prerecession levels in 2007. The recovery in manufacturing was more marked than in services, but the sector also registered larger falls in the previous quarter. Though stronger, the manufacturing balances are still below levels recorded earlier in 2014. The manufacturing sector’s net balance for domestic sales rose from +23% in Q3 2014 to +36% in Q4 2014, still six points below the record high reached in Q2 2014. The net balance for manufacturers’ domestic orders rose from +24% in Q3 2014 to +38% in Q4 2014, still lower than
the record highs reached earlier in the year. The services sector’s balance for domestic sales rose from 35% in Q3 2014 to +38% in Q4 2014, the same level as in Q4 2013, and a historically high level. The net balance for service domestic orders rose from +29% in Q3 2014 to +33% in Q4 2014, the same level as in Q1 2014.
The Regions and Nations Perspective The Q4 2014 manufacturing balances for domestic sales were in positive territory in all twelve regions and nations. In the case of manufacturing domestic orders we find the same pattern, with all twelve regions and nations in positive territory in Q4 2014. The strongest Q4 domestic manufacturing balances were in the Wales for domestic sales, at +58%, and
EXPORT Sales and Orders Q
Excluding seasonal variation, export sales over the past 3 months are: Up/Same/Down
Q
Excluding seasonal variation, export 2014 orders over the past 3 months are: Up/Same/Down
in the South East and the East Midlands, both at +59%, for domestic orders. At the other extreme, the weakest Q4 net balances were in Northern Ireland, at +7% for domestic sales, and at +10% for domestic orders. The Q4 2014 services sector’s net balances for domestic sales were in positive territory in all twelve regions and nations. In the case of services sector domestic orders, one region was at 0% in Q4 2014, and eleven regions and nations were in positive territory in Q4. The strongest Q4 net balances were in the South East for domestic sales, at +51%, and in the East Midlands for domestic orders, at +62%. At the other extreme, the weakest Q4 services sector net balances were in Northern Ireland for domestic sales, at +18%, and for Scotland for domestic orders, at 0%.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The National Perspective All the national export balances, in both manufacturing and services rallied in Q4 2014, partly reversing disappointing falls in the previous two quarters. But in both sectors the export balances are still below levels recorded earlier in 2014. In manufacturing, the Q4 export balances are equal to their average 2007 prerecession levels. In services, the Q4 export balances are higher than their average 2007 levels. The manufacturing balance for export sales rose from +16% in Q3 2014 to +26% in Q4 2014, but is still lower than in the first two quarters of 2014. The manufacturing balance for export orders rose from +14% in Q3 2014 to +23% in Q4 2014, but is still lower than in the first two quarters of 2014. The service balance for export sales rose marginally by one point in Q4 2014,
to +22%, but is still lower than in the first two quarters of 2014. The service export orders balance rose by seven points in Q4 2014, to +25%, but is also still lower than in the first two quarters of 2014.
The Regions and Nations Perspective The Q4 2014 manufacturing balances for export sales were in positive territory in nine regions and nations, while three regions and nations were in negative territory. In the case of manufacturing export orders, ten regions and nations were in positive territory in Q4, while the remaining two were negative. The strongest Q4 export balances were in the East of England, at +67% for export sales and at +71% for export orders. At the other extreme, the weakest Q4
51
manufacturing net balances were in Scotland, at -23% for export sales and at -12% for export orders. The Q4 2014 services sector balances for export sales were in positive territory in eleven regions and nations. In the case of service export orders, we find the same pattern, with eleven regions and nations in positive territory in Q4 2014. Comparing services sector export performance across the various regions and nations, the strongest Q4 net balances were in the East Midlands for export sales, at +31%, and in the West Midlands for export orders, at +37%. The weakest Q4 service net balances were in the East of England, at +2% for export sales and at +4% for export orders.
INVESTMENT Q
Over the past 3 months, what changes have you made to your investment plans: a) For Plant and Machinery: Revised upwards/ Revised downwards/No change b) For Training: Revised upwards/ Revised downwards/No change
The National Perspective The balance of manufacturing firms planning to increase investment in plant & machinery rose seven points to +36%. Manufacturing intentions to invest in training increased by seven points to +39%. This is the highest figure on record. The balance of service firms planning to increase investment in plant & machinery increased by one point to +21%. Service sector intentions to invest in training was unchanged at +26%.
The Regions and Nations Perspective In the manufacturing sector the investment in plant and machinery balance remained positive across all regions. The strongest results were recorded in the South East (+57%) followed by Wales (+56%), and the South West (55%). The investment in training balance was positive across all regions. The highest results were recorded in Wales (+66%) followed by the South East (+60%).
In the service sector all regions recorded a positive balance for investment in plant and machinery. The strongest positive balance was recorded in Wales at +40%. Similarly the investment in training balance recorded positive balances for all regions. The strongest result was recorded for Wales and the South East (both +37%).
continued page 52
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 51
BUSINESS CONFIDENCE Q Do you believe that over the next 12 months: a) Turnover will: Improve/Remain the same/ Worsen b) ProďŹ tability will: Improve/Remain the same/Worsen
The National Perspective The national confidence balances recorded mixed movements in Q4 2014. In manufacturing, one Q4 balance rose and the other fell. In services, both confidence balances improved in Q4. But the confidence balances remain relatively strong for both turnover and profitability. In both manufacturing and services, all the confidence balances are still higher than their average 2007 pre-recession levels. In both sectors, the profitability confidence balances remain weaker than those for turnover. Confidence that manufacturing turnover will improve in the next 12 months rose from +60% in Q3 2014 to +62% in Q4 2014, but still a lower level than in the first two quarters of 2014. Confidence that manufacturing profitability will improve in the next 12 months fell from +54% in Q3 2014
+45% in Q4 2014, the lowest level since Q2 2013.
The Regions and Nations Perspective The Q4 2014 manufacturing balances for turnover confidence were in positive territory in all twelve regions and nations. In the case of profitability confidence, we find the same pattern, with all regions and nations in positive territory in Q4. The strongest Q4 2014 manufacturing balances were in Wales +86% for turnover confidence, and at +84% for profitability confidence. At the other extreme, the weakest Q4 2014 manufacturing balances were in the Scotland for turnover confidence, at +25%, and in Northern Ireland for profitability confidence at +8%. In the service sector, the Q4 2014 balances for turnover confidence were
CAPACITY UTILISATION AND CASHFLOW Q Are you currently operating: At full capacity/Below full capacity
Q During the last 3 months how has your cashow changed: Improved/Same/Worsened
in positive territory in all twelve regions and nations. In the case of profitability confidence, we find the same pattern, with all regions and nations in positive territory in Q4. Comparing service sector confidence across the various UK regions and nations, the strongest Q4 service sector balances were in the Wales for turnover confidence, at +71%, and in Scotland for profitability confidence, at +57%. At the other extreme, the weakest Q3 service sector balances were in Northern Ireland, at +38% for turnover confidence, and at +30% for profitability confidence.
53
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CAPACITY UTILISATION The National Perspective The percentage of manufacturing firms operating at full capacity increased in the fourth quarter to 41%. This is a one percentage point increase on Q3 and is five percentage points lower than the alltime high recorded in Q2 2014. In the services sector the percentage of firms stating that they were operating at full capacity was unchanged at 46% in Q4. This is one percentage point lower than the all time high in Q4 1996.
The Regions and Nations Perspective In the manufacturing sector the highest proportion of firms reporting that
they were operating at full capacity was recorded in the South East (68%), followed by the South West (47%) and the East of England (43%). The lowest capacity utilisation figure was for Scotland (11%). In the services sector the highest capacity utilisation figures was in Northern Ireland (53%), followed by London (51%), and the South West (46%). The lowest figure was recorded in Scotland (15%).
CASHFLOW The National Perspective In the manufacturing sector the cashflow balance fell by two points to +15%. The cashflow balance is seven points below its peak of Q3 2013.
In the services sector the cashflow balance decreased by one point to +21%. The Q3 2014 figure was the highest on record.
The Regions and Nations Perspective In the manufacturing sector the highest balances were recorded in the South East (+45%), the East of England (+27%), the East Midlands and the West Midlands (both at 17%). A negative balance was recorded in Northern Ireland (-14%), Scotland (-2%) and London (-2%). In the services sector, the highest balances were recorded in the East Midlands (+30%). No region or nation recorded a negative balance; the lowest balance was recorded in the North East (+1%).
EXTERNAL FACTORS
Q Please indicate which of the following factors are more of a concern to your business than 3 months ago: Interest Rates / Exchange Rates / Business Rates / Ination / Competition / Tax
Manufacturing Manufacturing firms, at the national level, recorded mixed movements in their levels of concern in Q4 2014; but there were more increases than declines. Inflation worries rose sharply, from 28% to 42%; the highest increase was with medium-sized firms (49%). Exchange rate worries rose, from 30% to 35%; at the firm size level this was highest for medium-sized firms (42%). Competition worries rose from 24% to 28%; this was highest for micro firms (38%). Interest rates concerns fell from 21% to 16%; this was highest for micro firms (20%). Corporate taxation concerns were unchanged at 20%; this was highest for micro firms, (26%). Business rate
worries edged up from 18% to 19%; this was highest for micro firms (28%).
Services Service sector firms, at the national level, also recorded mixed movements in their concern levels in Q4 2014. Competition worries fell slightly, from 36% to 34%; at the firm size level the highest increase was for medium-sized service firms (39%). Inflation worries rose from 29% to 33%, and are still the second equal biggest area of anxiety for service firms; large firms, at 43%, expressed the highest concern. Interest rates concerns eased markedly, from 29% to 18%; medium-sized firms (34%) signalled the highest level among firm
sizes. Corporate taxation worries edged down from 16% to 15%; this was highest for small firms (18%). Business rate worries rose slightly from 18% to 19%; this was highest for large firms (26%). Exchange rate worries fell from 19% to 15%; medium-sized firms (31%) signalled the highest concern. 4th QUART
ER 2014
This edited extract from the quarterly economic report is published with the consent of the British Chambers of Commerce from where the full report may be obtained.
BRITISH CHAMBE
QUARTERLY ECONOMIC SURVEY
RS OF COMMER CE
www.economic survey.org
.uk
British Institute of Technology & E-commerce
MBA Banking and Finance This programme is designed to meet the growing demand for professional bankers and financiers who have acquired the subject knowledge that master’s level study provides and also have the skills necessary to make effective use of that knowledge in business situations.
Course Modules • Directing the Business • Strategic Finance • Islamic Finance
ebitemedia
admissions@bite.ac.uk
• Trading Finance • Dissertation
@biteuk
Official British Institute of Technology & E-commerce
020 8552 3071
www.bite.ac.uk
Invest in your future For nearly 50 years, EF has set the international standard as a pioneer in language learning. To date, EF has helped millions of people to learn a new language, discover the world, or earn an academic degree.
Welcome to EF Language courses in the UK > Language centres in 8 destinations across the UK > Courses start every Monday > Flexible course length > Fully accredited Language Centres University Preparation programmes > University Foundation > Pre-Master > Pre-PhD For information and free consultation, please call us on +44 (0) 203 713 9790 or visit www.ef.co.uk.
International Language Centres
Relaxation
Regeneration
Rejuvenation
vita-life® Wellness promotes advanced healthcare information and innovative wellness products and services to individuals and organisations. We provide education and implementation programmes in Personalised Lifestyle management, Stress management and Self-Sustaining Wellness. The true power of lifestyle change lies in making it personal! We equip and inspire people to live at their highest level of health. We provide them with unique health tools, to produce rapid relaxation and restoration of wellbeing. Our R-System delivers the ultimate power nap and works with the body’s natural resources to create vitality and the feel good factor. vita-life® Wellness is here to provide answers for you, to guide you towards self-sustaining wellness. We want you to enjoy the enhanced performance and productivity that flow from the process of sustained and increasing wellness. Our systems can provide refreshing relaxation and wellbeing in several locations:
The home • The office • Spas • Gyms • Hotels V-System on the AIDAblu Cruise Ship
vita-mahe
Water at its best
Luxury meets rejuvenation
Promotes Healthy gut flora
For more information about our products, services and free trials please contact: Vita-Life Wellness UK, 13 Queen Anne Street, London, W1G 9JH Tel: +44 0207 323 0100 | +44(0)7712 823 108 | info@vita-life.uk.com
www.vita-life.uk.com
vita-life® V-System An experience for all the senses
vita-life® AquaPhi
vita-life® Spin
vita-life® R-System
Neutralise electro-pollution sources
Use the power of nature
vitaHorse®
Water at its best
Beneficial to animals large and small
ADVERTORIAL
is running fine according to Muslim Aid policies and guidelines. I love Gaza and the people of Gaza. This is my homeland. Your courage to deliver emergency aid during the crisis was an inspiration for us. How did you feel and cope during the crisis? There are no words to describe what we have been through. It’s like asking someone to describe their feelings while waiting for death. Every minute homes were demolished and people were killed. Despite my fears, I had a duty to carry out for the people of Gaza. I would leave my home to coordinate the distribution of food and non-food items given by Muslim Aid. This was important for me to do in order to alleviate the suffering people were facing during the war. Each time I left home I was ready for death. Nowhere was safe in Gaza, not even home. I worried all the time about my children when I left them home. When I heard the air raids at night, I would check on my children while they slept. Sometimes, almost entire families were killed leaving one child behind. When I spoke to parents, their greatest fear was being killed and leaving a child behind. So at night, many families slept together in one room because if they are bombarded, then they all die
Since launching an emergency appeal for Gaza, Muslim Aid’s Project Officer, Ola Dadah, has been coordinating emergency aid for people affected by the crisis. MA News interviewed Ola about her experience working in Gaza. Ola, tell us about you and your role with Muslim Aid based in Gaza. I’m a very normal Palestinian woman, a mother for four kids. I’m working with Muslim Aid as a Projects Officer. My role is to monitor and evaluate our projects in Palestine and visit our partners to ensure everything
18
“I love Gaza and the people of Gaza. This is my home.”
Muslim Aid News: Overseas Update
[ Ola with Gaza’s children ]
have all been destroyed for them. Paying attention to the future of Gaza’s children is of prime importance. Children were the main target during the aggression. It is really heartbreaking to know that if you are six years old and live in Gaza, you have already experienced your third war. The United Nations reports that in 2020, Gaza will be a place that will be impossible for humans to live. Gaza needs rehabilitation in education, health and in women and youth development.
together. This was the tragic reality here. Please tell us what emergency aid Muslim Aid delivered through partners? Through Muslim Aid and our partners, I helped to coordinate the delivery of medicines, medical supplies and an ambulance to three hospitals. We also provided the Ministry of Health with medicines as they had zero stock and they urgently needed supplies for surgeries and casualties. Muslim Aid also distributed meals in the shelter centers and UN schools for displaced families. We also distributed food and hygiene kits for displaced families living with their relatives and friends. We worked with children who lost parents or a parent due to the shelling. We organised safe spaces for them to play, draw and gave them clothes, stationary and toys so that they can feel a sense of normality during the crises. This was important for their psychological wellbeing.
What message would you like to leave for the people of the UK? We really appreciated the protests in the UK against the war. It showed us that we are not alone. It helped our morale.The people in Gaza are prevented from traveling for an education or medical treatment. We are prevented from having portable safe water and proper waste disposal. We are prevented from living safe and secure. We are fighting for these rights and need the support from people globally. Despite this nothing can compensate a child losing their parent, and people losing their homes, but we can still help in funding projects to address these issues such as sponsoring orphans, helping young people get an education and rebuilding homes.
What do the people of Gaza need now? A lot of displaced families have come back to rubble and a big sense of loss. Memories and personal property
19
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
OPTIMISM GROWS IN THE WORLD OF CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS Like the rest of the economy, the conferences and exhibitions industry has been through challenging times but the signs are that the sector is thriving. That was underlined by a report compiled by the Events Industry Forum and the Business Visits & Events Partnership, which suggested the future could be bright for the industry. It highlighted opportunities for growth in the UK Events Industry, which it suggested can grow from its existing £36.1 billion, to £42.2 billion in 2015 and £48.4 billion in 2020. Recent economic figures pointing to an upturn in business confidence will drive that even more, experts believe. So as business recovers, what are you looking for if you are trying to organise a conference or exhibition and need to select a venue?
One of the key factors, according to industry experts, is a good location, somewhere that is easy to reach and attractive for delegates. When assessing the venue, other factors come into play as well. Can it cope with the numbers expected to attend, has it got a good meeting room, will it provide equipment like projectors and Internet access, are the staff friendly and flexible in helping you meet your needs? The good venues are the ones that can
tailor themselves to providing the exact needs of the event organisers and are prepared to be flexible. Their staff are expert and able to bring often complex events together in a skilful way. Another approach for conference originators is to bring in a specialist company to do the legwork.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
61
HOTELS AND CONFERENCES
The staff at these outsource companies will have encountered just about every problem presented by the process and take all the worry away from the company originating the event. Linked to the conferences and exhibitions market is the need to offer corporate hospitality as part of the package and many conference and events organisers
are integrating such attractions into their events. More and more companies are realising that the sector needs to offer as much value as possible and that is leading to a growing sense of innovation. One of the things that makes an exhibition successful is a sense that
something is happening so it is useful to have staged areas for demonstrations and performances, or for companies to show their products at work. Such activities, with the interest they attract, makes an exhibition feel like it is alive. All good exhibitions have a touch of theatre about them.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
HOTELS AND CONFERENCES
EXPERIENCE THE NEW BALLROOM AT JUMEIRAH CARLTON TOWER Designed to enhance any event and ensure a truly memorable occasion, Jumeirah Carlton Tower, London, is proud to unveil the brand new Ballroom.
The elegant new Ballroom, complete with sparkling Viennese crystal chandeliers, LED lighting and state-ofthe-art PA system has been designed by bespoke interior designer Lynne Hunt to emulate the luxury of the Art Deco era. Alongside this exceptional refurbishment you can enjoy creative cuisine options for meetings small and large. A bespoke cheese display including Beenleigh Blue, Fearn Abbey Sheep’s Milk Cheese and more is served with crackers and a delicious array of chutneys. Choose one of the exceptional sweet displays complete with ‘pick ‘n’ mix’ as well as a variety of other treats! The creative food displays are in addition to the existing collection of live canapé stations available at Jumeirah Carlton Tower including the interactive Sushi Box, and reflect the innovative hospitality for which the hotel is renowned. Each meeting room at Jumeirah Carlton Tower utilises the latest in audio-visual
The Garden Rooms
equipment, with a comprehensive range of facilities provided throughout the hotel to ensure your event is a success. Delegates are greeted at the exclusive events entrance as they check their coat at the cloakroom. The on-site business centre provides facilities to help finalise your meeting preparation. Hotel guests can relax at the end of a long day in their suite or in the indoor swimming pool at The Peak Health Club & Spa, located on the 9th floor of the hotel and offering stunning views of London. Serving the finest British cuisine for more than 50 years, The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant is one of London’s great culinary institutions. Add an extra dash of glamour to your next occasion by hosting it in one of the restaurant’s three unique dining rooms, each decorated with original artwork by renowned artist Feliks Topolski.
The Rib Room Boardroom
Set in the heart of Knightsbridge, Jumeirah Carlton Tower is renowned for
exemplary Middle Eastern hospitality ensuring guests remain culturally connected while in the capital. Offering an array of menus including popular Middle Eastern dishes, the dedicated event management team will be on hand to help plan and supervise every detail. With versatile spaces suitable for all occasions, business blends seamlessly with pleasure at Jumeirah Carlton Tower.
CONTACT To view the beautifully refurbished ballroom or for meetings and events enquiries at Jumeirah Carlton Tower, contact the Events Team on +44(0)20 7858 7171 or email JCTevents@jumeirah.com
A SUCCESSFUL EVENT EVERY TIME
Jumeirah Carlton Tower is renowned for providing first-class service and creative cuisine. The recently refurbished Ballroom evokes the timeless style and elegance of the Art Deco era, making it an elegant location for your next event. Featuring built-in LED lighting, the stylish room can host up to 400 guests for a dinner or theatre-style.
For enquiries, call +44 (0)20 7858 7171 or visit jumeirah.com
WHEN IN LONDON
Stay at the Millennium Hotel London Mayfair Overlooking Grosvenor Square and situated in the heart of fashionable Mayfair, the Millennium Hotel London Mayfair combines traditional charm and luxury. Services include Avista Italian Restaurant & Bar, Shogun Japanese Restaurant, Pine Bar, 24 hour room service and Concierge service. The hotel has 336 guest rooms, 10 function rooms including a Ballroom able to accommodate up to 500 guests for private dinners.
MILLENNIUM HOTEL LONDON MAYFAIR | 44 GROSVENOR SQUARE | LONDON W1K 2HP | TEL: +44(0)20 7629 9400
Dining Avista – a 2 AA Rosette award winning restaurant offering a diverse menu with a variety of rustic and contemporary Italian dishes. Avista Bar – large abstract paintings, selective seating at the bar and subdued lighting create a cool ambience, perfect to enjoy a drink from the extensive menu. Shogun – a highly reputed, authentic Japanese restaurant offering exciting, healthy and exotic cuisine. Pine Bar – wood panels and dramatic flock wallpaper exude glamour whilst the chandeliers cast a warm glow over the tables, creating the perfect setting to unwind over a cocktail or malt whisky.
Meetings & Functions l Dedicated meeting and events team l 10 function rooms catering for up to 700 guests l Impressive grand ballroom with separate entrance, foyer and cloakroom l Oak panelled Executive Boardroom with private lounge l Wifi connectivity and full audio-visual support l 24 hour business centre l Accessible meeting rooms featuring induction loop technology
MILLENNIUM HOTEL LONDON MAYFAIR | 44 GROSVENOR SQUARE | LONDON W1K 2HP | TEL: +44(0)20 7629 9400
S tyle.E levated.
The original ‘Grand Hotel’ has been delighting her guests since 1865. She exudes a timeless elegance, blending a sense of the past with the style of today. She has welcomed royalty and dignitaries alike with finesse that bears the hallmarks of a rich heritage that spans three centuries. A legendary hostess of lavish occasions that are talked of for time to come.
Discover The Langham, London: langhamlondon.com 1c Portland Place, Regent Street, London, W1B 1JA T 44 (0) 20 7965 0191
The Montcalm速 luxury hotels london
...Luxury Lifestyle, Redefined In the city of light, fashion and world luxury, The Montcalm Luxury Hotels provide experiences that go beyond imagination to luxury lovers who always wish to be wowed with the best service and most exclusive surprises. We believe that London is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in the world. With its world-class attractions, the Capital offers an individual experience for all. And right at its heart you will find our luxury hotels. From modern to historic building designs, fine dining restaurants to gastro eateries and pampering Spas to state of the art business facilities, The Montcalm Luxury Hotels represents luxury lifestyle redefined. The Montcalm速 luxury hotels london
The Montcalm London Marble Arch
CENTRAL RESERVATIONS Tel: +44 (0) 20 7479 2233 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7745 1459 Email: reservations@themontcalm.com www.themontcalm.com
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
2ND ARAB-BRITISH ECONOMIC FORUM The 2nd Arab-British Economic Forum took place successfully on 21 October at the Millennium Hotel in the heart of London’s Mayfair.
The Forum brought together around 350 delegates from the UK and Arab countries to discuss new opportunities for investment and cooperation in a variety of sectors. The Forum was designed to build on the success of the 1st Arab-British Economic Forum held in 2009 and received widespread coverage in the media. Opening the Forum, Rt Hon Baroness Symons, Chairman of the ABCC, remarked that it was an honour to see so many delegates present from various Arab countries. There was an opening session devoted to business opportunities in the Kingdom of Jordan along with other panel discussions on topics specially selected for their commercial potential. Baroness Symons expressly thanked the sponsors and supporters of the Forum, whose cooperation had proved invaluable to enable the ABCC to hold the event. The Forum’s main partners were the General Union of Arab Chambers and the Jordan Chamber of Commerce. The League of Arab States, the UKTI, London & Partners and the British Chambers of Commerce were the supporting organisations. Sponsors consisted of the Europe-Arab Bank, Aqaba Development Corporation, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, AXA PPP International, PBI Aqaba Industrial Estate, Amman Chamber of Commerce and Al Maabar. The chairman stressed that the timeliness of the discussion focused
Dr Afnan Al-Shuaiby, ABCC Secretary General & CEO, opening the Forum
how cooperation could be strengthened to achieve the prosperity and security that were fundamental concerns of all countries.
trade, both the British and Arab sides were determined to further develop and deepen their relations, Dr Al-Shuaiby said.
She paid tribute to Jordan for its success in maintaining stability and highlighted its valued partnership with Britain.
The ABCC occupied a strategic position as a facilitator of bilateral contacts at the level of business, trade and investment, she continued, stating that the Economic Forum was an essential component of the Chamber’s work, complementing its regular activities and services to companies on both sides.
In her welcoming remarks, Dr Afnan AlShuaiby, ABCC Secretary General & CEO, described her recent reappointment to her post as a great privilege and said it was an honour to be able to achieve success alongside Baroness Symons. She stated that the Forum was being held against the backdrop of unprecedented efforts by Arab governments to encourage investment, enhance private sector participation and boost economic diversification. With the steady increase in Arab-British
Dr Thamer Mahmoud Alany, Director, Economic Relations Department, the League of Arab States, stressed the dynamic nature and benefits of the partnership between Britain and the Arab countries. He brought greetings to the Forum from the Arab League Secretary General HE Nabil El Araby.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
69
He pointed to some of the remaining challenges such as the urgent need to improve trade relations so that market access and development needs were more effectively addressed. Dr Alany said that the focus of existing trade agreements was on protecting investors to the neglect of development issues. Closer integration of the Arab economies was being achieved by moves towards implementing a Pan-Arab Free Trade Zone whose aim was to introduce an Arab customs union by 2015 and an Arab common market by 2020. He said the Arab League wanted to see new initiatives to raise the level of trade such as by adopting international standards and facilitation agreements that were not simply concerned with tariffs. The final speaker in the opening session was HE Mr Nael Al-Kabariti, Chairman, Jordan Chamber of Commerce, who thanked the ABCC on behalf of the entire Jordanian delegation for its efforts in organising the forum. He listed the main reasons why UK investors should look to his country. These were its visionary leadership, security and stability, open market, incentives, accessibility, its free zones, human resources, good infrastructure, modern lifestyle and abundant investment opportunities. The forum’s first session, which was devoted to examining the potential of the Jordanian market, was introduced by HE Mr Mazen K Homoud, the Jordanian Ambassador to the UK. The ambassador celebrated the diverse range of areas where Jordan and the UK were achieving success in their partnership. He expressed the hope that the strong delegation of officials from Jordan would prove effective in strengthening the cooperation between the two countries. HE Eng Sami Halaseh, Minister of Public Works and Housing, Jordan, delivered a presentation outlining the characteristics of the country’s construction sector, touching on the decision making process, the legal framework and some projects currently in progress. The Minister said that the construction
Dr Thamer Mahmoud Alany, Director, Economic Relatins Department, the League of Arab States
sector constituted some 20% of Jordan’s GDP and there were 2,200 contractors registered to operate in the country.
Prestige projects mentioned included the Marsa Zayed, Ayla Oasis and Saraya Aqaba.
He told delegates that Jordan had been successful in attracting financing from major international agencies such as the World Bank, USAID and the European Union.
In his presentation, HE Eng Ali Al Ghezawi, Chairman, Jordan Development Zones Company (JDZ), placed special emphasis on the Dead Sea region and its potential for well-being and health tourism.
The Minister alluded to a series of new construction projects for roads, public buildings, hospitals and schools that were being undertaken. HE Dr Kamel Mahadin, CEO, Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), explained the historical significance of the Aqaba region and its central place within the Jordanian economy. He stated that some $20bn in investment had been attracted to Aqaba in recent years as it had been transformed into a key strategic business hub and gateway to the Levant. Some $700mn were being spent on developing Aqaba port facilities but at the same time the local natural environment and heritage were protected, making the region a major tourist zone. In particular, international partners were sought to help complete new container terminals including facilities for LNG, and mega projects for resorts and major real estate expansion.
He informed delegates of the Dead Sea Master Plan which aimed to achieve economic growth and human development in the area. Dr Fawzi Al-Hammouri, Chairman, Private Hospitals Association, Jordan, stressed the importance of the healthcare sector for business partnerships and investment. The country had been investing heavily to develop its healthcare facilities over a number of years spending over 9% of its GDP on health. People were drawn to the advanced medical treatment available in the well-equipped modern hospitals run by Jordanian private companies. Thousands of the country’s physicians have received their professional training in the UK and would like this partnership in education to continue, he said. Jordan also excelled in the production of pharmaceuticals with 80% of the continued page 70
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 69
finance and Sukuk; energy sustainability; and technology and logistics. The session on Islamic Banking and Sukuk was moderated by Mr Andrew Critchlow, Business News Editor, The Telegraph, who explained that Islamic finance had become a mainstream issue over the last decade with assets expected to double to $3.4 trillion by 2018. Mr Robert Gray, Chairman, HSBC Saudi Arabia, said that the growth in Islamic finance had been good news for the banking industry but it remained small as a proportion of total banking assets. Rt Hon Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean, Chairman, ABCC, speaking at the opening of the Forum
products manufactured for export to more than 60 different countries. The forum witnessed the formal conclusion of a Memorandum of Understanding between London’s Royal Free Hospital and the Specialty Hospital in Jordan signed in the presence of Jordanian and British government ministers. Dr Radwan Shaban, Chief Economist, Arab Bank, looked at how Jordan had succeeded in rising to the economic challenges of low growth in the past few years following the global financial crisis. Jordan had continued to liberalise its economy, maintaining a fixed exchange rate, controlling inflation effectively and had established comfortable foreign reserves.
She said that Britain’s policy was to strengthen its economic links with the Arab countries in different sectors and in particular the government recognised the potential of Islamic finance. The British Treasury had recently launched the first Sukuk by a nonMoslem country to great success and wanted to expand the sector. The Minister said that UK-Jordan relations brought mutual benefit and looked forward to the expansion of cooperation in areas such as new technology, medicine and oil shale extraction. The second part of the conference consisted of three sessions which brought industry experts to address key issues and opportunities in Islamic
Mr Gray said that the Middle East markets represented 80% of the total Islamic banking assets while Saudi Arabia and Malaysia were leading players in the sector. He described the UK Sukuk as a significant innovation followed by other non-Islamic countries and predicted growth in the use of Sukuk for infrastructure investments in the Mideast. Mr Gary Campkin, Director, International Strategy, TheCityUK, addressed the UK’s role in Islamic finance and London’s aim to be a leading hub in Europe. The UK was home to six Shariacompliant banks and possessed a pool of industry expertise in the sector. Mr Iqbal Khan, CEO, Fajr Capital, suggested that asset management would be the next major area of growth for Islamic financial services and that the UK
In response to its energy challenge, Jordan had adopted a diversification strategy to invest in alternative energy sources, he said. Mr Emad Kilani, CEO, Al Maabar, said that his company was one of Jordan’s success stories and was working on flagship projects in the construction sector. He said that Jordan possessed great potential for achieving growth and prosperity. The Rt Hon Baroness Aneley of St Johns, Minister of State, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, UK, welcomed the Economic Forum and commended the ABCC for its tireless work in the promotion of business ties between the UK and the Arab world.
Rt Hon Baroness Aneley of St Johns, Minister of State, FCO, welcoming the Economic Forum
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
71
Mr David Binks, President – Europe, Mideast, India and Africa, Fedex, said technology was now connecting people and opening up opportunities worldwide. Mr Adil Chikhi, Moroccan Investment Development Agency (AMDI), looked at the significance of IT to the promotion of investment, stating that the adoption of modern logistics had been a key to Morocco’s success. He named the mega facility of Tanger Med Port as an example of Morocco’s success with the adoption of modern ICT.
The signing of an MOU between London’s Royal Free Hospital and the Speciality Hospital in Jordan took place at the Economic Forum
was well positioned to take advantage of the new opportunities that were opening up for investment. The third session, on Energy Sustainability, moderated by Ms Cornelia Meyer, Chairman & CEO, MRL Corporation, brought together experts from Britain and Jordan to look at the options available to expand the range of future energy choices and their environmental impact. Baroness Morris of Bolton, the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy responsible for Jordan, Kuwait and Palestine, said her function as trade envoy was to act as a resource to bring people together and develop new ideas. She said that both the UK and Jordan were achieving innovative solutions in the field of energy and sustainability was an important means for increasing trade and investment.
The final speaker, Mr Mohammad Tahboub, Jordan Chamber of Commerce Board Member, discussed ICT investment in Jordan and its achievements over the past decade.
The challenge for the Kingdom was to reduce its reliance on imported energy in future by adopting innovative solutions such as solar and energy conservation.
He said that the software industry had been a key area of growth and its products were now exported to markets as far afield as the Gulf, the US and the UK.
Mr Murad pointed out that the scarcest resource of Jordan was water which had an impact on the feasibility of the energy options open to it.
In summing up the outcome of the 2nd Arab-British Economic Forum, Dr Al-Shuaiby thanked all the participants for contributing towards to the event’s success and looked forward to seeing people at the 3rd Economic Forum.
The final session, on Technology & Logistics, chaired by Mr Oliver Cornock, Middle East Editor, Oxford Business Group, featured a panel of experts from Jordan, Morocco and the UK. The main theme of the discussion was the transformative power of technology in business and its untapped potential in the Middle East.
The day-long forum was followed by a Gala Dinner in the evening at which delegates and high level guests from business, the diplomatic service and public life attended.
Lady Barbara Judge, Chairman Emeritus, UK Atomic Energy Authority and a UKTI Business Ambassador, argued for the relevance of nuclear energy for MENA countries such as the UAE as part of a ‘’bouquet of energy solutions”. She said nuclear enabled a country to achieve energy security and independence of supplies as well as addressing the environmental concerns relating to climate change. Mr Issa Murad, Chairman, Amman Chamber of Commerce, looked in detail at the renewable energy policy of Jordan to meet the needs of domestic and industrial customers.
