Khaleejia 94 english

Issue 94 - May 2017

GPIC participates in Bahrain International Garden Show

GPIC holds General Assembly Meeting

You read in this issue ...

GPIC holds general assembly meeting

4

GPIC participates in Bahrain International Garden Show

6

H.H. Deputy Prime Minister Visits GPIC stand

8

GPIC wins top regional Award

9

GPIC reveals 1st Quarter Results

10

GPIC signs contract for new facility

12

GPIC deal with GE Oil & Gas

13

Egypt Minister visits GPIC stand at top expo

14

GPIC Chairman attends AFA Cairo forum

15

GPIC celebrates savings milestone

19

GPIC in Record Urea Export

20

GPIC achieves record production in 2016

21

GPIC celebrates accident-free milestone

22

GPIC exports Methanol to UAE-based Company

23

Jubail Fertiliser officials visit GPIC

33

GPIC takes part in agriculture fair

34

GPIC attends human rights workshop

39

GPIC organises beach clean-up campaign

44

P.O.Box 26730 Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, Tel: (+973)17731777, Fax: (+973)17731047 Web page: http://www.gpic.com Email Address: gpic@gpic.com

2

Award of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabika bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa for the empowerment of Bahraini women

Award of Sheikh Khalifa bin Salman AlKhalifa for Industrial Excellence

President’s Foreword The motto for GPIC is to continue to achieve success despite the global economic challenges it faces. However, we remain diligent and driven toward sustainable success through its focus on continuous follow-up, a balanced policy, a responsible team and a wise and informed leadership with a clear vision and specific guidelines. It is this that makes us one of the world’s leading companies in the petrochemical sector.

Global markets are not known for stability.

The challenges are endless, the economic situation is difficult and the future is not secure. Therefore, we have sought to maintain a stable policy on our achievements.

This publication includes reports on many events, including the successful 38th Ordinary General Assembly Meeting, in which a number of important decisions were taken in line with the upgrade and advancement of the company's overall strategy and in keeping pace with its desire for continued growth and success.

The company's active and proud participation

in the Bahrain International Garden show, one of the most important environmental events attended by thousands of people interested in agriculture and the environment, is also covered.

Also within this publication, the important specialized seminars, workshops and conferences over the past few months are covered which GPIC has been a major participant.

There is detailed coverage of GPIC’s achievement in winning the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Awards for Business and Business Innovation. These achievements came out of careful evaluation of the awarding body and in accordance with international standards, and was aimed primarily at encouraging innovation in the industrial sector.

The company will continue its commitment and will keep adhering to its principles and objectives, and will not forget its duties towards its community.

Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery

3

GPIC holds general assembly meeting

GPIC held its 38th Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) on March 2017. Company Chairman H.E. Dr. Ahmed Al Sharyan presided over the meeting that was attended by Mr. Talal Isa Al-Sultan as a representative of the Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC) of Kuwait and Mr. Khalid Bin Ali Al-Qarni from the Saudi Basic Industries Company (SABIC).

The General Assembly thanked and expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister and His Royal Highness Prince Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, for their continued support and care for the Company's During the meeting, the operational and community General Assembly approved programmes. the Board of Directors' report on the Company's business for The General Assembly praised last year as well as the auditor’s efforts of the Board of Directors, report. Shareholders expressed the Executive Management and all satisfaction and appreciation employees for their outstanding at the Company’s financial performance during the year. position and its achievements The General Assembly said they at the local, regional and worked diligently in perfect international levels as well as team spirit, demonstrating its active social responsibility commitment to the success of role. the Company's operations.

4

The Chairman said the Company continued its achievements in 2016 and efforts resulted in a reduction in spending and an increase in production in spite of the challenges faced by the petrochemical industry. He said the Company exceeded all production targets set by its Board of Directors.

The Chairman praised the close cooperation and coordination with PIC and SABIC, which, he said, had a major impact on the smooth flow of exports of the Company's products.

He said the Company exceeded all its targets for the year and even achieved new records. The production of Urea reached 704,003 metric tons, a new record, while Methanol and Ammonia production reached 445,880 metric tons and 467,539

Total exports by region

Ammonia exports by region

Year 2016 = 1,234,125 Metric Tons

Year 2016 = 78,218 Metric Tons

v

9%

15%

6%

28%

v

18%

19% 11%

15%

metric tons, respectively. The combined production of the three reached 1,617,422 metric tons – also a new record.

The Chairman said the close cooperation with PIC and SABIC contributed to the smooth export of the Company's products. He said 1,188,824 million tons of the Company's products were shipped on 64 vessels at the best prices.

19%

1% 1% 4%

Korea Singapore China Thailand France U.A.E India Africa Brazil

15%

47%

U.S.A Taiwan

Korea

environmental safety according to standards set up by the Bahrain Government in coordination with the Supreme Council for Environment.

In a statement, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said the Company achieved more than 25 million hours without a lost time accident and that there has been no untoward incident since May 2002.

Dr. Jawahery said the Company has maintained its maintenance systems, which ensures their necessary operational efficiency. He said GPIC is committed to a plan to periodically replace equipment and evaluate its effectiveness.

The President said continuous follow-up of the Company's factories is carried out through a sophisticated and advanced system that monitors operations to ensure factories work at optimum conditions.

Dr. Jawahery said the carbon dioxide recovery plant helped the Company reduce carbon emissions and maintain

Dr. Jawahery spoke about the Company's efforts in the field of training and development of human resources. He mentioned

Thailand

India

China

the efforts in training Bahrainis and developing their skills.

He said the training and development centre had been developed into an Academy of Leadership and Learning, which had enhanced the efficiency of human resources and helped them keep abreast of technical and scientific developments. He said a new generation of qualified and practical leaders with the aim of continuing to confirm the Company's success and seize future investment opportunities had taken shape.

The Board of Directors placed on record its appreciation of the local and international awards won by the Company in 2016. The most important was the Arab Award for Social Responsibility in the category of the best companies in the Arab world.

5

GPIC participates in Bahrain International Garden Show GPIC is taking part in the 12th edition of the Bahrain International Garden Show, being held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Conference Centre.

objectives and develop the agricultural sector in accordance with principles based on social justice, competitiveness and protecting biodiversity.

The event was organised under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad, and is supported by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King, President of the Advisory Council of the National Initiative for the Development of the Agricultural Sector and the Honorary President of the Supreme Organizing Committee for the Bahrain International Garden Show.

