GPIC KHALEEJIAH Issue 67 by GPIC

Shaikh Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa Award for Excellence in Industry

Issue (67) March 2009

REG. No. IGPI 021

GPIC Wins Bahraini Women Empowerment Award

Bahraini women and allowing them to hold key positions. She reiterated that this Award was a symbol of the basic principles laid down by the National Action Charter and the Bahrain Constitution for empowerment of women. It was also one of the key aspects of the national plan for advancement of Bahraini women.

.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Women attended an official ceremony to present to the winning companies and businesses Her Royal Highness’ Award for Empowerment of Bahraini Women for 2008. Mr. Abdul rahman Jawahery, General Manager received the Award on behalf of the Company.

On this occasion, H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman expressed his

Her Royal Highness expressed her thanks and appreciation of the Company’s role in empowering H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa

Cont. on page 2 & 11

GPIC Marks 29th Anniversary and Honours Veteran and Outstanding Employees

n Thursday 25 December 2008 GPIC held a ceremony at the Al Ghazal Ballroom, Ritz Carlton Hotel, marking its 29th anniversary. The event was held under the patronage of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman. At the opening of the ceremony, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager welcomed the guests and conveyed to them the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa. He praised the achievements made by the company in all fields and its unique position in terms of its significant achievements, since it

embodies the spirit of cooperation among the GC states in all aspects.

H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa

In his speech Mr. Jawahery said everyone is proud of what the Kingdom of Bahrain has been able to achieve in 2008. The most important of these was the launch of Bahrain’s Economic Vision up to the year 2030 which demonstrated the prudence and farsightedness of our wise leadership. Another achievement was the development of the status of Bahraini women. Winning the highest decorations, assuming the most senior positions and Cont. on page 36, 37, 38

Newsletter published by the Public Relations Dept. of Gulf Petrochemical Industries Co. P.O. Box 26730, Kingdom of Bahrain Website: www.gpic.com, e-mail: gpic@gpic.com Issue_67_Eng.indd 1

3/12/09 3:49:35 PM

GPIC Wins Bahraini Women Empowerment Award

Cont. from page 1

thanks to H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa for presenting this prestigious award to the Company. He pledged to exert more efforts for the development of Bahraini women who were one of the pillars of the community’s growth and progress. His Excellency also congratulated the Directors, executive management and all the employees for this significant achievement. He also praised the efforts made by women in the private sector and the effective role that they played in the growth of the national economy. This is clear evidence of the insight enjoyed by GPIC and its concern with enhancing women’s contributions by giving them the opportunity to realise further growth and success.

make further contributions for the development of Bahraini women as one of the basic foundations of the community’s progress and advancement. He also expressed his best wishes to Her Royal Highness and hoped that she would be able to enhance the status of Bahraini women and to ensure their further training and integration in the national development plans. Mr. Jawahery added the Company’s win of this significant award was a demonstration of the directives of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman and the Board members who supported all the Company’s initiatives and projects that resulted in the outstanding position achieved by GPIC at all regional and international forums. He pointed out that the management exerted all possible efforts for the benefit of all the employees who were considered as the Company’s real wealth.

Meanwhile, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery praised the major role played by H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa for realising Bahrain’s vision for further growth and prosperity, based upon sustainable development with the contributions of both men and women, in addition to building up a state of constitutional institutions and rule of law.

The General Manager said in spite of their family obligations Bahraini women employees have made invaluable contributions through their participation and sacrifices in all Cont. on page 11

He considered the Award sponsored by Her Royal Highness as a culmination of the constructive efforts made by Bahraini women. He vowed to Issue_67_Eng.indd 2

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H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa Receives Mr. Yousef Al Zamel

.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman received at his office Mr. Yousef Abdul Rahman Al Zamel, Vice President

at Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and GPIC Managing Director. The meeting was attended by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager. Mr. Al Zamel Cont. on page 25

As part of GPIC policy in support of Higher Education IFA offers 40 free seats to Students and Academics of the University of Bahrain and academics of the University of Bahrain to attend the first IFA Global Safety Summit to be held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, Bahrain from 14-18th March 2009. Mr. Jawahery said this kind gesture by IFA aims to encourage students and academics in different engineering disciplines to meet with their counterparts within the industry and to learn about technological developments in industrial safety and security systems.

nder the directives of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister of Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman and as part of the Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy of supporting higher education, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager and Chairman of the International Fertilizer Association Technical Committee announced that the IFA Board of Directors has allocated 40 free seats for students

He added the participation of specialists from leading industrialised nations will provide a good and golden opportunity for academics and students to enjoy the benefits of this event which is expected to be attended by more than 300 delegates from all over the world. Cont. on page 24

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H.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa Praises GPIC Environmental Policy

.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Governor of the Southern Governorate and Chairman of the Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment

and Wildlife received Mr. Abdulrahman Jawhery, GPIC General Manager at his office in Awali. Mr. Jawahery conveyed during the meeting the greetings and best wishes Cont. on page 27

Oil and Gas Affairs Minister and National Oil and Gas Authority Chairman Receives GPIC Managing Director

.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority received

at his office H.E. Mr. Yousef Abdul Rahman Al Zamel Vice President of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and Cont. on page 29

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Bahrain Plays Host to First IFA Global Safety Summit

uring the period from 14-18th March 2009 the first ever IFA Global Safety Summit is scheduled to be held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority.

Speaking about the Summit, Mr. Jawahery further said: “The convention of this event takes place as very rapidly changing economic conditions cast their shadows on the fertilizer industry, as one of the key sectors of economic development targeted by legislation designed to protect the environment around fertilizer plants.” He also said the current economic crisis has a significant impact upon the financial facilities extended by global banks to fertilizer buyers and traders, which led to declining demand and subsequently a rapid fall in the prices of fertilizers and their raw materials. This resulted in a decline in demand and rise in stock levels owing to the reduced consumption of fertilizers by farmers. This brought about further pressures on the producers forcing them to review their pricing policies of the products.

The conference is to be organised by the Paris-based International Fertilizer Association in co-operation with GPIC. On this occasion, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC General Manager said all the organisational arrangements have been made with IFA for convening this important conference in accordance to the schedule and working plan. The conference itinerary has been prepared comprising working papers and lectures to be delivered by senior executives of IFA’s member companies and chairmen of regional and international companies who have a wide experience in the fertilizer industry and supporting industries.

Thanks to the prudent policy adopted by GPIC in marketing its products through cooperation with marketers in SABIC and Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait it was possible not to obstruct export operations at the GPIC Complex.

The Arabian Gulf region is considered as one of the vital sources of production and export of fertilizers and their raw materials. The region plays a principal role in the global supply and demand balance for fertilizers which highlights its major contribution to providing global food security.

In his comments, Mr. Jawahery explained that the conference will focus on the technical issues related to this industry with emphasis on the movement of prices in the global markets, which is one of the areas of concern to the participants. He noted that the Arabian Gulf region will continue to be one of the main sources in the world for production of fertilizers due to the availability of natural gas, which is the feedstock for production operations.

Commenting on the role of safety in companies and businesses, Mr. Jawahery said it is the mainstay of productivity and operations in these organisations. Therefore, safety is of immense concern when drawing up production plans and development programmes by firms seeking to upgrade their activities owing to the vital role played by safety in the preservation of their resources such as machinery, assets and human resources.

The General Manager praised the directives and role played by the Board of Directors led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa in drawing up the Company’s policy to keep abreast of rapid world changes and to ensure the continuation of production operations.

Mr. Jawahery added that efforts must be constantly made to review the safety instructions and guidelines which are undertaken by working teams, to be formed for this purpose, to identify any shortcomings or potential risks that must be remedied to avoid the occurrence of any accidents. In this manner, it will be possible for businesses to avoid suffering huge losses should accidents take place.

He also praised the unlimited support enjoyed by oil, gas and petrochemical companies from H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority and his backing of scientific and specialised conferences, especially those that are concerned with safety, health and the environment.