HE Eng Sami Halaseh, Minister of Public Works and Housing, Jordan
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
QATARI-BRITISH ECONOMIC FORUM Upwards of 300 people gathered at the Hilton Hotel, Park Lane on 29 October, for the Qatari-British Economic Forum which was organised by the Chamber and timed to coincide with an official visit by the Emir of Qatar to London.
The forum showcased the latest opportunities for cooperation and investment in Qatar as it prepares for the 2022 World Cup and progresses with the implementation of its 2030 Vision. The forum was formally opened by HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, Minister of Economy and Commerce, State of Qatar, told delegates that the business forum would help cement relations between the UK and Qatar and extend their scope. The Minister stressed that Qatar had an economy that was open to the world and regarded the UK as a valued trade partner. He pointed to the country’s 2030 Vision which aspires to transform the economy from one based around oil and gas to one that was much more diverse. In this respect, non-oil growth was steadily increasing to reach half of the GDP largely a result of the development of IT and infrastructure. Qatar had a budget of around £200bn for mega projects to upgrade infrastructure which offered new opportunities for investment and foreign partnership, the Minister said. These projects included new cities, an airport, ports and other key infrastructure such as rail and metro. Preparations for the 2022 World Cup formed an important part of the National Vision and investment in sporting facilities was part of the diversity strategy.
All these developments were opening up new opportunities for businesses in the UK, which was a strategic partner. Replying on behalf of the British government, Lord Astor of Hever DL, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and Lords Spokesman on Defence, stated that the UK was extremely grateful that the Emir and such a high level delegation from Qatar was visiting London. He stressed that Britain was ready to assist Qatar in fulfilling its economic goals to diversify and was already working closely to deliver the 2022 World Cup. Lord Astor expressed the hope that the forum would identify new areas of cooperation that could be developed in future. He emphasised the openness of the Qatar economy and welcomed the £30bn that the country had invested in the UK. He commended the hard work of the ABCC in promoting Arab-British trade and investment. The Rt Hon Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean, ABCC Chairman, pointed to the importance of the forum for deepening the business ties between UK and Qatar, stressing that the topics to be discussed during the workshops had been selected because of the potential business opportunities they offered. She said that it was a great honour for the ABCC to be invited to host the forum.
Baroness Symons said that Qatar’s distinctive economic ideas were innovative and had helped to make Doha a highly significant place for doing business. She explained that the purpose of the forum was to showcase potential areas of cooperation and that the workshops would allow Qatar’s extensive investment programme to be discussed in detail. In his introductory remarks, HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman, Qatar Chamber of Commerce, commented that both countries were committed to deepening their relations and there was considerable scope for its successful expansion. He emphasised the many areas of cooperation, in energy, investment, construction and between both public and private sectors. He stressed the important role of private business and the growing opportunities for enhancing cooperation between smaller enterprises (SMEs). A briefing on the technical, logistical and legal aspects of doing business with Qatar followed the four keynote opening addresses during which more detail was given about the 2030 vision and the steps that needed to be taken in order to establish a company in Qatar. The forum then broke up into three business workshops which ran simultaneously.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
73
The official said that 2022 should be regarded as a catalyst for economic development and a stimulus to the implementation of the 2030 vision programme. He outlined the current stages of the key infrastructure projects, including ports, roads, hotel accommodation, stadiums and training grounds. He mentioned that there were 32 major projects under the expressway programme amounting to 52 contracts.
HE Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, Qatar Minister of Economy and Commerce, addressing the Forum
Workshop 1: 2022 World Cup Public Investment Programme – Programme Delivery Challenges and Opportunities for Qatari-British Cooperation This workshop, chaired by Rt Hon Sir Hugh Robertson KCMG MP, was held to discuss the challenges of programme delivery in preparation for 2022 and the opportunities available for Qatari-British cooperation. Sir Hugh Robertson was a former UK minister who had been responsible for the planning of the 2012 London Olympics and was therefore able to share his experience of this initiative with the Qataris who had embarked on preparations for a similarly prestigious international sporting event. The ex-Minister stated that the 2012 Olympics had been applauded as an immense success and he had no doubt that Qatar 2022 would be groundbreaking in the region and around the world to the extent of resetting how such events are organised in the future.
industry, which brought enormous opportunities for investors and for the economy. HE Hassan Al Thawadi also addressed the question of safety standards on the construction sites and explained that the Qatar authorities had been looking at these issues since 2010. HE Eng Nasser Ali Al Mawlawi, President, Public Works Authority (Ashghal), focused in the 2014/15 budget where spending on infrastructure was the biggest in the country’s history. He explained that Ashghal’s role consisted of the important area of procurement and informed delegates that Qatar was seeking to outsource the design and supervision of projects.
Healthcare was a key sector to be developed in the 2030 vision with the aim of improving public health. As a result, Qatar was tendering for the design of new hospitals and health centres. HE Eng Al Mawlawi outlined how the procurement and tender process functioned in order to instruct firms how they could make a bid for work. In an open process, tenders would first be advertised and posted on the Ashghal website; international firms were able to bid for any project that was valued at over £34 million. He stated that UK firms were already playing a major role in the development of these new projects but expressed the view that there remained considerable cope for expansion. He concluded by saying that 2022 offered immense opportunities for new cooperation in the delivery of these important projects.
HE Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General, Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, delivered a presentation on the 2022 programme. He stated that 2012 had been a real inspiration for Qatar’s vision and strategy for 2022. Qatar was now looking for partnerships in order to implement and deliver the objectives of this strategy. Qatar had long been working with UK investors in many economic sectors and was now looking to develop its sports
HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman, Qatar Chamber of Commerce continued page 74
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 73
well as liquefied natural gas (LNG), and pointed to the large projects developed in partnership with the UK. HE Sheikh Meshal bin Jabor Al Thani addressed the contribution of Qatar in the field of energy. Sheikh Meshal described the oil & gas discovery as a “strategic shift” for the country, with the discovery of huge commercial quantities of gas in Qatar and with the North as the largest gas field in the world. Qatar also seeks to embrace projects that use environmentally friendly technology and was seeking to build partnerships with some of the top British companies in this sector. Lord Green of Hurstpierpoint, former UK Minister of State for Trade and Investment, chairing the workshop on energy
A final presentation was made by HE Eng Abdulla Abdulaziz T Al Subaie, Managing Director and Chairman, Qatar Railways Company, who described the major railway projects undertaking as the company aims to make rail the favoured mode of travel. He said that QRC was a new public firm established in 2011 mandated to deliver the rail sector infrastructure that was a component of the 2030 vision. Qatar’s aim was to create an integrated rail service combining a metro in Doha, a long distance passenger and freight system and a light rail transit network. This is to be completely new infrastructure from the design to implementation stages, he explained.
Workshop 2: Challenges in Qatar’s Energy Sector and Opportunities for Joint Projects, Investments and Cooperation in R&D and Innovation This workshop was chaired by Lord Green of Hurstpierpoint, former Minister of State for Trade and Investment, and two main speakers: HE Sheikh Meshal bin Jabor Al- Thani, Director of the Energy Policies and International Cooperation, Qatar Petroleum and HE Dr Ahmed Elmagarmid, Executive Director, Qatar Computing Research Institute. Lord Green welcomed the Qatari delegation, and mentioned the strategic importance of Qatar in the world in terms of energy and production of gas as
Qatar Petroleum has a strategic partnership with Shell for the development of the North Gas Field, and other partnerships with many British companies in the energy sector and accompanying products. HE Dr Ahmed Elmagarmid, Executive Director, Qatar Computing Research Institute, highlighted the assistance that the institute gives to education and research, especially research that relates to economic and environmental development. Workshop 3: Sovereign Investment Fund & Investment Opportunities This workshop was chaired by Sir David Wootton, former Lord Mayor of the City of London, who introduced the guest
The Doha metro would consist of four lines and 96 stations with the aim of becoming operational by 2019. The long distance line of 486km would include 11 stations with phase 1 (of 5 phases) expected to become operational by 2018. The 35km light rail is to serve the new city of Lusail and will consist of 35 stations. It is due to be operational by 2020. He said that extensive opportunities were forthcoming including suppliers of building materials, supplies, railway stations, subcontractors for architectural design, fire safety, furniture, landscaping and utilities. Baroness Symons speaking at the Forum’s opening session
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
75
Lord Astor of Hever DL, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and Lords Spokesman on Defence, representing the UK government at the Forum
speakers from Qatar, HE Mr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Sayed, CEO, Qatar Investment Authority, and HE Mr Yousef Al-Jaidah, Deputy CEO, Qatar Financial Centre Authority. Qatar’s sovereign fund had a global portfolio based on actively investing worldwide. HE Mr Ahmed bin Mohammed AlSayed explained that the QIA’s global approach began in earnest in 2009 with its sovereign wealth funds. It also possessed a pension fund; sovereign fund and stabilisation fund.
HE Mr Yousef Al-Jaidah described the role of the Qatar Financial Centre Authority. He began by outlining the strengths of the Qatar economy: it had $14-17 trillion in gas reserves; 12% annual GDP increase; it was the largest LNG exporter in the world; and had the world’s third largest gas reserves. The country’s population had doubled over the past ten years. The main drivers of the economy were oil & gas, spending on infrastructure and overseas investments.
The QIA’s activities and functions were explained in detail; it was a successful investor with an ambitious growth plan and investing in business risk. Key facts about the QIA mentioned included: l
Its investments of $20bn pa;
l
300 employees including international specialists and of its employees: 37% Qatari, 63% international;
l
It had a portfolio for every continent;
l
There was a large UK portfolio, including Harrods, Heathrow, Barclays, and Canary Wharf with investments across all industries including joint ventures and partnerships.
One of the Forum’s workshops
In terms of Qatari-British relations, Qatar supplies 20% of UK gas needs, while British exports to Qatar had doubled over past five years. There were now a broad range of UK firms operating in Qatar. The workshops were followed by a networking lunch which gave delegates the opportunity to discuss common partnerships and business projects.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
BUSINESS ROUNDTABLE WITH TUNISIA’S MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS The Chamber hosted a business roundtable with His Excellency Mr Faycal Gouia, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs from Tunisia, on the afternoon of 4th November.
The Minister accompanied by a high level delegation from the Embassy of Tunisia headed by HE Nabil Ammar, Ambassador of Tunisia to the UK, were warmly welcomed to the Chamber by Dr Afnan Al-Shuaiby, Secretary General & CEO, ABCC. The roundtable was called to discuss the current economic plans of Tunisia and renewed prospects for investment.
provided a firm basis for partnership and investment. He stated that the ABCC’s work was an example of the good cooperation between the UK and Tunisia. The Minister explained that Tunisia was at a historic moment following the successful completion of the second free election since the revolution.
The invited guests who attended and took part in the discussions were senior executives and decision makers from a broad cross-section of industries, such as banking, energy, hospitality, education, business consultancy, technology, the food industry and aviation.
The country had adopted a new modern constitution and was preparing for the presidential election to be held soon.
Dr Al-Shuaiby told the roundtable that the event was taking place at an important time for Tunisia following its successful recent election which had confirmed the stability of the market and shown that it was on a course of reform and economic revival.
Tunisia was seeking to encourage investors and was open to partnership with those looking for new opportunities in the market.
Tunisia was now beginning to attract more attention from foreign investors and British firms were encouraged to seek out the opportunities opening up to them in the market, she said. HE Mr Faycal Gouia, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Tunisia, stressed the friendly cooperation between the UK and his country which
The peaceful conduct of the recent election was a testimony to the maturity of civil society in Tunisia and an important context for doing business, he said.
HE Mr Faycal Gouia stated that Tunisia shared similar values with the UK and urged business people to visit the country. The country offered many incentives to investors as well as attracting them by its secure environment. At what was at critical time for the region, Tunisia had achieved security and was addressing the outstanding challenges.
The Minister stated that Tunisia was seeking a security agreement with the UK and there was now a joint commission. The country had also succeeded in reducing the problems posed by insecure borders. The economic outlook of the country was improving after having suffering during and immediately after the revolution when Tunisia had suffered from a lack of FDI and needed to boost exports. Tourist numbers was on the increase and returning to its pre-2011 levels with the number of British visitors to the country approaching half a million. The Minister stated that Tunisia was now re-establishing its production capacity to for export goods 80% of which are destined for the European Union markets. He believed that many investors were ready to invest in the country encouraged by its secure environment. Investment was needed to provide career opportunities for the countries skilled graduates and well educated workforce. Investors could take advantage of the expertise and abilities of the country’s highly qualified people. In conclusion the Minister highlighted the success of a recent investment forum
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
HE Mr Faycal Gouia, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Tunisia, in conversation at the ABCC premises
held in Tunis in September attended by investors from more than 70 countries had highlighted the renewed interest in the market. That event had showcased some 22 mega projects in the country which were waiting for investment and the Minister invited proposals from British investors. During the discussion, questions addressed to the Minister included the growth of Islamic banking, electricity supply, policy towards FDI, the labour market, banking reforms and the oil and gas sector. Summing up the key messages from the discussion, Dr Al-Shuaiby stressed Tunisia’s goodwill to work with the UK, which was good news for investors, the assurances on security and the mention of the mega projects which offered
opportunities that needed to be looked at in more detail. She announced that the ABCC would be making plans to lead a business delegation to Tunisia in 2015 and urged companies to sign up for it. Mr Hassane Doghri, Chairman, Tunisian British Chamber of Commerce and member of the Board of Directors of the ABCC, welcomed the proposed delegation, urging the private sector to be more involved in strengthening UKTunisian relations, and pledged to give UK visitors all the support they need. Reiterating the hospitality of the Tunisian people, the Minister stated that the government in Tunis and the country’s private sector would work to achieve real success in the UK-British partnership.
HE Mr Faycal Gouia, the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Tunisia, stressed the friendly cooperation between the UK and his country which provided a firm basis for partnership and investment.
77
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
ABCC HOSTS GCC-BRITISH ECONOMIC FORUM Upwards of 350 delegates attended the GCC-British Economic Forum organised by the Arab British Chamber of Commerce on 4 December.
The day-long conference held at The Landmark Hotel, London, was formally opened by HRH The Duke of York who commended the opportunity provided by the occasion to strengthen GCC-British relations. HRH The Duke of York stressed the importance of education as a means of widening prospects for young people and unleashing their talents which was vital for the future. He emphasised the important element of trust between parties to any successful long-term partnership. HRH The Duke of York was formally introduced to delegates by Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean, the Chairman of the Arab-British Chamber of Commerce, who stressed the enormous potential for strengthening the cooperation between the UK and the GCC. In a keynote speech HE Dr Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, addressed key challenges and opportunities facing the UK and the Gulf countries. He said that the GCC enjoyed relative stability in an unstable region and expected that the Gulf would remain stable in future. He assured investors that the Gulf was a secure place for investments and a safe place to do business. HE Dr Al Zayani stated that the GCC was facing up to the challenges of a future when its oil and gas resources would no longer be the mainstay of the economy. Each country was preparing for life after oil and gas by making a priority of developing new skills and industries.
HRH The Duke of York formally opening the GCC-British Economic Forum
He said that leadership skills and entrepreneurship needed to be developed among the younger generation through better education that also laid stress on science and technology. The GCC Secretary General believed that the Gulf countries could learn from the practical experience of the business sector and in particular the expertise of their partners in the UK who were innovative in the adoption of new technology. The future economic prosperity of the GCC depended on a fundamental rethink in how it does business. The GCC states recognised that there were advantages to be gained through cooperation and they were increasingly combining their resources to more effectively respond to common challenges.
Examples of the major joint enterprises included the trans-GCC rail network and closer cooperation over managing water resources. These trends offered greater opportunities for cooperation between the UK and the GCC in strengthening trade, industry and investment. Much could be achieved through bringing together specialist expertise and local resources, HE Dr Al Zayani said. He said that restrictions and obstacles posed by local regulations including visa rules needed to be removed as far as possible to ensure that closer collaboration in business could be achieved. The regulations that were in force should be designed to incentivise and ease processes rather than acting as obstacles.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
79
Such issues should be high on the agenda of the UK-GCC dialogue. HE Dr Al Zayani urged greater efforts from both sides to ensure that the GCCUK partnership is enhanced. The last speaker in the opening ceremony was Mr Tobias Ellwood MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary, Foreign and Commonwealth Office, with responsibilities for the Middle East and North Africa. The Minister thanked the Chamber for all its valuable work in promoting ArabBritish relations. He said that there were very good reasons for the strong partnership between the UK and the Gulf because of many mutual benefits that it brought. Mr Ellwood referred to the UK’s Gulf initiative launched in 2010 whose aim was to develop cooperation in key areas such as trade, education and energy. The UK had set a target of doubling trade by 2015 and was well on track to achieving this ambitious target. The partnership involved much more than simply trade and covered strategic issues and security. He said that the UK greatly valued the wise advice and experience of its friends in the Gulf as all countries worked together to achieve security and prosperity. The Minister strongly endorsed a point made by HRH The Duke of York who said that it good relationships were the basis for success. He also endorsed the sentiments embodied in the ABCC’s motto, “friendship through trade”. At the conclusion of the opening session, Dr Al-Shuaiby presented certificates of appreciation to HE Dr Al Zayani and Mr Ellwood. The first session dealing with the emergence of sustainable energy was moderated by Mr Shahid Malik MP, a former UK government minister. Mr Malik began by paying tribute to Dr Al-Shuaiby on her reappointment as Secretary General and CEO of the ABCC. He stressed that businesses and governments were operating in an increasingly interdependent world where key issues such as finance, health, security and climate change are no
HE Dr Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Secretary General, GCC, delivering his keynote address
respecters of national boundaries and as such needed to be resolved by common actions. Mentioning that the new context brought with it both challenges and opportunities, Mr Malik set out some of the key issues for discussion. Stressing the clear business case for sustainability, he mentioned that the UK record as the first government to introduce legislation designed to remedy climate change meant that the country had expertise that would be of use to the GCC as it adopted more sustainable energy solutions. Solar energy was a growing sector across the European Union and all countries were investing in it. The current falling price of oil made it more urgent for the Gulf countries to develop alternative sources of energy such as renewables, especially as domestic energy demand in the region was set to increase considerably in coming years. Mr Mounir Bouaziz, Vice President, Shell Upstream International Commercial, MENA-NBD & LNG, said that most energy forecasts conclude that energy demand was set to double by 2050 with demand driven by population growth and urbanisation. As a result all available sources of energy will need to be drawn upon to supply these growing needs and this was a real challenge for everyone. Combined with the need to address the impact of climate change, this was an
enormous challenge that demanded serious action. Mr Bouaziz outlined the policy of his company Shell which was to strongly argue against the use of coal as an energy source because of its negative impact on CO2 emissions. He spoke about the big change in gas use with the development of new technologies and the realisation that it was good for the environment. The Mena region had abundant gas reserves but at present they were not sufficiently utilised across the region. In addition, gas was a convenient partner to combine with renewables such as solar and wind power. LNG was particularly amenable for exporting as it could now easily be transported, he said, and it was on average 30% cheaper than diesel. The Shell executive insisted that gas needed to be more effectively managed and developed in the MENA and, for example, the transport network needed to be strengthened. Its more widely use could assist considerably in the achievement of a non-carbon economy. The next speaker, Dr Khalid K AlHajri, Chairman & CEO, Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec), explained that the company was a joint venture between Qatar Foundation, which had a 70% stake, SolarWorld AG and the Qatar Development Bank. continued page 80
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 79
Mr Madden said that the region was witnessing an annual 7-9% growth in demand for power to which the GCC states had responded by planning for a 5-10% annual expansion of renewables. This growth was driven by greater urbanisation and industrial use, he said. Improvements in conservation to reduce energy waste such as insulation and energy efficiency should be an important aspect of the response, Mr Madden explained.
Mr Tobias Ellwood MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary, FCO, welcomed the Forum on behalf of the UK government
QSTec was contributing towards Qatar’s ambitious programme to make more use of the sun as a source of power and pointed to the major work undertaken by the QSTP. He said QSTec aimed to become a fully integrated solar energy company operating across the solar value chain starting with the production of high quality polysilicon and expanding into ingots, wafers, cells modules and applications. The company’s high quality solar products and services will be used locally and exported to meet the growing needs of the global solar industry. Qatar was strongly committed to R&D in solar and renewables, Dr Khalid K Al-Hajri said, and was making strategic investment in the sector. He explained that use of renewable energy was intrinsic to the designs of new projects being built in preparation for the 2022 World Cup. The growth in renewables addressed the forecast growth in demand for energy throughout the Middle East and Africa. Mr Peter Madden, Executive Vice President MAC Amec Foster Wheeler, also stressed the rising demand for energy and the appropriate response of industry and governments. He stated that Amec had a turnover of $5.5bn, dealt with all aspects of the energy sector and had a significant presence in the MENA region.
He also addressed some key challenges that face the industry including the need for a clear legal framework for renewables and how to ensure that an adequate number of people with the relevant expertise and technical knowledge were available as the industry expands. Dr Prem Mahi, Group Practice ManagerPower, Mott MacDonald, didn’t expect to see a time when the Middle East was ever 100% renewable, although the sector had great potential for expansion. In fact, current targets for the expansion of renewables in the region erred on the low side, he believed. He presented case studies of successful solar projects in Abu Dhabi and Jordan where Mott MacDonald had been involved. The company was active in 140 countries including the MENA region. Dr Mahi stressed the need to maintain a balanced energy policy where none of the available options were disregarded. He pointed out that Masdar City in Abu Dhabi had been a great success and cited Jordan’s energy policy as a prime example of what can be achieved in developing renewables and solar projects. There was significant potential to develop both solar and wind power in the region, Dr Mahi stated.
Session 2 The second session, focusing on infrastructure and the scope for bilateral partnerships, was chaired by Mr Mike Shears, UKTI specialist in the infrastructure sector whose own background was in the UK railways industry. He opened the session by pointing to the ambitious rail plans currently being undertaken by the GCC.
Dr Afnan Al-Shuaiby, ABCC Secretary General & CEO, opening the GCC-British Economic Forum
Mr Shears stressed that rail was a very new industry in the Gulf and was being developed as a response to the growing need for more transport links as the population increased. The GCC rail network should be seen as part of an integrated public transport system that combined various national rail plans that each country had adopted along with new roads and metros. The first speaker, HRH Prince Saud K Al Faisal, Deputy Governor for Investment Affairs Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), stressed the vital need for regional integration in infrastructure projects and welcomed the GCC-wide cooperation in areas such as rail, electricity and water. He said each country within the GCC was facing similar challenges and welcomed moves towards greater cooperation. HRH Prince Saud K Al Faisal explained the role of SAGIA in attracting FDI and forging partnerships. He stated that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia had experienced an incredible economic expansion over a very short period and was now a strong economy which was contributing towards trade and investment across the MENA region. The Kingdom’s GDP had tripled in over a decade and its economy now had an AA credit rating. Combined with its prime strategic location and openness to foreign participation, Saudi Arabia offered important opportunities for the investor.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
He also stressed that the Kingdom was noted for always honouring its commitments to investment partners, which was an important consideration for the business sector.
many levels and that they complemented each other.
The Kingdom’s laws and regulations provide a modern framework for businesses to operate, he said.
The Sultanate was seeking long-term sustainable relations that would help foster local talent, HH Sayyid Faisal bin Turki Al Said stated.
The economic dynamism of the country was driven by public investment, HRH Prince Saud K Al Faisal stated, indicating that there were moves to develop the private sector to enable it to play a bigger role. The Kingdom was making progress to diversify its exports and had adopted sustainable long-term plans to renew its infrastructure. The 2014 budget allocated high levels of investment for roads, rail, health and other infrastructure because the Kingdom’s leaders understood that world-class facilities would attract investors and enhance competitiveness. Private sector involvement was encouraged in the implementation of the Kingdom’s ambitious plans, he said. SAGIA would a key point of contact for potential foreign partners who had the expertise and know-how to make a positive contribution. The next speaker was HH Sayyid Faisal bin Turki Al Said, Director General for Marketing and Media, Ithraa, which works to attract investment into the Sultanate and promotes its nonoil products. He emphasised that the economies of the Gulf were each making progress at
81
Oman faced similar challenges to develop its infrastructure and was open to cooperation with its partners.
It aimed to strengthen its private sector and make the environment an easier place to do business. Like its Gulf counterparts, Oman was working to diversify its economy from dependence on oil. The country was making significant investment into the education system for the post-oil future and offered new opportunities particularly for sciencebased education. He stated that the UK was a major partner for Oman and it stood to gain from the new opportunities emerging in the Sultanate. Oman was extensively investing in infrastructure such as airports and railways. In addition, the introduction of e-government mechanisms was a key plan for the future. Key non-oil growth sectors identified were tourism, ICT, metals and plastics. He stated that Oman as improving its legal environment to attract business such as the incentives available to investors and a one-stop-shop was in place to assist the potential investor. Furthermore, Oman had integrated its
HRH Prince Saud K Al Faisal, Deputy Governor for Investment Affairs, SAGIA
free zones, industrial estates and ports to facilitate the operations of investors. In summary, Oman was a very promising market for UK investors and should not be ignored. Mr Richard Fraser-Smith, European Finance Director, CH2M Hill, said that he was delighted to take part in such a fantastic event. He informed the Forum that his company had been active in the engineering sector in the Mideast since 1976 and had been engaged in some key projects in the UK such as the 2012 Olympics. He pointed out that the region was currently going through a construction boom and the company was working on some of the key projects like the Doha 2022 World Cup along with its strong local partners. Mr Fraser-Smith felt that British and Gulf had a lot that they could learn from each other. The UK was engaged in renewing its own infrastructure with long-term investment and had considerable expertise in the sector. The GCC would need to address the maintenance aspects of its infrastructure once the projects currently under way have been completed, he said, and the Gulf can benefit from British engineering and management experience in this regard.
HE Dr Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani, GCC Secretary General, receiving a Certificate of Appreciation presented by Dr Al-Shuaiby on behalf of the Chamber
The UK’s experience of the best forms of public-private partnership could also be of benefit to the GCC. continued page 82
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 81
Mr Chris Andreou, Head of Strategy, Heathrow, discussed the potential for partnership between the leading London airport and the GCC. The top Gulf based airlines already had a presence at the airport with regular flights to the region taking off every 30 minutes; in addition, some of Heathrow’s major shareholders were from the Gulf. He believed that the partnership could develop with the prospects of new infrastructure especially if the proposed third runway is approved. If this project went ahead, Mr Andreou estimated that it would create 180,000 new jobs, significantly increase long-haul capacity and give a major boost to trade. He said that at present some 26% of imports and exports by value passed through Heathrow. Continuing the promotion for London, Mr David Leam, Director of Infrastructure London First, explained the wider opportunities in the UK capital for investors. He said that the city was facing up to challenges created by its growth success: with a population that was expected to reach 9 million by 2020, it needed invest in new infrastructure such as transport to cope with the growing pressures. Mr Leam cited Crossrail and other new projects and expected that 2015 would see a decision on airport expansion.
In addition, the capital was experienced great demand for new water and wastewater infrastructure.
of a survey conducted in the region to illustrate the sources of funding available for new businesses.
All these developments would offer potential for new partnerships and investment, he explained, and should attract Gulf participation.
She argued that inter regional financing between oil states and non-oil countries in the MENA region was an important key to stability.
Session 3
The GCC was playing an impressive role as a source of finance for other Arab economies.
The third session on the topic of Changing Climate of Investment in the Global Economy was chaired by Sir Stephen Wright KCMG, Senior Advisor G3, who explained that the discussion would focus on the need for innovative financial services to raise the capital needed to finance the ambitious projects in the Gulf and the UK. Dr Florence Eid-Oakden, CEO & Chief Economist, Arabia Monitor, discussed the importance of introducing business planning among Arab students. From her own experience teaching in Lebanon, she explained how students, and in particular women, can show remarkable enthusiasm, innovation and business dynamism when encouraged to do so.
She said that the sources of funding for businesses were various and not in short supply. What was lacking was risk management. Dr Eid-Oakden also stated that the MENA region performed well in terms of the time and cost of setting up a new business compared to other regions. Mr Issam Z Al Tawari, Chairman, Rasameel Structured Finance, looked at the growth of Islamic finance in the Gulf and globally. He explained that is began in the retail banking sector and expanded into investment banking in the 1990s.
She stated that she was now working in Saudi Arabia to introduce business plans to students.
Islamic finance had since entered a new phase of its evolution and was developing new products to address market demands.
It was important to inspire the younger generation because they were the human capital that represented the new oil resource for future prosperity.
The growth in the Sukuk market worldwide showed that Islamic finance was not restricted Moslem clients or countries, he said.
Dr Eid-Oakden presented the results
Mr Al Tawari believed that there was huge potential for using Islamic finance to support the region’s infrastructure development. He said a combination of Islamic and conventional financing could be employed to finance some of the region’s ambitious projects. Mr Abdulrahman Rashed Al Rashed, Chairman, Rashed Abdul Rahman Al Rashed & Sons Group, outlined the expansion of the financial sector in Saudi Arabia. He said that the Kingdom possessed a well regulated financial sector that operated along international standards and whose banks were well capitalised. The sector had grown significantly in the past decade with new services introduced such as insurance and reinsurance.
Mr Tobias Ellwood MP receiving a Certificate of Appreciation from Dr Al-Shuaiby
Financing for real estate and housing had also become available.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
This was being achieved in partnership with the private sector. Islamic finance had a key part to play in helping ensure stability and could assist in mobilising capital needed for the projects that were essential for economic development. He said that UK firms are able to benefit from the introduction of Shariah compliant finance and Sukuk was appropriate to assist with the implementation of social projects such as health and housing.
Session 4
Baroness Symons speaking at the Forum
The challenges that the Kingdom faced were not unlike those of other Gulf countries, he said. The provision of finance for SMEs was a high risk sector and there was a need for more efforts to improve the services in order to create a more vibrant private sector. He believed that the Kingdom could learn a lot from the experience of the UK and welcomed the fact that the UK and the GCC were working more closely together in financial services with a key role played by the City of London. There was a lot of potential for the two sides to work together to ensure financial stability. The UK continues to attract investors from the Gulf private sector as well as Sovereign Wealth Funds. Mr Iqbal Khan, CEO, Fajr Capital, considered the new factors that were reshaping the financial sector, namely new technology and the internet. Telephone banking was an important innovation and the introduction of new technology was a great enabler for customers.
The fourth and final session on The Impact of Tax Regulations was chaired by Professor Abdel-ilah Bennis, CEO, Regent Global Solutions, who began by mentioning how the traditional low tax regimes in the Gulf had succeeded in attracting investors. However, with lower oil prices the GCC could not rely on oil revenues alone and had to face the challenge of finding new sources of income to sustain its levels of spending. The possible introduction of new taxes could deter investors and impede trade. The first speaker, HE Sheikh Nasser Almutawa Alotaibi, Co-Chairman, Saudi British Business Council, said that the Gulf was generally unfamiliar with taxes and said that there was a need for people to understand how the tax system in the UK functions. A new guide could be produced to help people become familiar with the complexity of the system, he said. This would be a great service to Gulf consumers, especially visitors to the UK. Jim Harra, Director General for Business Tax, HM Revenue and Customs, outlined the range of taxes in place in the UK and the principles that lay behind them. He stressed that an aim of HMRC was to facilitate international trade and that it sought to ensure that the rules were clear and fair.
He said that the global banking system following successive crises over recent years.
Corporations needed to know exactly what was expected of them and were attracted to the UK because of its transparent system.
Mr Khan welcomed the investment that the Gulf states were making into infrastructure as a wise policy that could help ensure future growth and stability.
In past years tax had been reduced which encouraged more global corporations to set up in the country.
83
Mr Harra said that the HMRC had clear rules for high net work individuals that were designed to make it as easy as possible. There were special immunities for Sovereign Wealth Funds seeking to invest in the UK and incentives for corporate taxation which made the UK. There was also a generous tax regime for non-domiciles which made the UK an attractive place to do business. Mr Zubair Patel, Tax Partner, KPMG (Kuwait), cleared up some misunderstandings about the nature of the tax system in the GCC. He explained that original tax laws had been designed for the oil and gas sector. Taxes on foreign companies differed from those imposed on domestic firms. He advised companies drawing up contracts to refer to tax treaties between the UK and GCC. The issue of a company’s “taxable presence� was important as those operating in a country for more than six months a year can be exempt from paying tax. Mr Patel signalled some possible tax changes in the GCC and mentioned that VAT was still under consideration. Furthermore, personal taxation was still up for debate in the GCC. New FDI rules for all GCC states were likely to offer tax holidays for up to 10 year. Mr David F Saleh, Partner, Clifford Chance, gave advice to Gulf companies seeking to invest in the UK. He stressed that there were serious consequences for not paying tax liabilities and companies needed to avoid getting into trouble. He pointed out that sovereign immunity applied to monarchs and heads of state. Mr Saleh felt that the UK tax system was an attractive environment for foreign investment. He also mentioned how Islamic finance could be boosted by the tax system. Each of the sessions concluded with a detailed question and answer. Delegates had an opportunity to further ask questions of the speakers during the networking breaks and during the Gala Dinner that concluded the event.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
REAPPOINTMENT RECEPTION
Dr Al-Shuaiby and Baroness Symons with Lord and Lady Trefgarne
HE Mr Khaled Al-Duwaisan, Kuwait Ambassador and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps
The Chamber held a reception on 6 November to mark the reappointment of Dr Al-Shuaiby as Secretary General & Chief Executive. The reception took place at the Ballroom of The Claridge’s Hotel, Brook Street, London, where speeches were delivered by Baroness Symons, ABCC Chairman, H E Mr Khaled Al-Duwaisan, the Kuwaiti Ambassador and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, and Dr Al- Shuaiby. In attendance were long-standing friends, colleagues and members of the Chamber who had come to celebrate Dr Al Shuaiby’s major contributions to furthering ArabBritish relations during her tenure of office as Secretary General and CEO. Dr Afnan Al-Shuaiby, HE Mr Khaled Al-Duwaisan, Kuwait Ambassador and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, and Baroness Symons
Dr Al-Shuaiby, HE Ms Alice Samaan, Bahrain Ambassador, and Baroness Symons
Baroness Symons congratulates Dr Al-Shuaiby on her reappointment
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FAREWELL RECEPTION IN HONOUR OF UAE AMBASSADOR The Chamber held a special reception on 20 November 2014 to bid farewell to His Excellency Mr Abdulrahman Ghanem Almutaiwee CVO, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the United Kingdom, whose term of office was coming to a close.