HRH Princess Sabeeka visited GPIC’s stand during the opening ceremony and was received

by Company President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery along with members of the Executive Management, who conveyed to her the greetings of the Chairman and the Board of Directors. Dr. Jawahery expressed pride on the visit by Her Royal Highness to the Company’s stand.

The participation comes as part of GPIC’s support of environmental programmes and creation of green areas, while encouraging investment in the agricultural sector to reduce the food gap and achieve food security.

The focus of the show this year is on unifying national efforts to support economic and social

6

Her Royal Highness commended the Company’s efforts in taking care of the environment and supporting the agricultural sector while winning several local, regional and international awards. She said she admired and appreciated the Company's efforts in the field of safety and for it organising environmental awareness campaigns for all sections of society.

In a statement, Dr. Jawahery thanked Her Royal Highness for the visit and said it was an opportunity for her to be informed of the care the Company gives to the environment and how it encourages the creation of green areas along with raising awareness for the agricultural sector.

He said the Company is proud of its cooperation with all the green initiatives launched by Her Royal Highness, which comes within the framework of an ambitious vision and her desire to develop green spaces and create an awareness of the importance of the agricultural sector.

He said the show is one of the most important events in the Company's calendar, and which it supports and takes part in regularly. He said GPIC also exhibits its products for the public and informs them of the methods of use of fertilizers, including urea produced by the company, which is exported to the world’s largest markets. Samples of the product are also distributed along with awareness brochures and educational pamphlets.

Dr. Jawahery lauds HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women Empowerment GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery expressed his deepest admiration and pride in the launch of the Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women Empowerment officially announced by H.E Shaikh Khalid Bin Ahmed Bin Mohamed Al Khalifa Minister of Foreign Affairs on Monday 13 March 2017 at the UN headquarters in New York.

Dr. Jawahery stated that the Kingdom of Bahrain is proud of the launch of the award for the public and private sectors, stressing that there is no doubt that the global version of the Award will contribute to the empowerment of women in countries that are in dire need of such empowerment, to take advantage of the abilities and skills of women in all sectors. He praised the stringent criteria of the prestigious Award, which is overseen by a team of international judges known for their expertise and qualifications.

the prestigious Award during the forum is a moment that history will record with great pride and will serve as a historic moment for the Kingdom of Bahrain. He mentioned that His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, may God protect him, the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain is keen on women empowerment and development in the Kingdom’s various sectors and fields. The Kingdom of Bahrain is a role model for enhancing the status of women and enabling them to contribute politically, economically and socially to the Country.

He added that Her Royal Highness has been able to emphasize the role of the Supreme Council for Women and highlight it as an advisory and reference for all matters pertaining to the Bahraini women, where the council itself provides expertise and management in the field of women's development and progress, as the Council works Dr. Jawahery explained that the under the leadership of Her Royal launch of the global version of Highness on the integration of

women’s workplace needs that enable them to be an integral part in the development of the Kingdom. In addition the Council encourages Bahraini women to exercise their rights and take part in critical decision making.

As a result of GPIC’s commitment to women empowerment, and its continuous efforts to provide women with ample training opportunities to better equip them for leadership positions, the Company has been able to win local version of Her Royal Highness Award for Women Empowerment in the years 2008 and 2015. GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery had the privilege of receiving both Awards from Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW). Winning the prestigious Awards serve as great support and encouragement for the development and appreciation of all GPIC’s women employees.

7

H.H. Deputy Prime Minister Visits GPIC stand

Deputy Prime Minister His Highness Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa visited the GPIC pavilion during the opening of the 20th Middle East Oil Conference and Exhibition.

H.H. Shaikh Ali earlier inaugurated the event on behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister.

H.E. Shaikh Ali expressed admiration at the development in Bahrain’s petrochemical industry and the quality of its products along with the excellent quality of its products, achievements at the regional and global level and its care for the environment.

He said the government is keen to continue its support for the company and Minister of Oil His Excellency applauded the Management Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al and its shareholders for their Khalifa accompanied H.E. Shaikh success.

Ali. The two were received by GPIC President Dr.Abdulrahman He said the government is Jawahery and members of the sparing no effort to provide Executive Management, who also an ideal environment for took them around the pavilion investments into Bahrain, and briefed them on GPIC’s including in the industrial and production process, its high oil sector, and said GPIC had quality products and exports to contributed co-operation global markets. among Gulf Companies.

8

In a statement, Dr. Jawahery thanked the Deputy Prime Minister and the Oil Minister for the visit and said they will make every effort to achieve excellence and success in all fields. The President applauded His Highness for assuring the Company of all possible support and follow-up from the government.

The event has been organised by the World Society of Petroleum Engineers and Arabian Exhibition Management in collaboration with the National Oil and Gas Authority. It will highlight the latest products and technologies in the oil industry as well as current major projects.

It would also be an opportunity to review the achievements of companies in the region.

GPIC wins top regional Award GPIC Board of Directors were presented top Awards the company had won during the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Awards 2016 in Dubai last week by the Minister of Oil, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Business Award and the Award for Creative Business were presented during a ceremony, also attended by Electricity and Water Affairs Minister H.E. Dr. Abdulhussain bin Ali Mirza and NOGA Secretary General H.E. Dr. Ahmed Al Sharyan, GPIC Chairman.

The Minister of Oil said GPIC is now ranked among the major companies in the world and praised the plans and programmes set up by the Board of Directors to maintain a competitive edge in the light of rapid changes taking place in the dynamic oil industry.

The Minister praised GPIC’s efforts to apply the latest work systems in the oil and gas industry and said the Company represents

a successful joint venture between of human, social, economic and Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. environmental development. He said GPIC is actively equipping the In his comments, Dr. Al Sharyan Bahraini workforce to handle large said he and the Board appreciated industrial projects. the interest shown by the Minister of Oil towards the Company’s The Award ceremony was held on operations and future projects, February 20 in the presence of a and promised to work towards large number of business leaders in doubling production and profits. the region and the heads of large companies.

Dr. Al Sharyan said the subsidies provided by the Government The Company won the Awards of Bahrain and the excellent for its social and environmental environment for it to operate activities and its sustainable in along with investment development, since it takes very opportunities spur many seriously its role and responsibility international companies to set up towards others and strives to their own development projects. minimize environmental damage resulting from operations.

In a statement, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery thanked The number of companies vying the Minister of Oil for following up for the Award has increased on the Company’s development significantly in recent years and and said it had become one of the Award process, too, has the largest and most successful become more competitive. The industrial companies today by jury to decide on the winners adopting an industrial diversification are competent and experienced policy. He said the Company professionals from the UAE would continue to support the and other GCC States and national economy and play an look honouring outstanding active role in realizing Bahrain’s performance and innovation in the 2030 Economic Vision in the areas region.