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GPIC Hand in Hand with inJAz Bahrain Accomplishment for a Better Future

PIC has recently had the honour of becoming a member of inJAz Bahrain represented by the General Manager, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery. inJAz Bahrain, which is chaired by H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, is a non-profit making organisation seeking to educate the youth

of Bahrain and encourage them to keep pace with the development of the country and acquire the necessary skills to enter the labour market. Mr. Jawahery expressed his sincere pleasure and

Cont. on page 28 , 29

GPIC takes part in the Third Gulf Petrochemical and Chemical Association Forum The conference has witnessed an increased interest and attendance from all international and regional companies. It was attended by a number of participants from various parts of the world representing over 1000 major companies operating in this industrial sector. This fact indicates the importance of holding these conferences, owing to the scientific and operational importance of the topics discussed where everyone looks forward to attending and benefiting from the expertise and papers submitted during the conference sessions.

he Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) delegation headed by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager and a number of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s managers and officials took part in the Third Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association Annual Forum which was held in Dubai, from 03 to 04 December, 2008.

On the second day of the conference sessions Mr. Jawahery submitted the main opening paper in which he introduced many ideas and important issues. He specifically identified the challenges facing the petrochemical and chemical industries in the Gulf Cooperation Council States and most importantly the manner in which to utilise the natural gas reserves in the GCC, representing 25% of the global reserves, to Cont. on page 17 expand the petrochemical

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GPIC Technical Services Manager Wins Outstanding Private Sector Manager Award 2008

r. Fadhel Malallah Al Ansari, Technical Services Manager in Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company won the Bahrain Outstanding Private Sector Manager Award 2008 at the annual ceremony, held to honour hard working employees in private sector firms and companies held on 25 December, 2008. The event was organised by the Ministry of Labour under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain who deputised H.E. Dr. Majeed bin Mohsin Al Alawi, Minister of Labour to represent His Majesty at the event. On this occasion Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager expressed his sincere congratulations to Mr. Al Ansari for winning this prestigious award. He said it was an honour for the company that one of its officials was recognised at this event, which enjoyed the patronage and concern of the wise leadership. He emphasised that Mr. Al Ansari was one of the citizens of Bahrain whose efforts would contribute to the growth and advancement of the Kingdom. Mr. Jawahery said that GPIC focuses its efforts on the Bahraini human resources who are considered as the real wealth of the country and who are the backbone of all the local, regional and international achievements of the company

throughout its 29-year history. Therefore, recognition of any worker in the company is considered as an honour for GPIC as well. Mr. Fadhel Al Ansari expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Highness the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Board Chairman, members of the Board of Directors, executive management and all the employees in the company for their support which enabled him to win this important award. He pointed out that the advice and guidance of the General Manager greatly contributed to this important achievement. He praised the General Managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unwavering support for promoting the teamwork spirit in the company motivating him to make more effort and achieve successful results. Mr. Fadhel Al Ansari joined GPIC in 1990 and held a number of senior positions including, shift supervisor, utilities superintendent, operations co-ordinator, and maintenance manager. He is now Technical Services Manager and chairs the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Environment Committee. He has participated in a number of local, regional and international conferences and attended numerous training courses locally and overseas.

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Tunisian Ambassador Visits GPIC

.E. Mr. Khalid Zaitooni, Ambassador of the Tunisian Republic to the Kingdom of Bahrain visited the GPIC Complex in Sitra, where he was welcomed by the General Manager Mr. Abdulrahmman Jawahery, General Manager and members of the executive management.

and progress of bilateral relations. The Tunisian Ambassador was informed about the Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s achievements in the areas of producttion, safety, marketing and environmental protecttion. He then toured the Ammonia, Methanol and Urea plants and the safety, health and environmmental systems. His tour was concluded by visitiing some environmental where he planted a palm tree.

At the beginning of the visit Mr. Jawahery welccomed the Tunisian Ambassador and conveyed to him the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Inddustrial and Oil Affairs and Chairman of GPIC. He pointed out the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in cooperating with countries that encourage foreign investment opportunities as in the case of the Republic of Tunissia. He considered the latter as one of the promising countries in the field of industrial investments and its geographical position which would contribute to the success of its industrial projects. In addition, such cooperation will contribute to further growth

At the end of this visit, the Ambassador said he was pleased and impressed by this major industrial organisation which was considered as a successful symbol of Gulf cooperation in the petrochemical industry. He underlined his willingness to promote cooperation with similar Tunisian organisations by entering into successful joint projects for the benefit and good of both peoples.

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For Second Successive time … GPIC wins Saudi Environmental Management Award

ulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) has announced winning the Saudi Arabian Award for Environmental Management for the second successive time, organised by the Arab Organisation for Management Development, one of the leading Arab League agencies. On this occasion H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor of H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and Chairman of GPIC congratulated members of the Board of Directors, executive management and all the employees of the company for winning this prestigious award. He expressed his appreciation of the continuous efforts being made for maintaining and developing the environment. Meanwhile, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa and to members of the Board of Directors for their support of the company’s environmental projects which have enabled the company to occupy a prominent position in all regional and international forums. Mr. Jawahery added that the company has proved and is still proving that the success of industrial enterprises is not only measured by their profitability, but is also gauged by their compliance with health, safety and environmental standards and their contributions to development of the community. At a time when the company has been able to reap lucrative profits year after year, the company has

been able to win numerous local, regional and international awards in all spheres. Moreover, the company has been able to increase its contributions to the local community, a policy trend that is strongly supported by the UN who urges all concerned worldwide to comply with its policy under the title of “corporate responsibility”. The award was presented at the end of the 7th Arab Conference for Environmental Management which was held in Cairo, Egypt during the period from 22 to 24 December 2008 when H.R.H. Prince Turki bin Nasser bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, President of Metrology and Environmental Protection in Saudi Arabia presented the Award to GPIC’s representative, Mr. Fadhel Al Ansari, Technical Services Manager. During the Conference Mr. Abdul Ameer Al Mulla, GPIC Electrical Superintendent presented a technical paper in which he reviewed GPIC’s efforts in the area of occupational safety and health and the role of the company in supporting the local community and its public and civil organisations. The paper was well received by the participants in the conference. The KSA Award for Environmental Management has been established in pursuance of the policy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to be granted on the pan-Arab, Islamic and international levels in the field of scientific research in environmental management and motivating the public and private sectors to Cont. on page 24

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GPIC Takes Part in the 35th Conference of the Asian Federation of Training and Development Organisations

ulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) took part in the 35th Conference of the Asian Federation of Training and Development Organisations, which was held from 03-06 November in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt, under the theme of ‘Human Capital: Training and Development of Human Capital’. The conference was inaugurated by H.E. Dr. Ahmed Darwish, Minister of State for Administrative Development and in the presence of H.E. Mr. Khalil Ebrahim Al Thawadi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Arab Republic of Egypt. At the event, H.E. Dr. Ahmed Darwish delivered a speech highlighting the significance of investment in human resources as it yields higher returns than the returns of investment in capital and stock markets. The recent events on the global markets are clear testimony of the vital importance of investment in human capital, which generates guaranteed and long-term returns. The Egyptian Minister added that investors wish to invest in countries that have highly qualified and trained human resources to maintain the value of their investments; hence leaders with a vision are required to develop systems that are conducive to better qualification of human resources to enable them to face challenges in the era of globalisation. Representing GPIC at this conference was a

delegation consisting of Mr. Yusuf Ebrahim Fakhroo, Administration Manager and staff members from his department. Mr. Fakhroo praised the effective role of the conference in the enhancement of job efficiency and productivity of employees, enabling them to become more productive and achieve higher levels of performance. GPIC’s participation in this event, he said, was designed to enable the human resources staff in the company to gain more information, expertise and development in the area of enhancing human resources. Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC General Manager said the management is always keen on encouraging its employees to participate in such events and conferences so as to acquire the latest management skills and methods, which would have a positive effect upon their performance. He added the management believes that the Bahraini human resources are the true wealth of the company and the basis of all the company’s local, regional and international achievements. The company offers intensive and comprehensive training programmes for all the technical, engineering and other disciplines including for example, preparation of reports, effective interaction, management of work and time, principles and concepts of total quality, Cont. on page 22 community service, concern 10

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GPIC at GCC Europe Exhibition

PIC took part in the GCC Europe Exhibition which was held recently in London. H.E. the Duke of Gloucester accompanied by H.E. Dr. Cont. from page 1

Esam Fakhro, President of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry visited the company’s stand Cont. on page 35

GPIC Wins Bahraini Women Empowerment Award

employment related areas in the Company’s plants.

working towards further growth and success.