HE Mr Abdulrahman Ghanem Almutaiwee CVO, retiring Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the UK, flanked by Baroness Symons and Dr Al-Shuaiby
The evening reception took place at the premises of the Chamber and saw a large diplomatic and business presence with ambassadors and executives joining the celebratory
occasion to pay tribute to His Excellency’s major contribution to UAE-British relations during his tenure of office as UAE ambassador in London.
HE Mr Abdulrahman Ghanem Almutaiwee receives a Certificate of Appreciation from Dr Al-Shuaiby and Baroness Symons
Dr Afnan Al-Shuaiby paying tribute to the UAE ambassador
85
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS ADVERTORIAL
YOUR TRUSTED BUSINESS PARTNER IN KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA Bright Investment Company Ltd. (BIC) consists of professionals experienced in providing Integrated Support Services (ISS) to Multinationals, potential Foreign Investors and Local Business who wish to concentrate on their core activities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. BIC facilities smooth operations for clients by taking over support services activities including (but not limited to) Post Registration Formalities, Government Relations, HR Support, Accounting Services, Logistics Support, Translation Services etc.
l
Reducing Overhead Costs
l
Concentrating on Strategizing Core Activities
l
Maintaining a single point of contact (BIC) for all Integrated Support Services
Vision
Why Choose BIC?
To become a self-sufficient Integrated Support Services provider in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, so as to be able to assist our valued clients right from advising them regarding their decision to invest, through the legal formation and registration process, all the way to ensuring smooth and profitable operations.
We at BIC understand the sensitivities and criticalities present in our valued clients’ operations. At the same time we are in tune with local Saudi Regulations and Legalities. This, coupled with our combined experience in the services industry, allows us to service our clients with utmost responsibility and accuracy.
Mission
Our valued clients enjoy benefits by working with BIC because:
Human Resource and Personnel Support Services
We offer bespoke solutions to our valued clients’ requirements
l
Basic Human Resource Requirements
l
Saudi Labour Law Consultations
l
Recruitment & Selection
l
Payroll Services
l
Management of Personnel files
l
Performance based Appraisals
l
Business Support Structures
l
Insurance Services (Medical, Life, Auto etc.)
l
Advice on Job Descriptions and Employment Contracts
l
Maintenance and Housekeeping of Employee Accommodations
We aim to providing the highest level of integrated Support Services, with no limitations to activities and task, while confirming to the local regulatory framework.
Objectives l
l
l
Engaging a team of professionals well versed in support services and projects coordination Staying up to date with local regulatory issues and changes introduced in the same Maintaining strategic alliances with local services providers and advisors for facilitating our valued clients in every way possible
We offer legal expertise through Partner Law Firms and Legal Advisors We offer financial expertise through licensed Audit firms and Financial Advisors We have contact with local supplies for sourcing services that BIC may not directly cater to
You’re Advantage with BIC Our valued clients benefits by working with us in the fallowing ways: l
Optimizing Resource Allocation
Our Services
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Public Relation Services & Government Departments
l
Short & Airport Assistance (VVIP/VIP/ Ordinary)
l
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
l
Ticketing & Reservations
l
Ministry of Interior (Passport Office)
Business Office Setup Services
l
Chamber of Commerce
l
l
Labour Office
Real Estate Services (Land & Building) Rentals/Leasing
l
General Organization for Social Insurance (GOSI)
l
Conference Room Rentals/Leasing
l
Communications and IT Networking Support
l
Construction & Interior Design and Decorations of Office
l
Saudi Arabia General Investment Authority (SAGIA) licensing
l
Department of ZAKAT and Income Tax
l
Department of Traffic and Municipalities
l
Business Furniture Systems Rentals/ Leasing/Buying
l
Post Registration (Company Formation) Formalities
l
Hot Desk Rentals/Leasing
l
Office Equipment Rentals/Leasing/ Buying
l
Exporting & Importing Services
Transportation Services l
Vehicle Hire
l
Short terms and Long terms with/ without Driver
87
Translation Services l
Translations of official documents
l
Publications, manuals, proposals, etc.
l
Translation of technical Documents
Accounting & Book Keeping Service l
Setup a system for the Book keeping
l
IFRS and State Audit Representation
l
Payroll reporting
l
Monthly/Quarterly/Annual Book Keeping
l
Financial Statements
CONTACT Bright Investment Company (BIC). P. O. Box 230514, Riyadh 11321 Saudi Arabia Tel: +966 (1) 464-6006 Fax: +966 (1) 464-4077 info@bic.net.sa www.bic.net.sa
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
THE MATHAF GALLERY With its large collection of oils, watercolours and prints, the Mathaf Gallery, after approaching 40 years in the art business, continues to lead the world in 19th century paintings of Arabia, known as Orientalism.
The gallery is a longstanding member of the Arab British Chamber of Commerce and was founded by the late Brian MacDermott (pictured above) in1975. From David Roberts lithographs to oils by Ludwig Deutsch and Jean-Léon Gérôme, the gallery is a specialist in Orientalist paintings and also offers works by contemporary artists specialising in portrait painting, falconry, historical reconstruction and scenic views. Brian MacDermot died on 12 September 2013 at the age of 82 but the gallery continues to thrive under his widow, Gina MacDermott, whom he married in 1985. Brian MacDermot’s knowledge and years of experience dealing with Orientalist works of art built the gallery’s reputation for expertise in this niche market. Brian was born in Paris and educated at Oxford. His father, Frank MacDermot, was a senator in the Dail, the Irish parliament, and his American mother, Elaine Orr, had previously been married to the poet e.e. cummings. After several years in the army, including service in Egypt and Jordan, Brian returned to Britain and embarked on a career in investment banking. He travelled extensively to the Middle East in his career and further cemented his love for the region and its culture. A profile of the gallery and an interview with Brian MacDermot appeared in an issue of Canvas magazine, a specialist publication for the art of the Middle East and Arab World. “I first got to know that part of the world during my army years, and so it was wonderful to be able to go back and develop the relationship further,” he told the magazine. Brian became acquainted with some of the region’s rulers, and it was through
one such contact that he was first tempted to enter the world of art dealing. But a milestone for his career was the World of Islam Festival, which was held in London in 1976. The first major celebration of its type, the preparations for the festival marked a new stage in the recognition of the cultural achievements of the Islamic and Arab worlds. The gallery initially specialised in contemporary Arab art. “We started off showing just Arab artists, with each Middle Eastern embassy providing us with examples of work by their top artists. It went alright, but we weren’t really making enough money to stay afloat, so had to think again.” As a result, Brian decided to move into selling Orientalist paintings, at that time distinctly undervalued, both in terms of their financial worth and artistic merit. “In the mid-1970s you could pick up a Gérôme for $15,000,” he pointed out late in life. “You’d now be looking at a million at least for a good example.” In recent years Orientalist art has increased greatly in value and attention, a phenomenon both generated by, and responsible for, an accompanying debate on its political dimensions provoked by the work of the late Edward Said and others.
One successful initiative for Mathaf was the exhibition of Orientalist art that it held at the Waqif Art Centre in Doha, during November-December 2008. Inaugurated by HE Sheikh Hassan Bin Mohammed Bin Ali Al-Thani, Vice Chairman of Board of Trustees of the Qatar Museums Authority, the event was timed to coincide with the opening of the new Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. Apart from running Mathaf, Brian MacDermot was Master of the Worshipful Company of Bowyers (1984-86), vice-president of the Royal Anthropological Institute and a council member of the Royal Geographical Society. The Mathaf Gallery is a member of the Society of London Art Dealers, the London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association as well as the ABCC. Sources: Canvas magazine, Volume 5, Issue 1, January/February 2009; The Telegraph, 18/10/2013 Details of recent activities of the gallery can be found here: www.mathafgallery.com/MathafGallery-specialists-orientalistpaintings-Exhibition-ListDesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=46
SPECIALIST UK IMMIGRATION LAWYERS DO YOU WANT TO MIGRATE TO THE UK? We are a leading UK immigration firm, based in the centre of London. Our reputation with our private and corporate/education institution clients has been established over many years, based on the high quality of our legal work and our exceptional client care. We have an extensive client base in the Middle East and North Africa and have represented clients for over 15 years and are well known to the British Consulates in the region. The Founder and Senior Partner, Garth Coates, right, has been a leading immigration lawyer for over 20 years and has the distinction of formerly working in the Home Office.
Garth Coates Solicitors 9 Dacre St London SW1H 0DJ t: 020 7799 1600 www.garthcoates.com
We give our clients the benefit of our extensive legal experience, whether you are a private client and want to come to the UK as an Investor, Entrepreneur, Sole Representative, Student or a corporate client wanting to set up business operations in the UK or recruit or transfer international staff. We have an outstanding success rate across all immigration categories and pride ourselves in looking after our clients from initial arrival in the UK through all the various stages to securing Citizenship. We offer a free consultation service for prospective clients. Call today to arrange an appointment with one of our immigration advisors.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
THE FUTURE OF MEDICINE New insights into how our genes are controlled will open the way to ending the epidemic of chronic disease. By Dr Rodney Adeniyi-Jones, of vita-life Wellness.
The flow of exciting breakthroughs in medicine continues. At every level, pharmacology and medical technology continue to deliver remarkable benefits to those in need of medical care.
The Problem There is, however, a serious and growing problem. The rapid increase in diabetes (with more than 380 million sufferers worldwide), cardiovascular disease (the leading global cause of death, causing 18 million deaths a year), arthritis, dementia, cancer and other non-communicable diseases, shows no respect for borders, cultures, income levels, or geographical location. We are managing these conditions better, medicating them and operating on them more effectively, detecting them earlier, but the number of people affected by them continues to rise. Even with the best treatment, sufferers live a life that is not truly healthy and is below their full potential. In addition to being uncomfortable and restricted, the lives of those with these conditions are often shortened. The economic impact of noncommunicable disease is huge, and growing relentlessly; even the richest countries struggle to meet the high costs of sophisticated medications, complex operations, and hospital care. In addition to the direct cost of treatment, the economic burden of non-communicable disease is more than doubled by the loss of economic output it produces. This loss of output has a significant impact on GDP, and it is growing exponentially. It is clear that the current ‘disease management’ model of healthcare,
effective as it is for acute and infectious diseases and accidents, is unable to prevent or reverse the chronic illnesses that have become the hallmark of our time.
The History At the beginning of the 20th century it would have been hard to imagine a time when infections and infectious diseases, which were then the commonest cause of death, would be at the very bottom of the list of causes of death. That is the case today. It is equally difficult for us now to imagine a time when heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, cancer and other modern diseases will barely feature, when a period of ill health at the end of life will be short or non-existent. Such a goal seems too unattainable to imagine. Yet there are societies in which this pattern exists today. The study of these societies, combined with surprising new discoveries about how our genes work,
has made it clear that the sustained good health enjoyed in some places could be replicated almost everywhere.
Where we are now 100 years ago, medicine saw highly effective, targeted treatments develop to cope with the deadly infections that made childbirth, any injury, and exposure to any one of the many infectious disease epidemics, extremely dangerous. The single agent causing the problem, usually a bacterium or a virus, could now be identified, vaccinated against, and destroyed precisely and effectively. These treatments transformed life and health care beyond recognition. They formed the basis for current health systems, where we identify a disease or a symptom and aim neutralize or destroy it with similar precision. But modern degenerative diseases of the joints, arteries and brain, are different from the old infections. Whereas the same bacterium might cause pneumonia in several hundred people, and all of them
would respond to the same antibiotic, modern diseases have multiple causes that differ from one person to the next. This means that although drugs may suppress and control the diseases across a variety of people, pharmaceutical therapies seldom reverse or resolve these diseases. The steps required to bring about a resolution of the disease differ from person to person.
The Future is here In the 12 years since the human genome project completed its description of the genes that run our lives, we have learned that altered activity of genes is the mechanism behind chronic disease. We have also learned that in addition to the ‘big four’ lifestyle factors (diet, activity, alcohol and tobacco), many other aspects of our behaviour have a powerful influence on our genes. With targeted application of this information, it is already possible to influence diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, and vascular disease to the point where health and well-being return, and the need for interventions, including medication, is greatly reduced. For such people healthcare costs are lower, performance is higher, and life is more fulfilling. This
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
has to be the future of medicine because, as the population ages, a new approach is essential to prevent the burdens of illness, misery and cost from becoming unsustainable.
Biological leverage The human body functions on far fewer genes than expected, and in order to do their jobs, the genes have to be a lot more flexible and responsive to their environment than had been realised. This epigenetic effect, controlled by lifestyle, has been underestimated until now. The human microbiome – made of the trillions of microbes that live on and around us – has an enormous impact on the function of our bodies, and on the activity of our genes. As a result of these mechanisms, targeted lifestyle change, applied individually and socially to leverage the genes and the microbiome, produces disproportionally large health effects.
But… Methods, utilizing the full power of lifestyle in medicine, are yet to
91
be adopted on a large-scale or at government level because they are radically different from the current system. The thinking behind them is still new and unfamiliar. That they are cheaper and full of potential, however, is without question. Large-scale implementation of this approach will require vision, and a willingness to invest first, with the savings coming later. This new window on health generation opens up huge possibilities and opportunities for agile societies in the Arab world to be at the forefront of healthcare changes that are inevitable. Vita-life Wellness, a member of the ABCC, is a Wellness Information company that distributes wellness information and wellness-promoting devices.
CONTACT For more information about vita-life Wellness, please visit our website at: www.vita-life.uk.com, email: info@vita-life.uk.com, or call: +44 207 323 0100.
TRADE SERVICES
ARAB BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.abcc.org.uk
FOREIGN OFFICE SERVICE
92
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
93
NEW MEMBERS OF THE CHAMBER
EIGER TRADING ADVISORS LIMITED
MR ABDEL GHANI BOUDEHANA
BAWABAT AL-ROMAILA (FZE)
16 Dewsbury Road Dollis Hill LONDON NW10 1ER Email: ghani.abdel@yahoo.com Contact: Mr Abdel Ghani Boudehana Ph. D Student Associate Member
Q1-06-117/B Saif Zone Sharjah Airport Sharjah UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Tel: +971 6 552 7914 Email: ahmedcn71@gmail.com; info@brg-dubai.com Website: www.brg-dubai.com Contact: Mr Ahmed Mohsin Admin Manager Activities: the company has a strong reputation for delivering a quality service, on time, and at a competitive price. Experience in all aspects of Civil,Pipeline,Tanks and Vessels.
THE ESSENTIAL DESIGN COMPANY LTD
ABU DHABI COMMERCIAL BANK (UK) Level 28 30 St Mary Axe LONDON EC3A 8EP Tel: +44(0)20-7469 4057 Email: NicholasWhitfield.ext@adcb.com Website: www.adcb.com Contact: Mr Nicholas Whitfield Senior Consultant Activities: Full bank services, corporate, commercial, investment banking and retail
ACQUIESSE LIMITED 6 Thornhill Road Heaton Moor STOCKPORT SK4 3HJ Tel: +44(0)161-442 3130 Email: info@acquiesse.co.uk; billy@acquiesse.co.uk Website: www.acquiesse.co.uk Contact: Mr Bilal Masood Director Activities: Importer, distributor and wholesale retail company
ALMASS ENTERPRISE LIMITED 20A Western Avenue LONDON W3 7TZ Tel: +44(0)20-8222 6524 Mobile: +44(0)7779622222 Email: enquiries@almass-enterprise.com Website: www.almass-enterprise.com Contact: Mr Ali Al Shra CEO Activities: Provider of a variety of elite business services to corporate clients based in the UK, Europe, Asia and the Far East
BEIT BINZAGR PO Box 209 Jeddah 21411 SAUDI ARABIA Tel: +966 12 643 8235 Fax: +966 12 643 8983 Email: bbca@binzagr.com.sa; sbinzagr@gmail.com Website: www.binzagr.com Contact: Mr Saeid Binzagr Deputy President Activities: Manufacture, trade and distribution of personal & home care products, food & drinks, tyres and industrial products. Also trade in cosmetics, manufacture of safety matches, marketing services and industrial insulation.
BRIGHT INVESTMENT COMPANY LIMITED PO Box 230514 Riyadh 11321 SAUDI ARABIA Tel: +966 11 464 6006 Fax: +966 11 464 4077 Email: saud@bic.net.sa; suraj@bic.net.sa Website: www.bic.net.sa Contact: Mr Saud Al Shaibani President Activities: Business and government support services, for companies intending to invest in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, BIC is a reliable channel to assist towards fulfilling your vision.
River Bridge House Guilford Road LEATHERHEAD Surrey KT22 9AD Tel: +44(0)20-3216 2520 Email: tim.openshaw@eigertrading.com Website: www.eigertrading.com Contact: Mr Tim Openshaw Marketing Director Activities: Independent investment management and advisory firm offering quality and in-depth analysis across both commodity and financial markets.
19 Eastbourne Terrace LONDON W2 3QJ Tel: +44(0)20-7118 2222 Email: tim@essentialdesignco.com; jeremydrayton@me.com Website: www.essentialdesignco.com Contact: Mr Tim Wilson CEO Activities: Interior design, architecture, project management, furnishing solutions, property consultancy, property finding, refurbishment
FARRER & CO LLP 66 Lincoln’s Inn Fields LONDON WC2A 3LH Tel: +44(0)20-3375 7000 Fax: +44(0)20-3375 7001 Email: martin.blake@farrer.co.uk; alison.springett@farrer.co.uk; richard.lane@farrer.co.uk Website: www.farrer.co.uk Contact: Mr Martin Blake Solicitor Activities: Independent law firm with centuries-long tradition of advising private families, individuals and charitable institutions today complemented by work with businesses and entrepreneurs
FIORE BOUTIQUE Almalek Road Behind Stars Avenue Mall Jeddah 21413 SAUDI ARABIA Tel: +966(0)555 1999 47 Email: fiore@fiore-boutique.com Website: www.omaymahazouzz.com Contact: Mrs Omaymah Azouzz CEO Activities: Fashion designer specialised in Arabic robes
continued page 94
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
from page 93
THE GLENSIDE GROUP LIMITED 9 Caputhall Road Deans Industrial Estate LIVINGSTON West Lothian, Scotland EH54 8AS Tel: +44(0)1506-420 950 Fax: +44(0)1506-420 959 Email: enquiries@glensidegroup.com Website: www.glensidegroup.com Contact: Ms Mary Revill Administrator Activities: Manufacturer and supplier of organic fertilisers. Natural seaweed products can be applied as foliar sprays or through a drip irrigation system stimulating the plant root system with savings on chemicals and water consumption
INSPIRATIONAL DEVELOPMENT LIMITED 57a Catherine Place LONDON SW1E 6DY Tel: +44(0)20-7798 2848 Fax: +44(0)20-7798 2838 Email: martin.west@inspirationaldg.com Website: www.inspirationaldevelopment.com Contact: Mr Martin West Director of Operations - Middle East Activities: First-class training and bespoke Leadership Development programmes designed to transform the behaviour of individuals and teams, and leading to sustainable change within an organisation.
JASH TECHNICAL SERVICES LLC PO Box 173 Riyadh 11411 SAUDI ARABIA Tel: +966 11 476 7780 Fax: +966 11 477 6662 Email: info@jash.com.sa; mansoor@jash.com.sa; mhmusleh@jash.com.sa; bader@jash.com.sa Website: www.jash.com.sa Contact: Mr Bader Saad Al Sulaim CEO Activities: Defence contracting, communication systems & spares, steel fabrication including pipes, pressure vessels and heat exchangers. Ladies fashion, commercial & trade, operation & maintenance facility management.
KNOWLEDGE SEEKERS UK LIMITED 151 Centrillion Point 2 Masons Avenue CROYDON Surrey CR0 9WX Tel: +44(0)20-8686 3167 Email: nemanyte@kseekers.co.uk; zaim@kseekers.co.uk; sylvie.n@kseekers.co.uk; john@kseekers.co.uk; michael.d@kseekers.co.uk; olabi@kseekers.co.uk Website: www.kseekers.co.uk
Contact: Ms Gintare Nemanyte Events Manager Activities: Leading provider of certified, custom-made training courses and a top facilitator of academic services.
LONDON PROCUREMENT RESOURCES LIMITED Mayfair Chambers 2 Charles Street LONDON W1J 5DB Tel: +44(0)20-3463 4599 Fax: +44(0)20-3463 4594 Email: amine@lpr.uk.com Website: www.lpr.uk.com Contact: Mr Amine Khalil Director Activities: Equipment and materials procurement for the Petroleum, Energy and Power industries.
LPP CONSULTING LIMITED 8 Devonshire Place LONDON W1G 6HP Tel: +44(0)20-3219 3080 Dir: +44(0)162-876 0066 Fax: +44(0)20-3219 3088 Email: gary.bell@lpp.org.uk Website: www.lppconsulting.org Contact: Dr Gary Bell Director Activities: Providers of services to maximise performance and minimise stress-related problems for individuals, teams and organisations; the company brings together experts in the fields of psychiatry, psychology (clinical, neuro, occupational and sports), and performance
LUBBOCK FINE Paternoster House 65 St Paul’s Churchyard LONDON EC4M 8AB Tel: +44(0)20-7490 7766 Fax: +44(0)20-7490 5102 Email: JamesEwens@lubbockfine.co.uk Website: www.lubbockfine.co.uk Contact: Mr James Ewens Business Development Manager Activities: Chartered Accountants, Tax and Business Advisers
MCFARLANE TELFER LIMITED B5 Westacott Business Centre MAIDENHEAD Berkshire SL6 3RT Tel: +44(0)162-882 2598 Fax: +44(0)162-882 8796 Email: chris@mcft.com Website: www.mcft.com Contact: Mr Christopher Craggs Managing Director Activities: Commercial catering and refrigeration equipment maintenance
NOOR AL NATHER FOR GENERAL TRADING & AGENCIES TRADING Al Mansour Street Baghdad IRAQ Email: natheralbayaty@yahoo.com Contact: Mr Natheer Hilal Abbas CEO Activities: Trading of all kinds of heavy equipment and hydraulic system
OXYGEN AVIATION LIMITED
2 Foundry Court Foundry Lane HORSHAM West Sussex RH13 5PY Tel: +44(0)140-323 7010 Fax: +44(0)140-323 7011 Email: lara@oxygenaviation.com Website: www.oxygenaviation.com Contact: Ms Lara Issa Sales Manager Activities: Private jet travel services
RUSSELL BEDFORD (DUBAI) LIMITED Office 4, Level 3, Gate Village PO Box 506789 Dubai UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Tel: +971 4 401 9670 Fax: +971 4 401 9666 Email: info@rb-dubai.com; stephenbanks@rb-dubai.com Website: www.rb-dubai.com Contact: Mr Stephen Banks Director Activities: Chartered Accountants
SPORT STRUCTURES LIMITED
Albion Court 18-20 Frederick Street BIRMINGHAM B1 3HE Tel: +44(0)845-241 6195 Email: info@sportstructures.com; simon@sportstructures.com Website: www.sportstructures.com Contact: Mr Simon Kirkland CEO Activities: Sports education management consultancy
UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE, JUDGE BUSINESS SCHOOL EXECUTIVE EDUCATION JBS Executive Education Limited Judge Business School Trumpington Street CAMBRIDGE Cambridgeshire CB2 1AG Tel: +44(0)1223-332 339 Fax: +44(0)1223-764 369 Email: m.steiner@jbs.cam.ac.uk; c.butler@ jbs.cam.ac.uk Website: www.jbs.cam.ac.uk/execed/index.html Contact: Ms Mercedes Steiner Programme Manager Activities: Providing executive education programmes to clients around the world.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
UNIPART RAIL LIMITED Gresty Road CREWE Cheshire CW2 6EH Tel: +44(0)127-084 7600 Fax: +44(0)127-084 7601 Email: tom.maxwell@unipartrail.com; david. kierton@unipartrail.com Website: www.unipartrail.com Contact: Mr Tom Maxwell Marketing Manager Activities: Rail infrastructure products, technical support, overhaul and repair, supply chain services and consultancy
VITA-LIFE (UK) 13 Queen Anne Street LONDON W1G 9JH Tel: +44(0)20-7323 0100 Fax: +44(0)20-7307 9609 Email: info@vita-life.uk.com; buki@ htlproducts.co.uk Website: www.vita-life.uk.com Contact: Mrs Buki Adeniyi-Jones CEO Activities: Wellness and lifestyle products and education
WESTERN UNION BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
95
Y INTERNATIONAL (UK) LIMITED
Unit 3, Junction 6 65 Kingsway Industrial Park LONDON 66 Electric Avenue Choosing your corporate venue is always WC2B 6TD WITTON Tel: an +44(0)800 096 0172 Birmingham 7JJ important decision because it setsB6the Email: adam.kasraoui@westernunion.com Tel: +44(0)121-326 9050 tone for theEmail: entire event Website: www.business.westernunion.com noufalrahman@yinternational.uk.com; Contact: Mr Adam Kasraoui tonyp@yinternational.uk.com; Business Development Manager mriyas@yinternational.uk.com Activities: Foreign exchange and money Website: www.yinternational.uk.com transfer Contact: Mr Noufal Rahman General Manager Activities: Export of grocery food items WEMBLEY NATIONAL STADIUM
LIMITED
Wembley Stadium PO Box 1966 WEMBLEY Middlesex HA9 0WS Tel: +44(0)20-8795 9675 Fax: +44(0)770-292 2035 Email: jerome.golding@wembleystadium.com Website: www.wembleystadium.com/ clubwembley Contact: Mr Jerome Golding Marketing Executive Activities: Sports entertainment
Choosing your corporate venue is always an important decision because it sets the tone for the entire event
& Conference Booking
Contemporary yet stylish, set in the heart of Mayfair, the Arab British Chamber of Commerce business meeting rooms combine a central London location with complete dedication to service and discretion to suit a variety of corporate meetings and events. Fully equipped venues typically hold: AGM’s, Board Meetings, Conferences, Presentations, Trade Shows, Exhibitions, Workshops, Lectures, Product Launches, Professional Development Seminars. Each venue can be customized to meet the individual requirements of your event. For venue hire enquires please contact Omar Bdour on omar@abcc.org.uk +44 (0) 20 7659 4860, or visit our website for more information and the range of available venues.
www.abcc.org.uk/venuehire
AV and PA system Plasma screen Stationery Wi-Fi Administration support Tea & coffee Fruit juice & biscuits Still and sparkling water Pre-ordered catering
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
أحــد االســئلة كان حــول صناعــة الصريفة اإلســامية والبنــوك ،ومــا هــو وضــع هــذه الصناعــة املرصفيــة يف تونــس الجديده. أجــاب معــايل الوزيــر ،أن تونــس ادخلــت الصرفــة اإلســامية حديثــاً ،وقــد تأســس “بنــك الزيتونــة” الــذي هــو أول بنــك يتــداول يف الصرفــة اإلســامية يف تونــس .وقــال بــأن الحكومــة التونســية الجديدة ســتأخذ عــى عاتقهــا تطوير هــذه الصناعــة وكذلك االســتفادة مــن الخـربات الربيطانيــة يف هــذا املجــال الســيا وإن لنــدن مركــزا ً ماليــاً عامليــاً الســيا يف الصناعــة اإلســامية بعــد ماليزيــا ،ونحــن بصــدد تعريــف النــاس يف تونــس بفوائــد هــذه الصناعــة املرفيــة والتعامــات املاليــة حســب الطريقــة اإلســامية .وأضــاف معــايل الوزيــر ،إضافــة إىل بنــك الزيتونــة فــإن لــدى تونــس بنــك مشــرك ميــزج بــن التعامــات اإلســامية واألخــرى التقليديــة. ووجــه ســؤال آخــر حــول أوضــاع البنيــة التحتيــة مبــا يف ذلــك الكهربــاء واملــاء وغريهــا. أجــاب معــايل الوزيــر بأن تونــس مل تعاين من شــحة أو نقــص الكهربــاء أو املاء ولديهــا بنية تحتية جيدة مبــا يف ذلــك الطــرق والجســور وغرهــا ،كــا تعمــل تونــس عــى تطويــر قدراتهــا وتحديــث بنيتهــا التحتيــة الســيا رفــع طاقتهــا اإلنتاجيــة مــن الطاقة الكهربائيــة ،خاصــة املــرشوع الكبــر املشــرك بــن تونــس واليابــان إلنتــاج الطاقــة الكهربائيــة مــن الطاقــة الشمســية ،وهــي أحــد الوســائل الحديثــة إلنتــاج الطاقــة املتجــددة والنظيفــة مــن الوســائل الطبيعيــة كالطاقــة الشمســية وطاقة الريــاح .وبعد امتــام هــذا املــرشوع الكبــر ،فســيكون باســتطاعة تونــس أن تــزود أوروبــا بالطاقــة الكهربائيــة، وتبلــغ قيمــة املــرشوع نحــو 3مليــارات دوالر .كــا تعمــل تونــس مــع رشكــة بريطانيــة إلنتــاج الطاقــة الكهربائيــة مــن الطاقــة الشمســية املتجددة واســم هــذا املــرشوع “نــور”. ووجــه ســؤال بشــأن الترشيعــات الجديــدة التــي تنــوي تونــس ســنها بشــأن الوضــع االقتصــادي. أجــاب معــايل الوزيــر بــأن تونــس تأخــذ هــذا املوضــوع عــى محمــل كبــر مــن الجــد وإن العمل جــاري لتحديــث ترشيعاتهــا الســيا مــرشوع االســتثار الجديــد الــذي ســيعطي املســتثمرين فوائــد كثــرة جديــدة إضافيــة مقارنــة مبــا مينحــه املــرشوع الحــايل .وســيعطي مــرشوع قانــون االســتثار الجديــد امتيــازات جديــدة للمســتثمرين
جانب من االجتامع بحضور معايل الوزير فيصل قويعة
األجانــب ،وســيتم إنجــاز هــذا القانــون خــال النصــف األول مــن العــام .2015 ووجــه ســؤال حــول نيــة تونــس إجــراء أيــة إصاحــات يف قطاعهــا املــايل والبنــوك الســيام القطــاع الخــاص. أجــاب معــايل الوزيــر بــأن تونــس يف صــدد إج ـراء إصاحــات عديــدة يف سياســتها املاليــة والبنــوك الســيا إعطــاء دور أكــرب للقطــاع الخــاص يف الصناعــة البنكيــة وزيــادة دور البنــوك الخاصــة يف العمليــة االقتصاديــة .وقــال أنــه باالضافــة إىل وجود بعــض البنــوك العربيــة واألجنبيــة التابعــة للقطــاع الخــاص ،فــإن تونــس تحــاول إجـراء عمليــات دمــج وخصخصــة يف قطــاع البنــوك لتتمكــن مــن إنشــاء بنــك خــاص تونــي كبــر ،يتعامــل حســب أحــدث املعايــر البنكيــة والتقنيــات الحديثــة. ووجــه ســؤال ملعــايل الوزيــر حــول موضــوع الشــفافية الســيام مــع اإلدعــاءات األخــرية بوجــود فســاد كبــري يف دوائــر الدولــة توارثتــه مــن النظــام الســيايس واالقتصــادي الســابق. أجــاب معــايل الوزيــر بــأن تونــس مــا بعــد الثــورة تتميــز بالشــفافية ،وقــال “نحــن ناضلنــا كثــرا ً للحصــول عــى الشــفافية وتخلصنــا مــن النظــام الفاســد الســابق ،ونحــن نفتخــر بأننــا قــد انجزنــا هــذا” .وأضــاف“ ،وبعــد محاربــة الفســاد فــإن واجــب الحكومــة الحاليــة والقادمــة أن تتحــرك
قدمــاً نحــو املزيــد مــن الشــفافية واملحاســبية “ونحــن نتعلــم مــن اخطائنــا املاضيــة ،وإننــا تنقدم نحــو األفضــل وإىل األمــام” ،قــال معــايل الوزيــر. ويف الختــام ،أضافــت الدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي بــأن عــى مــا يبــدوا أن تونــس بلــد يرحــب باملســتثمرين وإن الحكومــة التونســية أعطــت لنــا الضــوء األخــرض لــي نتحــرك قدمــاً نحــو مزيــدا ً مــن الرشاكــة واالســتثار والعاقــات الوطيــدة. وقالــت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي بأننــا “يف غرفــة التجارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة نخطــط إلرســال وفــد مــن الــرشكات واملســتثمرين لزيــارة تونــس واإلطــاع عــن كثــب عــى الفــرص واإلمكانــات املوجــودة”، وأضافــت بــأن املســتثمرين يريــدون االطمئنــان بشــأن الوضــع األمنــي مســتتب ،وهــو مبثابــة الضــان املهــم الــذي يجــب أن تعطيــه الحكومــة لــي يتقــدم املســتمرين نحــو الفــرص املوجــودة. وأشــارت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي إىل مــا ذكــره معــايل الوزيــر بوجــود 22مــرشوع ضخــم يف تونــس، وأكــدت عــى رضورة اإلطــاع عــى هــذه املشــاريع أثنــاء زيــارة الوفــد املرتقــب الــذي ستســره غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة مــع نخبــة مــن مندويب الــرشكات وشــخصيات أخــرى إىل تونــس يف النصــف األول مــن عــام .2015 أختتــم االجتــاع بحفــل غــداء وفرصة لتبــادل اآلراء والتعــارف بــن الحضور.
97
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
جانــب االســتثار ،فــإن العديــد مــن املســتثمرين األجانــب ينتظــرون املجــيء إىل تونــس الســيا بعــد إق ـرار الدســتور الجديــد وإج ـراء اإلصاحــات املوعــودة يف البــاد .وقــال أن تونــس ترحــب باملســتثمرين والباحثــن عــن رشاكــة يف تونــس، ودعــا الــرشكات للحضــور والتعــرف بانفســهم عــى الفــرص والخـربات الكبــرة التــي متتــاز بهــا األيــدي العاملــة يف تونــس.