9

GPIC reveals 1 st Quarter Results

GPIC has reported it produced 404,468 metric tons of Ammonia, Urea and Methanol in the first quarter of this year.

The achievement came in full compliance with safety and health standards and without a single lost time accident, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said.

He said it was also the result of the Company’s continuous approach to modernization and development of operations, plant equipment, commitment to carrying out regular maintenance and providing the latest available training programmes for employees.

Participation in conferences, exhibitions and workshops to develop employees’ professionalism and raising their efficiency of their different

10

sites was also a significant part the Company’s Labour Union of the Company’s programme. in cooperating with the Executive Management and The President spoke of the contributing in its success at Company's ability to keep the local, global and regional pace with excellence in an level. industry full of challenges and competition at all levels. He said the average daily He said such success had production for the first been achieved as a result of quarter of the year was 4,494 the strategy set up by the metric tonnes. The Company, Board of Directors under he added, would continue the Chairmanship of H.E. Dr. to achieve more records Ahmed Al Sharyan, taking into at all levels as a result of its account the rapidly changing commitment to the strict conditions and changes it implementation of the highest witnesses. international standards in safety, health and quality and Dr. Jawahery also praised the in complying with the highest high level of professionalism environmental standards. of the Executive Management and Company employees and Dr. Jawahery said that all said their combined strategy of GPIC’s the products are led to GPIC exceeding subject to international planned production figures. regulations for environmental He commended the role of quality, occupational health and

GPIC exports by region 1 st Quarter 2017 16% 4% 3%

2%

32%

2% 15%

16%

10%

U.S.A

China

Taiwan

safety as well as responsible care. He said the Company has obtained the highest honours and awards in this field and stressed it is keen to achieve sustainability in its operations and services to the community.

India

Turkey

4%

Tanzania

occupational safety, making the Company an example of clean and successful industry in the region.

As a result of increasing awareness and commitment to following up on the principle of safety as one of the factors for the success of the Company, GPIC recently recorded 25 million work hours, or 5,456 working days without a lost time accident, which resulted in increased production.

He said GPIC looks ahead to the challenges and responsibilities for the rest of the year, which require everyone to make more efforts and work as a team. He said the Company’s employees had become accustomed to On the human resources side, achieving the set objectives the Company has shown great year after year. interest in the development of its Bahraini workers by In recent years, GPIC has providing them specialized witnessed an rapid growth in courses at home and abroad, production, which has resulted workshops on all aspects of in records not only production, the petrochemical industry, operations and exports, but and involving them in forums also in maintenance and and gatherings.

Mozambique

South Africa

The Company takes a keen interest in the issues of health, safety, occupational health, environment and social responsibility and it is keen to continue to promote this culture among all the institutions and sectors of society.

The Company also provides all forms of support to, and takes part in, activities organized by civil society organizations, associations, clubs and professional institutions, with a clear vision and meaningful partnership.

GPIC is also making efforts in the field of environmental care and conservation, and plays a major role in the rationalization of energy and water to meet future challenges through awareness activities.

11

GPIC signs contract for new facility Japanese Company JGC Gulf International is to build a new facility within GPIC to produce Urea Formaldehyde worth $ 8.8 million.

Dr. Jawahery paid tribute to the Japanese Company’s long experience in the implementation and construction of chemical plants and said it has commissioned projects all over the world, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman including in Bahrain and other Jawahery and JGC Gulf parts of the Gulf region.

International President Mr. Yuji Tanaka signed the agreement for Dr. Jawahery said the new the expansion under the guidance plant would manufacture Urea of the Company’s Board of Formaldehyde, a necessary and Directors and its Chairman H.E. key component in the production Dr. Ahmed Al Sharyan. and manufacture of urea granules.

He said GPIC now imports this Members of the GPIC Executive from other countries.

Management, Labour Union Deputy Chairman and officials of Dr. Jawahery said the new plant both Companies were present on would have several positive effects the occasion. and would run at low cost to produce the critical raw material In a statement, Dr. Jawahery said needed for urea manufacture. This, the agreement has been signed to he said, would be far lower as implement the Board directives compared with other companies for expansion projects that producing the same material. would increase the Company's production and maximise profits. Dr. Jawahery said this is another He said the important new project step towards GPIC’s self-sufficiency, would contribute to securing the in addition to other steps related GPIC’s needs of raw materials and to safety and the environment. He chemicals necessary for its main said since the raw material would manufacturing process. now be produced in-house, it

12

would take care of many aspects of the environment and safety that had to be taken care of when the material was imported in trucks.

Dr. Jawahery also explained that according to the direction of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Wife of His Majesty the King, President of the Supreme Council for Women, in assigning the Bahraini Women Day 2017 theme dedicated to the Bahraini women engineers, and in response to the Board of Directors directives to provide women employees opportunities to highlight the Bahraini Women engineers capabilities, GPIC female engineers are included in executing the upcoming project.

Dr. Jawahery expressed the hope that GPIC would continue to expand and maintain its competitiveness with a number of profitable ventures. This, he said, would enhance the Company's status as one of the largest and most-respected industrial companies in the region and globally.

GPIC deal with GE Oil & Gas GPIC has signed a long-term bilateral agreement with GE Oil & Gas (NYSE: GE) to enhance efficiency its major plant operations and support and supervise periodic maintenance of all GE Oil & Gas equipment according to the highest quality, health and safety standards.

In his comments, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said the agreement is a turning point in the strong partnership between the two companies and would contribute to enhancing efficiency of the company's factories which produce Ammonia and Methanol and promote Bahrain’s manufacturing industries, besides supporting the national economy.

increase operational efficiency many regional and international at the lowest cost. awards.

Dr. Jawahery said they are focussed on enhancing the efficiency and overall safety standards of plants, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency of operational processes, critical to achieving the company's production goals. He said the agreement would provide GPIC with the latest technology in this field.

The President said the company would continue to adopting the best strategies to develop performance at all levels and cooperate with all parties and companies to support operations of its plants while ensuring employees' commitment According to the agreement, to develop their knowledge, GE Oil & Gas will provide abilities and skills. a full range of field services, spare parts and maintenance Dr. Jawahery thanked all of GPIC’s for its plants as well as cover employees for their cooperation manufacturing services for all in implementing the Company’s its major equipment including management strategies and said carbon dioxide compressors their hard work is characterized and gas turbine generators. by professionalism, ambition This agreement will ensure and seriousness, which had optimal use of resources and resulted in the company winning

GE Oil & Gas Chief Executive Officer of Saudi Arabia & Bahrain H.E. Mr. Zaher Ibrahim said they are pleased with the new cooperation.