He noted that the kind gesture of H.R.H. wife of His Majesty the King to dedicate a special Award for Empowerment of Women was a recognition of the contributions of Bahraini women to achieve the highest levels educationally and professionally. He reiterated that if it were not for the sincere efforts made by female employees the Company would not have realised its outstanding status locally, regionally and internationally.

The Company’s win of H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa for Empowerment of Bahraini Women (Second Year 2008) comes after a long string of local, regional and international awards won by GPIC.

Jawahery further said it is a major honour that GPIC has had the initiative to qualify Bahraini women and to provide the convenient conditions for their employment through training and qualification plans enabling them to occupy leading and senior positions in the Company. Recognising the role played by Bahraini women in serving the community, the Company initiated a policy of equality between men and women employees of the same level of efficiency in receiving promotions, increments, grants and training opportunities. The Company is also keen on allowing female employees to join training programmes inside and outside the Company to develop their skills and enhance their knowledge. This would contribute to the creation of a more harmonious and effective work environment where productivity and mutual respect prevail. He expressed his thanks to the female employees in GPIC for their sincere efforts and for

The H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa Award for Empowerment of Bahraini women is the first award of its kind in the Arab world, which is designed to encourage government ministries and private organisations to support and empower working Bahraini women and to increase the levels of qualification and training of women by ensuring their integration in the national development plans. This is realised through allowing women to occupy senior and executive positions and compliance with a policy of non-discrimination against women. The result of the valuation is referred to an international panel of judges who screen the final nominations for the award which takes into account the nature of the origanisation’s type of business and services offered to the community in general and women in particular. Consideration is also given to a firm’s involvement in the women empowerment programmes on the local level and upholding the Constitutional principles with regard to the balance between women’s duties and their involvement in the community.

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Chairman of International Federation of Training and Human Resources Development Organisation Visits GPIC

.E. Mr. Ebrahim Khalifa Al Dosari, Board Chairman of the International Federation of Training and Human Resources Development Organisation (IFTHRDO) accompanied by Mr. Husain Ismail, Chairman of the Bahrain Training and Human Resources Development Society together with members of the Society’s Board of Directors visited GPIC Complex. They were welcomed on arrival by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager, senior managers and a number of GPIC officials. At the beginning of the visit, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery welcomed H.E. Mr. Al Dosari and the accompanying delegation and conveyed to him the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman. He congratulated His Excellency on winning Man of the Year Award 2008 in the field of human development and management. He praised the Society’s efforts in further developing the skills of Bahraini managers through programmes, lectures and conferences organised by the Society in the Kingdom of Bahrain and abroad. He pledged the support of the Company to the Society’s future projects and activities. This was followed by a presentation by Mrs. Hanan Al Maskati, Training Superintendent

about the Company’s various operations and achievements in the areas of production, operation and exports. She also reviewed the Company’s plans and programmes in protecting the environment, occupational safety and health and the advanced management system adopted by the Company in managing its business activities. This policy has enabled the Company to win numerous international awards. The company also displays its corporate partnership responsibility through its support to many charities and offering training opportunities to students of the university of Bahrain and Bahrain Training Institute and the outstanding students who are involved in the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Programme for gifted students. The Company also sponsors on an annual basis the Education Ministry-GPIC Scheme for Environmental Research, which is also financed by GPIC. Later H.E. Mr. Ebrahim Al Dosari and his party visited the Training Centre where they heard a briefing about safety precautions and inspected the E-learning Centre, which is considered as the first of its kind in the Kingdom. They were advised about the Company’s training plans in this field for developing Cont. on page 23 12

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GPIC takes part in the Energy and Climate Change Seminar – Challenges and Opportunities to reduce emissions of Carbon Dioxide. An open discussion by all the participating delegates in the seminar followed with the intention of fully identifying the benefits of the company’s experiment. The paper was well received by all the participants in the seminar and has highlighted the company’s role to voluntarily commit to the recommendations of the Kyoto Protocol for the reduction of emissions of Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere, which in turn will reflect positively and favourably on the Kingdom of Bahrain.

ulf Petrochemical Industries (GPIC) took part in the Energy and Climate Change Seminar – Challenges and Opportunities which was organised in cooperation with the National Oil and Gas Authority, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Public Commission for the Protection of Marine Resources, Environment and Wildlife and in coordination with the Asian Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) during the period from 26 to 27 November 2008. The event was held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs, Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority. Commenting on the company’s participation, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, the General Manager confirmed the importance of holding such important environmental seminars to discuss issues of climate change and its effect on the countries of the world. He has called for finding the available means and technology to produce a clean fuel and increase the efficiency of utilising energy sources, in order to reduce the emission of Carbon Dioxide and other gases causing global warming to restrict their hazardous repercussions on the world. Within the company’s participation in this seminar, Mr. Khalid Al Binali, GPIC’s Chief Engineer submitted a paper in which he presented the company’s experiment in implementing an environmental project. This is the first of its kind in Bahrain and the entire Arab world, intended

The experiment is basically the construction of a Carbon Dioxide Recovery Unit to collect Carbon Dioxide emitted from the Methanol plant primary reformer, which is then recycled and pumped directly to the Urea plant and Methanol plant processes to increase their production by 80 and 120 tonnes per day and is expected to accomplish a decrease of Carbon Dioxide emitted annually in the air by more than 130,000 tonnes. The new project is currently under development according to the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) run and supervised by the United Nations. This mechanism provides financial incentives to encourage countries that are not bound by the Kyoto Convention to reduce emissions of global warming gases by converting the attained reductions to circulating assets otherwise known as ‘Certificate of Emission Reductions’. As a primary condition to issue the ‘Certificate of Emission Reductions’ (CERs), the Source Company from the United Arab Emirates will undertake the responsibility of implementing the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), which will lead to registering the project with the Executive Board of the CDM in the United Nations. The Source Company will also work on developing a new CDM methodology to be implemented in this leading project, which represents a new leap in the framework of the corporate strategic plan laid down by the company to become the first specialised petrochemical and fertilizer company to adopt the Clean Development Mechanism in the Gulf region.

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GPIC takes Part in 21st AFA International Technical Conference forum not only demonstrates the latest expertise in equipment manufacture but also gives information about environmental protection, preventative maintenance and developing production methods to ensure the implementation of production plans.

uring the period from 10-12 November, the 21st International Technical Conference was held jointly between the Arab Fertilizer Association (AFA) and Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) in the city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. GPIC effectively took part in this major international and regional gathering which is concerned with the fertilizer manufacturing technology. Speaking at the event Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s General Manager said that the conference was a key technical forum held for discussing developments in fertilizer industry technology. The event was attended by senior figures and chief executives of major fertilizer companies in addition to more than 300 delegates from different countries of the world. Mr. Jawahery added that the conference takes place at a critical juncture when the world is witnessing major and rapid changes, not only in the fertilizer industry but also in other sectors owing to the strategic role played by the fertilizer sector in supplying the world with its food requirements. The annual event attracts many leading international companies involved in technology, manufacture of equipment and chemicals used in this vital industry to give them the opportunity to keep abreast of the latest developments through working papers. This

The Conference was held against a background of a pressing food crisis in the world, high levels of poverty and starvation creating numerous challenges upon the fertilizer industry. The industry is currently experiencing rising demand and high cost of industrial production input with an increase in pressure for more environmental regulation and legislation. The event was convened in these conditions to conform with AFAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s objectives of developing and enhancing the status of the Arab fertilizer industry and furthering cooperation and coordination among the concerned Arab companies and international organisations. Concluding, Mr. Jawahery said some 34 working papers were presented at the conference dealing with topics related to the manufacture of nitrogenous, phosphate and potassium fertilizers. Other working papers dealt with occupational safety, health, environment, and ways of rationalising consumption of energy, water and control systems. At one of the conference sessions, Mr. Ahmed Nuruddin, Plants Operation Manager in GPIC, presented a paper about the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience in replacing the thermal equipment from the Urea plant at the GPIC Complex. His paper was well received by the participants in the conference. Taking part at the event were several engineers and technical staff members from different departments in GPIC, which adopts a policy of developing the knowledge and expertise of its manpower through attending such specialised events. GPIC also took part in the exhibition held on the sidelines of the conference that attracted the participation of leading manufacturing companies who displayed their latest technologies, technical services and equipment in this industry.