معايل السيد فيصل قويعة ،وزير الخارجية التونيس والدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي األمني العام والرئيس التنفيذي للغرفة مع أعضاء من الوفد
وأضــاف معــايل الوزيــر بــأن هــذا أمــر مهــم جــدا ً ملجتمــع األعــال حيــث ســيع ّرف الدســتور الجديــد بتونــس الحديثــة ،والتــي ســتكون جاذبــة أكــرب للــرشاكات واالســتثارات والتجــارة .وأكــد بــأن تونــس بلــد جميــل ومنفتــح ولديــة اقتصــاد متنامــي وأيــدي عاملــة مؤهلــة وطبقــة مهنيــة متعلمــة ومســتعدة لانخ ـراط يف مشــاريع البنــاء واإلعــار التــي ســتكون ســمة تونــس الحديثــة”. وأكــد معــايل الوزيــر بــأن تونــس مــا بعــد الثــورة تشــرك مــع املجتمعــات املتمدنــة الســيا مــع بريطانيــة مبعايــر حقــوق اإلنســان والدميقراطــة والتحــرض ،ويجــري هــذا أيضــاً يف الجانــب االقتصــادي حيــث تســعى الجهــات الرســمية يف تونــس إىل تحقيــق األمــن والرفاهيــة ألن األمــن من أهــم األولويــات الســتقطاب االســتثارات األجنبيــة والــرشاكات االقتصاديــة. وتحــدث معــايل الوزيــر عــن األختــاالت األمنيــة التــي تحــدث يف تونــس بــن الفينــة واألخــرى وذلك بســبب االضطرابــات التــي تعــاين منهــا املنطقــة بأكملهــا الســيا الجــارة ليبيــا ،حيــث ال تســتطيع تونــس أن تغلــق األبــواب عــى هــذه الجــارة التــي الزالــت تعــاين مــن اضطرابــات ورصاعــات مســلحة كبــرة ،وإن هــذا املوضــوع يشــكل تحديـاً كب ـرا ً لتونــس وحكومتهــا الجديــدة فبينــا تعمــل الســلطات يف تونــس عــى تطويــق الوضــع األمنــي
والعمــل دون ترسبــه إىل األرايض التونســية ،تحــاول يف الوقــت ذاتــه لعــب دورا ً إيجابيــاً مــن خــال توفــر بعــض األجهــزة والخـربات األمنيــة للحكومــة الليبيــة ،وعقــد بعــض ال ـرشاكات األمنيــة وتبــادل الخــربات ،ســعياً إىل إيجــاد حــاً أمنيــاً واســتقرارا ً يضمــن عــدم انــدالع العنــف يف املنطقــة كلهــا. ويف هــذا املضــار قــال معــايل الوزيــر “نحــن نحــارب التطــرف وتهريــب النــاس وتهريــب البضائــع املمنوعــة ،وكذلــك تهريــب املخــدرات بن دول اإلقليــم والتــي نشــطت بعــد انهيــار األوضــاع األمنيــة يف املنطقــة” ،وأضــاف “إن األوضــاع صعبــة ولكننــا نحقــق انجــازا ً كب ـرا ً كل يــوم ،ونجحنــا يف تحقيــق األمــن عــى الحــدود مــع جراننــا ،وإن األوضــاع تتحســن شــيئاً فشــيئا”. وعــى جانــب االســتثارات أشــار معــايل الوزيــر بأن تونــس كانــت قــد عانــت مــن نقــص االســتثارات األجنبيــة وتراجــع أرقامهــا وكذلــك انخفــاض معــدالت التجــارة وغيــاب الســياحة التــي تعتمــد عليهــا تونــس بشــكل كبــر .أمــا يف الوقــت الحــايل، فــإن األوضــاع متيــل إىل التحســن الســيا يف حركــة الســياحة التــي تزايــدت يف األونــة األخــرة وخاصــة ازديــاد عــدد الســياح الربيطانيــن يف تونــس .أمــا عــى جانــب التجــارة ،فاألمــر كذلــك يســر باتجــاه تحقيــق منــو جيــد الســيا وإن تونــس ترتبــط بـرشاكات إسـراتيجية مــع القــارة األوروبيــة .وعــى
وتطــرق معــايل الوزيــر إىل منتــدى اقتصــادي عــن تونــس كان عقــد ُعقــد خــال شــهر ســبتمرب ،2014الــذي بحــث بالتفصيــل كل األوضــاع واملنــاخ االســتثاري الــذي ســتوفرة الترشيعــات الجديــدة التــي تبنتهــا وســتتبناها تونــس يف مجــال االســتثار .وقــال بأنــه جلــب معــه تســجيل عــى قــرص إلكــروين بأحــداث هــذا املنتــدى ،وأشــار بشــكل خــاص إىل أن املنتــدى قــد أفــرد نحــو 22 مرشوعـاً ضخـاً تطرحــه تونــس لاســتثار األجنبي وكل هــذه املشــاريع ذات عائديــة ربحيــة ضخمــة وأهميــة اســتثارية ال ميكــن غــض النظــر عنهــا مــن قبــل املســتثمرين األجانــب ،ودعا الحضــور إىل اإلطــاع عــى هــذا القــرص. ويف ختــام كلمتــه تقدمــت الدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي بالشــكر ملعــايل الوزيــر عــى إيضاحاتــه، وقالــت الشُ ــعيبي “أن تونــس بلــد جميــل وهــو مير يف تحديــات كبــرة لكــن املســتقبل ســيكون زاهـرا ً دون شــك ،وإن الفــرص االســتثارية جيــدة واملنــاخ االســتثاري إيجــايب” ،ودعــت الــرشكات الربيطانيــة ورجــال األعــال للنظــر لهــذه الفــرص .وفتحــت بــاب النقــاش والتداخــل للضيــوف. وبعــد أن عــرف الضيــوف أنفســهم واســاء الــرشكات التــي ينتمــون لهــا ،علقــت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي بأنهــا تــرى وتشــعر بــأن هنــاك قــوة يف هــذا االجتــاع متثلتهــا أوالً كلمــة معــايل الوزيــر ويربزهــا هــذه النخبــة مــن منــدويب الــرشكات الذيــن جــاءوا لتقــيص الفــرص التــي تطرحهــا تونس يف التجــارة واالســتثار. طرحــت العديــد مــن االســئلة واالستفســارات مــن قبــل الضيــوف حــول األوضــاع السياســية واالقتصاديــة يف تونــس مــا بعــد الثــورة ،وعــن ماهيــة الفــرص والتســهيات التــي توقرهــا تونــس للمســتثمرين وللــرشاكات االقتصاديــة.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية تستضيف اجتامع الطاولة املستديرة مع وزير الخارجية التونيس ROUNDTABLE WITH THE FOREIGN MINISTER OF TUNISIA يف 4مــن شــهر ترشيــن الثــاين (نوفمــرب) ،2014 اســتضافت غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة اجتــاع الطاولــة املســتديرة مــع وزيــر الخارجيــة التونــي معــايل الســيد فيصــل قويعــة والوفــد التونــي املرافــق لــه ،وذلــك عــى هامــش زيارتــه الرســمية للعاصمــة الربيطانيــة – لنــدن .ورافــق معــايل الوزيــر وفــدا ً رفيــع املســتوى إضافــة إىل حضــور نخبــة مــن املدعويــن مــن منــدويب الــرشكات الربيطانيــة ورجــال األعــال الذيــن يرغبــون باإلطــاع عــى الفــرص االســتثارية يف تونــس الســيا بعــد اســتتبباب الثــورة التونســية وعــودة املنــاخ االســتثاري ألحســن مــن حالتــه الســابقة. اســتهلت االجتــاع كلمــة افتتاحيــة للدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي ،األمــن العــام والرئيــس التنفيــذي للغرفــة ،والتــي رحبــت مبعــايل الوزيــر التونــي والوفــد املرافــق لــه وبالحضــور .وأعربــت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي عــن ترحيبهــا وشــكرها للوفــد التونــي ألتاحــة الفرصــة للغرفــة وللــرشكات الربيطانيــة لإللقــاء الضــوء عــى األوضــاع الحديثــة يف تونــس والتعــرف عــن كثــب عــى الفــرص الناشــئة للتعاون االســتثاري والتجــاري بــن بريطانيــا وتونــس. وقالــت أنهــا نيابــة عــن غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة ،تــود أن تقــدم الشــكر ملعــايل الوزيــر
قويعــة ،وزيــر الدولة للشــؤون الخارجيــة يف تونس، ألعطــاء وقتــه لحضــور هــذا االجتــاع ،وأضافــت “نحــن فخــورون بــأن معــايل الوزيــر قــد أعطــى جــزء مــن وقتــه ليكــون معنــا ،ونحــن نتطلــع إىل معرفــة مــا لديــه ليخربنــا عــن الخطــط االقتصاديــة الحاليــة لتونــس وآفــاق االســتثار الجديــدة فيهــا”. وأشــارت إىل أن هــذا االجتــاع ينعقــد يف وقــت مهــم بالنســبة لتونس الســيا بعــد نجــاح انتخاباتها األخــرة ،وظهــور معــامل واضحــة عــى اســتقرار الســوق التونســية ،وشــيوع شــعور كبــر بــأن البــاد تســر بحــزم عــى مســار اإلصــاح والنهــوض االقتصــادي .وقالــت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي “أنــه مــن خــال تحقيــق االســتقرار وتحســن منــاخ االســتثار وإرصار املســؤولن يف تونــس عــى متابعــة النمــو االقتصــادي عــى املديــات البعيــدة ،يعطــي تونــس مســتقبل أكــر إرشاق ـاً”. وأكــدت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي عــى أن تونــس كانــت وال تـزال مصــدر جــذب للمزيــد مــن االهتــام مــن قبــل املســتثمرين األجانــب والــرشكات الربيطانيــة الســيا البحــث عــن الفــرص املتاحــة يف الســوق بعــد الترشيعــات الجديــدة التــي تبنتها وســتتبناها تونــس يف هــذا املجــال.
ومــن جانبــه ،تقــدم معــايل الســيد فيصــل قويعــة بشــكره وتقديــره الكبريــن عــى دعــوة الغرفــة لــه والوفــد املرافــق لهــذا االجتــاع ،وشــكر خاصــة الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي عــى كلمــة الصداقــة التــي افتتحــت بهــا االجتــاع واعتربهــا “رســالة جيــدة” عــن تونــس ،وتشــجيع واضــح للــرشكات رجــال األعــال للقــدوم إىل الفــرص الكبــرة التــي تطرحهــا تونــس الســيا الرشاكــة يف مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة وقطاعــات واســعة مــن االقتصــاد. وقــال معــايل الوزيــر “أنــا جئــت إىل لنــدن يف وقــت خــاص ومميــز الســيا يف أعقــاب إنتهــاء االنتخابــات األخــرة بنجــاح يف تونــس ،وحيــث ان تونــس تســعى حثيثـاً إىل كتابــة دســتورها الجديــد وتشــكيل حكومــة جديــدة بعــد ثــاث ســنوات من الحكومــات اإلنتقاليــة التــي تشــكلت بعد الثــورة”. وأشــار بأنــه يجلــب معــه يف هــذه الزيــارة أخبــار جيــدة عــن تونــس الســيا بشــأن الدســتور الجديــد التــي تعمــل تونــس عى تبنيــه ،وكذلك عــن األوضاع األمنيــة حيــث متيــل بدرجــة كبــرة إىل االســتقرار وعــدم حــدوث حــوادث أمنيــة كبــرة أو مخلــة باســقرار البلــد .وأكــد بــأن “تونــس تســعى إىل إقـرار دســتور جديــد يتميــز بالحداثــة واملدنيــة يضمــن حقــوق الجميــع الســيا الجوانــب االقتصاديــة ،كــا هــو متعــارف عليــه يف الــدول املتقدمــة”.
99
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
العــامل ،ومتتلــك قطــر ثالــث أكــرب احتياطيــات مــن الغــاز يف العــامل ،وقــد تضاعــف ســكان قطــر خــال الســنوات العــرش املاضيــة. كانــت املامــح الرئيســية لاقتصــاد النفــط والغــاز، واإلنفــاق عــى البنيــة التحتيــة واالســتثارات يف الخــارج. وفيــا يخــص العاقــات القطريــة الربيطانيــة فــإن قطــر تــ ّزود اململكــة املتحــدة بنســبة %20مــن احتياجاتهــا للغــاز ،يف حــن أن الصــادرات الربيطانية لقطــر قــد تضاعفــت خــال الســنوات الخمــس املاضيــة .ويف قطــر اآلن مجموعــة واســعة مــن الــرشكات الربيطانيــة العاملــة يف قطاعــات عديــدة، يف حــن أن قطــر تحتضــن 201رشكــة تعمــل خــارج مركــز قطــر للــال ،مــن ضمنهــا رشكات عامليــة وإقليميــة رائــدة. جانب من أعامل الورشة ()1
تــرأس هــذه الورشــة الســر ديفيــد ووتــون ،العمدة الســابق ملدينــة لنــدن ،الــذي قــدم املتحدثــن الضيــوف مــن دولــة قطــر وهــم :ســعادة الســيد أحمــد بــن محمــد الســيد ،الرئيــس التنفيــذي لهيئة قطــر لاســتثار ،وســعادة الســيد يوســف الجيــدة، نائــب الرئيــس التنفيــذي لهيئــة مركــز قطــر املــايل. أشــر يف هــذه الجلســة إىل حقائــق حــول وضــع قطــر االقتصــادي واســتثاراتها وعاقاتهــا مــع اململكــة املتحــدة .تعتمــد قطــر اعتــادا ً كبــرا ً عــى الســلع األساســية ولديهــا صنــدوق ســيادي للمســتقبل ،وتســتند محافــظ قطــر العامليــة عــى االســتثار وتتميــز بنشــاط فاعــل يف جميــع أنحــاء العــامل ،وإن النشــاط االســتثاري لقطــر يتــوزع بــن التمركــز العاملــي واإلقليمــي. وأوضــح ســعادة الســيد أحمــد بــن محمــد آلســيد أن هــذا النهــج العاملــي لهيئــة االســتثار القطريــة والعامليــة بــدأ ينشــط بشــكل جــدي يف عــام 2009 يف اســتثارات صناديــق الــروة الســيادية .وإن قطــر متتلــك أيضـاً صنــدوق املعاشــات التقاعديــة، والصنــدوق الســيادي إضافة إىل صندوق االســتقرار. وتــ ّم يف هــذه الجلســة رشح نشــاطات ووظائــف هيئــة االســتثار القطريــة بالتفصيــل ووصفــت “بأنهــا متتلــك خطــة طموحــة للنمــو واالســتثار
وخــربة واســعة يف معرفــة مخاطــر وربحيــة املشــاريع” .كــا تــم التطــرق إىل ذكــر بعــض الحقائــق الرئيســية عــن هيئــة االســتثار القطريــة: • تبلــغ اســتثارات قطــر الســنوية قيمــة 20 مليــار دوالر؛ • متتلــك قطــر أكــر مــن 300موظــف مبــا يف ذلــك املتخصصــن الدوليــن وموظفيهــا املحلين ( %37قطرين و %63دويل)؛ • لــدى قطــر محفظــة لــكل قــارة مــن قــارات العــامل؛ • لــدى قطــر مجموعــة مــن املحافــظ الكبــرة يف اململكــة املتحــدة والتــي تتضمــن ،عــى ســبيل املثــال :متجــر هارودز الشــهر ،نســبة مــن مطار هيــرو ،اســهم يف بنــك باركليــز ،واحتــال رشاء كنــاري وارف يف لنــدن ،إضافــة إىل اســتثارات يف كافــة القطاعــات مبــا يف ذلــك املشــاريع املشــركةوالــرشاكاتمــعالــرشاكاتالربيطانيــة. ووصــف ســعادة الســيد يوســف الجيــدة دور هيئــة مركــز قطــر املــايل ،بدايــة مــن تحديــد نقــاط القــوة يف اقتصــاد قطــر الــذي ميتلــك 14- 15ترليــون دوالر يف احتياطيــات الغــاز؛ ونســبة %12منــو يف الناتــج املحــي اإلجــايل الســنوي، وإن قطــر أكــرب مصــدر للغــاز الطبيعــي املســال يف
تأســس مركــز قطــر للــال يف عــام 2005بهــدف توفــر بيئــة جيــدة ومفيــدة للــرشكات ،وإنشــاء بيئــة جذابــة لألعــال التجاريــة يف قطــر .ويتلخــص دور مركــز قطــر للــال يف األيت-: • إصدار وترخيص الرشكات؛ • أبحاث؛ • إدارة البيئة الرضيبية؛ • املشورة بشأن إنشاء األعال التجارية. وبعــد اختتــام أوراق عمــل املتحدثــن فُتــح املجــال لتبــادل اآلراء واألســئلة. أختتــم املنتــدى أعالــه بحفــل غــداء وخالــه متكن الضيــوف مــن التواصــل وتبــادل وجهــات النظــر وتوطيــد العاقــات التجاريــة واالســتثارية.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
ســتبدأ املرحلــة الثانيــة التــي ستســتغرق 5ســنوات لغايــة عــام ،2022حينهــا ســتقام دورة نهايــات كأس العــامل ،وتخطــط قطــر الســتمرار الخطــة التنمويــة بأعــى مســتوياتها لغايــة تحقيــق رؤيتهــا اإلسـراتيجية الوطنيــة للتنميــة بحلــول عــام .2030 وقــال ســمو الشــيخ بــأن اكتشــاف حقــل الغــاز الشــايل يف قطــر عــام 1971كان قــد نقــل البــاد نقلــة نوعيــة حيــث تزايــدت حاجــة قطــر إىل االســتثارات يف مشــاريع إنتــاج الغــاز ،والغــاز املســال ،وغرهــا مــن الســلع والبضائــع يف ضمــن سلســلة إنتــاج الغــاز .وقــد تــم هــذا لقطــر حيــث أصبحــت اآلن ضمــن أكــرب املصدرين للغــاز يف العامل وهــي تســتثمر إيراداتهــا يف كثــر مــن قطاعــات االقتصــاد األخــرى وكذلــك خــارج قطــر. وأكــد ســمو الشــيخ بــأن قطــر تســعى إىل تنويــع قطــاع الهيدروكربونــات والطاقــة وذلــك بإدخــال أصناف ـاً جديــدة لخطــوط اإلنتــاج ،وأن التحديــات يف هــذا املجــال كبــرة وقطــر تســعى لبنــاء القــدرات البرشيــة وذلــك عــن طريــق تطويــر خرباتهــا الوطنيــة مــن الكفــاءات واألختصاصيــن واســتقبال الطبقــة العاملــة عاليــة التأهيــل .كــا تســعى قطــر إىل املشــاريع التــي تراعــي البيئــة عن طريــق اســتخدامات التكنولوجيــا الصديقــة للبيئــة، وتســعى قطــر لبنــاء رشاكات مــع رشكات بريطانيــة يف هــذا الخصــوص .كــا متتلــك قطــر رشاكــة إسـراتيجية عــن طريــق قطــر بروليــوم مــع رشكــة شــل الربيطانيــة لتطويــر الحقــل الشــايل للغــاز، ورشاكات أخــرى عديــدة مــع رشكات بريطانيــة يف مجــال الخدمــات لقطــاع الطاقــة واملرافقــة لــه .ويف ختــام ورقــة عملــه ،أكــد ســمو الشــيخ مشــعل بــن جــرب آل ثــاين بــأن “قطــر تطمــح للعمــل وتقويــة عاقتهــا مــع اململكــة املتحــدة يف داخــل قطــر وكذلــك العمــل عــى تقويــة نفــوذ الــرشكات الــرشكات الربيطانيــة داخــل دول مجلــس التعــاون الخليجــي ،كــا تطمــح أن تقابــل باملثــل مــن قبــل اململكــة املتحــدة بحيــث تلعــب األخــرة دورا ً فاعاً يف تقويــة نفــوذ قطر داخــل دول االتحــاد األورويب”. بعــد ذلــك تحــدث معــايل الدكتــور أحمــد املقرميــد املديــر التنفيــذي ملعهــد قطــر لبحــوث الحوســبة وتحليــل البيانــات التابــع ملؤسســة قطــر ،حيــث اســتهل ورقــة عملــه عــن مســاعي قطــر الجــادة لتطويــر قطــاع التعليــم والبحــوث الســيا البحــوث املتعلقــة بالتنميــة االقتصاديــة والبيئيــة ،حيــث
جانب من أعامل الورشة ()3
تســعى قطــر إىل تطويــر قطــاع التعليــم بــكل مراحلــه .وتحــدث عــن معهــد قطــر للبحــوث الذي يضــم خمســة أقســام رئيســية: • قطر ألبحاث العلوم التكنولوجيا • صندوق قطر الوطني للبحوث املعاهد: * معهد قطر للبيئة * معهد قطر للطب الحيوي * معهد قطر لتكنولوجيا املعلومات والحاسبات ويعتمــد معهــد قطــر للعلــوم والتكنولوجيــا عــى إيجــاد رشاكات مــع الــرشكات بشــكل مبــارش وهــو يرحــب باملســتثمرين .أمــا معهــد قطــر لتكنولوجيــا املعلومــات والحاســبات فهــو يشــجع أكل أنــواع البحــوث التنمويــة ومــن كل االختصاصــات ،وقــد عقــد املعهــد رشاكات عديــدة وعــدد مــن العقــود التــي أبرمتهــا رشكــة قطــر بروليــوم يف موقــع راس غــاز مــع رشكات يف اململكــة املتحــدة الســيا عقــد كبــر مــع رشكــة شــل ورشكات بريطانيــة أخــرى. وتحــدث الدكتــور أحمــد املقرميــد عن أنــواع الدعم واالســناد الــذي يقدمــه معهــد قطــر للبحــوث والتكنولوجيــا والتحديــات التــي يواجههــا يف مجــال األمــن الســيا عــى ثاثــة محــاور رئيســية” أمــن الطاقــة ،واألمــن املــايئ ،واألمــن املعلومايت (شــبكات
اإلنرنيــت وتكنولوجيــا املعلومــات) ،جنبـاً إىل جنب مــع التـزام العلــاء والباحثــن للعمــل معــا لصالــح قطــر وباقــي دول املنطقــة .وأردف قائـ ًا “أن أمــن الطاقــة يكمــن مــن خــال تشــجيع االبتــكارات التــي تختــص يف مجــال اســتغال مصــادر الطاقــة املتجــددة ،واألمــن املــايئ ،مــن خــال تشــجيع البحــث العلمــي يف مجــال تحليــة امليــاه ،واألمــن املعلومــايت مــن خــال تعزيــز إدارة أمــن املعلومات يف فضــاءا ً مفتوح ـاً إال أنــه محمــي بحصانــة”. ويف ختــام الجلســة فتــح بــاب النقــاش وتوجيــه األســئلة مــن قبــل منــدويب الــرشكات الحــارضة يف هــذه الورشــة .وكانــت هنــاك إضافــة مميــزة لهــذة الجلســة مــن قبــل منــدوب رشكــة شــل النفطيــة، وهــو أكــرب الــرشكات املســتثمرة يف قطــر ،حيــث قــال بــأن حالــة االســتقرار واألمــن ومنــاخ االســتثار الجــذاب يف قطــر هــو الــذي شــجع رشكــة شـ ّـل عى زيــادة اســثاراتها يف قطــر .فيــا أكــد املتحدثــون يف هــذه الجلســة عــى أن هنــاك تعاضــد وتكاتــف فيــا بــن الجامعــات القطريــة والقطــاع الصناعــي وذلــك لدراســة االحتياجــات عــن كثــب .كــا هناك تفاعــل كبــر بــن القطــاع الصناعــي والدراســات التأهيليــة للــكادر الوســطي ،وهنــا تلعــب املؤسســات الربيطانيــة التعليميــة دورا ً مه ـاً. الورشــة الثالثــة ( :)3صنــدوق االســتثارات الســيادية والفــرص االســتثارية
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 101
العطــاءات ،وذلــك مــن أجــل تســهيل العمليــة للــرشكات يف كيفيــة دراســة وتقديــم عــرض للعمل. وأضــاف أن العمليــة كلهــا شــفافة وإن العطــاءات مفتوحــة حيــث يتــم اإلعــان عنهــا ونرشهــا عــى املوقــع اإللكــروين لـــ “أشــغال” ،وتتمكــن الــرشكات العامليــة مــن التقــدم أليــة عطــاءات ألي مــرشوع تزيــد قيمتــه عــن 34مليــون دوالر .وذكــر أن الــرشكات الربيطانيــة تلعــب بالفعــل دورا ً رئيســياً يف تطويــر عــددا ً مــن هــذه املشــاريع الجديــدة، ولكنــه أعــرب عــن رأي مفــاده أنــه ال ت ـزال هنــاك فــرص كبــرة قابلــة للتوســع ويجــب النظــر لهــا ودراســتها مــن قبــل الــرشكات الربيطانيــة .واختتــم بالقــول “أن قطــر 2022تتيــح فرصـاً هائلــة وصورة جديــدة مــن أشــكال التعــاون عنــد األخــذ بهــذه املشــاريع الهامــة”. وقــدم العــرض األخــر مــن قبــل معــايل املهنــدس عبداللــه عبدالعزيــز الســبيعي ،املديــر التنفيــذي ورئيــس اللجنــة التنفيذيــة لرشكــة ســكك حديــد قطــر ،الــذي قــدم وصفــاً ملشــاريع الســكك الحديديــة الكــربى التــي تقــوم بهــا الرشكــة والتــي تهــدف مــن خــال تنفيذهــا إىل الوصــول إىل نقلــة نوعيــة يف الســكك الحديــدة يف قطــر ،وتجعلهــا الوســيلة املفضلــة للمســافرين .وقــال ان رشكــة ســكك حديــد قطــر تابعــة للقطــاع العــام وقــد تأسســت عــام ،2011وكُلفــت لتوفــر مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة لقطــاع الســكك الحديديــة الــذي هــو أحــد مكونــات رؤيــة قطــر لعــام .2030 وتهــدف قطــر إليجــاد خدمــة متكاملــة تجمــع بــن الســكك الحديديــة مــرو الدوحــة ،ونظــام شــبكة ســكك حديديــة لنقــل الــركاب والبضائــع ملســافات طويلــة.
ويهــدف للحــد مــن االختناقــات املروريــة عــى الطــرق ،وتوفــر بنيــة تحتيــة يعتمــد عليهــا طبق ـاً للمعايــر الدوليــة ،وإيجــاد وســيلة ســفر أرسع وأكــر كفــاءة .وقــال معــايل املهنــدس عبداللــه عبدالعزيــز الســبيعي أن هــذه املشــاريع من شــأنها أيضـاً أن متثــل مكاســب الكفــاءة االقتصاديــة واألثر البيئــي اإليجــايب .وأعلــن عــن تفاصيــل عقــود أخــرى كثــرة مــن املقــرر توقيعهــا قبــل نهايــة العــام الحــايل والفــرص الواســعة املقبلــة كجــزء مــن هــذا الربنامــج ،مبــا يف ذلــك مــواد البنــاء واللــوازم، ومحطــات الســكك الحديديــة ،واملقاولــن مــن الباطــن للتصميــم املعــاري ،ومعايــر الســامة من الحريــق ،واألثــاث ،واملناظــر الطبيعيــة واملرافــق العامــة. الورشــة الثانيــة ( :)2التحديــات يف قطــاع الطاقــة يف قطــر وفــرص املشــاريع املشــركة واالســتثارات والتعــاون يف مجــال البحــث والتطويــر واالبتــكار ابتــدأت هــذه الجلســة بــإدارة اللــورد جريــن وزيــر الدولــة الســابق للتجــارة واالســتثار ،وضمــت الجلســة متحدثــن أساســين وهم كل ســمو الشــيخ مشــعل بــن جــرب آل ثــاين ،مديــر سياســات الطاقــة والتعــاون الــدويل يف رشكــة قطــر للبــرول .ومعــايل الدكتــور أحمــد املقرميــد املديــر التنفيــذي ملعهــد قطــر لبحــوث الحوســبة وتحليــل البيانــات التابــع ملؤسســة قطــر.
وأضــاف أن مــرو الدوحــة ســيتألف مــن أربعــة خطــوط ونحــو 96محطة وســتصبح جاهــزة بحلول .2019ويشــمل خــط املســافات الطويلــة مــن 486 كلــم وتتضمــن 11محطــة ،وهــي املرحلــة األوىل مــن ضمــن مجمــوع خمــس مراحــل ( 5مراحــل) مــن املتوقــع أن تصبــح جاهــزة للعمــل بحلــول عام .2018وإن خطــوط الســكك الحديديــة الخفيفــة بطــول 35كلــم خدمــة مدينــة لوســيل الجديــدة وســوف تتكــون مــن 35محطــة .ومــن املقــرر أن يبــدأ تشــغيلها بحلــول عــام .2020 ويحقــق مــرشوع الســكك الحديديــة بعــض مــن مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة الازمــة لعــام ،2022
جانب من أعامل الورشة ()1
افتتــح اللــورد جريــن الجلســة الــذي رحــب فيهــا بالوفــد القطــري والحضــور ،وذكــر اللــورد جريــن باملوقــع اإلســراتيجي واألهميــة الكبــرة التــي تتبؤهــا قطــر مــن ناحيــة الطاقــة وإنتــاج الغــاز وكذلــك الغــاز املســال ،وأشــار إىل املشــاريع الكبــرة التــي تجــري بالرشاكــة مــع اململكــة املتحــدة .وقدم اللــورد جريــن ســمو الشــيخ مشــعل بــن جــرب آل ثــاين ،الــذي تقــدم بالشــكر الجزيــل للحضــور وذكــر مبكانــة قطــر املهمــة يف مجــال الطاقــة وتقــدم بعــرض مفصــل ألوراق عمــل عــن قطــاع ومشــاريع الطاقــة التــي تجــري يف دولــة قطــر .اســتهل حديثة مبقدمــة تاريخيــة عــن اقتصاديــات قطــر وإنتقالهــا مــن دولــة تعتمــد عــى تجــارة اللؤلــؤ والبحــر إىل دولــة مهمــة عامليــاً عندمــا حصلــت النقلــة اإلســراتيجية واكتشــاف الغــاز بكميــات تجاريــة هائلــة يف قطــر ،حيــث يعتــرب حقــل الغــاز الشــايل الحقــل األكــرب يف العــامل. وذكــر ســمو الشــيخ بــأن يف بدايــة النقلــة النوعيــة واكتشــاف الغــاز يف قطــر تبنــت قطــر نظــام الرشاكــة يف اإلنتــاج ،واليــوم تتطلع قطــر إىل تحقيق التنميــة االقتصاديــة الوطنيــة ألعــى مســتوياتها. وذكــر ســمو الشــيخ مشــعل بــن جــرب آل ثــاين بالحقبــات التــي مـ ّر بهــا االقتصــاد القطــري بشــكل عــام وقطــاع الطاقــة بشــكل خــاص مبراحــل التنمية التــي رســمت لهــا دولــة قطــر ابتــداءا ً باملرحلــة األوىل والتــي ســتتم بنهايــة عــام ،2016وبعــد ذلــك
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
الورشــة الثانيــة ( :)2التحديــات يف قطــاع الطاقــة يف قطــر ،وفــرص املشــاريع املشــركة ،واالســتثارات والتعــاون يف مجــال البحــث والتطويــر واالبتــكار الورشــة الثالثــة ( :)3صنــدوق االســتثار الســيادي والفــرص االســتثارية الورشــة األوىل ( :)1برنامــج االســتثار لعــام ،2022 كأس العــامل -التحديــات والفــرص املتاحــة للرشاكــة والتعــاون القطــري -الربيطــاين ابتــدأت هــذه الورشــة أعالهــا برئاســة الســر هيو روبرتســون وزيــر الدولــة الســابق للثقافــة واإلعــام والرياضــة ،ملناقشــة التحديــات التــي تواجــه تنفيــذ برامــج قطــر اســتعدادا لعــام ،2022والفــرص املتاحــة للتعــاون القطــري -الربيطــاين. وكان الســر هيو روبرتســون مســؤوالً عــن التخطيط ألوملبيــاد لنــدن عــام ،2012وهــو قــادرا ً عــى مشــاركة خربتــه يف برنامــج االســتثار يف قطــر لعــام ،2022مــع الــرشكاء القطريــن الذيــن رشعــوا يف اإلعــداد والتحضــر لهــذا الحــدث الريــايض الــدويل املرمــوق .وخــص بالذكــر مشــاريع بنــاء كبــرة، والكثــر مــن التفاصيــل اللوجســتية ،والحاجــة لتربير اإلنفــاق العــام يف بنــاء بنيــة تحتيــة دامئة بعــد إنتهاء مونديــال كاس العــامل عــام .2022وقــال الســر هيــو روبرتســون “أن أوملبيــاد لنــدن 2012قــد أحــرزت نجاح ـاً هائ ـاً ،وال يوجــد عنــدي أدىن شــك مــن أن كأس العــامل قطــر 2022ســتكون هــي األخــرى حدثـاً عظي ـاً مــن شــأنه أن يفتــح آفاقــا جديــدة”. وبعــد ذلــك ألقــى ســعادة حســن الــذوادي ،األمــن العــام للجنــة العليــا املنظمــة للمشــاريع واإلرث الــرايث يف قطــر ،عرضــاً عــن برنامــج قطــر عــام .2022وذكــر أن عــام 2012وتجربــة لنــدن مــع األملبيــاد أصبحــت مصــدر إلهــام لرؤيــة قطــر كأس العــامل عــام ،2022كــا أنهــا “متثــل لنــا إسـراتيجية ممكــن إتباعهــا والســر عــى خطاهــا” .وقــال أن “قطــر اآلن تبحــث عــن رشاكات مــن أجــل تنفيــذ وإنجــاز أهــداف هــذه اإلسـراتيجية” .وتعليقـاً عى دور اململكــة املتحــدة ،قــال الســيد الــذوادي “أن بريطانيــا هــي الدولــة التــي أدخلــت كــرة القــدم ألول مــرة يف البــاد”. وأضــاف أن “قطــر ومنــذ فــرة طويلــة تعمــل مــع نخبــة مــن املســتثمرين يف اململكــة املتحــدة يف
جانب من أعامل الورشة ()2
العديــد مــن القطاعــات االقتصاديــة ،ونتطلــع اآلن لتطويــر صناعــة قطــاع الرياضــة ،الســيا وإن قطاع الرياضــة قــد جلــب فرصــاً هائلــة للمســتثمرين ولاقتصــاد” .كــا تحــدث ســعادة حســن الــذوادي عــن موضــوع معايــر الســامة يف مواقــع البنــاء، وأوضــح أن الســلطات القطريــة بــدأت منــذ عــام 2010بأخــذ هــذا املوضــوع بكثــر مــن الجديــة.