He said the agreement was an example of the long partnership between the two companies and added it would enhance efficiency of GPIC's plants, besides contributing significantly to raising levels of productivity and operational safety.

GPIC was set up in 1979 as a joint venture between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. It is equally owned by the National Oil and Gas Holding Authority of Bahrain, the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation and the Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait.

In recent years, it has witnessed huge growth in production and operations, resulting in record production, operation, exports, maintenance and safety standards, making it an example for ae clean and successful regional industry.

13

Egypt Minister visits GPIC stand at top expo "EGYPS 2017"

Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources H.E. Mr. Tariq Al-Mulla visited GPIC stand at the Egypt International Fertilizer Industry Conference and Exhibition.

The event was held under the patronage of H.E. Mr. Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi at the state-ofthe-art 12,000 square metre Cairo International Conference Centre. GPIC Plants Operations Manager Mr. Yasser Al Abbasi and Corporate Communications Manager Mr. Zuhair Tawfiqi, among others, received the Minister.

H.E. Mr. Al-Mulla praised the development of Bahrain’s petrochemical industry and said GPIC is a good example of successful GCC co-operation. He said the Company’s success shows its commitment to modern global trends in the areas of health, safety, the environment and social responsibility.

The Minister admired the Company’s progress and development and applauded its contributions

14

in the industrial field and in community development through awareness programmes. He said the conference and the accompanying exhibition was an excellent event in which global entities showed great interest.

The three-day conference was attended by some 400 exhibitors and more than 10,000 visitors from 20 countries. It was an opportunity to bring together government officials, senior executives and decision makers to work together and discuss new In a statement, GPIC President opportunities in the energy field.

Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said GPIC was happy to attend the Other events held along with the event, which saw participation conference focussed on Egypt’s from some of the world’s top position in the petroleum sector companies. He said the Company and women in the industry. These is keen to be present at such comprised of 28 technical sess conferences that provide an opportunity for experts and GPIC has, in recent years, seen a specialists interested in the growth in production processes, petrochemical and fertilizer which has resulted in it achieving industry to meet and exchange record numbers also in employment views on global trends. and exports as also in maintenance and safety, making the Company an Dr. Jawahery spoke of the tireless example of a clean and successful efforts of His Majesty King industry in the region.

Hamad under whose rule an ideal investment climate and good As a result, GPIC was recently able environment suitable for the to achieve a record 24,901,727 growth of enterprises had been work hours, equivalent to 5,365 created in Bahrain. He also noted work days, without a lost time His Majesty’s efforts to promote accident. This resulted in better Bahrain in Arab and European performance and in boosting countries. productivity.

GPIC Chairman attends AFA Cairo forum

Dr. Ahmed Al-Sharyan emphasized the importance of presence and support of the AFA event to emphasize the great importance of its activities to industrial and production sectors in Arab countries GPIC Chairman Dr. Ahmed Al Sharyan led a highpowered company delegation to the 23rd Forum of the Arab Federation Association (AFA) held in the Egyptian capital, Cairo.

Heads of a large number of Arab and global giants operating in the field of fertilisers, were present at the event, held on the theme, Arab Producers of Fertilizers Under a Lasting Shine.

In a statement, Dr. Al Sharyan said his presence and participation in the opening ceremony was to show support for the AFA’s activities, especially in the light of the great importance Arab states attach to the fertiliser and petrochemical sector.

He said the forum is one of the largest and most important in the industry and is attended by representatives of major companies in the Arab world and outside.

He said AFA should receive full support for it to achieve its goals and, towards this end, the support of the fertiliser industry in the Arab world is most

important. He said he is proud of the GPIC’s contributions and spoke about the training programmes the company provides for its workers, which are designed to raise their skill levels and improve performance.

The Chairman thanked the organisers and expressed his at the reception and hospitality facilities for the guests.

AFA was founded in 1975 under the umbrella of the Arab Economic Unity Council. It has as its member’s Arab institutions and companies working in the manufacture and trade of fertilisers and related fields, and has a membership of more than 166 companies from 32 countries.

The aim of the association is to assist members in dealing with production issues through the exchange of information and experiences and documenting technical information as well as economic, trade and agricultural data on the fertiliser industry as well as to support and develop technical and vocational training programmes for workers.

15

Dr. Jawahery attends Cairo AFA meeting GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery attended the Board Meeting of the Arab Fertiliser Association (AFA) on the sidelines of the 23rd AFA Annual Fertilizer Forum and Exhibition, in the Egyptian capital, Cairo.

The meeting discussed issues and topics on 2017 AFA Action Plan and recommended necessary action in accordance with the directives of the Board of Directors.

Discussions on Working Committee and Union activities and their reports, along with their future activities, also took place.

In his comments, Dr. Jawahery expressed great satisfaction at the positive results and said these would enhance performance. He pledged to continue working with the same momentum for the

16

implementation of goals set up by the Board of Directors.

Among these are support for those working in the field of production and processing and those involved in preserving the excellence of Arab companies’ products.

He stressed on the care shown by the Board of Directors and the commitment of each employee to work towards the Company’s development and to strengthen its role and that of the Arab Fertiliser industry.

Dr. Jawahery said GPIC would continue to support AFA activities added the company has representatives on its Technical and Economic Committee as well as the Committee on Safety, Health and the Environment. All these committees, he said, hold

regular meetings, evaluate performance and tasks and prepare for seminars and specialized workshops to promote awareness among the participants from member companies.

AFA seeks to coordinate and develop commercial, administrative and technical ties in the field of fertilizers and raw materials used in the fertilizer industry. It provides assistance to its members to solve production problems through the exchange of information and expertise and helps them overcome difficulties they encounter in securing their raw material needs at affordable prices, in addition to giving them the latest information, data and statistics on technical, economic and commercial matters.

GPIC attends AFA Cairo Forum

GPIC Chairman H.E. Dr. Ahmed Al Sharyan led a high-powered Company delegation to the 23rd Forum of the Arab Federation Association (AFA) held in the Egyptian capital, Cairo.

Dr. Al Sharyan also reiterated how the AFA should receive full support for it to achieve its goals and, towards this end, the support of the fertiliser industry in the Arab world is most important.