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Visit by Major Australian Urea Importer to GPIC Complex

delegation representing Incitec Pivot Ltd of Australia, which is a major Urea fertilizer importer visited the GPIC Complex, in Sitra. The delegation comprised Mr. James Whiteside, Incitec Pivot Ltd’s General Manager and Mr. Don Briggs, Supply and Contract Manager. Both were accompanied by Mr. Stephen Wolfe, of Tennant, which is the company’s local agent in Australia.

The group was accompanied by a delegation from Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC) of Kuwait, the authorised marketer of Urea and Ammonia produced by GPIC. The PIC group comprised Mr. Jamal Al Abduljalil, Fertilizer Marketing Manager and Mr. Faisal Al Sabah, Urea Sales Superintendent. The visiting delegation was received by Mr. Yusuf Al Yaqoob, GPIC Deputy Cont. on page 27

GPIC takes Part in Workshop on ‘Mind Mapping and Innovation’

ulf Petrochemical Industries Company took part in a workshop entitled ‘Mind Mapping and Innovation’ held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority. A delegation from the company took part in this event under the leadership of Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager who praised the key

role played by mind mapping and innovation in developing and enhancing production efficiency and raising the standard of creativity among the company’s employees. Mr. Jawahery praised the high level of this workshop which dealt with a direct and objective analysis of the method of using mind mapping to summarise information, or Cont. on page 22

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SABIC Oxygenates Marketing General Manager Visits GPIC

s part of the ongoing and fruitful co-operation between Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and GPIC and for further developing their vital industry, Mr. Khalid Abdul Rahman Al Jassir, SABIC Oxygenates Marketing General Manager (Basic Chemicals Unit) visited the GPIC Complex on 15th January, 2009. He was welcomed by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager, senior managers and officials of the Company. Mr. Adnan Al Mahmood, IT and Knowledge Manager gave a presentation about the Company’s various operations and achievements in the areas of production, quality and plans for protection of the environment and occupational safety and health. He explained the Company’s management policy in the running of its utilities. Such policy has enabled the Company to win many international awards. He also spoke about the Company’s programmes and plans with respect to training and development of Bahraini employees to enable them to fill senior positions in the Company. He was followed by Mr. Khalid Al Jassir who made a presentation on the developments of the petrochemical industry in general and Methanol in particular in the Gulf region and overseas and the impact of the global financial situation on this industry, including price levels reached by chemical

products because of the worldwide financial crisis. Then, Al Jassir spoke about the prevailing and expected situation in the Methanol markets and explained that 2009 was one of the difficult periods experienced by such markets, in terms of increased supply against the demand level owing to the operation of most plants at their maximum capacity, although some plants had to be closed for economic reasons, as in the case of the People’s Republic of China where some plants operate at around 30% of the available capacity. In addition, there is a fall in demand for Methanol as most major importers depend upon the already contracted quantities, which has adversely affected price levels in most markets. Other industries and sectors such as the building sector and auto industry that use Methanol byproducts in their manufacturing operations have contributed to the current situation. Meanwhile, Al Jassir expressed optimism that the situation can improve when the markets are able to absorb the negative effects of the prevailing financial crisis. After the presentation, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery expressed his thanks to Mr. Al Jassir for his contribution and for the enlightened ideas presented in the lecture and analysis of the prevailing global market conditions. He praised the role played by the SABIC marketing officials in the marketing of Methanol Cont. on page 26 16

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GPIC takes part in the Exhibition Accompanying the Third Gulf Cont. from page 6 Petrochemical and Chemical Association Forum and chemical sector. He also stressed utilisation of the proper scientific methods to secure the appropriate means available to utilise the available natural gas, taking into consideration the importance of drilling for new wells. Mr. Jawahery indicated in his paper the important factors affecting the world market, such as the effect of supply and demand and weather changes, which may have a negative or positive impact on the supply and demand law. He also highlighted the financial crisis witnessed by the world which has affected all sectors of industry including petrochemical and fertilizer industries. He believes that this influence may be utilised to enforce these industries in the Gulf region to review methods of expenditure control to enable the industry to compete internationally. He stressed that he is very optimistic about the future of the GCC petrochemical and chemical industries owing to the acquisition of modern industrial technology, availability of natural gas in huge quantities, adopting modern administrative technologies and the development of specialised youth leadership in steering these industries to distinguished performance levels. On the sidelines of the conference, under the name of ‘Improvement of Human Resources in View of World Competition’, a session under the chairmanship of Mr. Yusuf Fakhroo, GPIC’s Administration Manager and Chairman of the Human Resources Committee in the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association, was held on the topic of ‘Management of Human Resources’. In addition a paper was submitted in which Mr. Fakhroo indicated the steps organisations should adopt to secure the continuing efficiency of their employees and the manner of retaining them. GPIC also participated in an exhibition which accompanied the conference. The company’s stand was visited by many important and prominent dignitaries together with many conference participants. Some of the visitors included H.E. Mr. Abdulla bin Hamad Al Attiya, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Industry of the State of Qatar accompanied by H.H. Prince Saud bin Abdulla bin Thnayan Al Saud, President of the Royal Organisation of Jubail and Yanbu and Chairman

of the Board of Directors of Saudi Basic Industries Company (SABIC) and H.E. Mr. Mohamed Hamad Al Madhi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association. During the visit the delegation expressed their admiration to the overall accomplishments of the company both on the regional and international levels. This reflects the development achieved by the petrochemical companies in the Gulf, considering GPIC a successful example of joint Gulf co-operation. They called for extra efforts to be extended to continue this success and stressed their complete support for the sake of developing the industry in the GCC States. H.E. Mrs. Maha Mulla Husain, Chairman and Managing Director of Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait, which is one of GPIC’s shareholders, also visited the company’s stand and discussed many joint issues with the General Manager. She praised the effective participation of GPIC in such conferences and its unique success. H.E. Dr. Mohamed Abdulrahman Al Terkait, GPIC’s previous Managing Director also visited the company’s stand where he discussed many related issues with the General Manager. He praised the international level that Gulf industries have achieved in general and GPIC in particular. Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery conveyed greetings to the visitors from H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of GPIC. He also conveyed the greetings of H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, the Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority. He praised their constant support and cooperation in supporting the company’s accomplishments, future plans and projects.

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Civil Defence Directorate and GPIC Mark Graduation of Fire-fighters

n 24 December 2008 GPIC held a graduation ceremony for a group of company employees who completed a comprehensive fire-fighting course at the Civil Defence School of the General Directorate of Civil Defence at the Ministry of Interior, in the presence of Brigadier Khalid bin Salem Al Aabsi and a number of Civil Defence officials and officers. The event was held at the GPIC Complex and was attended by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager, Brigadier Khalid bin Salem Al Aabsi, members of the executive management and a number of Civil Defence officials and officers. On this occasion Mr. Jawahery praised the continuous efforts being made by Brigadier Khalid bin Salem Al Aabsi and the Directorateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff to ensure the safety and security of industrial facilities and organisations in the Kingdom. He praised the close relationship between the Ministry of Interior and GPIC. He also underlined the vital role played by the Civil Defence General Directorate in humanitarian services, including providing fire-fighting, rescue and response services for road accidents and buildings under construction. Mr. Jawahery noted in particular the effective training provided by the Civil Defence School, especially the advanced fire-fighting courses and stressed the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to continue its cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior

and Civil Defence General Directorate to maintain safety and security throughout the Kingdom. Brigadier Khalid bin Salem Al Aabsi praised the role played by the company in effectively contributing to all the activities and initiatives of the Civil Defence General Directorate. He said he welcomed such joint cooperation, which served the objectives of the Ministry of Interior and the Civil Defence General Directorate. Mr. Al Aabsi explained that the comprehensive firefighting course was organised at the request of GPIC to train 19 employees at the Civil Defence School from 09 to 13 November and included a theoretical section about fire-fighting operations specifically in industrial facilities. The course involved practical training such as live fire-fighting drills. He noted in particular the serious efforts and disciplined attitude of the trainees especially when it came to the harder practical training duties. The course covered the correct methods of using fire-extinguishers, use of fire hoses, use of the firefighting guns and cannons, extinguishing fires in tiers with the use of fire hoses, use of foam in fire-fighting operations, fighting fires caused by gases, fire-fighting in closed spaces, use of oxygen cylinders in fire-fighting operations and search and rescue operations in closed spaces. 18