يف الفنــادق واملاعــب وســاحات التدريــب .وذكــر أن هنــاك 32مشــاريع كــربى يف إطــار برنامــج الطــرق الرسيعــة تصــل إىل 52عقــدا ً .وأضــاف بــأن قطــر تــم تقســيمها إىل خمســة أقاليــم منفصلــة لتنفيــذ مشــاريع الطــرق والــرف الصحــي التــي وصلــت يف املجمــوع إىل أكــر مــن 200مرشوع ـاً. ويغطــي “برنامــج ”IDRISمرافــق الــرف الصحــي الجديــدة الواســعة ،ويعطــي هــذا العديــد مــن الفــرص املتاحــة لاستشــارين واملقاولــن مــن الباطــن .ويركــز برنامــج البنــاء ،ويف الوقــت نفســه، عــى مشــاريع املوانــئ الصحــة والتعليــم ومرافــق رياضيــة.
ســعادة املهنــدس نــارص عــي املولــوي ،رئيــس هيئــة األشــغال العامــة (أشــغال) ،ركــزت أوراق العمــل التــي قدمهــا يف املنتــدى عــى ميزانيــة 2014/15التــي خصــص فيهــا قســم كبــر عــى اإلنفــاق عــى مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة التــي تخــص مونديــل كأس العــامل ،2022وهــي امليزانيــة األكــرب يف تاريــخ قطــر .وأوضــح أن دور “أشــغال” يتألــف مــن فق ـرات مهمــة ،وإن قطــر تســعى إىل االســتعانة مبصــادر خارجيــة لتصميــم واإلرشاف عــى املشــاريع ،وينبغــي أن يعتــرب حاف ـزا للتنميــة االقتصاديــة وحاف ـزا لتنفيــذ برنامــج الرؤيــة .2030
ويعتــرب قطــاع الرعايــة الصحيــة أحــد القطاعــات الرئيســية التــي تعــن وضعها يف الرؤية اإلسـراتيجية لقطــر عــام 2030وذلــك بهــدف تحســن الصحــة العامــة .ونتيجــة لذلــك ،تــم إصــدار عطــاءات كبرة يف قطــر الســيا تصميــم مستشــفيات جديــدة ومراكــز صحيــة .كــا أبــرز رئيــس “أشــغال” أيض ـاً فرصــاً كبــرة ملــوردي املعــدات ومــواد البنــاء وغرهــا.
وقــال إن الهــدف هــو تطبيــق أفضــل املارســات الدوليــة مــن أجــل ســامة جميــع األفـراد يف جميــع القطاعــات املختلفــة ،ويتــم ذلــك بالتشــاور الوثيــق مــع رشكات املقــاوالت.
وأوجــز املراحــل الحاليــة ملشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة الرئيســية ،مبــا يف ذلــك املوانــئ والطــرق واإلقامــة
وباالنتقــال إىل قطــاع التعليــم ،أوضــح ســعادة املهنــدس نــارص عــي املولــوي أن العديــد مــن املــدارس وريــاض األطفــال الجديــدة قــد تــم تصميمهــا مــن قبــل رشكــة بريطانيــة .وأوجــز معايل املهنــدس املولــوي كيفيــة عمــل دراســة ورشاء
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 103
يف قطــر ،وســوف تقــدم غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة كل الدعــم واملســاعدة. وقالــت البارونــة “أن قطــر بلــد يتطــور بوتائــر رسيعــة ويحقــق نتائــج طيبــة جــدا ً الســيا فيــا يتعلــق بتعليــم النســاء مــن املراحــل االبتدائيــة وصــوالً إىل املرحلــة الجامعيــة ومــا بعدهــا”. وأضافــت بــأن قطــر بلــد يرحــب بالتكنولوجيــا الحديثــة ويبــدي اهتامــا كبـرا ً يف مجــال اإلبتــكار واســتخدامات الطاقــة املتجــددة ،وإن “قطــر متتلك رؤيــة إســراتيجية طموحــة للمســتقبل”.
البارونة سيمونز ،رئيس غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية
إىل اململكــة املتحــدة لتصــل إىل 4.5مليــار دوالر يف عــام ،2012تصدرهــا الغــاز القطــري .وقــال بــأن لهــذه األســباب كلهــا “تعتــرب قطــر أن اململكــة املتحــدة رشيــك مهــم للغايــة” .وذكــر بــأن رشاكــة قطــر مــع رشكــة ســرينجر الربيطانيــة قــد تجــاوز 7مليــارات دوالر لتطويــر حقــول الغــاز القطريــة واإلنتــاج والتصديــر ،وإن حجــم الدخل املســتحصل مــن الــرشكات اإلستشــارية الربيطانيــة تتجــاوز 500 مليــون دوالر ســنوياً ،لصالــح تلــك الــرشكات ،وذكــر بــأن لنــدن تعتــرب مركـزا ً ماليـاً عاملــي املكانــة ،وإن قطــر تحــرص عــى االســتفادة مــن هــذا املركــز املــايل العاملــي وخرباتــه الهائلــة. وفيــا يخــص جاذبيــة قطر للــرشكات واملســتثمرين األجانــب ،ذكــر ســمو الشــيخ أحمــد آل ثــاين بــأن قطــر تنعــم بحالــة فائقــة مــن االســتقرار واألمــن، ومــن الناحيــة الرضيبيــة يعتــرب منــاخ قطــر االســتثاري ذا مغــزى عاملــي الســيا يف دعــم املســتثمرين املحليــن والدوليــن .وقــال بــأن “قطــر متتلــك اآلن مركــزا ً عامليــاً مــن ناحيــة جاذبيتهــا االســتثارية ،وهــذا يجــري أيضــاً عــى متيزهــا اإلقليمــي والعاملــي مــن ناحيــة الشــفافية” .ودعــا معــايل الوزيــر الــرشكات ورجــال األعــال واألف ـراد إىل زيــارة قطــر واإلطــاع عــن كثــب عــن الحيــاة والفــرص فيهــا. وذكــر اللــورد اســتور هيفــر ،وكيــل وزارة الخارجيــة واملتحــدث باســم مجلــس اللــوردات عــى الدفــاع
يف اململكــة املتحــدة ،يف خطابــه أمــام املؤمتــر ،بأنــه يرحــب بلقــاء الوفــد القطــري ويشــكرهم إلعطــاء وقتهــم وطاقتهــم لزيــارة لنــدن .وقــال ان تعزيــز الروابــط التجاريــة بــن اململكــة املتحــدة وقطــر تعتــرب ذات أولويــة عامليــة ،وأعــرب عــن تقديــره للعاقــات التاريخيــة التــي تربــط البلديــن والتــي ووصفهــا بـــعاقات “صداقيــة طويلــة األمــد تتوجها االســتثارات القطريــة الكبرة يف اململكــة املتحدة”. وقــال بــأن اململكــة املتحــدة تقــف مــع قطــر مــن أجــل تحقيــق رؤيتهــا اإلســراتيجية بحلــول عــام ،2030وذلــك مــن خــال رشاكــة اقتصاديــة يف مشــاريع التجــارة واالســتثار مــن الطرفــن .وأكــد بــأن مؤسســات كبــرة يف بريطانيــا تقــف مــن أجــل تقديــم الدعــم للــرشكات ورجــال األعــال اللذيــن يرغبــون بالتعــرف عــى الســوق القطريــة، وخصوصــاً غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة وكذلــك هيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة. البارونــة ســيمونز ،رئيــس مجلــس إدارة غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة هــي املتحــدث الثالث يف الجلســة االفتتاحيــة للمنتــدى ،والتــي اســتهلت كلمتهــا بالرحيــب بالوفــد القطــري وأكــدت عــى عمــق العاقــات التاريخيــة بــن اململكــة املتحــدة ودولــة قطــر ،والتــي تــزداد أهميتهــا بازديــاد حجــم االســتثارات بــن البلديــن ،وأكــدت بــأن غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة ترحــب بــأي رشكــة ترغــب بالعمــل ودراســة الفــرص املوجــودة
تلــت ذلــك كلمــة ســمو الشــيخ خليفــة بــن جاســم بــن محمــد آل ثــاين ،رئيــس مجلــس إدارة غرفــة قطــر للتجــارة والصناعــة ،مبينــاً فحــوى الزيــارة للوفــد القطــري عــى هامــش زيــارة ســمو األمــر متيــم بــن حمــد آل ثــاين إىل اململكــة املتحــدة، واســتهل كلمتــه بالرحيــب والشــكر ملنظمــي املنتــدى ،وذكّــر بأصالــة العاقــات القطريــة مــع اململكــة املتحــدة والتــي كانــت مزدهــرة ومتناميــة وإن قطــر ترنــوا إىل املزيــد مــن التطــور يف هــذه العاقــات بظــل “القيــادة الحكيمــة للبلديــن”، وذكّــر الشــيخ خليفــة بــن جاســم بــن محمــد آل ثــاين بحجــم التبــادل التجــاري املتزايــد ،وأشــار بشــكل خــاص إىل الرشاكــة التــي تربــط قطــر مــع رشكــة شـ ّـل مــن حيــث االســتثارات والعمــق اإلســراتيجي .وأشــار إىل أنــه وبغــض النظــر عــن االســتثارات الكبــرة التــي تقــوم بهــا هيئــة االســتثار القطريــة والحكومــة القطريــة يف اململكة املتحــدة ،فــإن “هنــاك املليــارات مــن الــدوالرات تضــ ّخ مــن القطــاع الخــاص القطــري يف اقتصــاد اململكــة املتحــدة -معظمهــا يف مجــال العقــارات والســياحة” .وعــن املنتــدى قــال الشــيخ خليفــة بــن جاســم بــن محمــد آل ثــاين بأنــه فرصــة ممتازة للــرشكات التــي ترغــب يف االســتثار يف قطر الســيا وإن قطــر لديهــا فــرص هائلــة لاســتثار يف قطــاع الســياحة والتعليــم والبنيــة التحتيــة. وبعــد اختتــام الجلســة االفتتاحيــة تفــرق الحضــور والضيــوف إىل ثــاث ورش عمــل تضمنــت املواضيع التالية: الورشــة األوىل ( :)1برنامــج االســتثار لعــام ،2022 كأس العــامل -التحديــات والفــرص املتاحــة للرشاكــة والتعــاون القطــري -الربيطــاين
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
سمو الشيخ أحمد بن جاسم بن محمد آل ثاين ،وزير االقتصاد والتجارة يف دولة قطر
متتلــك قطــر إمكانــات كبــرة تقدمهــا للــرشكات املحليــة واألجنبيــة عــرب مجموعــة واســعة مــن القطاعــات .ووصــف العاقــة بــن اململكــة املتحــدة ودولــة قطــر بأنهــا “املنفعــة املتبادلــة” ،وقــال إن العاقــات التجاريــة بــن الطرفــن “تســر يف االتجــاه الصحيــح” .وأشــار إىل أن 79رشكــة بريطانيــة تعمل بالكامــل يف قطــر ،وإن الرضائــب وامللكيــة يف قطــر ميــرسة .وأكــد معــايل الوزيــر أن قطــر تســعى بــكل جهودهــا لتنويــع اقتصادياتهــا باالبتعــاد عــن قطــاع الطاقــة حيــث تعتمــد قطــر رؤيــة إســراتيجية تنــوي تحقيقهــا بحلــول عــام ،2030 تعتمــد هــذه الرؤيــة خطــة مــن أربعــة محــاور مهمــة :التنميــة االقتصاديــة؛ والتنميــة البرشيــة؛ والتنميــة االجتاعيــة؛ والتنميــة البيئيــة .وإن هــذه الخطــة ســتطرح مئــات املشــاريع التــي تخــص االســتثار األجنبــي يف مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة، وقطــاع الرعايــة الصحيــة ،وقطــاع التعليــم وغرهــا مــن القطاعــات االقتصاديــة األخــرى ،ســتكون “مفتوحــة لاســتثار األجنبــي” ،وســتحرر هــذه املشــاريع فــرص عمــل ألعــداد كبــرة مــن األيــادي العاملــة واالختصاصيــن ،ووصفهــا الوزيــر “بالفرص املفتوحــة”. ويف مجــال إنتــاج الطاقــة ،أكــد معــايل الوزيــر بــأن قطــر متتلــك احتياطــي كبــر مــن الغــاز وهــي ثالث أكــرب مصــدر للغــاز الطبيعــي بالعــامل بعــد روســيا وإيــران ،وتبلــغ احتياطيــات الغــاز يف قطــر نحــو
%14.4مــن احتياطــي الغــاز الطبيعــي املكتشــف يف العــامل ،وان إنتــاج الغــاز الطبيعــي يف قطــر ارتفع بنســبة %17.9أي نحــو 5.8مليــار قــدم مكعــب، وقــد ارتفــع الناتــج املحــي مــن الغــاز القطــري يف العــام املــايض لوحــده بنســبة ،%11.9وحصلــت قطــر عــى دخــل تجــاوز 200مليــار دوالر ســنوياً. ويعتــرب دخــل قطــر مــن إنتــاج وتصديــر الغــاز األعــى يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط ويســاهم حقــل غــاز الشــال الــذي اكتشــف يف عــام 1971مبعظــم اإلنتــاج القطــري للغــاز ،مــا يجعلــه أكــرب حقــل للغــاز الحــ ّر يف العــامل بإنتــاج يتجــاوز %20مــن اإلنتــاح العاملــي للغــاز .ويبلــغ احتياطــي الغــاز يف قطــر نحــو 900ترليــون قــدم مكعــب ،وهــو ثالــث أكــرب احتياطــي مــن إجــايل االحتياطــي العاملــي. وشــدد معــايل الوزيــر يف كلمتــه أيض ـاً عــى النمــو املتزايــد الــذي يشــهده قطاع الســلع واألنشــطة غر النفطيــة حيــث بلغــت نســبة النمــو يف القطاعــات غــر النفطيــة يف قطــر %46مــن الناتــج املحــي اإلجــايل لدولــة قطــر يف عــام ،2013وقــال بــأن “قطــر تنــوي االســتمرار بهــذا النــوع مــن التنميــة وبهــذا اآلتجــاه” .وربــط ســمو الشــيخ أحمــد آل ثــاين بــن التنميــة التــي تشــهدها القطاعــات التــي ال تتعلــق بقطــاع الطاقــة يف قطــر باملشــاريع العماقــة التــي تقيمهــا قطــر لاســتعداد لنهائيــات كأس العــامل يف قطــر عــام ،2022وقــال “إنــه يتوقــع أن يحقــق هــذا الحــدث نجاحــاً باهــرا ً” .وأشــار
اللورد استور هيفر ،وكيل وزارة الخارجية واملتحدث باسم مجلس اللوردات عىل الدفاع يف اململكة املتحدة
بــأن الرؤيــة اإلســراتيجية لقطــر 2030تتحقــق مــن خــال مشــاريع تقــام حال ًيــا عــى أرض الواقــع بحجــم 200مليــار دوالر ،وهــي مشــاريع رشاكــة واســتثار ،وإن أكــر مــن 45مليــار دوالر قــد خصــص لبنــاء املدينــة الرياضيــة لوحدهــا .كــا قــد خصــص مبلــغ 7.4مليــار دوالر لبنــاء مينــاء الدوحة وعــى أعــى املســتويات واملعايــر العامليــة ،كــا تخطــط قطــر ملــرشوع وطنــي للســكك الحديــدة تبلــغ قيمتــه نحــو 25مليــار دوالر ،إضافــة مــا تشــهده قطــر مــن إنجــازات الســيا مطــار حمــد الــدويل الــذي تــم تشــغيله مؤخ ـرا ً. وأضــاف ســمو الشــيخ وزيــر االقتصــاد والتجــارة القطــري بــأن قطــر تســتقبل كل عــام اعــداد متزايــدة مــن الســياح مــن دول عديــدة ،وتتزايــد أعــداد الوفــود والــرشكات التــي ترغــب بفــرص األعــال التــي تطرحهــا قطــر الســيا وإن قطــر “متتلــك إس ـراتيجية ال مثيــل لهــا ملصلحــة رجــال األعــال والــرشكات األجنبيــة” .ويف هــذا الخصــوص ذكــر معــايل الوزيــر بالعاقــات مــع اململكــة املتحــدة واملصالــح املشــركة الســيا تجــارة الغــاز واالســتثارات القطريــة يف بريطانيــا .فقــد بلــغ حجــم التبــادل التجــاري بــن اململكــة املتحــدة يف العــام 2013أكــر مــن 5.2مليــار دوالر ،وتجــاوز حجــم االســتثارات القطريــة يف اململكــة املتحــدة 30مليــار دوالر ،لغايــة ،2013وتســعى قطــر لزيادتهــا ،وارتفعــت حجــم الصــادرات مــن قطــر
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 105
املنتدى االقتصادي القطري الربيطاين – لندن 2014 BRITISH - QATAR ECONOMIC FORUM - LONDON 2014 نظمــت غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة املنتدى االقتصــادي القطــري الربيطــاين يف العاصمــة الربيطانيــة لنــدن ،يف 29مــن شــهر أكتوبــر يف فنــدق هيلتــون بــارك لــن ،وذلــك بحضــور رفيــع املســتوى مــن الجانبــن القطــري /العــريب والربيطــاين ،وشــهد املنتــدى عروضــاً مميــزة مــن الطرفــن ،وجــرت أعــال املنتــدى برعايــة كل مــن غرفــة قطــر للتجــارة والصناعــة ،وغرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة وهيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة (.)UKTI أفتتحــت أعــال املنتــدى بكلمــة ترحيــب وتعريف بأعــال املنتــدى الــذي أقيــم عــى هامــش زيــارة ســمو األمــر متيــم بــن حمــد آل ثــاين للعاصمــة الربيطانيــة – لنــدن. تضمنــت الجلســة االفتتاحيــة للمنتــدى كلــات مميــزة لضيــوف مميزيــن اســتهلتها كلمــة ســمو الشــيخ أحمــد بــن جاســم بــن محمــد آل ثــاين، وزيــر االقتصــاد والتجــارة يف دولــة قطــر .اســتهل ســمو الشــيخ أحمــد كلمتــه باإلشــادة العاليــة بالعاقــات التــي تربــط بريطانيــا ودولــة قطــر، والتــي وصفهــا بالعاقــات اإلســراتيجية وترجــع جذورهــا إىل القــرن التاســع عــرش ،عندمــا كانــت قطــر تعتمــد عــى تجــارة اللؤلــؤ ،إىل أن تــم تتويــج هــذه العاقــات ألعــى مســتوياتها ،منــذ اكتشــاف ثــروة الغــاز والنفــط يف دولــة قطــر يف النصــف الثــاين مــن القــرن العرشيــن ،حينهــا توجــت هــذه العاقــات التاريخيــة باســتثارات كبــرة مــن قبــل الطرفــن وارتفــاع حجــم التبــادل التجــاري أيضــاً،
والتــي دعمــت آوارص الصداقــة والعاقــات بــن الدولتــن .ووصــف الشــيخ أحمــد بــن جاســم بــن محمــد آل ثــاين العاقــة بــن اململكــة املتحــدة ودولــة قطــر بأنهــا عاقــة “املنفعــة املتبادلــة”، وقــال إن العاقــات التجاريــة كانــت وال زالــت “تســر يف االتجــاه الصحيــح” .وأشــار إىل أن قطــر تحتضــن أكــر مــن 79رشكــة بريطانيــة تعمــل يف قطــر ،وهــذا مــا يؤكــد جاذبيــة قطــر ومناخهــا االســتثاري مــن حيــث امتيــازات تتعلــق بالرضائب وامللكيــة والــرشوط امليــرسة التــي تعرضهــا قطــر للمســتثمرين األجانــب.
حــدث يف قطــر وبشــكل ملفــت لانتبــاه حيــث تعتــرب قطــر أحــد الــدول الصاعــدة يف مجــال الرفاهيــة وارتفــاع دخــل الفــرد فيهــا ،إضافــة إىل تزايــد جاذبيتهــا للمســتثمرين والــرشكات األجنبيــة” .وقــال ســعادة الشــيخ أحمــد بن جاســم بــن محمــد آل ثــاين يف كلمتــه أن “قطــر متتلــك ثــروة مــن فــرص االســتثار األجنبــي مبــا يف ذلــك مشــاريع عماقــة تتعلــق باحتضــان قطــر لــدورة كأس العــامل لعــام ،2022إضافــة إىل مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة منهــا مشــاريع الطــرق والســكك الحديدية الرئيســية”.
وقــال معــايل الوزيــر “أن التجــارة الدوليــة تلعــب دورا ً مهـاً يف حيــاة ورفاهيــة الشــعوب .وهــذا مــا
وأكــد أيض ـاً أنــه مــع التنويــع االقتصــادي يف دولــة قطــر بعيــدا ً عــن قطــاع النفــط والغــاز ،حيــث
اللورد جرين وزير الدولة السابق للتجارة واالستثامر ،وسمو الشيخ مشعل بن جرب آل ثاين ،مدير سياسات الطاقة والتعاون الدويل يف رشكة قطر للبرتول (الورشة )2
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
الخدمــات اللوجســتية .تنــاول املتحدثــون يف هــذه الجلســة واقــع الخدمــات اللوجســتية التــي يقدمهــا األردن الســيا يف املناطــق الصناعيــة ومنطقــة العقبــة ،وكذلــك التطــور الكبــر الــذي يشــهده قطــاع الخدمــات املعلوماتيــة وتكنولوجيــا املعلومــات الرقميــة الحديثــة حيــث أصبــح األردن واحــة متخصصــة يف هــذا النــوع مــن الخدمــات الحديثــة ،ولديــه نخبــة مــن املتخصصــن يف هــذا القطــاع ،وأكــدوا عــى أهميــة االســتثار يف قطــاع الخدمــات اللوجســتية األردنيــة ملــا لهــا مــن اهمية إقليميــة. تناولــت الجلســة الختاميــة موضــوع التكنولوجيــا والخدمــات اللوجســتية ،برئاســة الســيد أوليفــر كورنــوك ( ،)Oliver Cornockمحــرر الــرشق األوســط يف مجموعــة أكســفورد لألعــال ،وجمعت مجموعــة مــن الخــرباء مــن األردن واملغــرب واململكــة املتحــدة .كان املوضــوع الرئيــي للنقــاش القــوة التحويليــة للتكنولوجيــا يف مجــال األعــال التجاريــة واإلمكانــات غــر املســتغلة يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط .ذكــر الســيد أوليفــر كورنــوك إن “التكنولوجيــا متــأل كل جانــب مــن جوانــب الحيــاة اليــوم وببســاطة ال ميكــن تجاهلهــا” ،وقــال أن النــاس يف جميــع اصقــاع األرض مرابطــن رغــم املســافات ســواء كانــوا يف أوروبــا ،أو يف الــرشق األوســط أو يف الهنــد أو يف أفريقيــا ،تربطهــم التكنولوجيــا مث ـاً فيديكــس وغرهــا مــن رشكات تكنولوجيــا املعلومــات واالتصــاالت وشــبكات اإلنرنــت وغرهــا. وقــال الســيد عــادل الشــيخي ،مــن الوكالــة املغربيــة لتنميــة اإلســتثارات ( ،)AMDIأن اســتخدامات التكنولوجيــا الحديثــة التقــل أهميــة مــن تشــجيع االســتثار ،فهــا يسـران مــن منحــى واحــد الســيا يف املغــرب ،مشــرا ً إىل أن اعتــاد الخدمــات اللوجســتية الحديثــة كانــت مفتــاح النجــاح يف املغــرب .وكان تعزيــز التكامــل يف البــاد وتحســن قدرتهــا عــى املنافســة مــن أجــل جــذب اســتثارات جديــدة .وأعطــى مثــال عــى مرفــق ضخــم يف املغــرب وهــو مينــاء طنجــة املتوســطي، كمثــال عــى نجــاح املغــرب مــع اعتــاد تكنولوجيا املعلومــات واالتصــاالت الحديثــة ،لكنــه شــدد أيضاً عــى أن املغــرب يهــدف إىل تحســن البنيــة التحتية وتحديثهــا يف كل منطقــة مــن مناطــق البــاد. وناقــش الســيد محمــد طهبــوب ،عضــو مجلــس
السيد عيىس مراد ،رئيس غرفة تجارة عامن ،والسيدة كورنيليا ماير ،رئيس مجلس اإلدارة والرئيس التنفيذي لرشكة ( ،)MRLالبارونة موريس بولتون والليدي باربرا يف جلسة الطاقة املستدامة
إدارة غرفــة تجــارة األردن موضــوع االســتثار يف تكنولوجيــا املعلومــات واالتصــاالت يف األردن وإنجازاتهــا عــى مــدى العقــد املــايض .وقــال “ان صناعــة الربمجيــات كانــت مجــاالً رئيســياً للنمــو، وإن منتجــات األردن يف هــذا املضــار اآلن يتــم تصديرهــا إىل أســواق عديــدة مثــل دول الخليــج والواليــات املتحــدة واململكــة املتحــدة” .وقــال الســيد طهبــوب “أن األردن أصبــح اآلن مركـزا ً مهـاً لتكنولوجيــا املعلومــات يف املنطقــة”. ويف ختــام أعــال املنتــدى ،قدمــت غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة متمثلــة برئيــس الغرفــة البارونــة ســيمونز واألمن العــام والرئيــس التنفيذي الدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي شــكرها وتقديرهــا لــكل الوفــود التــي حــرضت املؤمتــر وكذلــك منــدويب تــرشف الــرشكات والشــخصيات الرســمية التــي ّ بهــا املنتــدى ،ودعــي الحضــور إىل االســتفادة مــن الفــرص الهائلــة التــي تزخــر بهــا املنطقــة العربيــة خاصــة اململكــة األردنيــة الهاشــمية ،وتــم التأكيــد عــى تواصــل غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة يف دعمهــا وتشــجيعها للــرشكات واملســتثمرين من كا الطرفــن .كــا دعــا الســيد الكباريتــي الحضــور إىل زيــارة األردن للســياحة والعمــل. حــرض املنتــدى أكــر 350مــن الشــخصيات املرموقــة ،ضمــت عــددا ً مــن الشــخصيات الرســمية
والــوزراء وأعضــاء الســلك الدبلومــايس ،وعــددا ً مــن منــدويب الــرشكات العربيــة والربيطانيــة ،ونخــب مــن املســتثمرين ورجــال األعــال مــن الجانبــن العــريب والربيطــاين. أقيــم يف أعقــاب إنتهــاء أعــال املنتــدى حفــل عشــاء فاخــر يف فنــدق ميلينيــوم – لنــدن حــرضه نخبــة مرموقــة مــن الشــخصيات واملدعويــن.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 107
امليــاه الــذي تعانيــة اململكــة والــذي يعتــرب عائق ـاً كبـرا ً يف العمليــات النوويــة .كــا تنــاول املتحدثــون مشــاريع الطاقــة مثــل م ـ ّد أنابيــب النفــط التــي تأخــذ مســارها اآلن فيــا بــن العــراق واألردن الســيا مــرشوع مـ ّد أنابيــب نقــل النفــط العراقــي مــن خــال مينــاء العقبــة.
أحدى جلسات املنتدى
املاليــة اإلســامية ،والتــي تعتــرب اململكــة املتحدة يف وضــع جيــد لاســتفادة مــن الفــرص الجديــدة التــي يفتحهــا هــذا النــوع مــن االســتثار .واستشــهد الســيد خــان باألنشــطة الخريــة باعتبارهــا منطقــة مهمــة يف التمويــل اإلســامي ،وذكر أنــه كان له دور أســايس يف تثقيــف الشــباب حــول إدارة املدخـرات وريــادة األعــال .ودار نقــاش قــوي حــول حاجــة البنــوك إىل إعــادة الركيــز عــى خدمــة املجتمعــات بــدالً مــن مجــرد النظــر إىل األســواق واألربــاح. وذكــر ان منطقــة الــرشق األوســط تســر يف التوســع يف التمويــل اإلســامي مــن خــال الطلــب مــن العمــاء إلدارة األصــول ذات املغــازي األخاقيــة ،ويف هــذا الصــدد ينمــو دور النســاء بشــكل ملحــوظ وعــى نحــو متزايــد. وركــزت الجلســة الثالثــة مــن املنتــدى عــى موضــوع “الطاقــة املســتدامة” حيــث قدمــت أوراق عمــل حــول اآلفــاق الجديــدة يف التنميــة املســتدامة ملــوارد الطاقــة غــر التقليديــة .وتناولت أوراق عمــل املتحدثــون يف هــذه الجلســة أهميــة تطويــر مشــاريع الطاقــة البديلــة املتجــددة مبــا يف ذلــك الطاقــة النوويــة والطاقــة البديلــة الجديــدة املولــدة مــن الريــاح والطاقــة الشمســية. وتناولــت الجلســة الثالثــة موضــوع الطاقــة املســتدامة ،أدارتهــا الســيدة كورنيليــا مايــر ،رئيــس مجلــس اإلدارة والرئيــس التنفيذي لرشكــة (،)MRL
وضمــت هــذه الجلســة خــرباء مــن بريطانيــا واألردن للنظــر يف الخيــارات املتاحــة لتوســيع نطاق الخيــارات املســتقبلية يف مجــال الطاقــة وتأثرهــا عــى البيئــة. وقــال مبعــوث رئيــس الــوزراء للتجــارة يف األردن والكويــت وفلســطن ،البارونــة موريــس بولتــون، بــأن “وظيفتهــا كمبعــوث التجــارة يف هــذه املنطقــة مبثابــة مــورد اســتفادة لــكل ســكان هــذه املناطــق” .وأضافــت أن كا مــن اململكــة املتحــدة واألردن قــد توصــا إىل حلــول مبتكــرة يف مجــال الطاقــة املســتدامة كوســيلة هامــة لزيــادة التجــارة واالســتثار .واســتدركت بــأن “إمــدادات الطاقــة تعتــرب مســألة حيويــة وهــي تتعلــق بالســلم واالســتقرار” ،مشــرة إىل معانــاة أهــل غــزة كمثــال عــى الحاجــة امللحــة لهــذه القضايــا. وأكــدوا املتحدثــون عــى أهميــة الطاقــة البديلــة لــألردن ذلــك إلفتقــار هــذا البلــد ملصــادر النفــط والغــاز الطبيعــي بشــكل عــام .ودار الحديــث عــى مــا يشــهده العــامل مــن تزايــد يف عــدد املفاعــات النوويــة ،حيــث متتلــك بعــض الــدول العربية بعض منهــا الســيا دولــة اإلمــارات العربيــة املتحــدة. وتنــاول املتحدثــون عــى أن األردن مؤهــل جــدا ً إلنشــاء مشــاريع توليــد الطاقــة من خال اســتغال الطاقــة الشمســية والريــاح بــدالً عــن إنشــاء مفاعــات نوويــة وذلــك بســبب النقــص الحــاد يف
وتناولــت الســيدة باربــرا جــاج (Lady Barbara ،)Judgeالرئيــس الفخــري لهيئــة الطاقــة الذريــة الربيطانيــة وســفرة هيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار، أهميــة الطاقــة النوويــة لــدول املنطقــة مثــل اإلمــارات العربيــة املتحــدة كجــزء مــن ‘’ باقــة مــن حلــول ملوضــوع الطاقــة “ .وقالــت الســيدة بارب ـرا “أن تحقيــق أمــن الطاقــة وضــان اإلمــدادات تشــكل موضــوع قلــق كبــر ،ولهــذا تعتــرب الطاقــة النووريــة احــد ألهــم البدائــل عــن الطاقــة التقليديــة ،فض ـاً عــن موضــوع معالجــة املســائل املتعلقــة بالبيئــة وتغــر املنــاخ .وجادلــت الســيدة بابــرا بــأن الطاقــة النوويــة جــزءا ً مــن مســتقبل الطاقــة يف الــرشق األوســط. وتنــاول الســيد عيــى م ـراد ،رئيــس مجلــس إدارة غرفــة تجــارة عــان ،يف كلمتــه موضــوع وسياســة الطاقــة املتجــددة يف األردن لتلبيــة احتياجــات األردن والصناعــات املحليــة .وقــال “أن التحــدي األكــرب بالنســبة للمملكــة األردنيــة يكمــن يف الحــد مــن اعتادها عــى الطاقة املســتوردة يف املســتقبل وذلــك مــن خــال اعتــاد حلــول مبتكــرة مثــل اســتغال الطاقــة الشمســية وطاقــة الرياح” .وأشــار الســيد مــراد إىل أن األردن يتــرف يف الحفــاظ عــى اســتخدام الطاقــة مــن خــال اعتــاد تدابــر مختلفــة مثــل لوائــح املبــاين ومعايــر جديــدة الســتغال الطاقــة “منخفضــة الوتائــر” يف األجهــزة الكهربائيــة الجديــدة .وقــال ان “األردن ينظــر بجديــة إىل اســتغال الطاقــة الشمســية الســيا وإن األردن يتمتــع بأكــر مــن 300يوماً مشمسـاً ســنوياً، ووجــود الصخــر الزيتــي أيضـاً” .وأشــار الســيد مراد إىل موضــوع نقــص امليــاه يف األردن ،ولهــذا فــإن األردن ال يجــد جــدوى كبــرة يف دراســة موضــوع الطاقــة النوويــة“ ،فمــن األفضــل لــألردن أن ينظــر جــدوى خيــارات الطاقــة البديلــة املتجــددة”. وبحثــت الجلســة الرابعــة يف موضــوع “الخدمــات اللوجســتية والتكنولوجيــا الحديثــة” قدمــت فيهــا أوراق عمــل مهمــة تناولــت كيفيــة دعــم االبتــكار واالســتجابة الفعالــة إىل جديــد التكنولوجيــا يف
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
العملــة األجنبيــة .وقــال ردا ً عــى التحــدي يف مجال الطاقــة الــذي يشــهده األردن ،بــأن “األردن قــد اعتمــدت إس ـراتيجية تنويــع االســتثار يف مصــادر الطاقــة البديلــة ،وإن البــاد تتعامــل بشــكل عــال املســؤولية مــع القضايــا الهيكليــة العالقــة وتتلقــى دع ـاً مــن صنــدوق النقــد الــدويل” .وأضــاف بــأن األردن يعمــل عــى هــذه القضايــا وبتعــاون وثيــق مــع الــدول العربيــة والواليــات املتحــدة واالتحــاد األورويب. وشــدد الدكتــور رضــوان شــعبان عــى أن “اإلنجــازات االقتصاديــة للبــاد قــد تــ ّم تأمينهــا بفضــل القيــادة القويــة والحكيمــة للمملكــة حيث وضعــت القيــادة األســاس القتصــاد مفتــوح مــن خــال العديــد مــن اتفاقيــات التجــارة الحــرة التــي كانــت قــد أبرمــت مــع الــرشكاء الرئيســين ،وإن واحــدا ً مــن نقــاط القــوة يف البــاد هــو قطاعهــا املــايل الحديــث الــذي كان البنــك العــريب العبــاً رئيســياً بــه”. وكان املتحــدث الســيد عــاد الكيــاين ،الرئيــس التنفيــذي لرشكــة املعــرب ،قــد ألقــى الضــوء عــى أعــال ونجــاح رشكتــه يف األردن ،وهــي واحــدة مــن قصــص النجــاح يف األردن يف املشــاريع الرائــدة يف قطــاع البنــاء والتشــييد يف األردن ،وقــال “إن األردن ميتلــك إمكانيــات كبــرة لتحقيــق النمــو واالزدهــار، وإن رشكــة املعبــار هــي أحــد األمثلــة الصاعــدة يف األردن واملنطقــة بشــكل عــام”.