He said he is proud of GPIC’s contributions and spoke about the training programmes the Company provides for its workers, which are designed to raise their skill levels and improve performance.

GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery was among the heads of a large number of Arab and global giants operating in the field of fertilisers present at the event, held on the theme, Arab Producers of Fertilizers under a Speaking on the occasion, GPIC Lasting Shine.

President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said the Company is In a statement, Dr. Al Sharyan said always keen to take part in AFA his presence and participation in events in keeping with its policies. the opening ceremony was to show He noted the large attendance in support for the AFA’s activities, all of the forum’s activities and said especially in the light of the great the huge turnout had shown the importance Arab states attach to popularity of the event. the fertiliser and petrochemical sector.

He said the forum, and the accompanying exhibition, were He said the forum is one of the attended by the elite of the largest largest and most important in Arab and international companies. the industry and is attended He added the annual event is by representatives of major one of the AFA’s most important companies in the Arab world and activities, which is supported by outside. a large and growing number of institutions and companies.

Dr. Jawahery praised the outstanding organizational efforts and the preparation for the event and said the participants were very satisfied with the facilities.

At the same time, he said, the overwhelming response by companies, who showed off their latest and most sophisticated industrial equipment, undoubtedly added considerable momentum to the forum and the exhibition.

Dr. Jawahery spoke about AFA’s efforts over the last year, mainly towards agricultural programmes implemented by member companies, as part of its commitment to social responsibility. He said AFA had adopted these initiatives to identify real problems and support and provide assistance to solve them.

He said new methods of modern farming systems aimed at applying best practices for the use of fertilisers and rational management of nutrients for plants, making sure the right amount is used at the right time to ensure the highest possible agricultural productivity.

17

H.E. Sheikh Isa bin Rashid’s Book on Gulf Football Cup

GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery has congratulated Supreme Council for Youth and Sports Second Deputy Chairman, His Excellency Sheikh Isa bin Rashid Al Khalifa on the launch of his book on the memories of H.E. Sheikh Isa about the Gulf Football Cup (1970-2014).

Dr. Jawahery said H.E. Sheikh Isa is a well-known national figure and his contributions in the field of sports are well known within and outside Bahrain. Dr. Jawahery said he is also highly regarded for his poetry and literature among all categories of people.

He said everyone looks at H.E. Sheikh Isa in a spirit of sincere love and, since he is one of the most influential dignitaries in the community, he has a special position in the hearts of Bahrainis and Gulf Arabs, not only as a national leader but also as a genuine and humble human being.

Dr. Jawahery said he believed the book would be widely accepted due to H.E. Sheikh Isa’s vast

18

experience of sporting events.

He said the publication would be of great benefit to Bahrain’s future generations who would gain from his experience and attempt to emulate them.

Office of HH Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who, he said, were keen to collaborate, co-ordinate and assist the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports and the Bahrain Olympic Committee. He said HH Sheikh Dr. Jawahery praised the Nasser keenly followed up on guidance and patronage the progress and reaffirmed the of His Highness Sheikh support of the wise leadership.

Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, representative of His Majesty The book was launched during a the King for Charity and Youth ceremony on January 16 under Affairs, Head of the Supreme the auspices of H.H Sheikh Council for Youth and Sports Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa. and President of the Bahrain Leading sports personalities, Olympic Committee in the community leaders and guests publication of the book, which from Arab and Gulf states, were documents a golden era of present. football in the Arab Gulf region.

H.E. Sheikh Isa has been a poet The book highlights the and a sports lover since his early beginning of football as a sport in days. He began his association the region as well as experiences with football as a child and and challenges it faced. The has since seen it develop and book documents the important mature. role played by the Gulf's leading sports personalities, who made H.E. Sheikh Isa was born in all efforts for the launch of Muharraq in the 50s but moved this competition, the most to Riffa later. His fame has now important and most famous in travelled well beyond Bahrain’s the entire Gulf region. borders and he is admired for his communication and diplomatic Dr. Jawahery also noted efforts skills and his personality. of staff at the Information

GPIC celebrates savings milestone GPIC, which rationalised spending and expenses in the light of global market challenges and in an effort to continue its usual business, celebrated 11 per cent savings it achieved in procurement and contracts.

GPIC Managing Director H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Al Musaiteer and President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery attended the ceremony along with members of the Executive Management, representatives of the Labour Union, employees and officials.

The Managing Director said the achievement comes as a result of the Company’s flexible policies and strategies, which have ensured it set in place rationalization and cost cutting procedures. He said this has been done by transforming losses into profits and through negotiations. He thanked the executive management for

having risen to the challenges and ensuring efficient and high professionalism during tasks and operations at all of GPIC’s facilities.

Dr. Jawahery said he was optimistic about improvement in the global economic situation, especially with the gradual improvement in the price of oil.

He said he hoped the markets In a statement, Dr. Jawahery would recover soon and reflect said the achievement was the positively on the oil, fertilizer result of a balanced, strategic and petrochemical industry. and flexible policy set up by the Board of Directors and GPIC has, in recent years, seen the Management, who have an increase in production, been keen to apply these which resulted in achieving with precision. He expressed record numbers also in exports, appreciation for the Labour maintenance and safety, making Union and their co-operation the Company an example of a in a one-family spirit that led clean and successful regional to the great success of the entity. drive.

As a result of awareness and He said GPIC had been able to commitment to follow-up on achieve the savings in expenses safety measures and by adopting in the purchasing sector, where a principle of safety as one of the the Company relied on direct elements of its success, GPIC negotiations with suppliers achieved a record of continuous and contractors to get the working hours without a lost best possible rates in terms of time accident as well. quality and price.

19

GPIC in Record Urea Export GPIC has exported a record 50,000 tonnes of would continue helping improve performance since Urea on board the vessel, Ince Tokyo, from the GPIC has a lot of aspirations of doing even better Company’s pier in Sitra. during 2017.

This is the biggest consignment since June 2012, In a statement, Dr. Jawahery said GPIC exports Urea when a consignment was sent to Sudan. all over the world, particularly to Brazil and the United States, and said these markets are strategically Speaking on the occasion, GPIC Managing Director important and have intense competition.

H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Al Musaiteer thanked Company President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and the Dr. Jawahery said exports to Brazil in 2016 were Board of Directors for their continued support more than 348,000 tons, which is the largest and guidance. He also thanked the Saudi Basic amount exported to the country since the start of Industries Corporation and the Petrochemical production. Brazil accounted for 49 per cent of the Industries Company of Kuwait for their significant GPIC’s urea exports, followed by 19 per cent for the role in marketing the Company’s products around United States. the world.