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GPIC Supports Bahraini Artists

r. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC General Manager, received at his office the Bahraini Artist, Mr. Ishaq Qassim Khonji , in the presence of the company’s executive management. At the the meeting Mr. Jawahery welcomed Mr. Khonji praising his valuable artistic works as one of the leading artists teaching a number of Bahraini generations. He also praised the role played by Bahraini artists with regard to Bahrain’s past, present and future, as expressed in their paintings. He confirmed that GPIC is keen on encouraging Bahraini talents within its policy to support the artistic movement and the Kingdom’s talented artists. During the meeting, Mr. Ishaq Khonji presented a scale model representing “Waiting” which is his latest work of art. Mr. Ishaq Khonji expressed his thanks and gratitude to GPIC for their warm reception, praised their encouragement of Bahraini talents to promote the Kingdom of Bahrain at all the international events and pointed out GPIC’s achievements in different fields wishing them all the best. Mr. Ishaq Khonji was born in Manama in 1943; he joined the Art Amateurs Society in the fifties, then Bahrain Art Society where he took part in several art exhibitions organised by both societies at Orouba, Ahli and Bapco clubs. Mr. Khonji is also a founding member of the Bahrain Modern Art Society since its inception in 1970 as he studied art in Teachers’ Training Institute, Cairo from 1968 until 1970. During his study in Cairo he met Mr. Kamal Obaid, the great Egyptian artist, who taught him the principles of

sculpture and ceramics. In 1971, he joined GG School for Applied Arts in Bombay, India where he attended a specialised course in sculpture and ceramics under the famous Indian artist Kanolcar. In 1972, he gained a scholarship in Art Education from the British Council to study in Brighton Art College, UK, during which he seized the opportunity to visit a number of art exhibitions and galleries in Britain, France and the Netherlands where he bought a number of art and reference books. These helped him to develop his artistic style from realistic to a simple abstract technique as he was influenced by the famous British artist Henry Moore. Mr. Ishaq Khonji won a number of awards, medals and certificates of recognition from art exhibitions in Bahrain and abroad that include, but are not limited to, the First Delmon Prize in sculpture and ceramics in 1976, 1979 and 1980 in addition to winning the Golden Badge of Pioneer Artists in 1981. The major sculpture (Fish and Sail) is one of his most famous works which took him ten years to design and conduct the necessary studies before sculpting it. It was erected on Al Fateh Highway in Manama opposite the Marina Club in 1986. Mr. Khonji also worked as a PE teacher and officiated at a number of football matches. He also worked as a sports coach for a number of years where he trained the football team of Al Nejma Al Khalifaiya Club whose captain was H.M. King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, when he was the Crown Prince. His Majesty was one of the team’s leading players from 1962 to 1969.

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Bahraini Women Honoured by GPIC

s part of the continuous efforts made by Her Royal Highness Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Women, and her recognition of 01 December as the Bahraini Women’s Day, the GPIC Women’s Committee organised a ceremony for all female employees in the company on Monday 01 December 2008 at the GPIC Club. At the opening of the event Mrs. Hanan Al Maskati, Chairwoman of the company’s Ladies Working Committee delivered a speech in which she welcomed Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager, members of the executive management and GPIC Labour Union members. She said she was delighted to participate in an event honouring Bahraini women on a day dedicated for this purpose and approved by the Supreme Council for Women with the blessings of H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa. Mrs. Al Maskati also said she was pleased that GPIC was the first industrial company to take the initiative to mark this important event, which proved the sound vision of the GPIC executive

management which has always been enthusiastic about enhancing the role of Bahraini women and making them effective participants in contributing to the growth and success of the company. On this occasion Mrs. Al Maskati expressed on behalf of all the female employees, their thanks and appreciation to the General Manager and executive management for this good initiative and for all the support and encouragement from the company for developing and enhancing the role of Bahraini working women. This was followed by a speech delivered by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager who expressed his best wishes to the female employees on this auspicious occasion. He said he was delighted to participate in marking 01 December as the Bahraini Women’s Day, which was the result of sincere efforts made by the Supreme Council for Women led by H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King. He also conveyed to the ladies the thanks and appreciation of the company’s Board of Directors led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa who valued 20

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the contributions of female employees during the previous years, hand-in-hand with their fellow colleagues in the company. He stressed that the management was doing its utmost for all the staff members, who are the real wealth of the company. Mr. Jawahery expressed his sincere thanks to all the female employees for their efforts in enhancing the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation on the local and international levels. This was followed by a presentation of gifts to the female staff members who later attended a luncheon held in their honour. The GPIC women employees expressed their thanks to H.R.H. Shaikha Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa for dedicating 01 December of every year as Bahraini Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day and to the GPIC Board of Directors and members of the executive management.

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GPIC Takes Part in the 35th Conference of the Asian Federation of Cont. from page 10 Training and Development Organisations

with the environment, proper management of meetings and emotional intelligence. He further said these courses reflect positively upon the performance of individuals and corporations. For example, GPIC has been able to win the Shield of Excellence in Training and Qualification of Bahrainis and the Excellence Award First Class in training throughout the Kingdom of Bahrain. Obviously this enabled the company to gain a good reputation which reflected positively upon the country. It should be noted that the Kingdom of Bahrain participated with a strong 45 member delegation from the government and private sectors organised by the Bahrain Training and Development Association (BTDA). During the conference, the BTDA Chief Executive Mr. Ebrahim Khalifa Al

Cont. from page 15

Dosary was honoured by winning the Excellence Award of International Management and Development of Human Resources. Key topics discussed at the conference were talent management, human capital strategies for international companies, knowledge management, confronting the expertise drain in organisations, and review of successful case studies of Asian companies and organisations. The event was an opportunity to distribute brochures and publications about GPIC which included the Annual Report, a brief report about GPICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operations and a booklet about migrating birds using the GPIC bird sanctuary as their habitat. The publications were well received by the participants at the conference from various Asian countries.

GPIC takes Part in Workshop on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mind Mapping and Innovationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

to write comments through outlining them as a mind map for linking information. Mind mapping has been used in the activities of companies and universities and has proved highly effective as compared with learning or writing information in the form of lines. In this connection, Mr. Jawahery said the GPIC management is very keen on encouraging the employees to participate in such events and to acquire modern skills and management methods,

which would performance.

positively

reflect

upon

their

The mind map method is a way of arranging information and processing it in a form which is consistent with the mind as explained by Tony Bozan, the inventor of this concept. This method is based upon drawing a map or figure that is similar to how the mind reads a certain piece of information and branches out according to the subject or classification. 22

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Chairman of International Federation of Training and Human Cont. from page 12 Resources Development Organisation Visits GPIC

the skills of Bahraini workers, which was recently opened by H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority. A briefing about the Company’s operations was presented using a scale model of the plants. They familiarised themselves with the Company’s achievements in the areas of environmental protection in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the numerous awards won by the Company enabling it to gain a good reputation for concern with the environment. The Company’s efforts are testimony of its environmental conservation policies that care for the employees’ and local residents’ safety and health. Such policies are strictly followed by the GPIC management according to the highest international standards. Afterwards, the prominent guest and his accompanying delegation toured the Ammonia, Methanol and Urea plants and familiarised themselves with the occupational health, safety and environmental systems. They concluded their tour by visiting some environmental and charity projects such as the Charity Fish Farm,

Herbal Garden, Vegetable Garden and Bird Sanctuary. On this occasion, H.E. Mr. Al Dosari planted a palm tree. The visitors also visited the GPIC Club and inspected its facilities and programmes on offer to the Company’s employees and their families. At the end of the visit, H.E. Mr. Ebrahim Al Dosari expressed his thanks to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman for his continuous support for the Company’s projects. He also thanked the management for their warm reception and said he was impressed with this successful industrial enterprise and its obvious compliance with the Bahrain laws and legislation as well as its concern with developing the Company’s human resources. H.E. Mr. Al Dosari praised the overall performance of the GPIC Complex which he considered as an excellent industrial complex that was a successful symbol of joint Gulf cooperation. He also paid tribute to the continuous efforts made by the management for protection of the environment and its continuous concern with safety and security.