التكنولوجيــا الجديــدة ،والطــب واســتخراج الصخــر الزيتــي ،إضافــة إىل التعــاون املتبــادل يف مجــال التجــارة واالســتثار ،الســيا الــدور الفعــال لهيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة”. بينــا تناولــت الجلســة الثانيــة موضــوع “الصرفــة والصكــوك اإلســامية” والتــي ألقــت الضــوء عــى الفــرص الجديــدة يف مجــال الخدمــات املاليــة اإلســامية .وذكــر املتحدثــون يف هــذه الجلســة بــأن األردن ميتلــك مؤهــات تجعلــه أحــد البلــدان املهمــة يف التمويــل والصرفــة اإلســامية وعمليــات إصــدار الصكــوك اإلســامية. تضمنــت الجلســة الثانيــة مــن املؤمتــر نقاشــاً يف موضــوع التمويــل والصكــوك اإلســامية ،وأديــرت الجلســة مــن قبــل الســيد أنــدرو كريتشــلو ،محــرر أخبــار يف صحيفــة التلغــراف الربيطانيــة ،الــذي أوضــح أن التمويــل اإلســامي قــد أصبــح قضيــة رئيســية خــال العقــد املــايض ويتوقــع أن ترتفــع األصــول فيــه إىل 3.4تريليــون دوالر بحلــول عــام .2018 وقــال الســيد روبــرت غ ـراي ،رئيــس مجلــس إدارة بنــك ( )HSBCيف العربيــة الســعودية ،أن النمــو يف التمويــل اإلســامي الــذي يشــهده العــامل ميثــل أخبــار الجيــدة للقطــاع املــريف ،عــى الرغــم مــن أن حجــم التمويــل اإلســامي صغ ـرا إذا مــا قــورن
مــع إجــايل األصــول املرفيــة .وأشــار الســيد روبــرت غــراي أن أســواق الــرشق األوســط يف التمويــل اإلســامي متثــل %80مــن إجــايل األصول املرفيــة اإلســامية يف العــامل ،يف حــن تتصــدر اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية وماليزيــا املكانــة الرائــدة يف هــذا القطــاع .ووصف غـراي الصكوك يف اململكــة املتحــدة “ابتــكارا ً هامـاً” ،ومــن املمكن أن تحــذوا حــذوا بريطانيــا دول أوروبية أخــرى ،وتوقع منــو يف اســتخدام الصكوك لاســتثارات يف مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة يف الــرشق األوســط .كــا أشــار إىل دور بنــك HSBCكمستشــار يف هــذا املضــار. الســيد غــاري كامبكــن ،مديــر اإلسـراتيجية الدولية ملؤسســة ( ،)TheCityUKتنــاول يف كلمتــه دور اململكــة املتحــدة يف التمويل اإلســامي ،والهدف أن تصبــح لنــدن مركـزا ً قيادياً لهــذا التمويــل يف أوروبا. وكانــت بريطانيــا موطنــاً لســتة بنــوك تتوافــق تعاماتهــا مــع الرشيعــة اإلســامية ،ورحــب الســيد غــاري بنجــاح إصــدارات الصكــوك اإلســامية بدعــم مــن وزارة الخزانــة الربيطانيــة .وذكــر الســيد غــاري ببعــض املبــادرات الجديــدة يف إنشــاء مجموعــات عمــل حــول التمويــل اإلســامي ومنطقــة الــرشق األوســط. قــال الســيد إقبــال خــان ،الرئيــس التنفيــذي لرشكــة الفجــر كابيتــال ،أشــار إىل أن إدارة األصــول ســتكون املنطقــة الرئيســية التاليــة مــن النمــو للخدمــات
ورحبــت البارونــة أنــي ،وزيــر الدولــة يف مكتــب الشــؤون الخارجيــة والكومنولــث يف اململكــة املتحــدة ،بهــذا املنتــدى ،وأثنــت عــى العمــل الــدؤوب الــذي يجري يف تعزيــز العاقــات التجارية بــن اململكــة املتحــدة والعــامل العــريب .وقالــت إن “سياســة بريطانيــا كانــت والتــزال تركــز عــى تعزيــز عاقاتهــا االقتصاديــة مــع الــدول العربيــة يف مختلــف القطاعــات ،وعــى وجــه الخصــوص يف تطويــر إمكانــات التمويــل اإلســامي”. وقالــت بــأن “وزارة الخزانــة الربيطانيــة قــد أصدرت مؤخــرا ً أول صكــوك إســامية ،وهــي األوىل مــن نوعهــا تصــدر مــن قبــل بلــد غــر مســلم ،وهــي دليــل عــى النجــاح الكبــر يف توســيع هــذا القطــاع، وإن العاقــات بــن اململكــة املتحــدة واألردن كانت وال تـزال هــدف لجلــب املنفعــة املتبادلــة للطرفن، وإنهــا تتطلــع إىل توســيع التعــاون يف مجــاالت مثــل
توقيع مذكرة تفاهم بني املستشفى املليك يف لندن واملستشفى التخصيص يف األردن ،الدكتور فوزي الحموري مع نخبة من الشخصبات التي شهدت توقيع املذكرة
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 109
البارونة أنيل ،وزير الدولة يف مكتب الشؤون الخارجية والكومنولث يف اململكة املتحدة
مــن بنيــه تحتيــه حديثــة مبــا يف ذلــك فنــادق ومنتجعــات ومطاعــم ومعاهــد رياضــة وغرهــا. يف عرضــه ،ركــز معــايل املهنــدس عــي الغــزاوي، رئيــس مجلــس إدارة رشكــة األردن للمناطــق التنمويــة ( ،)JDZبشــكل خــاص عــى منطقــة البحــر امليــت وقدرتــه عــى توفــر الرفاهيــة واملرافــق الصحيــة والســياحة .وأكــد عــى أن الخطة الرئيســية للعمــل يف هــذه املنطقــة (البحــر امليــت) تهــدف إىل تحقيــق النمــو االقتصــادي والتنميــة البرشيــة يف املنطقــة .وقــال ســعادة املهنــدس الغـزاوي أن “فــرص الســوق واالســتثار يف منطقــة البحــر امليــت يف تزايــد الســيا فيــا يتعلق بتوســيع مرافــق املنشــآت الرياضــات الشــتوية واإلقامــة الفاخــرة وســياحة األعــال. وأكــد الدكتــور فــوزي الحمــوري ،رئيــس جمعيــة املستشــفيات الخاصــة يف األردن ،عــى أهميــة قطــاع الرعايــة الصحيــة يف الــرشاكات التجاريــة واالســتثارية .وذكــر بــأن نظــام الرعايــة الصحيــة يشــهد تطــورا ً كب ـرا ً يف األردن ،وأن قطــاع الصحــة األردين اآلن قــد حقــق ســمعة عاليــة يف جميــع أنحــاء منطقــة الــرشق األوســط ،ويســتقطب أعداد متزايــدة مــن املــرىض مــن الخــارج الســيا مــن الــدول العربيــة املجــاورة .وأكــد الدكتــور فــوزي بــأن هــذا القطــاع تلقــى اســتثارا ً كبــرا ً نحــو تطويــر مرافــق الرعايــة الصحيــة عــى مــدى عــدد
البارونة موريس بولتون ،مبعوث رئيس الوزراء للتجارة يف األردن والكويت وفلسطني والليدي باربرا جاج ،الرئيس الفخري لهيئة الطاقة الذرية الربيطانية وسفرية ()UKTI
مــن الســنوات ،وإن اململكــة تنفــق أكــر مــن %9 مــن ناتجهــا املحــي اإلجــايل عــى قطــاع الصحــة. ويتمتــع األردن بقطــاع صحــي خــاص متطــور مبا يف ذلــك شــبكة مــن املستشــفيات الحديثــة مجهــزة بأحــدث التجهيــزات وتديرهــا رشكات خاصــة أردنيــة .وقــال أن “تكاليــف دورة مــن العــاج يف األردن عــى درجــة عاليــة مــن التنافســية العامليــة حيــث ال تتجــاوز كلفــة العــاج يف األردن %25مــن تلــك املوجــودة يف أوروبــا. وتناولــت هــذه الجلســة قطــاع الصحــة يف األردن، والــذي يعتــرب اآلن وجهــة للكثــر مــن العــرب يف املنطقــة وذلــك ملــا تتميــز بــه املستشــفيات األردنيــة الخاصــة مــن خدمــات طبيــة وكادر متطــور مــن اختصاصيــن ،أغلبهــم مــن خريجيــن الجامعــات الربيطانيــن ومــن جامعــات عامليــة. وتقــدم املستشــفيات األردنيــة الخاصــة خدمــات طبيــة متطــورة بأســعار مناســبة قياسـاً بباقــي دول اإلقليــم .ويعتــرب قطــاع الصحــة مــن القطاعــات الجاذبــة لاســتثار مبــا يف ذلــك بنــاء وتأســيس مستشــفيات خاصــة جديــدة أو تطويــر خدمــات املستشــفيات املوجــودة حاليــاً. وقــال الدكتــور الحمــوري بــأن نســبة األطبــاء لــكل فــرد مــن الســكان جيــدة للغايــة ،وإن اآلالف مــن األطبــاء يف األردن قــد تلقــوا تدريبهــم املهنــي يف اململكــة املتحــدة ،وأنــه لهــذا الســبب فــإن األردن
ترغــب يف تطويــر هــذه الرشاكــة الســيا عــن طريــق املتابعــة .وأوضــح الدكتــور الحمــوري بــأن األردن قــد بــرع يف إنتــاج األدويــة ،وإن نســبة %80مــن األدويــة املصنعــة يف األردن تتجــه نحــو التصديــر ووجهتهــا أكــر مــن 60دولــة مختلفــة يف جميــع أنحــاء العــامل .وذكــر الدكتــور الحمــوري بأهميــة التعــاون وتوثيــق العاقــات بــن القطاعات الطبيــة األردنيــة والربيطانيــة ،وهــو يــرى أن هنــاك مجــاالً أكــرب لتعميــق التعــاون بــن املستشــفيات يف الطرفــن. ويف ختــام هــذه الجلســة مــن املؤمتــر ،شــهد املنتــدى توقيــع مذكــرة تفاهــم بــن املستشــفى امللــي يف لنــدن واملستشــفى التخصــيص يف األردن، ووقعــت املذكــرة يف حضــور وزراء يف الحكومــة األردنيــة والربيطانيــة. واســتهل الدكتــور رضــوان شــعبان ،كبــر االقتصاديــن يف البنــك العــريب ،كلمتــه التــي تناولــت كيفيــة نجــاح األردن يف األرتقــاء إىل مســتوى التحديــات االقتصاديــة مرتفعــة مــن النمو املنخفــض يف الســنوات القليلــة املاضيــة يف أعقــاب األزمــة املاليــة العامليــة ،إىل مســتويات جيــدة يف الوقــت الحــارض .وأشــار أن األردن تســتمر يف عملية تحريــر اقتصادهــا ،والحفــاظ عــى ســعر رصف ثابــت لعملتهــا ،والســيطرة عــى التضخــم عــى نحــو فعــال ،وأنشــاء احتياطيــات مريحــة مــن
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
التســهيات وكذلــك بالتعــاون والعمــل املســتمر مــع غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة. وقــدم ســعادة الســيد مــازن حمــود ،الســفر األردين لــدى اململكــة املتحــدة يف كلمتــه مجموعــة متنوعــة مــن املجــاالت التــي قــد حققــت بهــا الرشاكــة األردنيــة الربيطانيــة نجاحـاً باهـرا ً ،وأعــرب عــن أملــه أن وجــود وفــدا ً رفيــع املســتوى يف هــذا املنتــدى ،ســيكون فعــاالً يف تعزيــز التعــاون بــن البلديــن .وقــال ســعادة الســيد حمــود أن “مهمــة الوفــد األردين هــي تســليط الضــوء عــى الفــرص الجديــدة يف قطاعــات حديثــة مثــل تكنولوجيــا املعلومــات ،والســياحة ،والرعايــة الصحيــة، والتــي ضــم الوفــد مبعوثــن وممثلــن مــن هــذه القطاعــات” .وبعــد انهــاء كلمتــه ،تـ ّم عــرض فيلــم قصــر يوضــح قــوة جــذب قطــاع الســياحة يف األردن ،كوجهــة ســياحية وتجاريــة مهمــة.
سعادة السيد مازن حمود ،سفري األردن لدى اململكة املتحدة
وألقــى معــايل املهنــدس ســامي هلســه وزيــر األشــغال العامــة واإلســكان يف اململكــة األردنيــة، عرضــاً لخصائــص قطــاع البنــاء واإلنشــاءات يف البــاد ،وعمليــة صنــع القــرار ،واإلطــار القانــوين وبعــض املشــاريع قيــد التنفيــذ .وقــال الوزيــر أن قطــاع البنــاء واإلنشــاءات يف األردن يشــكل نحــو %20مــن الناتــج املحــي اإلجــايل للمملكــة ،وإن هنــاك أكــر مــن 2,200مقاولــن مســجلن للعمــل يف األردن .وأشــار معــايل الوزيــر بــأن األردن ناجحــة يف جــذب التمويــل مــن الــوكاالت الدوليــة الكــربى مثــل البنــك الــدويل ،وهيئــة املعونــة األمريكيــة واالتحــاد األورويب ،وأملــح الوزيــر إىل سلســلة مــن مشــاريع البنــاء الجديــدة للطــرق واملبــاين العامــة واملستشــفيات واملــدارس التــي يجــري العمــل بهــا عــى قــدم وســاق يف الوقــت الحــايل.
اململكــة األردنيــة مــن إنفــاق 700مليــون دوالر عــى تطويــر مرافــق مينــاء العقبــة ،مــع األخــذ بنظــر االعتبــار يف الوقــت ذاتــه حايــة البيئــة الطبيعيــة املحليــة وال ـراث ،مــا جعــل املنطقــة منطقــة ســياحية رئيســية .وقــال الدكتــور محاديــن، أن “تشــغيل منطقــة العقبــة يتــم عــى النمــوذج الامركــزي يف صنــع الق ـرار ،وتقديــم حوافــز كبــرة لجــذب املســتثمرين” .وذكــر عــى وجــه الخصوص، أن الــرشكاء الدوليــن يســعون للمســاعدة يف اســتكال محطــات الحاويــات الجديــدة مبــا يف ذلــك مرافــق للغــاز الطبيعــي املســال ،واملشــاريع الضخمــة للفنــادق واملنتجعــات توســع العقاريــة الكــربى.
وأكــد الدكتــور كامــل محاديــن ،الرئيــس التنفيــذي لســلطة منطقــة العقبــة االقتصاديــة الخاصــة ( ،)ASEZAعــى األهميــة التاريخية واإلسـراتيجية ملنطقــة العقبــة حيــث تحتــل مكانــة مركزيــة يف االقتصــاد األردين .وذكــر الدكتــور محاديــن أن هــذه املنطقــة قــد متكنــت مــن جذب أكــر مــن 20مليار دوالر مــن االســتثارات يف الســنوات األخــرة ،حيث تــم تحويلهــا إىل مركــز تجــاري رئيــي وإسـراتيجي وهــي مبثابــة بوابــة لبــاد الشــام .وذكــر بــأن هــذه املنطقــة قــد ضمنــت أكــر مــن 40,000فرصــة عمــل ،وقــد تضاعــف عــدد الســكان املحليــن منــذ عــام 2001ليصــل 140ألــف اليــوم .ومتكنــت
يف عرضــه ،ركــز معــايل املهنــدس عــي الغــزاوي، رئيــس مجلــس إدارة رشكــة األردن للمناطــق التنمويــة ( ،)JDZبشــكل خــاص عــى منطقــة البحــر امليــت وقدرتــه عــى توفــر الرفاهيــة واملرافــق الصحيــة والســياحة .وأكــد عــى أن الخطة الرئيســية للعمــل يف هــذه املنطقــة (البحــر امليــت) تهــدف إىل تحقيــق النمــو االقتصــادي والتنميــة البرشيــة يف املنطقــة .وقــال ســعادة املهنــدس الغـزاوي أن “فــرص الســوق واالســتثار يف منطقــة البحــر امليــت يف تزايــد الســيا فيــا يتعلق بتوســيع مرافــق املنشــآت الرياضــات الشــتوية واإلقامــة الفاخــرة وســياحة األعــال.
وتناولــت كلــات املتحدثــن مــن الوفــد األردين بشــكل خــاص اهميــة األردن كأحــد البلــدان املتميــزة بأمنــه واســتقراره الســيايس يف منطقــة تشــهد رصاعــات سياســية وحــروب .وتحدثــوا عــن دور القطــاع الخــاص األردين يف قيــادة العمليــة التنمويــة يف هــذا البلــد الــرشق أوســطي ،ووجــود األيــدي العاملــة املاهــرة واملهنيــة مــن مهندســن وتقنيــن ،إضافــة إىل القوانــن واإلصاحــات والتســهيات التــي توفرهــا الــوزارات الســيا وزارة اإلســكان والعمــل مبــا يف ذلــك تطويــر وتحديــث البنيــة التحتيــة مــن ســكن وطــرق وجســور وغرهــا ،كــا يتمتــع األردن ببنيــة مرفيــة صلــدة وميتلــك عــدد مــن البنــوك ذات الســمعة الجيــدة والخدمــات املرفيــة املتطــورة. وتطــرق أغلــب املتحدثــون إىل أهميــة منطقــة العقبــة ومينائهــا اإلســراتيجية ومــا متنحــه مــن تســهيات للمســتثمرين األجانــب ومــا تحتويــه من خدمــات لوجســتية مهمــة .كــا وأكــد املتحدثــون يف هــذه الجلســة عــى املمي ـزات الســياحية التــي ميتلكهــا األردن الســيا منطقــة البحــر امليــت كمنطقــة ســياحية والتــي تتميــز بعــدد مــن املشــاريع االســتثارية الجذابــة مــا يثــر إعجــاب املســتمرين الذيــن يســعون للحصــول عــى فــرص متميــزة ،ومنطقــة العقبــة تحمــل عبــق املــايض إىل جانــب ســات التمــدن الحــايل ملــا تحتويــه
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 111
“األردن يطمــح لجــذب املســتثمرين لقطاعــات عديــدة مــن االقتصــاد الوطنــي” .وأشــاد الســيد الكباريتــي بالعاقــات التاريخيــة بــن بريطانيــا واألردن ورسد األســباب الرئيســية ملــاذا ينبغــي للمســتثمرين الربيطانيــن أن ينظروا لبــاده كوجهة مهمــة لاســتثار ملــا تنعــم بــه مــن اســتقرار وأمن، وســوق مفتوحــة ،إضافــة إىل الحوافــز الكثــرة، وســهولة الوصــول للســوق األردنيــة واإلقليميــة، املناطــق الحــرة العديــدة ،وتوافــر املــوارد البرشيــة، والبنيــة التحتيــة الجيــدة ،ومنــط الحيــاة الحديثــة وفــرص االســتثار العديــدة .ودعــا الــرشكات الربيطانيــة ورجــال األعــال لزيــارة األردن واإلطــاع بأنفســهم عــى الفــرص االســتثارية املتوفــرة.
معايل املهندس سامي هلسه وزير األشغال العامة واإلسكان يف اململكة األردنية
خــال اعتــاد قوانــن وأنظمــة جديــدة تهــدف إىل جــذب املســتثمرين ،وهــذا مــا يعتــرب مــن أمــس احتياجــات االقتصاديــات العربيــة والتــي هــي أغلبهــا توجــد حاجــة كبــرة لترسيــع االســتثار األجنبــي املبــارش .وأضــاف العــاين بــأن االقتصــادات العربيــة قــد أجــرت وتجــري إصاحــات لتنظيــم وتعديــل األنظمــة املرفيــة التــي مــن شــأنها تســهل عمليــات االســتثار األجنبــي ،إىل جنــب خطــوات مهمــة نحــو تنميــة املــوارد البرشيــة فضاً عــن مــوارد النفــط والغــاز.
تتمتــع بــه اململكــة عــى الرغــم مــن التوتــرات اإلقليميــة املحيطــة” .وأضــاف الســيد الكباريتي”أن األردن بظــل قيادتــه الحكيمــة متثملــة بجالــة امللــك عبــد اللــه الثــاين يتمتــع باســتقرار ســيايس يجعلــه بيئــة جذابــة وآمنــة لاســتثار والتجــارة والســياحة .وأكــد الســيد الكباريتــي عــى أن األردن يجــري إصاحــات عديــدة يف ترشيعاتــه التــي تنظم عمليــات االســتثار وتســهيل عملياتــه ،وأكــد بــأن
وعــى صعيــد العاقــات العربيــة الربيطــاين قــال الدكتــور العــاين أن “التبــادل التجــاري بــن اململكــة املتحــدة والــدول العربيــة ظــل منخفضـاً ،ودعــا إىل تجديــد الجهــود الراميــة إىل تحقيــق تقــدم يف هــذا املضــار ،وإن جامعــة الــدول العربيــة ترغــب يف رؤيــة مبــادرات جديــدة مــن شــأنها رفــع مســتوى التبــادل التجــاري وذلــك وث ـاً مــن خــال اعتــاد املعايــر الدوليــة وتطبيــق االتفاقــات التــي مــن شــأنه تســهيل وخفــض التعريفــات الجمركيــة لتســهيل نقــل الســلع والخدمــات بــن األط ـراف”. ويف كلمتــه يف هــذه الجلســة قــال الســيد نائــل الكباريتــي ،رئيــس غرفــة تجــارة األردن ،أن “هــذا املنتــدى فرصــة هامــة لنــا ،وهــو مبثابــة محطــة لإللتقــاء وعــرض الفــرص االســتثارية يف اململكــة األردنيــة الســيا يف ظــل االســتقرار واألمــن الــذي
الدكتور رضوان شعبان ،كبري االقتصاديني يف البنك العريب
تضمنــت أعــال املنتدى 4جلســات تحــت عناوين مختلفــة .تناولــت الجلســة األوىل “فــرص األعــال يف األردن” بحثــت يف هــذه الجلســة رضورة إيجــاد أمنــاط جديــدة مــن التجــارة املســتدامة وبحــث املناهــج الجديــدة يف عــامل االبتــكار وتحديــث االقتصــاد .اســتهل ســعادة ســفر األردن لــدى اململكــة املتحــدة ،الســيد مــازن حمــود ،كلمتــه باإلشــادة بالتنســيق العــايل الــذي يربــط البلديــن وبالعاقــات التاريخيــة والعميقــة بــن اململكتــن، وأشــار بأنــه يعمــل بجــد مــن أجــل إيجــاد أرضيــة قويــة لعمــل املســتثمرين الربيطانيــن يف األردن، إضافــة إىل اســتعداد الســفارة لتقديــم كافــة
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
الدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي ،األمني العام والرئيس التنفيذي للغرفة
جانب من الحضور يف املنتدى
الوفــد القطــري الــذي س ـرافق ســمو أمــر دولــة قطــر الشــيخ متيــم بــن حمــد بــن خليفــة آل ثــاين خــال زيارتــه إىل لنــدن ،ودعــت إىل رشف هــذه املناســبة الضيــوف للحضــور واالســتفادة مــن الفرصــة الثمينــة التــي ســتوفرها املناســبة.
ض ـ ّم وزراء وعــددا ً مــن كبــار املســؤولن وممثــي القطــاع الخــاص األردين ،برئاســة أصحــاب الســعادة الســيد نائــل الكباريتــي رئيس غرفــة تجــارة األردن، وســعادة ســفر اململكــة األردنيــة الهاشــمية لــدى اململكــة املتحــدة الســيد مــازن حمــود ،ومعــايل وزيــر الســكن واألشــغال العامــة الســيد ســامي هلســة ،واملديــر العــام ملنطقــة العقبــة االقتصاديــة الخاصــة الســيد كامــل محاديــن ،ورئيــس مؤسســة تنميــة املناطــق األردنيــة املهنــدس عــي غ ـزاوي، والدكتــور فــوزي حمــوري رئيــس مجلــس إدارة ومديــر عــام املستشــفى التخصــيص ،والســيد رضــوان شــعبان الرئيــس التنفيــذي للبنــك العــريب، والســيد عــاد كيــاين الرئيــس التنفيــذي رشكــة املعــرب األردن.
كــا تضمنــت كلمــة الدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي، األمــن العــام والرئيــس التنفيــذي للغرفــة ،أشــادة كبــرة بالعمــل املشــرك مــع غرفــة تجــارة األردن إلنتــاج هــذا املنتــدى وبالعاقــات العميقــة التــي تربــط غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة مــع غرفة تجــارة األردن .كــا أعربــت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي عــن فخرهــا واعتزازهــا إلقامــة هــذا الحــدث املهــم الــذي يــأيت كرافــدا ً جديــدا ً ومتواصاً ملســاعي غرفة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة يف تعزيــز التعــاون بــن اململكــة املتحــدة والعــامل العــريب ،وتوطيــد آوارص التعــاون التجــاري واالســتثاري بــن املنطقتــن. وأكــدت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي بــأن “الغرفــة قــررت أن تنفــرد اململكــة األردنيــة الهاشــمية باهتــام خــاص كـــ “رشيــك” يف هــذا املنتــدى ،ملــا ميثلــه األردن مــن موقعـاً جذابـاً يف العــامل العــريب الســيا ســوق ًه الصاعــدة للمســتثمرين واملصدريــن الربيطانيــن ومــا متتلكــه اململكــة األردنيــة مــن بيئة خصبــة تتميــز باالنفتــاح والديناميكيــة ،واالســتقرارا ً واملرونــة” .ويف معــرض هــذا الحديــث رحبــت الدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي بالوفــد األردين الــذي
ويف كلمتــه يف املنتــدى ،ذكّــر الدكتــور ثامــر محمود العــاين ،مديــر إدارة العاقــات االقتصاديــة يف جامعــة الــدول العربيــة ،بطبيعــة ومزايــا العاقــات الديناميكيــة والرشاكــة العريقــة بــن بريطانيــا والــدول العربيــة .كــا بلــغ تحيــة األمــن العــام لجامعــة الــدول العربيــة الســيد نبيــل العــريب الخاصــة للمنتــدى ،نيابــة عــن الســيد العــريب. وأشــار الدكتــور العــاين إىل بعــض التحديــات ،عــى وجــه الخصــوص الحاجــة امللحــة لتحســن العاقات التجاريــة بــن بريطانيــا والعــامل العــريب والتــي مــن شــأنها ستســاعد عى الوصول إىل األســواق بســهولة أكــرب وتلبيــة احتياجــات رشائــح واســعة مــن النــاس
إذا مــا تــم تفعيــل العاقــات بــن الطرفــن بشــكل أكــر شــفافية .وقــال الدكتــور العــاين “أن الركيــز عــى االتفاقــات التجاريــة القامئــة وعــى حايــة املســتثمرين أدى بشــكل كبــر إىل إهــال قضايــا التنميــة املســتدامة يف محتــوى العاقــات العربيــة الربيطانيــة” .وأضــاف أن “تقاريــر دوليــة عديــدة تشــر وبشــكل متكــرر إىل أن الــدول العربيــة تحــرز تقدم ـاً ملموس ـاً يف موضــوع التنميــة البرشيــة ،إال أن هــذه التنميــة تحتــاج إىل دعــم دويل الســيا من بريطانيــا ملــا لهــا مــن تاثــر لعاقاتهــا التاريخيــة العميقــة مــع الــدول العربيــة”. وعــى صعيــد اقتصاديــات الــدول العربيــة ،ذكــر الدكتــور العــاين أن الجامعــة العربيــة تنظــر إىل تأثــر منظمــة التجــارة العامليــة عــى أنــه محــرك مهــم للتنميــة والنمــو ،وإن العــامل العــريب يحقــق بعــض النجــاح مــن خــال تكامــل أوثــق بــن االقتصــادات العربيــة والســر قدمــاً نحــو تنفيــذ منطقــة التجــارة الحــرة العربيــة الكــربى واســتحداث االتحــاد الجمــريك العــريب بحلــول عــام ،2015وكذلــك الســوق العربيــة املشــركة بحلــول عــام .2020وقــال أن مــن شــأن هــذه الخطــوات أن “تزيــل العوائــق أمــام تجــارة الســلع والخدمــات يف كل أرجــاء العــامل العــريب”. وشــدد الدكتــور العــاين عــى الــدور الرئيــي واملهــم لاســتثار األجنبــي يف النمــو والتنميــة ،مــن
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 113
املنتدى العريب الربيطاين االقتصادي الثاين ()2 ARAB-BRITISH ECONOMIC FORUM II أفتتحــت يف يــوم الثاثــاء ،املصــادف 21مــن شــهر ترشيــن األول (أكتوبــر) ،2014يف فنــدق ميلينيــوم العاصمــة الربيطانيــة -لنــدن ،أعــال املنتــدى االقتصــادي العــريب الربيطــاين الثــاين ( )2الــذي نظمتــه غرفة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة بالرشاكة مــع غرفــة تجــارة األردن ،وجامعــة الــدول العربيــة، واالتحــاد العــام لغــرف التجــارة والصناعــة والزراعة للبــاد العربيــة ،وهيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة ( ،)UKTIورشكــة لنــدن ورشكاه، إضافــة إىل غرفــة التجــارة الربيطانيــة.
اســتهلت أعــال املنتــدى كلمــة ألقتهــا رئيــس مجلــس إدارة الغرفــة ،الرايــت هــون البارونــة ســيمونز التــي رحبــت بالضيــوف وأعربــت عــن فخرهــا واعتزازهــا يف أن تحتضــن لنــدن املنتــدى االقتصــادي العــريب الربيطــاين بنســخته الثــاين وبحضــور واســع مــن شــخصيات رســمية ورجــال أعــال ومســتثمرين مــن العــامل العــريب وبريطانيــا. وخصــت البارونــة ســيمونز شــكرها واعتزازهــا بالعمــل ســوية مــع غرفــة تجــارة األردن التــي وصفتهــم بـــ “األصدقــاء القدامــى” ،وأعربــت عــن
فخرهــا الكبــر يف أن تكــون اململكــة األردنيــة رشيــكاً يف هــذا املنتــدى ،وأشــادت بحضــور الوفــد األردين مــن أعــى املســتويات. وأكــدت البارونــة ســيمونز بــأن األردن يتميــز مــن بيئــة اســتثارية جيــدة الســيا وإنــه يتمتــع باســتقرار ســيايس وتنميــة اقتصاديــة متيــزه عــن غــره مــن دول الجــوار ،وميتلــك األردن موقعــاً جغرافي ـاً إس ـراتيجياً كحلقــة وصــل بحريــة وعــى مفــرق الطــرق ،ولوفــرة األيــدي العاملــة املاهــرة، ومــا ميتلكــه مــن بنيــة تحتيــة جيــدة مــن شــوارع وطــرق إضافــة إىل توفــر الخدمــات املعلوماتيــة واللوجســتية الحديثــة. وأشــادت البارونــة ســيمونز بالجهــات الراعيــة لألعــال هــذا املنتــدى وقدمــت لهــم الشــكر الجزيــل ،وهــم كل مــن جامعــة الــدول العربيــة وغرفــة تجــارة األردن والبنــك العــريب األورويب ورشكــة تطويــر العقبــة وســلطة منطقــة العقبــة االقتصاديــة الخاصــة ورشكــة ()AXA PPP العامليــة للتأمــن الصحــي وغرفــة تجــارة عــان والرشكــة امللكيــة األردنيــة للطـران وهيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة ( )UKTIورشكــة لنــدن ورشكاه ورشكــة املعــرب ورشكــة الخطــوط الجويــة الربيطانيــة ومؤسســة الــرشق األوســط اإلعاميــة ومؤسســة التلغـراف الربيطانيــة اإلعامية والغرفــة الربيطانيــة للتجــارة.