Dr. Jawahery said GPIC had been able to maintain The Managing Director appreciated all the staff the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service for their efforts, which resulted in significant (AQIS) qualification when it was re-evaluated by achievements in 2016, and stressed the cooperation an independent audit in 2016, which reflected the between the administration and the staff in the company’s the efficiency and systems with regard implementation of the plans contributed to such to the production, storage and handling of Urea. records. He expressed the hope the workers

20

GPIC achieves record production in 2016 While Ammonia and Urea production reached 1,617,422 metric tons, and 1,220,364 metric tons respectively, on its own, Urea production, too, reached a 704,003 metric ton mark.

Company Managing Director H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Al Musaiteer presided over a celebration to mark the occasion, along with GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery,members of the Executive Management and representatives of the Labour union, among others.

The Managing Director applauded the approach of the Board of Directors, led by H.E. Dr. Ahmed Al Sharyan and said the Board’s policies had focussed on the Company’s development, with an emphasis on operations and the welfare of its employees.

The Managing Director thanked Dr. Jawahery and the Executive Management on their keenness to

implement strategies set up by the Board. He noted the hard work of all employees, characterised by their professionalism.

Industries Corporation (SABIC) and the Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait (PIC), both of whom market GPIC’s products.

Dr. Jawahery appreciated H.E. Mr. Al Musaiteer’s presence and expressed great satisfaction at the Company’s achievements. He said these reflected the Board’s directions and follow-up. He said these results had been achieved in spite of the challenge of difficult global economic conditions and a decline in oil prices.

Dr. Jawahery said the Company would continue to adopt the best strategies for performance enhancement at all levels and work to ensure the staff's commitment, knowledge, abilities and skills to prepare them to meet their job requirements as well as develop technical and mental skills to meet the company’s future needs in the light of the development Dr. Jawahery put on record the taking place in the petrochemical efforts of the Board of Directors, industry. led by H.E. Dr. Al Sharyan, for their balanced and flexible policies GPIC has witnessed rapid and recalled the dedication and production increase in recent efficiency of employees to preserve years, which resulted in achieving the Company’s gains while using record figures not only in their experience to help it achieve production, employment and good results. export, but also in the field of maintenance and safety, making Dr. Jawahery praised the support it an example of a clean industry of GPIC’s partners, the Saudi Basic and successful regional industry.

21

GPIC celebrates accident-free milestone GPIC has celebrated achieving 25 The Managing Director said the million man-hours without a lost achievement comes as a result time accident in 2016. of the flexibility of Company policies and strategies that align Company Managing Director with the requirements of the H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Al Musaiteer, petrochemical industry. He said its President, Dr. Abdulrahman this is all due to the Executive Jawahery, members of the Management and Company Executive Management and employees who have worked to representatives of the Labour abide by the principles of safety Union were present at the at work and have concentrated ceremony. on maintaining an outstanding record the Company is proud of.

Speaking on the occasion, the He thanked all in the Company Managing Director said he was and praised their dedication very pleased with the achievement in contributing towards the and stressed it had become an accomplishment. example in Bahrain, the region and globally for the application of Dr. Jawahery said the achievement environmental as well as health is testimony to the policies set in and safety standards. place by the Board of Directors, chaired by H.E. Dr. Ahmed Al He said the Company's name is Sharyan and the professionalism synonymous with quality,efficiency, of the Management that has given health and safety and pointed out priority matters of occupational the achievement was the result safety and health and have of many years of work with the integrated the best systems and United States National Safety international standards to build a Council, the United Nations, the sound workplace.

British Safety Council and the Royal Society for the Prevention Dr. Jawahery said GPIC now has of Accidents, along with other a unique track record in the field regional and international bodies. of safety and always takes the

22

initiative to support conferences and events that contribute to awareness in the field. He said no effort has been spared to provide training opportunities to national cadres at home and abroad to help them consolidate a culture of safety at work.

He said the achievement confirms beyond any doubt that the approach of the Company’s Board and the Management as well its outstanding leadership in integrating the best systems of international standards was well thought of.

Dr. Jawahery said GPIC is committed to social responsibility and explained staff and their families have been contributing to raising awareness of its importance and to make it a habit in their daily lives. He said the Company is keen to implement a comprehensive Management System aimed at upgrading and continuously improving performance, increasing efficiency, profitability and productivity while reducing expenses.

GPIC exports Methanol to UAE-based Company GPIC has supplied its high quality Methanol to a United Arab Emirates-based Company, Golden Star, as part of its support to encourage small and medium enterprises.

This is the first time such a deal has been struck with a regional Company. GPIC usually exports most of its 1.2 million tonnes of annual production, including 40,000 tonnes of Methanol, as well as Ammonia and Urea, to international markets.

Company Managing Director H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Al Musaiteer expressed happiness at the development and said it was a new step on cooperation with local markets.

He said he hoped the agreement would be a prelude to further cooperation with local and regional companies, especially since GPIC's products are of high quality and in great demand from international markets.

In a statement, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said the

agreement is of great importance since it is part of the Company’s support for regional industries and its encouragement for all types of manufacturing.

a raw material. It is also used in pharmaceuticals and plastics and is the main material main used as fuel when using methanol for power generation applications.

Methanol, he added, is also an He said the support reflects ultra-clean fuel used in some positively on the development the machines and automobiles. region’s economy in general and the industrial sector in particular, Dr. Jawahery said he was delighted and is in line with the thinking GPIC was contributing to of Bahrain’s wise leadership that Bahrain’s economy and said he looks at translating into reality the hoped other industrial projects kingdom’s 2030 Economic Vision. would strengthening their role and contribution of the private sector He said the region boasts of and the national economy, at the many investment opportunities same time creating employment in all sectors, among which the for local manpower. industrial sector takes on its role of supporting the local Golden Star is a private Company economies, which contributes to set up in 1999. It specialises in the diversifying sources of national the food trade industry and has income, besides contributing been involved in several activities to providing trained manpower. like food service, distribution, This helps encourage and attract wholesale, exports, ship investors and to establish fruitful chandelling and retail. and successful projects.

It exports its products to over 18 Dr. Jawahery said Methanol is countries in the Gulf Cooperation the main ingredient in several Council (GCC), Southeast Asia, petrochemical products. This, Europe and North America. he said, is manufactured with formaldehyde and acetic acid as

23

GPIC employee wins top art prize GPIC Managing Director H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Al Musaiteer has congratulated Company employee Mr. Nader Al Abbasi, Inspection Superintendent on his winning the first place in the Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition.