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GPIC Wins Saudi Environmental Management Cont. from page 9 Award for Second Successive Time …. show more concern for the environment. The nomination letter submitted by the company for the award was entitled ‘Leadership in Environmental Protection’ and reviewed all the environmental projects and initiatives implemented by the company and the impact of its applications on health, economic development, protection of natural resources against depletion and pollution, product marketing, competitiveness, consumer satisfaction and staff satisfaction. The Cairo-based Arab Organisation for Management Development holds this conference on an annual basis and presents the Award every two years. The objectives of the Award are as follows: – Enhancement and adoption of the broad concept of environmental management in the Arab world and promoting the proper utilisation of natural resources with the use of the lowest quantity to get the highest output to reduce waste and refuse levels. – Strengthening principles and methods of sound environmental management in the Arab private and public sector organisations. – Motivating the Arab countries to show more interest in the concept of sustained

development. – Highlighting the vital role played by environmental management in the Arab economies and their competitiveness in international trade. – Contributing to the efforts designed to achieve a high standard of quality of life for the Arab people and the right of all Arab generations to enjoy a clean and pollution-free environment. – Promoting scientific research to show more concern for environmental management and its applications and publishing results of research papers to enable the Arab states to enjoy their full benefits. – Furthering the mechanisms of pan-Arab cooperation in the area of environmental management. – Enhancing awareness of the outstanding efforts and successful Arab and international practices in environmental management and distributing them to the Arab states to learn from them. – Making exerted efforts to achieve innovative scientific and practical solutions for the current and future environmental problems.

As part of GPIC policy in support of Higher Education IFA offers 40 free seats to Cont. from page 3 Students and Academics of the University of Bahrain The IFA Global Safety Summit will discuss key issues related to safety and security in fertilizer plants in particular and petrochemical facilities in general. The Conference will review the latest and most advanced technologies in the areas of safety and security. The Conference itinerary will include a visit by delegates to the GPIC Complex. IFA, which is based in Paris and has a membership of more than 525 fertilizer producing companies and firms from 85 countries, seeks to provide a common ground for further co-operation between them and ensure the easy flow of information and expertise that would eliminate the obstacles faced by fertilizer manufacturers. GPIC has a close relationship with the education sector in the Kingdom and has always provided it with significant support. The latest contribution was the Education Ministry GPIC Scheme for Environmental Research through which the Company finances 20 projects annually for secondary school students for conducting environmental research. The programme has successfully completed its fourth year. GPIC also donated 50 lap tops, talking clocks and wheelchairs

for students with special needs. In each year, the Company provides training for technical school students during the summer for 3 months. On the academic level, the Company provides continuous support for university education, as the General Manager Mr. Jawahery is a member of the Board of Trustees of the University of Bahrain and effectively contributes to drawing up the general policies of the University. Many of the Company’s officials and engineers are members of several committees involved in developing academic education and linking its graduates to the requirements of the job market. Training is also offered to the local university students. GPIC plays an effective role in technical education as it is represented on the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Training Institute and plays host each year to students for training in the Company’s departments. Two GPIC senior executives have recently jointed hands with the Education Quality Board (Technical Education Evaluation Unit) in the evaluation of educational programmes offered by training establishments in the country. 24

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H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa Receives Mr. Yousef Al Zamel Cont. from page 3 conveyed to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa the best wishes of H.R.H. Prince Saud bin Abdulla bin Thunayan Al Saud, Chairman of the Jubail & Yanbu Royal Commission and SABIC Board Chairman and the members of the SABIC executive management. During the meeting, H.E. Mr. Yousef Al Zamel briefed H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa about the latest developments of the fertilizer and petrochemical markets in the light of the prevailing global financial crisis. He stressed to H.E. Shaikh Isa that the Company was taking all the positive steps to lessen the effects of the global financial crisis on the GPIC operations. He presented to GPIC Chairman a detailed report about the Company’s activities during the previous year and its achievements. He congratulated His Excellency on the good record enjoyed by GPIC in the areas of occupational safety, health and the environment. The most important of these was winning the Robert W. Campbell Award for safety, health and environment from the US National Safety Council and the Saudi Arabian Award for Environmental management. Mr. Al Zamel praised the continuous efforts made by the Company’s management that contributed to making unprecedented record profits at the end of 2008 while working at the same time on new projects and developing the management and technical systems, as well as introducing new systems such as the corporate governance system and continuing the Carbon Dioxide recovery project. Mr. Al Zamel attributed GPIC’s achievements to the significant support enjoyed by the Company from its Board of Directors led

by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa. He paid tribute to the management team and all the employees of the Company for their sincere efforts. The Managing Director also expressed his thanks to all the companies and governmental organisations in the Kingdom of Bahrain for their co-operation with the Company. Meanwhile, H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa expressed to Mr. Al Zamel how GPIC and the Kingdom of Bahrain are proud of the partnership with Saudi Arabia and the State of Kuwait, which is a model example of joint Gulf co-operation. He expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Saudi shareholders and officials for their support to GPIC. H.E. Shaikh Isa said he was pleased with the achievements made during the previous years since they were considered as record figures by international standards. Such achievements, he added, came about through the sincere efforts of all the employees who worked with a team spirit enabling the Company to make steady moves towards realising its objectives and those of the shareholders. He expressed confidence that the Company would be able to pursue its march in the future successfully with its ability to draw up the appropriate plans and strategy for enhancement of its business activities and consolidating its global status. At the end of the meeting the Managing Director presented the most prestigious awards won by the Company during 2008 and thanked H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa for his support and wise directives. He emphasised the success of the Company’s operational and marketing policies and its compliance with its social responsibilities under the chairmanship of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa.

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Cont. from page 16

SABIC Oxygenates Marketing General Manager Visits GPIC

at reasonable prices. Mr. Jawahery made some comments on the current financial crisis and spoke about how to take advantage of this crisis to serve as a starting point for correcting and remedying the methods of operations and to look at them from a different perspective. In this way, the Company can overcome the crisis witnessed by the petrochemical industry. In a question and answer session, Al Jassir responded to inquiries about the consequences and effects of the current global financial crisis upon the small and big companies operating in this sector. He also discussed the future plans of both SABIC and GPIC to overcome the current financial crisis. This was followed by a detailed briefing about operations, production and exports through the use of a scale model of the plants. The prominent visitor was informed about the training activities of the Training Centre and the E-learning Centre, which was opened by H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority. Afterwards, the prominent guest and his accompanying delegation toured the Ammonia, Methanol and Urea plants and familiarised themselves with the occupational health, safety and environmental systems. They concluded their tour by visiting some environmental and charity

projects such as the Charity Fish Farm, Herbal Garden, Vegetable Garden and Bird Sanctuary. On this occasion, Mr. Al Jassir planted a palm tree. At the end of the visit, Mr. Khalid Al Jassir expressed his thanks to Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager for his kind invitation and warm reception and said he was impressed with this successful industrial enterprise and its obvious compliance with the Bahrain laws and legislation, as well as its concern with developing the Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s human resources. Mr. Al Jassir praised the overall performance of the GPIC Complex which he considered as an excellent industrial organisation that was a successful symbol of joint Gulf cooperation. He also paid tribute to the continuous efforts made by the management for protection of the environment and its continuous concern with safety and security. He noted in particular the pioneering experience of the Company with respect to the Herbal Garden, Charity Fish Farm and Bird Sanctuary and its commitment to apply the highest international standards in the areas of Management, Health, Safety and the Environment. GPIC is equally owned by the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain represented by the Oil and Gas Holding Company, Saudi Arabia represented by SABIC and State of Kuwait represented by the Petrochemical Industries Company.