البارونة سيمونز ،رئيس غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية
كــا أشــارت البارونــة ســيمونز يف كلمتهــا الرحيبيــة إىل أن الغرفــة ستســتضيف يف 29مــن شــهر أكتوبــر
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
87
@SignorSassi priVaTe rooM aVailaBle
14 Knightsbridge Green, London SW1X 7QL signorsassi@sancarlo.co.uk | T: 0207 584 2277 W W W. s i g n o r s a s s i . c o . u k
Aldo Zilli now part of the San Carlo team
@CicchettiLondon
Cicchetti Covent Garden, 30 Wellington St, London WC2E 7BD | T: 020 7240 6339 215 PICCADILLY, London, W1J 9HL piccadillycicchetti@sancarlo.co.uk | T: 0207 4949435 W W W. s a n c a r l o c i c c h e T T i . c o . u k
Winner of TWenTy TWo presTigious aWards London_Business_Matters.indd 4
17/10/2014 11:27
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 115
الوطنــي يف بريطانيــا ،كــا هــو الحــال يف رضيبــة الكحــول والتبــغ وعــى املقامــرة .وقــال بــأن اململكــة املتحــدة متتلــك أحــد أفضــل األنظمــة الرضيبيــة يف العــامل ومــن بــن مجموعــة دول الـــ ،20حيــث يعترب هــذا النظــام عــى درجــة عاليــة مــن التنافســية يف العــامل خاصــة الرضائــب املفروضــة عى العقــارات يف بريطانيــا ،ال ـرشاء والبيــع واألربــاح وغرهــا.
الدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي تسلم وثيقة التقدير للدكتور خالد الهجري ،رئيس مؤسسة قطر لتقنيات الطاقة الشمسية
يف هــذا املجــال مــن خــال هــذه االســتخدامات ،ويف هــذه التقنيــات أمــوال ضخمــة يجــب اآللتفــات لهــا فهــي مجــاالً جذاب ـاً لاســتثار .وأكــد بــأن اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية قــد خصصــت لهــذا العــام نحــو %20مــن ميزانيتهــا ألجــل تطويــر قطــاع التعليــم مبــا يف ذلــك التــدرب عــى االســتخدامات التقنيــة الحديثــة يف هــذا املجــال ،وهــو مجــال مهــم مــن مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة يف قطــاع التعليــم .وأشــار أن صناعــة التمويــل اإلســامي هــي مبــادئ هيكلــة االقتصــاد وإعــادة هيكلتــه بحيــث يخــدم املجتمــع والتطــور والتنميــة ،وتصبــح املشــاريع جــزءا مه ـاً مــن االقتصــاد الحقيقــي ،هــذا بالضبــط هــو الهــدف األول مــن التمويــل اإلســامي – لخدمــة االقتصــاد واملجتمــع وتوفــر فــرص العمــل والتوظيــف .كــا أن الصكــوك اإلســامية تعمــل يف قلــب عمليــة توفر األمــوال الازمــة للمشــاريع التنمويــة االجتاعيــة مبــا يف ذلــك مســاعدة التمويــل للعوائــل املحتاجــة ومشــاريع الفق ـراء والنســاء. الجلسة الرابعة: “ أثــر األنظمــة الرضيبيــة -إعــادة هيكلــة النظــام الرضيبــي لتحســني الثنائيــة الرضيبيــة يف التجــارة واالســتثامر” تــرأس الجلســة الربفســور عبــد اإللــه بنيــس ،املديــر التنفيــذي لرشكــة -ريجنــت كلوبــال سوليوشــن املتحدثون: ســعادة الشــيخ نــارص املطــوع العتيبــي ،الرئيــس املشــارك يف -مجلــس األعــال الســعودي الربيطاين؛ الســيد جيــم هــارا ،املديــر العــام للرضائــب يف –
دائــرة اإلي ـرادات والجــارك يف اململكــة املتحــدة؛ الســيد الزبــر باتــل ،مــن مؤسســة KPMG (الكويــت)؛ الســيد ديفيــد صالح ،رشيــك يف مؤسســة -كليفورد تشا نس أشــارت أوراق عمــل املتحدثــن يف هــذه الجلســة إىل أن دول مجلــس التعــاون بــدأت تــدرك أن انخفــاض أســعار النفــط يتطلــب منهــا البحــث عــن مصــادر دخــل جديــدة جنبـاً إىل جنــب مــع النفــط والغــاز. واقرحــوا أن تقــوم دول مجلــس التعاون باســتحداث باقــة مــن الرضائــب الســيا رضيبــة القيمــة املضافــة ( )VATبنســبة %5قابلــة للزيــادة إىل نســبة ،%20 مــا مــن شــأنه زيــادة مصــادر الدخــل لــدى الدولــة والتــي ستســاعد بســ ّد نوعــاً مــن العجــز الــذي تخلفــة انخفــاض أســعار الطاقــة التقليــدي ،النفــط والغــاز ،وأن يقــوم فريــق مشــرك مــن دول مجلــس التعــاون عــى دراســة قواعد نظــام الرضائــب وكيفية اســتقدامه لــدول مجلــس التعــاون. فيــا طلــب ســعادة الشــيخ نــارص املطــوع العتيبي، الــذي قــال بأنــه يــأيت مــن دولــة ال تعــرف نظــام الرضائــب كــا هــو الحــال يف كل دول مجلــس التعــاون الخليــج العربيــة ،مــن غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة وهيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة بتعريفهــم عــى النظــام الرضيبي، كــا هــو موجــود يف اململكــة املتحــدة .وقدم الســيد جيــم هــارا نبــذة مختــرة عــن نظــام الرضائــب يف بريطانيــا الســيا رضيبــة الدخــل ورضيبــة القيمــة املضافــة اللتــان تعتــربان مصــدرا ً مهــاً للدخــل
وأعطــى الســيد الزبــر باتــل يف اوراق عملــه أهميــة كــربى عــن ســبل تقديــم وإنشــاء نظــام رضيبــي يف منطقــة الخليــج ،وأعطــى نبــذة تاريخيــة حيــث مل تكــن هنــاك أيــة رضائــب عــى الدخــل وال عــى الــرشكات يف دول مجلــس التعــاون ،إال ان النشــأة األوىل كانــت يف عقــد الخمســينات مــن القــرن املــايض حيــث قدمــت بعــض الــدول الخليجيــة نوع ـاً مــن الرضائــب عــى الــرشكات ،وقــدم عرض ـاً مفصــاً عــى نظــام الرضائــب يف دول مجلــس التعــاون ومــدى التنافســية فيــا بينهــا الســيا الــرشكات العاملــة يف مجــال الطاقــة وتطويــر مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة يف هــذا القطــاع .وأشــار إىل أن بعــض دول مجلــس التعــاون أقدمــت عــى العمــل يف تطبيــق النظــام الرضيبــي عــى الــرشكات ورشح مــدى تأثراتــه عــى اســتقدام وجــذب االســتثار األجنبــي لهــذه الــدول. وتحــدث الســيد ديفيــد صالــح عــن مهمــة وعمــل رشكتــه يف مســاعدة املســتثمرين مــن دول مجلــس التعــاون القادمــن لاســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة، وتعريفهــم عــى ثقافــة الرضائــب يف بريطانيــا وعــى أهميــة االلتــزام بالنظــام الرضيبــي وتفــادي التهــرب الرضيبــي ومســاعدتهم عــى تفهــم الفوائــد والتداعيــات .وأشــار بــأن النظــام الرضيبــي يف بريطانيا يتمتع بالتنافســية العاملية وهو جذاب للمســتثمرين األجانــب مقارنــة بــدول أخــرى أوروبيــة .وأكــد بــأن رشكتــه متتلــك خــربات كبــرة يف مجــال الصناديــق الســيادية ،وكل مــا يتعلــق باالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة ،وذكــر بأن النظــام الرضيبــي الربيطاين يصبح أكــر تعقيــدا ً يف مجــال العقــارات وآليــات تطبيقــة تعتــرب معقــدة شــيئاً مــا يف هــذا القطــاع ،وعــرج نحو التمويــل اإلســامي يف هــذا الخصــوص حيــث ال توجد فوائــد يف التمويــل وعمليــات البيــع والـرشاء العقاري. وبعــد إنتهــاء أعــال املنتــدى أقيــم حفــل عشــاء فاخــر عــى قاعــة فنــدق الندمــارك – ماليبــورن
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
وإن رشكتــه تتوقــع ارتفــاع معــدالت النمــو يف مجــال اســتهاك الطاقــة بــكل أنواعهــا وكذلــك امليــاه ،ويف مجــال الــرف الصحــي واملجــاري .وكل هــذه املشــاريع تتطلــب الكثــر مــن االســتثارات األجنبيــة ،وهــو لهــذا يدعــو دول مجلــس التعــاون ألخــذ فرصتهــا يف هــذه املشــاريع املربحــة يف مدينة لنــدن. الجلسة الثالثة: “ التغــري يف منــاخ االســتثامر يف االقتصــاد العاملــي: أدوات جديــدة للخدمــات املالية كمحــرك للتغيري” تــرأس الجلســة الســر ســتيفن رايــت (،)KCMG كبــر املستشــارين يف .G3 املتحدثون: الدكتــورة فلورانــس عيــد أوكــدن ،الرئيــس التنفيذي وكبــر االقتصاديــن يف – مؤسســة أراب مونيتور؛ الســيد عصــام التويجــري ،رئيــس رشكــة رســاميل للتمويــل املنظــم؛ الســيد عبــد الرحمــن الراشــد الراشــد ،رئيــس مجموعــة الراشــد عبــد اللــه الرحمــن الراشــد وأبنــاءه؛ الســيد إقبــال خــان ،املديــر التنفيــذي لرشكــة – فجــر كابيتــال أكــدت أوراق عمــل املتحدثــن يف هــذا الجلســة بــأن املختصيــن يف مجــال املــال والصناعــة املرفية قــد ادركــوا يف الســنوات األخــرة مــدى أهميــة دراســة طــرق الصرفــة اإلســامية وأصبحــت هــذه الصناعــة مصــدر إلهــام للمختصــن يف عــامل املــال والبنــوك ،الذيــن كانــوا يعتمــدون فقــط طــرق الصرفــة التقليديــة. وأشــارت الدكتــورة أوكــدن أن القــوة الجديــدة املحركــة يف منطقــة الخليــج هــي الشــباب بدي ـاً عــن النفــط ،وإن الشــباب هــم قــوة املســتقبل .ويف الوقــت الــذي تشــكل فيــه فئــة الشــباب يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط وشــال أفريقيــا القــوة الســكانية األكــرب فهــم الفئــة األكــرب التــي تعــاين مــن البطالــة وإنعــدام ســبل العيــش .وأشــارت إىل أن خطــر انخفــاض معــدالت النمــو يف الدول املصــدرة للنفط ســرتفع باضطـراد مــع االنخفــاض املتزايد يف أســعار النفــط الــذي تشــهده األســواق العامليــة .ومعنــى هــذا أن الــدول التــي كانــت تعتمــد اعتــادا ً كبـرا ً عــى مصــادر دخلهــا مــن تصديــر وبيــع ثروتهــا
النفطيــة ســوف لــن تســتطع الوقــوف عــى قدميها كــا كانــت قبــل حصــول االنخفــاض يف أســعار النفــط ،وســوف لــن تتمكــن مــن توفــر فــرص وظائــف للشــباب وســتردى األحــوال بشــكل كبــر، كــا هــو الحــال يف مســتوى األعــال واملقــاوالت كذلــك. ومــن هنــا تنبــع أهميــة توفــر حايــة أكــرب لــرؤوس األمــوال وتوفــر التمويــل للمشــاريع الصغــرة واملتوســطة وكذلــك املشــاريع العائليــة، كــا تســتطيع البــدء يف دراســات حــول إمكانــات الحصــول عــى التمويــل بطــرق جديــدة ،وتشــجيع املشــاريع الرياديــة يف املنطقــة .وقــد بــدأت هكــذا محــاوالت يف بعــض دول مجلــس التعــاون الســيا يف ُعــان واإلمــارات واململكــة العربيــة الســعودية خاصة تشــجيع مشــاريع القطــاع الخــاص والتمويل الخــاص مــن قبــل رشكات التمويــل يف القطــاع الخــاص بعيــدا ً عــن الدولــة. فيــا تحــدث الســيد عصــام التويجــري عــن نشــوء هــذه الصناعــة يف عــامل املــال واألعــال ،ومراحــل تطورهــا حتــى وصولهــا إىل مرحلــة العامليــة يف وقتنــا الحــايل .وتطــرق إىل موضــوع الصكــوك اإلســامية وجاذبيــة االســتثار فيهــا حيــث يتجــاوز االســتثار العاملــي يف الصكــوك اإلســامية اآلن نســبة .%60وتقــوم رشكات رصينــة ومعروفــة عــى النطــاق العاملــي اآلن بعمليــات التمويــل اإلســامي، مثــل رشكــة أرامكــو الســعودية التــي رصــدت خال الســنوات 5القادمــة مبلــع 100مليــار دوالر يف االســتثارات يف مشــاريع ذات طابــع تنموي الســيا
املشــاريع الصغــرة واملتوســطة للشــباب ،ومــا عــى املختصــن بهــذه الصناعــة املرفيــة ســوى جلبهــا للعمــل يف هــذه املشــاريع وتحقيــق هــذه الفــرص الكبــرة. وأكــد الســيد عبــد الرحمــن الراشــد الراشــد بــأن اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية تســتقبل البنــوك الخاصــة األوروبيــة للعمــل عــى أراضيهــا الســيا يف رشاكــة مــع اململكــة ،وإن اململكــة عضــو فعــال يف مجموعــة الـــ 20وهــي تلتـزام باآلليــات واملعايــر املرفيــة الدوليــة الســيا إتفاقيــة بــازل ،3والتــي مــن شــأنها االلتـزام بضــان متويــل جيــد يف البنــوك التــي تعمــل يف اململكــة ،وتلتــزم مبعايــر دقيقــة ورصينــة وآليــات معتمــدة ،وهــو مــا عرفــت بــه اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية .وهكــذا هــو حــال كل املؤسســات املاليــة واملرفيــة يف اململكــة الســيا قطــاع التأمــن وخاصــة التأمــن عــى املســاكن. وأشــار إىل أن الســعودية واململكــة املتحــدة لديهــا الكثــر للتبــادل يف الخـربات واملنفعــة ويف قطاعــات عديــدة ،إال أن مجــاالت التمويــل تأخــذ مكانـاً مهاً يف هــذه الرشاكــة الســيا وإن اململكــة املتحــدة لديهــا الخــربات الكبــرة يف مجــال أســواق املــال. واآلن تعمــل اإلمــارات عــى االســتفادة مــن خــربة لنــدن مدينــة املــال العاملــي لــي تنشــأ مركـزا ً ماليـاً مشــابه لـ”لنــدن ســيتي” ،وهــذا يتــم عــى أســاس الرشاكــة وليــس عــى أســاس التنافــس بــن الطرفن. وذكرت أوراق عمل الســيد إقبال خان االســتخدامات التقنيــة يف عــامل املــال والكيفيــة التــي تطــور العمــل
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 117
الدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي تلقي كلمة يف حفل العشاء
فيــا أشــار صاحــب الســمو الســيد فيصــل بــن تــريك آل ســعيد إىل اهميــة هــذا املنتــدى الــذي يتنــاول مواضيــع مهمــة تخــص كل دولــة مــن دول مجلــس التعــاون ،وهــي الــدول التــي تكمــل بعضهــا البعــض .وقــال أن مؤسســة إث ـراء تختــص يف مجــال بنــاء الــرشاكات اإلســراتيجية ،وكيفيــة تبــادل الخــربات والتقنيــة الحديثــة وتطبيقاتهــا، وبنــاء العاقــات اإلسـراتيجية التــي تعتمــد التبــادل املشــرك للمصالــح والتنافســية العاليــة .وأشــار إىل أن ســلطنة ُعــان تأخــذ عــى محمــل الجــد عمليــة تحديــث وتطويــر قطــاع التعليــم عندهــا بحيــث تجعــل ثــورة يف هــذا القطــاع الهــام جــدا ً ملســتقبل ُعــان ،وإن ُعــان تســتثمر يف هــذا القطــاع وتحتــاج إىل الخــربات املختصــة يف كل مجــاالت العلــم والتكنولوجيــا الحديثــة ،وهــي أول أولويــات الحكومــة يف ُعــان ،وذكــر حقائــق عــن ســلطنة عــان وثرواتهــا الطبيعيــة والبرشيــة وسياســة الدولــة فيهــا ،وموقعهــا الجغ ـرايف اإلس ـراتيجي يف الخارطــة العامليــة ،واملنــاخ االســتثاري املشــجع فيهــا الســيا الحوافــز واملشــجعات والرضائــب وحريــة الســوق وحركــة رأس املــال ،التــي تهيئهــا الدولــة للمســتثمرين والــرشكات األجنبيــة العاملــة يف ُعــان. وأضــاء املجــاالت التــي تطرحهــا ُعــان للــرشكات الربيطانيــة الســيا يف قطاعــات مثــل الســياحة وتطويــر القطــاع الخــاص ،حيــث تشــهد هــذه القطاعــات معــدالت منــو عاليــة ،وإن ُعــان تهيــئ فــرص االســتثارات يف مجــاالت مثــل تطويــر
الدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي مع سمو األمري سعود بن خالد الفيصل
املناطــق الحــرة ،واملناطــق الصناعيــة ،واملوانــئ، إضافــة إىل فــرص كبــرة لتطويــر عمــل املؤسســات الصغــرة واملتوســطة التــي مــن شــأنها اســتيعاب فئــات الشــباب حديثــي التخــرج ،وشــدد عــى العمــل املشــرك مــع باقــي دول مجلــس التعــاون هــي أســاس النجــاح والتفــوق يف املنطقــة. وأشــارت أوراق عمــل الســيد ريتشــارد فريــزر ســميث بــأن دول مجلــس التعــاون تس ـ ّجل أعــى معــدالت منــو وتنميــة يف املنطقــة ،وهــي مبثابــة محــرك لاقتصــاد العاملــي مــن حيــث ثرواتهــا يف مجــال الطاقــة التقليديــة واملشــاريع املســتقبلية يف مجــاالت الطاقــة املســتجدة ،إضافــة إىل أن هــذه الــدول تطــرح فــرص عاملــي يف مجــال مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة العماقــة التــي تجــري وتخطــط يف املنطقــة .وذكــر الســيد ســميث بــأن رشكتــه شــاركت بشــكل فعــال يف مشــاريع “أوملبــك بــارك” وســجلت عــدم حصــول أيــة حــوادث أو إصابــات خــال كل فــرة العمــل ،وأكــد بــأن رشكتــه تؤمــن بــأن دول مجلــس التعــاون تتصــدر يف مجــاالت النمــو االقتصــادي يف املنطقــة ،وإن رشكتــه تشــارك فعليــاً يف مشــاريع عديــدة يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط الســيا يف مشــاريع الطاقــة ومشــاريع البيئــة .وتســاءل بأنــه خــال الســنوات 5القادمــة ســتكون يف صــدد إجـراء أعــال اإلدامــة والتطويــر لبنيتهــا التحتيــة التــي تقــوم بإنشــائها حاليــاً، وســتكون باســتطاعت رشكتــه القيــام بــدور فعال يف هــذا املجــال الســيا يف مشــاريع الطــرق والجســور ومشــاريع الــرف الصحــي واملجــاري ،وإن رشكتــه
متتلــك الخــربات الكبــرة يف هــذا املجــال حيــث تتــوىل هــذا يف اململكــة املتحــدة. ويف مجــال التمويــل أيضــا ،أشــار إىل أن أغلــب املشــاريع يف دول مجلــس التعــاون تســتلم متويلهــا مــن الدولــة ،إال أن رشكتــه تســعى إىل تشــجيع القطــاع الخــاص عــى تــويل مســؤولية التمويــل ملشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة ،ولديهــا الخـربات يف هــذا املجــال حيــث يتــوىل القطــاع الخــاص متويــل أغلب املشــاريع وتــدرك مــدى ربحيــة العمــل فيهــا. وتحــدث الدكتــور كريــس أندريــو عــن خربتــه يف العمــل يف مطــار هيــرو العاملــي الــذي يرتبــط برشاكــة مــع قطــر .وتعمــل مؤسســة هيــرو كرشكة مســاهمة ،هــي يف الصــدارة العامليــة مــن حيــث البنيــة التحتيــة ،ولديهــا الخـربات العامليــة يف هكــذا مشــاريع عماقــة إذا مــا رغبــت دول مجلــس التعــاون يف إنشــاء مطــارات عامليــة حيــث تهيــأ فــرص عمــل هائلــة للشــباب .وأشــار إىل أن %20 مــن خطــوط النقــل الجــوي يف اململكــة املتحــدة يقــوم بهــا مطــار هيــرو ،وأن مؤسســته متلــك الخــربة يف هــذا املجــال. وقــدم الســيد ديفيــد ليــام نبــذة عــن معــدل النمــو الهائــل يف مدينــة لنــدن والــذي يضــع ضغطـاً كبـرا ً عــى بنيتهــا التحتيــة ،التــي تتــوىل رشكته قسـاً من التحســينات التــي يتطلبهــا الضغــط الــذي تتعــرض لــه هــذه املدينــة العماقــة الســيا مشــاريع النقــل واملطــارات وخطــوط الســكك الحديديــة.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
واإلتصــاالت واالقتصــاد التقنــي وغرهــا مــن الصعــد الحديثــة.
سعادة الدكتورعبد اللطيف بن راشد الزياين مع سعادة السيد عبد الرحمن غانم املطيوعي ،سفري اإلمارات يف لندن
الســكك الحديــدة املشــركة مــع باقــي دول مجلس التعــاون الســيا وقــد بــدأ العمــل يف هــذا مــع الكويــت و ُعــان إلنشــاء خطــوط الســكك الحديدة لنقــل املســافرين والبضائــع .وأكــد الســيد مايــك شــرس بــأن دول مجلــس التعــاون أصبحــت متتلــك إسـراتيجية مســتقبلية إلنشــاء شــبكة مــن خطــوك النقــل عــرب الســكك الحديديــة الحديثــة فيــا بينها وكذلــك ربطهــا مــع العــامل ،وإن هــذه املشــاريع عبــارة عــن كنــز مــن فــرص عمــل جديــدة لجيــل مــن الشــباب يف هــذه الــدول ،وتطويــر خرباتهــم وكفاءاتهــم املهنيــة املســتقبلية مرتبــط بهــذه املشــاريع العماقــة. وأكــد صاحــب الســمو امللــي األمر ســعود بــن خالد الفيصــل أن العمــل الجــاري فيــا بــن دول مجلــس التعــاون مبنــي عــى أســاس الرشاكــة والجــوار واالرتبــاط التاريخــي باملصــر والحــارض ،وأن الرشاكــة فيــا بــن هــذه الــدول واململكــة املتحــدة ال يســتند عــى التنافســية فحســب بل عــى العاقــة التاريخية اإلســراتيجية التــي تربــط دول مجلــس التعــاون وبريطانيــا .وأكــد أن فريــق عملــه يف الهيئــة العامــة لاســتثار يف اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية يســتند عــى إسـراتيجية علميــة مدروســة مبنية عــى توفر الحوافــز والتشــجيع املوجهــة للــرشكات األجنبيــة واســتقطابها عــى أســاس الرشاكــة املســتقبلية واملصلحــة املتبادلــة .وأشــار أن الســعودية تشــهد عمليــة إنتقاليــة كبــرة نحــو التحديــث والتطويــر
والبنــاء والتنميــة ،وهــو مــن شــأنه أن يجلــب النجاح والتفــوق لــكل دول املنطقــة .وقــد برزت الســعودية خــال العقــود القليلــة املاضيــة كقــوة إقليميــة يحســب لهــا حســاب كبــر الســيا يف مجــال التنمية كمصــدر والنمــو االقتصــادي وموقعهــا العاملــي ّ اســايس للطاقــة إضافــة إىل موقعهــا الثقــايف والعقدي األكــرب يف العــامل .كــا بــرزت الســعودية عى الســاحة الدوليــة مــن خــال اســتخدامات التقنيــة الحديثــة
جانب من أروقة املنتدى
وتحــدث عن مصــادر الروات يف الســعودية وأعطى نظــرة تاريخيــة عــى مراحــل إنتــاج الطاقــة فيهــا وموقعهــا يف خارطــة االســتثار العاملــي الحديــث. وأشــار إىل أن اململكــة متتلــك رؤيــة إســراتيجية خاصــة باالســتثار وتهيئــة منــاخ االســتثار الجــاذب لــرؤوس األمــوال األجنبيــة وتشــجيعها من خــال إعطــاء الحوافــز الكبــرة للــرشكات األجنبيــة. وقــال أن الهيئــة العامــة لاســتثار يف اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية تعمــل جنبــاً إىل جنــب مــع الحكومــة الســعودية وهــي تســتثمر األمــوال التــي ترصدهــا الحكومــة يف االســتثار وتهيئــة الفــرص التــي تطرحهــا الدولــة يف عــامل التجــارة واالســتثار. وأشــار إىل أن أرصــدة ضخمــة توجههــا الدولــة نحــو مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة خاصــة يف مجــال التعليــم والصحــة ،وأن الســعودية تطــرح كل هــذه الفــرص أمــام الــرشكاء الربيطانيــن يف التطويــر والتنميــة يف هــذه املجــاالت خاصــة ،وعــى أســاس الرشاكــة واملصلحــة املتبادلــة .واختتــم كلمتــه بــأن الفــرص التــي تطرحهــا الســعودية أمــام الــرشكات األجنبيــة هائلــة ،وإن الســعودية تنظــر إىل بنــاء رشاكات إسـراتيجية بعيــدة املــدى ،وإن الســعودية رصــدت نحــو 140مليــار دوالر لتطويــر وإنشــاء مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة يف اململكــة ومشــاريع الربــط مــع باقــي دول مجلــس التعــاون.
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 119
االقتصاديــة الثنائيــة”
سعادة الدكتورعبد اللطيف بن راشد الزياين يتسلم وثيقة التقدير من الدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي
بهــا مــن قبــل الــدول العربيــة الســيا دول مجلــس التعــاون التــي بــدأت بالفعــل العمــل عــى إنشــاء البنيــة التحتيــة إلنتــاج الطاقــة النوويــة ،وبــدأت الســعودية توليــة هــذا املوضــوع اهتامـاً ملموسـاً وســوف تتبعهــا دول أخــرى يف املنطقــة .ومــن هنــا فــإن تطويــر الــكادر الــازم الســتخدام التقنيــات الحديثــة يف إنتــاج الطاقــة املتجــددة إضافــة إىل دعــوة الــرشكات األجنبيــة التــي تســتثمر بهــذا املجــال الســيا أن الــرشكات الربيطانيــة التــي متتلك الخــربة والكفــاءة الازمتــن لتطويــر البنيــة التحتيــة لهــذه الصناعــة. وأشــارت أوراق عمــل الدكتــور بريــم ماهــي إىل تنفيــذ رشكتــه بعــض مــن مشــاريع الطاقــة الشمســية يف مدينــة أبــو ظبــي ومدينــة ديب يف اإلمــارات إضافــة إىل األردن ،ولــدى رشكتــه أكــر مــن 70ألــف موظــف حــول العــامل يف 140دولــة، وأكــر مــن 1000موظــف يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط لوحدهــا .وأكــد بــأن رشكتــه تعــرف بعدم كفايــة الوســائل والتقنيــات يف مجــال إنتــاج الطاقــة املســتجدة ،وهــي تتابــع بكثــر مــن االهتــام التطويــر يف هــذا املجــال .ففــي اإلمــارات تشــارك رشكتــه يف أعــال “مدينــة مصــدر” ومــرشوع “شــمس وان” ،وهــو مــرشوع ذو أفــق متطــورة وجــاري العمــل بــه بشــكل متواصــل وحثيــث .ويف األردن تشــارك رشكتــه يف مجــال تطويــر تقنيــات وإنشــاء البنيــة التحتيــة الازمــة إلنتــاج الطاقــة
املســتجدة ،حيــث متكنــت األردن لحــد اآلن مــن تحقيــق %5-6مــن أحــد مشــاريع تقنيــات الطاقــة الشمســية ،ومــن املمكــن أن ترتفــع الســيا اســتغال طاقــة الريــاح. الجلسة الثانية: “دول مجلــس التعــاون واململكــة املتحــدة :الفرص الناشــئة يف مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة والــرشاكات
تــرأس الجلســة الســيد مايــك شــرس ،مديــر مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة يف هيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة ()UKTI املتحدثون: صاحــب الســمو امللــي األمــر ســعود بــن خالــد الفيصــل ،نائــب املحافــظ للشــؤون االســتثار - الهيئــة العامــة لاســتثار يف اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية ()SAGIA؛ الســيد ريتشــارد فريــزر ســميث ،املديــر املــايل األورويب – رشكــة ()CH2M Hill؛ الدكتــور كريــس أندريــو ،رئيــس اإلســراتيجية - مطــار هيــرو العاملــي؛ الســيد ديفيــد ليــام ،مديــر البنيــة التحتيــة يف مؤسســة لنــدن وان أشــارت كلــات وأوراق عمــل املتحدثــن يف هــذه الجلســة إىل املشــاريع الفعليــة الكبــرة يف البنيــة التحتيــة والتــي يخطــط لهــا وتلــك التــي بالفعــل بــدأ العمــل بهــا بالرشاكــة مــع مطوريــن مــن اململكــة املتحــدة يف بعــض دول مجلــس التعــاون الســيا الســعودية ،وإن هــذه املشــاريع تصــب يف املنفعــة املشــركة للطرفــن .فقــد بــدأت الســعودية بإرســاء قواعــد العمــل والخطــط بإنشــاء خطــوط
من اليمني :سعادة الشيخ نارص املطوع العتيبي ،الرئيس املشارك يف -مجلس األعامل السعودي الربيطاين ،والسيد جيم هارا ،املدير العام للرضائب يف – دائرة اإليرادات والجامرك يف اململكة املتحدة ،والسيد الزبري باتل ،من مؤسسة ( KPMGالكويت) والسيد ديفيد صالح ،رشيك يف مؤسسة -كليفورد تشانس
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
والشــمس يتطلــب اســتخدامات الغــاز كمصــدر محــرك لإلنتــاج يف التقنيــة املســتخدمة حاليــاً يف إنتــاج الطاقــة املســتدامة .وهنــاك إمكانيــة جيــدة أن نقــوم بتســييل الغــاز الطبيعــي ونقلــه وبيعــه بشــكل أرخــص وعــن طريــق النقــل األريض .ومــا عــدا قطــر والجزائــر ،مل يتــم تطويــر هــذه الصناعــة يف الــدول العربيــة لحــد اآلن ،بــل هــي تواجــه بعــض املشــاكل وغالبــاً مــا يحــرق هــذا الغــاز أثنــاء عمليــة اســتخراج النفــط وال يتــم االســتفادة منــه عــى الشــكل األمثــل .وقــد بــدأت الكويــت وقبلهــا اإلمــارات بالعمــل عى االســتفادة مــن الغاز املصاحــب حديث ـاً .وهنــاك بعــض الــدول األخــرى مــرددة بهــذا املوضــوع .ويتــداول اليــوم موضــوع اســتخدام تكنولوجيــا الحديثــة للتخلــص مــن مــادة الكاربــون يف الغــاز الطبيعــي ،وهــو موضــوع مهــم لاســتدامة البيئيــة. كــا أكــدت أوراق عمــل الدكتــور خالــد الهجــري عــى اهميــة التعليــم والتدريــب لفئــات الشــباب وعكســها عــى الوضــع يف قطــر حيــث تطبــق سياســة رعايــة فئــة الشــباب من حيــث تخصيصات التعليــم والتدريــب وبنــاء القــدرات لألجيــال املســتقبلية لقطــر .وبخصــوص اســتخدامات الطاقــة املســتجدة ومصــادر الطاقــة الجديــدة ،وإن مؤسســة قطــر تعمــل عــى وضــع خطــة دقيقــة بحيــث يكــون %20مــن إنتــاج الطاقــة يــأيت مــن
صاحب السمو املليك دوق يورك األمري آندرو
البارونة سيمونز
مصــادر الطبيعيــة املســتجدة الســيا الريــاح وذلــك بحلــول عــام .2020وأشــار إىل أن مجمــع قطــر للعلــوم والطاقــة يؤكــد عــى اهميــة بحث ودراســة مصــادر الطاقــة الجديــدة املســتدامة وبحــث الســبل للحصــول عــى التقنيــات الازمــة ،وهــي اهميــة توليهــا الحكومــة يف قطــر لهــذا املوضــوع الحســاس .وأكــد بــأن قطــر تتجــه نحــو تحقيــق
رؤيتهــا اإلس ـراتيجية لعــام 2030ويتضمــن ذلــك تحقيــق دورة كأس العــامل التــي ســتقام يف قطــر عام ،2022مبــا يف ذلــك مشــاركة الــرشكات الربيطانية يف تأمــن مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة املطلوبــة حيــث أن قطــر اآلن بصــدد فتــح الفــرص أمــام مزيــدا ً مــن الــرشكات العامليــة للمشــاركة واإلطــاع عــى الفرص الكثــرة يف قطــر. وأشــار الســيد مــادن إىل أن بــروز االهتــام مبصــادر الطاقــة الجديــة املســتدامة خــال العقــود األخــرة أصبــح ميثــل لنــا مســتقباً أكــر تفــاءالً ومــن نواحي كثــرة الســيا الحفــاظ عــى البيئــة وإيجــاد بديـاً ملصــادر الطاقــة التقليديــة .فقــد ارتفــع الطلــب عــى الطاقــة الجديــدة بشــكل ملحــوظ إال أنــه يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط ال يتجــاوز نســبة ،%7-9 وهــو يــزداد بشــكل ملحوظ لكــن ببطــئ .وإن دول مجلــس التعــاون قــد أدركــت يف الســنوات القليلــة املاضيــة أهميــة املوضــوع وازداد الطلــب عــى التقنيــات الحديثــة لصناعــة البنيــة التحتيــة إلنتــاج الطاقــة الجديــدة مــن الريــاح والطاقــة الشمســية. فقــد ارتفــع الطلــب عــى الطاقــة الجديــدة يف منطقــة الخليــج لتصــل إىل ،%10ونتوقــع أن يرتفع الطلــب إىل %30مــن عــام 2020وبحلــول عــام .2030
السيد توبياس إيلوود يتسلم وثيقة التقدير من الدكتورة الشُ عيبي
كــا وأشــارت أوراق عمــل الســيد مــادن إىل اهميــة مصــادر الطاقــة النوويــة حيــث يجــب االهتــام
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 121
السيد مايك شريس ،مدير مشاريع البنية التحتية يف ()UKTI
جانب من الجلسة الثانية
الجلسة األوىل: “ ظهــور الطاقــة املســتدامة والقيمــة املضافــة مــن الطاقــة املتجــددة إىل مصــادر التقليديــة”
الربيطانيــة عــى التنظيــم الراقــي للمنتــدى وخصــوا بالشــكر الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي ،وأشــاروا بــأن الوقــت الحــايل يشــهد العديــد مــن األحــداث وتطوراتهــا الرسيعــة الســيا التغيــر املناخــي ،واإلرهــاب، والعوملــة الثقافيــة واالقتصاديــة والتقنيــة ،وإن التحديــات كثــرة إال أن الفــرص باملقابل كثــرة أيضاً خاصــة يف مجــال العلــوم التكنولوجيــا املتطــورة التــي متهــد الطريــق إلرســاء دعائــم التنــوع يف مصــادر الــروات واســتدامة املصــادر املوجــودة، إىل جانــب تعليــم وتدريــب الشــباب العــريب عــى تطبيقــات التكنولوجيــا الحديثــة يف العمــل.