The Managing Director said GPIC is proud of its employees who win accolades outside of their specialisation at work. He said these employees show their creative skills in many areas, including sports, the arts and culture, and become well known in the field.

H.E. Mr. Al Musaiteer said the first position in the exhibition showed Mr. Al Abbasi’s talent in the art form and reflected the advances made

by Bahrain in the field.

24

The Managing Director said the victory comes as a moment of pride for the Company and its Management, which is always keen to further the talents of Company employees by providing a stimulating environment for their creativity and excellence.

Mr. Al Abbasi thanked the Managing Director and the Company Management for their support and encouragement and said they had always ensured all employees were afforded a stimulating and conducive enviropnment to work in and develop their talents.

The exhibition was opened by His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, on January 17.

Top Social Responsibility Award for GPIC

GPIC has been awarded the Gold Medal of Excellence in the field of Social Responsibility during the opening of the 11th Session of the Arab Organization for Social Responsibility Regional Forum in the United Arab Emirates.

Diplomatic corps,delegations from several institutions, Government Departments and Ministries, as well as heads of regional private sector companies were present during the Ceremony.

GPIC President Dr.Abdulrahman Jawahery was also awarded the Golden Shield Award and a Certificate of Excellence in the field of social responsibility and in recognition of his leadership and outstanding efforts in the implementation of programmes and mechanisms in the field.

These efforts have contributed

to strengthening GPIC’s position as being committed to the development of the local communities and helping them cope with the massive regional and global development.

GPIC Information Technology and Knowledge Department Manager Mr. Adnan Al Mahmoud, presented a working paper on the Company’s philosophy and programmes, as well as its experience in the field of social responsibility.

He also spoke about GPIC giving importance to a culture of social responsibility and making it part of its corporate culture to better achieve the desired results. The paper highlighted the importance of considering social responsibility a part of sustainable development and a

standard to measure the success of corporate performance.

Company Managing Director H.E. Mr. Ibrahim Al Musaiteer congratulated the Executive Management and all employees on the achievement and applauded their important contributions to the community.

He thanked the Chairman and the Board of Directors on their continued support and guidance.

In a statement, Dr. Jawahery thanked the Arab Organization for Social Responsibility for having nominated him for the award and certificate of excellence. He said the award is not an achievement for him personally but was due to teamwork and professional management.

25

GPIC inks deal with Isa Cultural Centre

GPIC has signed on with the Isa Cultural Centre to promote the exchange of knowledge and social and scientific activities.

contributions in enhancing community partnership, building foundations of sustainable development and enhancing the Bahraini human element The deal, in response to the in excellence in the scientific, directives of the company’s industrial and creative fields.

Board of Directors, is aimed at increasing cooperation and Dr. Jawahery praised the coordination with institutions centre’s important role in that provide services to enriching Bahraini, Arab, Islamic contribute to the advancement and humanitarian culture and of society at all levels. contributing to expanding the thought and knowledge of global Centre Board of Trustees cultures. He expressed pride Deputy Chairman Sheikh Khalid in cooperation with Bahrain’s Bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and GPIC cultural and national edifice.

President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, signed the deal, which Dr. Jawahery said the deal would stipulates all company employees contribute to exchange of access to facilities and services of information and experiences based centre’s National Library. on the foundations of cooperation and coordination between the two Sheikh Khalid said it also aims sides. It would also enhance cultural at achieving the common and knowledge exchange with the objectives of promoting cultural exchange of books, publications, development of Bahraini society, periodicals and research. raising Arab awareness and thinking, encouraging creativity It aims to strengthen cooperation and building relations between in ethics, science, education, different civilizations and human arts and projects of common cultures. interest, as well as cooperation in organising conferences, seminars Shaikh Khalid praised the GPIC’s and workshops.

26

Following the signing, the guests were given a briefing on GPIC’s philosophy and strategy, the management methodology, production and exports. GPIC’s most important achievements in the fields of safety, quality, environmental conservation and community were also reviewed.

The guests learnt about a project to train Bahrainis and to provide them with technical skills necessary for industrial work, as well as steps taken to enhance their personal and leadership abilities. The delegation was told about the carbon dioxide extraction project, which contributes significantly to protecting the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

They reviewed training programmes and activities of the Academy of Leadership and Learning and the eLearning Centre as well as expansion projects the company intends to implement to increase production.

GPIC attends specialist workshop

A delegation from GPIC took part in a workshop on the safe extraction, use and storage of carbon dioxide, organised by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) in cooperation with the National Oil and Gas Authority (NOGA).

GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery was among a large number of heads of industrial companies, specialists and those interested in the field that attended.

The workshop was part of the ESCWA’s Strategic Action Programme that aims to strengthen the ability of member states to achieve energy-related sustainable development goals in their national development plans.

It also aimed to explore challenges and opportunities for the deployment, the extraction, use and storage of carbon dioxide on a large scale, while looking at its side effects in the context of international and regional environmental

laws as well as shedding light the co-operation between the on the issue of interconnection ESCWA and NOGA. between water and energy.

He said the workshop was a GPIC Methanol Superintendent good and timely opportunity Jamal Al Shawoosh presented to discuss challenges posed a working paper at the event, by climate change as a global in which he spoke about the environmental issue and stressed Company's experience in creating the need to redouble efforts to a carbon dioxide recovery reduce greenhouse gases and plant for harnessing the gas, its concentration of carbon dioxide benefit to the environment and in the atmosphere. how it contributes to increasing production.

The Chairman praised GPIC for having set up the state-ofIn a statement, the Oil Minister the-art plant, which has proved praised GPIC's participation and successful not only in reducing the working paper and said it the spread of carbon dioxide but confirmed the Company’s role in also in increasing production. the construction and operation of the first plant of its kind in the In a statement, Dr. Jawahery Middle East. He said it confirmed said the workshop comes at Bahrain’s leading role in the a time when there is a surge implementation of environment- in greenhouse gas emissions, friendly industrial projects to which coincide with an reduce emissions from factories increased global demand for and take advantage of them in energy. He said this required the industry. companies to look for new and innovative ways to improve Dr. Al Sharyan said GPIC con- energy efficiency and the use tinues its efforts to spread the of mechanisms and storage word about its experience for procedures. all other companies and praised

27

Arab trade union official visits GPIC

GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery received Secretary General of the International Confederation of Arab Trade Unions (ICATU) Mr. Ghassan Ghosn and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation Mr. Yaqoob Mohamed Yousif, along with members of the Executive Council of the Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation.

of workers’ freedom to choose their representatives in an atmosphere of fair competition in the interest of stability and economic growth.