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H.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa Cont. from page 4 Praises GPIC Environmental Policy

H.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa during his visit at the complex of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman. He reiterated his support to all the Southern Governorate’s activities and programmes. Meanwhile, H.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa praised the Company’s efforts in the areas of health, safety and environmental protection and underlined GPIC’s positive role in contributing to community services and its continuous support for the Governorate’s activities and programmes, which would reflect positively upon the standard of services provided to the local population. The meeting was attended by Mr. Yusuf Abdulla, Deputy General Manager, Mr. Ahmed Nuruddin, Plant Operations Manager and Mr. Zuhair Tawfiqi, Public Relations Manager. It should be noted that H.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa visited GPIC several times.

In June 2002 he launched the Bird Sanctuary, which is one of the many environmental projects set up inside the Company and is a shelter for flamingoes and other birds that spend most times of the year in shallow coastal areas and feed on small crustaceans in the sheltered habitat of the sanctuary. In May 2005 His Highness launched the Medical Plants and Herbal Garden and during the same year, GPIC won the H.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa Award for Best Environmental Garden in Companies and Industries for the second year in a row. The Company’s win of this award is considered as evidence of its good reputation and commitment to protecting the environment and various programmes for protection of the environment and safety of the employees and citizens who live in areas around the GPIC Complex.

Visit by Major Australian Urea Importer to GPIC Complex

Cont. from page 15

General Manager and a number of executive managers. Mr. Yusuf Al Yacoob welcomed the visiting group and conveyed to them the best wishes of Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC General Manager. He stated that such visits promoted closer cooperation and business partnership with the Australian company. Due to the importance of the Australian market to the company, GPIC has continued to further its relations with Incitec Pivot Ltd to further enhance its presence in this vital market. Incitec Pivot Ltd is considered as one of the largest Australian companies involved in the fertilizer business and is the top importer of fertilizer in Australia. It has a share of more than 60% of the country’s imports of Urea totalling

some 1.2 million metric tons. This is why Australia is considered vital for the Gulf fertilizer producers and is an important destination for their products. GPIC has always encouraged field visits by its trading partners, customers and marketers to enable them to familiarise themselves with its operations, which further enhances mutual confidence and ensures the continuation of close business ties between them. The current market changes, owing to the economic crisis, dictates that GPIC must work harder to secure outlets that provide good and secure returns to ensure the continuation of exports through meeting customers’ requirements and broadening areas of cooperation.

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GPIC Hand in Hand with inJAz Bahrain Cont. from page 6 Accomplishment for a Better Future

pride that GPIC is one of the supporting companies of this organisation. He hailed the efforts extended by the project volunteers and workers, which will contribute to building a bright future for the citizens of this beloved country. As a result of the company’s commitment towards the country and its citizens, a group of the company’s outstanding employees volunteered to assist with inJAz Bahrain. The employees included Mr. Yusuf Abdulla Yusuf, Deputy General Manager and Ms. Hanan Al Maskati, Training Superintendent. They will act as co-ordinators between the company and inJAz Bahrain and will provide all the support required to the organisation and its volunteers. The volunteers list includes 12 of the company’s most experienced employees coming from different sections and departments in order for their efforts to be beneficial to the students. The volunteers who will represent the company in inJAz Bahrain are, Ms. Fatima Sharif, Mr. Yousif Al Qahtani, Mr. Abdul Rahman Al Jairan, Miss Raeda Al Shemeri, Miss Lulwa Al Moalla, Mr. Mustafa Abdulla, Mr. Anwar Hijris, Mr. Munther Bucheeri, Mr. Mahmood Ahmed, Mr. Yousif Zainal, Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Taher and Mr. Mohamed Habib. inJAz Bahrain is part of Junior Achievement

International which is a non-profit organisation that operates around the world and has branches in over 119 countries and receives its support mainly from companies and individuals. inJAz Bahrain is run by a number of qualified elite executive officers representing major businesses, companies and individuals with one goal which is summed up by inspiring and preparing Bahraini youngsters to succeed in the global economy. The organisation provides various educational programmes in economic fields which involve students in primary stage until the secondary stage in addition to university students. These programmes are considered the principal security for the Kingdom of Bahrain to remain strong and prosper in the world economic order through educating the youth of the country. The organisation seeks to educate youngsters about the value of work in their lives and introduce them to work ethics. It also seeks to develop their practical and personal skills through programmes that directly interact with young people throughout the year. inJAz Bahrain seeks to provide an opportunity to businessmen to enroll as volunteers in educational programmes, board members or to widen the scope of programmes through their sponsorship. 28

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These programmes aim to invite businessmen to directly provide their expertise through the educational process provided at government and private schools. The programmes focus on market economic importance highlighting the organisation’s role and leading economic projects. It will attempt to link the educational system with the labour market, enhance the role of financing in the individual’s personal life in addition to developing

the necessary skills to achieve success in business, demonstrate the economic impact on the youngsters’ future and the importance of private sector’s commitment to social, environmental and ethical issues. GPIC and inJAz Bahrain join hands to accomplish these noble objectives and develop a promising generation that understands the manner of accomplishing its future goals and ambitions.

Oil and Gas Affairs Minister and National Oil and Gas Authority Cont. from page 4 Chairman Receives GPIC Managing Director

Managing Director of Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC). The meeting was attended by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager. Mr. Al Zamel conveyed to H.E. Mirza the best wishes of H.R.H. Prince Saud bin Abdulla bin Thunayan Al Saud, Chairman of the Jubail & Yanbu Royal Commission and SABIC Board Chairman and the members of the SABIC executive management. He also conveyed to him the best wishes of H.E. Mr. Mohamed bin Hamad Al Madhi, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and members of SABIC’s executive management. Al Zamel attributed GPIC’s achievements to the significant support enjoyed by the Company from the National Oil and Gas Authority chaired by H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza. He paid tribute to the management team and all the employees of the Company for their sincere efforts. The Managing Director also expressed his thanks to

all companies, government and semi-government organisations in the Kingdom of Bahrain for their co-operation with the Company. Meanwhile, H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza expressed to Mr. Al Zamel how GPIC and the Kingdom of Bahrain were proud of the partnership with Saudi Arabia and State of Kuwait in this Company, which was a model example of joint Gulf co-operation. He expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Saudi shareholders and officials for their support to GPIC. At the end of the meeting, the Managing Director H.E. Mr. Yousef Abdul Rahman Al Zamel thanked H.E. Dr. Abdul Husain bin Ali Mirza for his support and wise directives. He emphasised the success of the Company’s operational and marketing policies and its compliance with its social responsibilities under the guidance of His Excellency.

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GPIC Organises Blood Donation

s part of GPICâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policy of supporting government and private sector organisations and entities and as part of the Safety, Health and Environment Week held from 23-27 November, the GPIC Medical Centre in cooperation with the Blood Bank at Salmaniya Medical Centre organised a blood donation campaign at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medical Centre. More than 75 workers and employees donated blood demonstrating a high level of awareness for the need to make a humanitarian contribution and realisation of the noble objective behind blood donations.

Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC General Manager praised the enormous efforts made by the Medical Centre towards providing good medical services and offering a comprehensive health awareness among the employees, which reflects positively upon their performance in the company and in their daily lives. GPIC has a tradition of organising annual blood donations to cultivate the spirit of cooperation, community partnership and contributing to serving the Bahraini community.