تــرأس الجلســة الســيد شــهيد مالــك ،نائــب بريطاين والوزيــر الســابق للتنميــة الدوليــة ورئيس مؤسســة التعــاون العاملــي والرشاكات التنمويــة ()GCDP املتحدثون: الســيد منــر بوعزيــز ،نائــب رئيــس يف رشكــة شــل النفطيــة العامليــة – عمليــات االستكشــاف واإلنتــاج يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط وشــال أفريقيــا، مســؤول املنطقــة الشــالية يف دولــة اإلمــارات العربيــة املتحــدة؛ الدكتــور خالــد الهجــري ،الرئيــس واملديــر التنفيذي ملؤسســة قطــر لتقنيــات الطاقة الشمســية؛ الســيد بيــر مــادن ،نائــب الرئيــس التنفيــذي لرشكة ( - )MACاميــك فوســر ويلر؛ الدكتــور بريــم ماهــي ،مديــر املجموعــة املنفــذة يف رشكــة بــاور – (مــوت ماكدونالــد) تناولــت الجلســة األوىل مــن املنتــدى موضــوع الطاقــة املســتدامة وتاثراتهــا عــى الطاقــة التقليديــة ،قدمــت فيهــا أوراق عمــل مــن اختصاصيــن يف مجــال الطاقــة املتجــددة والتقنيــة الحديثــة يف هــذا املجــال .ويف مســتهل هــذه الجلســة شــكر املتحدثــون غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة
ويف موضــوع التغــر املناخــي الــذي يحــى بأهمية كبــرة عــى الصعيــد األورويب ،وإن تقليــل أخطــار التغي ـرات املناخيــة موضــوع يقلــق العديــد مــن العلــاء واملهتمــن ،ولهــذا بــدأت البحــوث ومنــذ وقــت ليــس بالقليــل تأخــذ موضــوع اســتخدام مصــادر الطاقــة املســتدامة بنظــر الجديــة ،أوالً للتقليــل مــن التأثــرات املناخيــة التــي ممكــن أن تســببها اســتخراجات واســتخدامات الطاقــة التقليديــة وثانيـاً ،االســتدال عــى التقنيــة الحديثــة التــي تســاهم يف اســتخدام مصــادر أخــرى غــر تقليديــة للطاقــة ،إضافــة إىل أن هــذ كلــه فــإن االســتثار يف الطاقــة املســتجدة ســيوفر فــرص عمل ألكــر مــن 2مليــون شــخص يف هــذا القطــاع املهــم. أن مشــاريع “الطاقــة الشمســية لشــال الصحـراء” ممكنــه لوحــده أن ميــد قــارة أوروبــا كلهــا بالطاقــة.
كــا أن تطويــر مرشوعــات الطاقــة الشمســية وطاقــة الريــاح يف منطقــة الــرشق األوســط وشــال أفريقيــا حيــوي ومهــم ويجــب التفكــر بــه مليــا مــن قبــل الحكومــات والقطــاع الخــاص. ويف ظــل الراجــع الكبــر الــذي تشــهده أســعار النفــط يف األســواق العامليــة يف الوقــت الحــايل، وهــو مبثابــة خســارة كبــرة للــدول املصــدرة للنفط مثــل دول مجلــس التعــاون الخليجــي مــا يشــجع هــذه الــدول عــى بحــث ودراســة مشــاريع الطاقــة املســتدامة .ويتوقــع أن يرتفــع الطلــب العاملي عى الطاقــة ويتضاعــف بحلــول عــام .2050ويتزامــن هــذا مــع ارتفــاع مســتويات املعيشــة واتســاع الطبقــة املتوســطة يف العــامل .كــا أن التحديــات املتزايــدة بخصــوص التغيــرات املناخيــة وزيــادة االهتــام بهــذا املوضــوع وإرســاء أولويــات الحفاظ عــى البيئــة واســتدامتها ،يتطلــب أن نقــف بجديــة عــى موضــوع إيجــاد وســائل جديــدة للطاقــة ســعياً وراء الحفــاظ عــى دميومــة األرض والحيلولــة إىل عــدم ارتفــاع درجــة حرارتهــا أكــر وأكــر. أن إنتــاج الغــاز الطبيعــي ال ينــدرج بنفــس املوقــع الــذي يحتلــه النفــط التقليــدي مــن ناحيــة تلــوث البيئــة ،بــل أن الغــاز يعتــرب أحــد املصــادر النظيفــة للطاقــة وينــدرج ضمــن الطاقــة املســتجدة كــا هــي الريــاح والطاقــة الشمســية ،فهــو مائــم للبيئــة كــا أن إنتــاج الطاقــة مــن الريــاح
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
واالســتثار فيــا بــن دول مجلــس التعــاون مــن جهــة وكذلــك إزالــة العقبــات والحواجــز التــي تقــف أمــام االســتثار وتنقــل النــاس والتجــارة بــن دون مجلــس التعــاون وبريطانيــا وذلــك إنطاقــاً مــن عاقــة دول املجلــس التاريخيــة العريقــة مــع اململكــة املتحــدة ،والتــي يتطلــب منــا اليــوم الحفــاظ عليهــا وتطويرهــا.
الدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي تستقبل صاحب السمو املليك األمري آندرو دوق يورك
وأكــد معاليــه أن دول مجلــس التعــاول تقــع يف منطقــة تعيــش تحديات حقيقيــة وأزمات سياســية واقتصاديــة ناجمــة عــن عــدم االســتقرار التــي تواجهــه منــذ مــا يســمى بـــ “الربيــع العــريب” إال ان دول مجلــس التعــاون تتمتــع بحالــة ممتــازة مــن االســتقرار واألمــن بظــل قياداتهــا الحكيمــة ،وهــي لهــذا كانــت وال تـزال واحــة لاســتثار واالســتقرار والرخــاء االقتصــادي .كــا أن دول مجلــس التعــاون عــى الرغــم مــا متتلكــه مــن الــروات الطبيعيــة بــدأت وبجــد بالنظــر ملــا بعــد مرحلــة النفــط والغــاز ،وبــدأت تفكــر مليــاً وتأخــذ باألعتبــار التدهــور الكبــر الــذي يحصــل عــى أســعار النفــط مــن خــال دراســة املجــاالت والقطاعــات التــي ســتنوب عــن تصــدر ثــروات النفــط والغــاز يف الدخــل الوطنــي لــدول مجلــس التعــاون .وتأخــذا دول املجلــس موضــوع تشــجيع الشــباب وتنميــة روح الريــادة والقيــادة املؤسســاتية فيهــم مــن خــال تشــجيع القطــاع الخــاص مــن خــال تســهيل متويــل املشــاريع الصغــرة واملتوســطة ،ودعــم التعليــم والتدريــب املهنــي ،واالســتثار يف العلــوم والتقنيــة الحديثــة .ومــن هنــا فــإن دول مجلــس التعــاون تنظــر إىل الرشيــك الربيطــاين مــن خــال تقديــم الدعــم والتقنيــات الحديثــة والتدريــب عى ريــادة األعــال ،والتعلــم مــن الخـربات الربيطانيــة يف إجــراء تغــرا ً جوهريــاً يف طريقــة التفكــر يف األعــال واســتخدام التقنيــة الحديثــة .ويف ميــدان الرشاكــة االقتصاديــة ،ذكــر الدكتور الزيــاين خصوصاً
املشــاريع املشــركة التــي تخطــط لهــا دول املجلــس مثــل شــبكات الربــط الكهربــايئ والطاقــة ،والســكك الحديديــة الجديــدة وقطــاع اإلتصــاالت والتقنيــات الحديثــة إضافــة إىل مشــاريع مشــركة يف مجــال التجــارة والصناعــة مــع دول أخــرى يف العــامل. وشــدد معــايل األمــن العــام للمجلــس عــى إزالــة العقبــات والحواجــز التــي تعيــق التجــارة
وأشــار الســيد توبيــاس ايلــوود ،عضــو الربملــان الربيطــاين وكيــل وزيــر الخارجيــة لشــؤون أمريــكا الشــالية والــرشق األوســط وشــال أفريقيــا ،يف كلمتــه إىل التعــاون املشــرك بــن دول مجلــس التعــاون واململكــة املتحــدة ،وقــال بــأن “هنــاك العديــد مــن األســباب التــي تجعلنــا أصدقــاء ورشكاء” .فــدول الخليــج تحتضــن أكــر مــن 150 ألــف مواطــن بريطــاين ،والعاقــات التاريخيــة التــي تربــط اململكــة املتحــدة مــع الــدول الخليجيــة مــا يجعــل األمــن اإلقليمــي يف تلــك املنطقــة مــن أولويــات اململكــة املتحــدة ،إىل جانــب تنامــي حجــم التجــارة واالســتثار الســيا يف مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة والطاقــة ،حيــث تتوقــع أن ترتفــع االســتثارات الربيطانيــة يف دول مجلــس التعــاون الخليجــي إىل أكــر مــن 30مليــار جنيــه إسـرليني ســنوياً ،ويف كل القطاعــات االقتصاديــة .وأكــد خاصــة عــى املوضــوع األمنــي ومحاربــة اإلرهــاب وتبــادل املعلومــات بهــذا الخصــوص.
من اليسار :الدكتور بريم ماهي ،مدير املجموعة املنفذة يف رشكة باور – (موت ماكدونالد) ،والسيد بيرت مادن ،نائب الرئيس التنفيذي لرشكة ( ،)MACوالدكتور خالد الهجري ،رئيس مؤسسة قطر لتقنيات الطاقة الشمسية والسيد منري بوعزيز ،نائب رئيس رشكة شل النفطية العاملية
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 123
الدكتورعبد اللطيف بن راشد الزياين ،األمني العام ملجلس التعاون لدول الخليج العربية
لــوزارة الخارجيــة لدولــة البحريــن برتبــة وزيــر. وأضافــت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي“ :نحــن نعتقــد أن هــذا املنتــدى االقتصــادي ســيمكن الــرشكات واملســتثمرين للتعــرف واالســتفادة القصــوى مــن العديــد مــن الفــرص الناشــئة للتعــاون بــن اململكــة املتحــدة ودول مجلــس التعــاون الخليــج العربيــة الســيا وإن العمــل يتواصــل يف منطقــة الخليــج عــى سلســلة مــن مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة الضخمــة والتــي من شــأنها تطويــر وتحويــل الواقع االقتصــادي فيهــا بشــكل متطــور جــدا ً” .وأضافــت أن التطــورات الديناميكيــة والتحضــرات الجاريــة إلقامــة معــرض أكســبو يف ديب ،2020ومشــاريع وخطــط قطــر فيــا يخــص نهائيــات كأس العــامل ،2022ومشــاريع املــدن االقتصاديــة العماقــة التــي يوشــك أن ينتهــي العمــل ببعضهــا والبــدء يف أخــرى يف اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية مثــل مدينــة امللــك عبــد اللــه االقتصاديــة ،ومينــاء الدقــم يف ســلطنة عــان ،الــذي ســيتم إنجــازه يف غضــون الســنوات القليلــة املقبلــة ،كلهــا مشــاريع ضخمــة وهــي مبثابــة املحفــز الرئيــي للتنويــع االقتصــادي اإلقليمــي ومصــدرا ً لخلــق فرص ـاً ضخمــة لــرشكات الهندســة والبنــاء ،واملــوردون يف مختلــف خدمــات الدعــم والخــربة الفنيــة. وشــكرت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي الجهــات املشــاركة يف رعايــة أعــال املنتــدى عــى كــرم املســاندة
والتشــجيع الســيا مجلــس التعــاون للــدول الخليجيــة ،وهيئــة التجــارة واالســتثار يف اململكــة املتحــدة ( ،)UKTIورشكــة شــل ( ،)Shellورشكــة قطــر لتقنيــات الطاقــة الشمســية. ويف كلمــة متميــزة رحــب معــايل الدكتــور عبــد اللطيــف بــن راشــد الزيــاين ،األمــن العــام ملجلــس التعــاون لــدول الخليــج العربيــة بالســمو امللــي دوق يــورك والضيــوف الكـرام ،وأشــار أن غايــة هذا املنتــدى هــو مناقشــة القضايــا املشــركة وتســليط الضــوء عــى الفــرص واملحف ـزات وكذلــك مناقشــة املعوقــات التــي ميكــن أن تواجــه األط ـراف خــال عمليــة االســتثار والتجــارة إنطاقــاُ مــن كــون لنــدن البيــت الثــاين لرشيحــة كبــرة مــن مواطنــي مجلــس التعــاون الخليجــي .وخــص الدكتــور الزياين بالشــكر الدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي عــى جهودهــا ومثابرتهــا يف عملهــا كونهــا ســفرة متميــزة لــدول مجلــس التعــاون يف بريطانيــا ،وكذلــك غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة عــى دورهــا املحــوري يف رســم وتشــجيع العاقــات الثنائيــة ،وعــى تنظيمهــا املنتــدى ودعوتهــا لــه. وأشــار الدكتــور الزيــاين بــأن العاقــة بــن دول مجلــس التعــاون واململكــة املتحــدة عاقــة مبنيــة عــى الثقــة املتبادلــة وهــي حصيلــة عقــود مــن الزمــن مــن عاقــات متميــزة عــى كافــة الصعــد الســيا االجتاعيــة واالقتصاديــة والسياســية ،وإن
السيد توبياس ايلوود ،عضو الربملان الربيطاين -وكيل وزير الخارجية لشؤون أمريكا الشاملية والرشق األوسط وشامل أفريقيا
دول مجلــس التعــاون كأي مجموعــة عامليــة قــد تبنــت مفهــوم العوملــة بــكل مدياتها مــع احتفاظها بهويتهــا التاريخيــة وتقاليدهــا االجتاعيــة ،والــذي ال مينــع أن تســعى هــذه الــدول إىل تحقيــق عاقات متبادلــة متميــزة مــع باقــي دول العــامل الســيا الــدول الصديقــة التــي ترتبــط معهــا عــى أســاس مــن الثقــة والرغبــة األكيــدة يف التعــاون مبــا يحقــق منفعــة جميــع األطـراف .وأكــد الدكتــور الزيــاين ان دول مجلــس التعــاون ترتبــط مــع اململكــة املتحدة بعاقــة تاريخيــة عميقــة الوشــائج وترتكــز عــى اســس مدروســة للتعــاون االقتصــادي والســيايس والثقــايف ،وموقــف واحــد تجــاه القضايــا املصريــة للمنطقــة مثــل :االســتقرار واألمــن ،ومكافحــة غســيل األمــوال ،ومحاربــة اإلرهــاب ،وتشــجيع ودعــم االســتثار والتجــارة املتبــادل. وأشــار معاليــه إىل أنــه يف ســياق ســعي دول مجلس التعــاون لبنــاء عاقــات مبنيــة عــى املصالــح املشــركة ،يلتــزم مجلــس التعــاون باجتاعــات وزاريــة دوريــة مــع اململكــة املتحــدة حيــث أصبــح هــذا تقليــدا ً متعــارف عليــه منــذ عــام ،2004وهي أجتاعــات مــن شــأنها بحــث قضايــا التعــاون املشــرك ووضــع اآلليــات املناســبة للتطبيــق. وتناولــت هــذه االجتاعــات موضوعــات هامــة تتصدرهــا :املشــاورات السياســية يف قضايــا األمــن ومكافحــة اإلرهــاب ،ومســائل الطاقــة والبيئــة، والثقافــة والســياحة والتجــارة واالســتثار.
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
الدكتورة أفنان الشُ عيبي ،األمني العام والرئيس التنفيذي للغرفة
بينــا اســتهل صاحــب الســمو امللــي دوق يــورك، األمــر آنــدرو ،كلمتــه بتســليط الضــوء عــى أوجــه التشــابه والتقــارب بــن دول مجلــس التعــاون وبريطانيــا حينــا قــال بــأن “بريطانيــا متكونــة مــن أربعــة دول وإن دول مجلــس التعــاون الخليــج العربيــة متكونــة مــن ســتة دول” ،وأضــاف بأننــا كلنــا نعمــل ســوية عــى تقويــة عاقاتنــا التاريخيــة وتعزيزهــا ورفدهــا بالحيــاة عــن طريــق الثقــة املتبادلــة والتــي هــي األســاس األهــم لــكل عمــل. وأكــد عــى أن دوره الشــخيص يف هــذا املجــال محــوري وهــام ســوى عندمــا كان يف القــوات البحريــة امللكيــة أو فيــا بعــد كرجــل أعــال، فهــو يؤمــن بالــدور القيــادي وتاثراتــه يف العمــل املجتمعــي ويف عــامل املــال واألعــال ،حيــث للــدور القيــادي األهميــة البالغــة يف توجيــه املصالــح باالتجــاه الصحيــح وحايتهــا ،وزرع الثقــة وتنميتهــا ،واإلميــان يف بنــاء عاقــات تخــدم مصالــح كل األط ـراف ،وأعطــى أمثلــة عــى ذلــك. وأثنــى صاحــب الســمو امللــي دوق يــورك خاصــة عــى الــدور القيــادي الــذي تلعبــه غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة يف دعــم وتشــجيع العاقــات العربيــة الربيطانيــة ،وبنــاء الثقــة بــن األطــراف حيــث أن الــكل ســيكون رابحـاً يف نهايــة الطريــق. ومــن هــذا املنطلــق تطــرق صاحــب الســمو امللــي إىل العاقــات التاريخيــة التــي تربــط بــن دول مجلــس التعــاون واململكــة املتحــدة الســيا العاقــات االقتصاديــة حيــث أكــد بــأن النجــاح يف
البارونة سيمونز ،رئيس غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية ،وصاحب السمو املليك األمري آندرو دوق يورك ،والدكتورعبد اللطيف بن راشد الزياين ،األمني العام ملجلس التعاون لدول الخليج العربية والدكتور خالد الهجري ،رئيس مؤسسة قطر لتقنيات الطاقة الشمسية
املســتقبل يــأيت فقــط عــن طريــق االســتثار يف الطاقــات الشــبابية والجيــل الجديــد مــن الشــباب مــن خــال االهتــام بالتعليــم والتدريــب وإيجــاد فــرص العمــل األفضــل والحيــاة الكرميــة .وأكــد أن قطــاع التعليــم وقطــاع الصحــة يحتــان الصــدارة يف اململكــة املتحــدة مــن حيــث االهتــام الحكومــي وكذلــك القطــاع الخــاص .وهــذا مــا ينصــح بــه أن يكــون الوضــع يف دول مجلــس التعــاون حيــث يجــب أن يعطــى االهتــام األكــرب لقطــاع التعليــم والصحــة يف هــذه الــدول الناشــئة وإن اململكــة املتحــدة بخرباتهــا وإمكانياتهــا ســتكون عــى أهبــة املســاعدة وتقديــم التقنيــة الازمــة ،عــى أســاس مــن الثقــة املتبادلــة. وأشــار صاحــب الســمو امللــي دوق يــورك إىل إمكانيــة اململكــة املتحــدة يف تبــادل خرباتهــا الكبــرة يف مجــال التعليــم مــع اململكــة العربيــة الســعودية ،وكذلــك فتــح كل اإلمكانــات أمــام الشــباب الســعودي للتعلــم والتدريــب يف املؤسســات والجامعــات الربيطانية.وأختتــم صاحب الســمو كلمتــه بــأن هــذا املؤمتــر يلقــي الضــوء عى املتطلبــات االقتصاديــة يف الظــروف الراهنــة ،وينظر إىل كيفيــة توطيــد الثقــة بــن األطــراف الــرشكاء، ويفتــح الطريــق أيضـاً أمــام اســتقطاب مزيــدا ً مــن االســتثارات يف كل االتجاهــات ،وقــال “أنــا هنــا لــي اســاعد يف هــذا الخصــوص واشــجع عــى هــذا وأدعــم هــذا”. وألقــت الدكتــورة أفنــان الشُ ــعيبي ،األمــن العــام
والرئيــس التنفيــذي للغرفــة ،كلمــة افتتاحيــة أعربــت فيهــا عــن فخرهــا وترحيبهــا العميقــن بالضيــوف املميزيــن ،وخصــت بالذكــر شــكرها وأمتنانهــا الكبريــن ملجلس التعاون عى مســاهمته الفعالــة وحضورهــم الكريــم متمثــاً بشــخص ســعادة الدكتورعبــد اللطيــف بــن راشــد الزيــاين، األمــن العــام ملجلــس التعــاون لــدول الخليــج العربيــة ،ودعــم وتشــجيع املجلــس للجهــود التــي تقــوم بهــا الغرفــة عــى صعيــد توطيــد العاقــات التجاريــة واالســتثارية بــن بريطانيــا ودول مجلس التعــاون الخليــج العربيــة ،وأكــدت أن شــكاً مــن هــذه العاقــات تتجســد بدعــم الغرفــة املتواصــل لعــدد كبــر مــن الــرشكات واختصاصيــن ورجــال أعــال بريطانيــن الذيــن يشــاركون فعليــاً يف مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة الضخمــة التــي تجــري عــى قــدم وســاق يف الــدول الخليجيــة. ويف صــدد شــكرها لــدور مجلــس التعــازن وأمينــه العــام ،أثنــت الدكتــورة الشُ ــعيبي عــى معــايل الدكتــور عبــد اللطيــف بــن راشــد الزيــاين وقالــت بــأن الدكتــور الزيــاين ملــا ميلكــه مــن مؤهــات متميــزة مــن حيــث انــه املهنــدس والضابــط الــذي تلقــى تعليمــه املهنــي يف األكادمييــة امللكيــة ســاند هرســت العســكرية يف أســكتاندا وكذلــك يف مؤسســات مرموقــة يف الواليــات املتحــدة األمريكية، وشــغل منصبـاً متميـزا ً قبــل توليــه منصــب األمــن العــام الخامــس لــدول مجلــس التعــاون الخليجــي يف عــام ،2011حيــث تفــوق بامتيــاز يف مختلــف القــدرات ،كان آخرهــا توليــه منصــب مستشــارا ً
ARAB-BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 125
املنتدىاالقتصاديالخليجيالربيطاين “القطاعالخاص:الفرصوالتحديات” London – 4th December 2014
GCC – BRITISH ECONOMIC FORUM THE PRIVATE SECTOR: CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES
نظمــت غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة أعــال املنتــدى االقتصــادي الخليجــي الربيطــاين يف العاصمــة الربيطانيــة لنــدن ،يف 4ديســمرب ،2014يف فنــدق النــد مــارك – ماليبــورن ،بحضــور أكــر مــن 350مــن الشــخصيات املعروفــة ومنــدويب الرشكات ورجــال األعــال مــن الجانبــن العــريب والربيطــاين. واســتضافت الغرفــة بهــذه املناســبة نخبــة مرموقــة مــن الشــخصيات العامليــة يتصدرهــم عــى الجانب الربيطــاين صاحــب الســمو امللــي األمــر أنــدرو، دوق يــورك ،وعــى الجانــب العــريب ،األمــن العــام ملجلــس التعــاون الخليجــي معــايل الدكتــور عبــد اللطيــف بــن راشــد الزيــاين ،وصاحــب الســمو امللــي األمــر ســعود بــن خالــد الفيصــل ،نائــب محافــظ هيئــة االســتثار الســعودي يف اململكــة املتحــدة ( ،)SAGIAوالســيد توبيــاس ايلــوود، عضــو الربملــان الربيطــاين وكيــل وزيــر الخارجيــة لشــؤون أمريــكا الشــالية والــرشق األوســط وشــال أفريقيــا ،وصاحــب الســمو الســيد فيصــل بــن تــريك آل ســعيد ،املديــر العــام للتســويق واإلعــام – رشكــة إثــراء ،وســعادة الشــيخ نــارص املطــوع العتيبــي ،الرئيــس املشــارك يف -مجلــس األعــال الســعودي الربيطــاين .إىل جنــب نخبــة مــن املتحدثــن واملختصــن العــرب والربيطانيــن الذيــن تـ ّم اختيارهــم بعنايــة بنــاءا ً عــى الخــربة واألقدمية يف حقــول اختصاصاتهــم.
وقــد أضــاف انعقــاد هــذا املنتــدى لغرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة نجاحـاً آخـرا ً باهـرا ً يف مســرتها ويف ظــل قيادتهــا املتميــزة والدعــم غــر املتناهــي التــي تتلقــاه خاصــة مــن لــدن مجلــس التعــاون لــدول الخليــج العربية وأصحاب الســعادة الســفراء العــرب يف اململكــة املتحــدة والجامعــة العربيــة بشــكل عــام .واســتحقت الغرفــة بهــذه الرعايــة الكرميــة أن تحصــل عــى التقديــر العاملــي الســيا يف بريطانيــا وهــي تســر بخطــى ثابتــة يف رعايــة املصالــح العربيــة يف اململكــة املتحــدة وتقديــم الدعــم واالســناد للــرشكات العربيــة والربيطانيــة الراغبــة باكتشــاف فــرص االســتثار والتجــارة أو تلــك التــي ترمــي لتطويــر مواقعهــا يف األســواق العربيــة. تحــت عنــوان “القطــاع الخــاص :الفــرص والتحديــات” انعقــد املنتــدى االقتصــادي الــذي ســلط الضــوء عــى بعــض مــن أهــم القطاعــات التجاريــة واالســتثارية والتــي توصــف حاليــاً بأنهــا ذات إمكانيــة عاليــة للنمــو والتطويــر الســيا مشــاريع البنيــة التحتيــة ،والطاقــة املســتدامة، واملتغـرات الجاريــة يف االقتصــاد العاملــي وتأثراتهــا يف مناخــات االســتثار ،إىل جانــب إلقــاء الضوء عى النظــام الرضيبــي يف اململكــة املتحــدة وتداعيــات إعــادة هيكليتــه عــى املســتثمرين العــرب يف اململكــة املتحــدة .وقدمــت أوراق عمــل لنخبــة مــن املختصــن يف هــذه القطاعــات ،وأجريــت
مناقشــات معمقــة ألقــي فيهــا الضــوء عــى أحــدث املتغـرات واملســتجدات يف قطــاع الطاقــة والتمويل والرضائــب يف منطقــة الخليــج واململكــة املتحــدة. وهــي مواضيــع تســتحوذ الصــدارة يف اهتــام دول املجلــس وكذلــك الجانــب الربيطــاين ،الســيا إن جلســات املنتــدى ومناقشــاته ركــزت جـ ّـل االهتام عــى إيجــاد كل الســبل املمكنــة تجــاه بنــاء وتقوية العاقــات التاريخيــة التــي تربــط دول مجلــس التعــاون مــع الحليــف اإلســراتيجي بريطانيــا. أفتتحــت أعــال املؤمتــر بكلمــة رئيــس غرفــة التجــارة العربيــة الربيطانيــة ،البارونــة ســيمونز، التــي عــربت فيهــا عــن فخرهــا واعتزازهــا أن تتمكن الغرفــة مــن إقامــة هــذا املنتــدى الــذي يجمــع األصدقــاء الخليجيــن مــع رشكائهــم الربيطانيــن، وقالــت بــأن توقيــت أنعقــاد املنتــدى يــأيت يف ظــروف اقتصاديــة خاصــة حيــث تتزايــد متطلبــات البنــاء والتنميــة وتوفــر فــرص العمــل للشــباب، وكذلك الســعي املتزايــد وراء الفرص االســتثارية يف قطاعــات جديــدة مــن االقتصــاد .ورحبــت البارونــة ســيمونز بحضــور الســمو امللــي ،دوق يــورك واألمــن العــام ملجلــس التعــاون وباقــي املتحدثــن والحضــور ،وأكــدت ان “لــدى املنتــدى هــذا هدفـاً واحــدا ً آال وهــو بنــاء عاقــات التجــارة والتعــاون االســتثاري وتقويتهــا وتعزيزهــا ،وتشــجيع فــرص االســتثار بــن دول مجلــس التعــاون وبريطانيــا”.
العدد األول ،املجلد ،10شتاء 2015
ECONOMIC FOCUS CHAMBER NEWS
124
112
104
97
غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية Arab-British Chamber of Commerce 43 Upper Grosvenor Street London W1K 2NJ Tel: +44 (0) 20 7235 4363 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7245 6688 economicfocus@abcc.org.uk www.abcc.org.uk
“أضواء عىل قضايا العالقات العربية-الربيطانية” مجلة اقتصادية من إصدارات غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية يف لندن
محتــــــــوياتالــــــعدد تقارير خاصة
ما الذي تحتاجه الرشكات يف دول مجلس التعاون الخليجي عند التوسع يف اململكة املتحدة مقابلة خاصة مع أحد أعضاء الغرفة :فيليب جابه والرشكة املحدودة لندن والدار البيضاء -إقامة عالقات عاملية القيادة املرنة :تطوير املواهب الطبيعية ملنطقة الرشق األوسط أمن شبكات املعلومات للرشكات يف الرشق األوسط التطور يف التحكيم الدويل املسح االقتصادي الفصيل الربيطاين
6 10 12 14 26 32 48
أخبار ونشاطات الغرفة نشاطات الغرفة أخبار األعضاء أعضاء جدد
68 88 93
التقرير االقتصادي العريب املنتدى االقتصادي الخليجي الربيطاين املنتدى العريب الربيطاين االقتصادي الثاين ( )2 املنتدى االقتصادي القطري الربيطاين – لندن 2014 غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية تستضيف اجتامع الطاولة املستديرة مع وزير الخارجية التونيس
125 113 105 98
حقوق النرش تحتفظ غرفة التجارة العربية – الربيطانية بحقوق النرش للمعلومات التي تحتويها هذه املجلة ،وال يحق ألي جهة أخرى إعادة أنتاجها أو إعادة صياغتها أو إعادة توزيعها الكيل أو الجزيئ بدون موافقة مبارشة من غرفة التجارة العربية الربيطانية فريق املحررين عبد السالم اإلدرييس ،كليف لورانس ،ديفيد موركان ،د .ياسمني حسني
Production & Design Distinctive Publishing Unit 6b, Floor B, Milburn House Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1LE Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk
Advertising Distinctive Publishing Tel: 0845 884 2343 john.neilson@distinctivegroup.co.uk
GAZA APPEAL Even before the ceasefire agreement was in place, Muslim Aid were on the ground responding to the needs of the people of Gaza with emergency aid and relief. Working with local partners and UN agencies, Muslim Aid are working on long-term development programmes in order to rehabilitate Gaza’s services.
ACT NOW
Text Freedom £10 to 70660 020 7377 4200 - muslimaid.org
Text costs £10.00 plus network charge. Muslim Aid receives 100% of your donation. Obtain bill payer's permission. Customer care 02073774200
If your organisation would like to support Muslim Aid’s work in Gaza please contact Corporate Partnerships for more information.
For50 years,we’ve measured success just one way: We only win when our clients win. Experience Is Our Greatest Asset. Jefferies is an industry leader specializing in exchange-traded futures & options, commodities and over-the-counter products including metals and foreign exchange. With a client-first approach, we deliver expert execution, clearing and customizable technology solutions to CTAs, hedge funds, institutional investors, producers and commodity processors globally.
FUTURES & OPTIONS BASE METALS & FERROUS MARKETS PRECIOUS METALS FOREIGN EXCHANGE ENERGY AGRICULTURALS & SOFTS
Jefferies, the global investment banking firm, is headquartered in New York with offices in more than 30 cities around the world. The firm provides clients with clearing and execution in commodities, equity, equity-linked and fixed income securities. Jefferies is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Leucadia National Corporation (NYSE: LUK), a diversified holding company.
CARBON & EMISSIONS COMMODITY SWAPS OTC PRIME BROKERAGE FIX CONNECTIVITY SOLUTIONS MANAGED FUTURES CLEARING
Ashraf Meleka SEO of Dubai Office, Global Futures Direct: +971 4 376 3201 Main: +971 4 376 3200 ameleka@jefferies.com
Clients First–Always
SM
INVESTMENT BANKING
|
EQUITIES
|
FIXED INCOME
|
FUTURES
|
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
© 2014 Jefferies LLC. In the United Kingdom, Jefferies International Limited and Jefferies Bache Limited are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
|
JEFFERIES.COM