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GPIC Honours Employees who Obtained University Degrees for Years 2006 and 2007

n recognition of the importance of continued education and acquiring scientific and academic qualifications that contribute in developing the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abilities and capabilities, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, the General Manager of GPIC and in the presence of the management team, honoured a number of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s employees who have obtained university degrees in various specialisations during the years 2006 and 2007. During the honouring event Mr. Jawahery expressed his pleasure at the outstanding results and the efforts extended by these employees to

acquire their degrees while continuing their hard work at GPIC. He also encouraged them to continue improving their performance in the company in order to improve its already high standards. The graduated employees expressed their gratitude and appreciation to the General Manager and the company for the support and encouragement which enabled them to obtain their university qualifications. They also confirmed they would extend their utmost efforts to serve the company in every way.

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GPIC Launches its Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) Week

nder the patronage of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Highness the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman, Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) launched its annual Safety, Health and Environment Week from 23 to 27 November, 2008 at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Complex in Sitra. In a speech on this occasion, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager said the SHE week celebration is a milestone event in our annual calendar when we gather to review our efforts and achievements in Safety, Health and Environmental enhancement. He conveyed the best wishes of the Chairman, and his thanks and appreciation to all the employees for their concern with safety, health and environment issues. Mr. Jawahery reviewed some of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s successes including GPIC being the first company in the region to achieve certification to PAS:99 integrated management system and being one of the first five companies in the world to do so. GPIC also won the Chemical Sector Award from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) for the fifth time, culminating in a total of 8 sector awards in the last eight years. 32 Issue_67_Eng.indd 32

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GPIC also revamped and revised the Process Safety Management system and established GPIC’s Fleet and Traffic Management System, keeping its focus on the pro-active approach to enhancing health and safety and accordingly the commitment to GPIC’s Behavioural Safety Programme, which is yielding positive and encouraging results. Awards were presented to the best departments in the company. The award for housekeeping and safety at the workplace was won by the Methanol Plant, Offshore Jetty and Training Centre. Outstanding employees in the field of safety in different departments were also honoured. The Health Committee won an award for the best presentation. The award for best contractor went to Mechanical Contracting and Services Co. (MCSC). The event included a raffle draw designed to enhance the employees’ safety awareness and to encourage them to maintain safety precautions at the workplace and in their homes. Jassim Horticulture and Bahrain Global Company won the best environmental contractors awards for their compliance with safety precautions and environmental hygiene. As part of the SHE Week activities, the GPIC Health Committee organised a Walk Day on Wednesday 26 November at the company’s Complex. Some 180 workers and employees took part in the walk, which was led by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager and members of the executive management. The event was part of the company’s initiative to encourage its employees to exercise through walking, which has immense health benefits for them. An exhibition was also held during the week at which GPIC Safety, Health and Environment Committees displayed various items of interest on their stands. The Civil Defence Directorate, Traffic Directorate and Electricity and Water Directorate also participated at the exhibition and stressed their individual concerns with awareness enhancement briefings as well as distributing information leaflets. 33 Issue_67_Eng.indd 33

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GPIC Replenishes Fish Farm Environment and Wildlife represented by its Chairman H.H. Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, for its continuous support for the company’s activities and programmes. He also welcomed the students participating in this ceremony. He thanked them for taking part in this event and praised the close ties between GPIC and the Ministry of Education through the participation of local schools in the company’s activities.

s part of GPIC’s concern with protection of the environment surrounding the industrial complex, on Wednesday 29 October 2008 the company replenished its Fish Farm with sea-bream fingerlings in the presence and with the participation of a group from Awal Boys Intermediate School. At a ceremony Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, General Manager delivered a speech in which he expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Public Commission for Protection of Marine Wealth,

Cont. from page 11

He further said that their involvement in this event was the best evidence of their support for the policies of the GPIC management and their backing to the environmental programmes launched by the company. He lauded the continuous efforts made by the members of the Fish Farm Committee for further developing this environmental project. He stressed that the project has already achieved its objectives since its launch in November 1996 by replenishing the fish stocks in the sea annually with up to 60,000 fish, as well as distributing a percentage to needy families.

GPIC at GCC Europe Exhibition

at the exhibition. They were received by Mr. Zuhair Tawfiqi, Public Relations Manager who briefed them about the company’s history and operations as well as its achievements in the areas of quality, productivity, occupational safety and health and the environment. Mr. Tawfiqi noted the existing relationship between GPIC and similar companies in Europe, which would enhance mutual cooperation between the GCC States and the European Union. This will be a move in the right direction for the exchange of expertise and enhancing the Gulf region’s position overseas. H.E. the Duke expressed his admiration of the standards achieved by the petrochemical industry in the Kingdom of Bahrain and praised the company’s regional and international achievements. He considered GPIC as a model example of joint Gulf

cooperation and wished the company and its officials further growth and success. Participants at the exhibition included 15 Bahraini companies and businesses and showcased the latest products and technologies of the oil industry. GPIC took part in this event under the directives of H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and Chairman of the National Oil and Gas Authority in coordination with the Economic Development Board, jointly with Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) and Bahrain National Gas Company (Banagas), as part of the National Oil and Gas Authority in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This event demonstrates the efforts being made to achieve closer cooperation between the GCC states and the European Union, which is the biggest export market and the main trading partner of the GCC states.

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GPIC Marks 29th Anniversary and Honours Cont. from page 1 Veteran and Outstanding Employees dedicating 01 December as a Bahraini Women’s Day are signs of the highest level of appreciation and esteem. In the field of sports, Mr. Jawahery said Bahrain was able to win the first gold medal in the Olympic Games and Muharraq Club was able to win the Asian Clubs Cup for the first time. These are good signs for the younger generation in the Kingdom to be able to show their creative skills. Mr. Jawahery praised the efforts made by all the employees and their determination to work with a team spirit enabling the company to win numerous prestigious awards in the previous years. He stressed that 2008 was full of challenges and achievements and the years to come promised us further challenges, but also hopes to maintain the company’s achievements and gains. With the same degree of determination, GPIC will be able to maintain its successes and will realise more milestones. In addition to the Kingdom’s achievements during the year, GPIC had its major share of golden achievements which were a credit for Gulf industry in general and Bahraini industry in particular. GPIC’s achievements during the year included winning the prestigious Robert Campbell Award from the USA Safety Council, becoming the first company in the world to hold both the Sir George Earle Trophy, UK and the Robert Campbell Award of the USA. In addition, GPIC won for the fifth successive year the Best International Chemical Sector Award from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). In addition the company won the King Abdulla bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Award of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, for the best environmental system in an industrial organisation in the Arab world for the second successive time. The Award was received at the Arab League in the presence of their Excellencies Arab Ministers of the Environment. Safety, health and the environment are considered as significant business standards but the continuity of production is an equally significant measure. In this particular area, the company made historic achievements by realising the highest productivity level in the Ammonia plant, the highest output of the Urea plant, in addition to the highest petrochemical exports in the company’s history. 36 Issue_67_Eng.indd 36

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Mr. Jawahery added that these results could not have been achieved without the backing of the Board of Directors led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa and the sincere efforts of all the employees, enabling the company to yield a record net profit of US$301 million. The achievements of the company do not stop there, but with the blessings of the Board of Directors a long-term strategy has been drawn up to the year 2020 to develop a future vision of expansion with the support of the sincere national manpower and the strong backing of expatriate employees, who offer training for the national manpower to operate this major industrial organisation. Due to the global economic conditions, it is certain that the company will face major challenges in the next few months. In order to overcome this crisis, GPIC must take extraordinary actions in extraordinary times. In this regard, the executive management has been asked to take stringent measures to reduce cost, to review performance levels and to increase productivity without affecting the employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; safety or the plant security. Mr. Jawahery said that the current conditions call for sacrifices, patience and solidarity. He expressed confidence in his colleagues and the employees saying that they were up to this responsibility and challenge. The prevailing circumstances dictate upon everyone to stand united and to work together to overcome these unprecedented difficulties. The ideal option is to make optimum efforts to maintain the gains and to work as one team to realise more achievements for the company. He congratulated the employees who had completed many years of continuous service in the company and underlined that the management held in high esteem the hard working and creative members of staff. Concluding his speech, he expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to the Board members for attending the ceremony and for their continuous support to the Company. During the event, the long-serving employees who have completed 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of continuous service in GPIC were honoured. Also recognised were the best and hard working employees as well as the best department in 2008.

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