Dr. Jawahery stressed on the importance of continuing cooperation and coordination between Arab labour unions, aimed at improving workers' standing and the preservation of their rights. He recalled the Dr. Jawahery praised the courageous stand taken by role played by the General the workers union during the Federation of Arab Trade Unions extraordinary circumstances in preserving the interests of in Bahrain and their refusal to workers, taking into account the succumb to pressures to involve interests of the Arab nation. trade unions in political activities.

The visit came within the framework of GPIC’s commitment towards the rights of workers and its desire to deepen and develop their association. It was also in support

28

Dr. Jawahery also pledged to defend the rights of the working class without taking into account any party affiliation, ethnic or sectarian, and staying away from all political pressure.

Mr. Ghosn thanked Dr. Jawahery for the warm welcome and the hospitality and for the opportunity to learn about the modern dimensions in trade union cooperation. This includes co-ordination with the executive management. He stressed the cooperation between the company management and the trade union was vital for growth.

The delegation later visited the Company's plants and facilities where they learnt about the stages of manufacturing and export. They were briefed on the Company's environmental projects and about the attention given by the Company to the issues of the environment.

The visitors expressed deep gratitude and admiration for the diverse environmental and charitable initiatives set up by the company within the industrial complex.

Sudanese labour delegation visits GPIC Head of the General Federation of Trade Unions of Sudan, Abdul Karim Yousef visited the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC), where it’s President, Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, Bahrain Free Labour Unions Federation Chairman Mr. Yaqoob Mohamed Yousif and a number of officials welcomed him.

The visitors and GPIC officials discussed achievements and other issues of the labour union movement in the Arab world and the important role played by Arab workers unions in support of trade unions and labour movements.

Dr. Jawahery commended the active role played by the Sudanese labour movement, particularly after the lifting of some economic sanctions against the country. He said the lifting of sanctions would open new avenues for economic projects and would contribute to the creation of new jobs and

expanding foreign investments Dr. Jawahery said GPIC’s through strategic partnerships Management considers all its with countries around the world. workers, men and women alike, as the main element in its They also reviewed Bahrain’s success and takes special care experience and government to empower and provide them support to the labour union a stimulating environment to as well as the care provided develop their skills.

by GPIC Management. The Sudanese guest praised the The guests were briefed on Bahraini federation and said all GPIC’s history, the nature of its events and activities were its business, its manufacturing designed to create awareness processes and exports. They of labour union objectives were also told of the Company’s and their importance in the important achievements different institutions and and awards it has won for companies. its products and in applying the latest and best global Dr. Jawahery reiterated standards in safety, quality and officials’ full support to the environmental preservation. labour union and praised the federation’s progress in The visitors expressed achieving its objectives. He admiration at GPIC’s said full care is being given development and praised the to the interests of workers emphasis on protection of the and in preserving their rights. environment. They thanked Dr. He said Bahrain’s leadership Jawahery and the others for works without discrimination the warm reception and the in supporting all unions and in hospitality an applauded the providing all facilities to ensure attention given to all Company their success. employees.

29

GPIC pledges support to Crown Prince Scholarships A delegation from GPIC, led by its President, Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, was received at the Court of the Crown Prince by its Political and Economic Affairs Advisor Sheikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa, who is also the head of the Crown Prince International Scholarship Programme Finance and Administration Committee.

Shaikh Mohammed conveyed to the delegation the greetings of His Royal Highness and thanked the company for its contributions and support to various associations and local clubs. He also conveyed the appreciation of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince towards the company’s contribution for the scholarship programme.

30

Shaikh Mohammed applauded GPIC’s role in supporting the programme as its gold sponsor and said it was an example of the role the private sector could play in serving the people and giving them an opportunity to complete their higher studies in foreign universities to achieve excellence.

company’s commitment of a BD one million support to the programme over a 10-year period. He also pledged to continue the support.

Dr. Jawahery confirmed that officials are counting on the students from the programme being academically and professionally qualified and to Dr. Jawahery praised the tireless contribute to the prosperity of efforts of His Royal Highness the Bahrain.

Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy He said the programme would Prime Minister in supporting also contribute to enabling Bahraini youth and following them to assume leadership up on their requirements, in positions after they graduate addition to direct supervision of from their universities. He the programme. wished the students every success and expressed his Dr. Jawahery presented a readiness to support all cheque od BD100,000 towards projects that are in the service the eighth instalment of the of Bahraini students.

GPIC supplies fertiliser for Bahraini farmers GPIC has provided 20 tonnes of Urea fertiliser to the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning as part of its support for Bahrain’s farmers This comes in implementation of the directives of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King, President of the Advisory Council of the National Initiative for the Development of the Agricultural Sector and the Honorary President of the Supreme Organizing Committee for the Bahrain International Garden Show.

It is also part of the Company’s orientation to support environmental projects and encourage anything that would increase green areas and promote the growing interest

of the people of Bahrain in the International Garden Show. He agricultural sector. said it is also in support of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Ministry Undersecretary H.E. bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa’s National Sheikh Khalifa bin Isa Al Khalifa Initiative for the Development praised the Company’s annual of the Agricultural Sector to initiative and said Bahraini improve the agricultural sector farmers would benefit from this in Bahrain and make it a career high quality product that has option for citizens in the future. been produced by a Company of international repute.

He said the initiative would promote a culture of development He spoke about his delight at of green spaces and awareness of GPIC Management’s continuous the importance of the agricultural desire to support the agricultural sector in achieving sustainable sector and expressed his development. admiration for the Company’s environmental programmes Dr. Jawahery commended the within the Bahraini community.

Ministry’s role in spreading awareness of the agricultural In a statement, GPIC President culture and supporting farmers Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said and stressed that the Company the Management is keen to would continue to cooperate to continue with the initiative, which support the agricultural sector coincides with the annual Bahrain and its development.

31

GPIC delegation attends GPCA forum A GPIC delegation, headed by Company President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, took part in the Fourth Research and Innovation Summit organised by the Gulf Petrochemicals and GPCA at the Art Rotana Hotel in March.

one of the first in the world to set up research and industrial centres where innovation is a pillar of progress. He said the region’s chemical sector had over the decades proved to be an active contributor in achieving economic and social development In a statement, Dr. Jawahery through rapid expansion in stressed the importance of production and diversity of its participation in such specialized products to enhance value and forums and said it was an occasion create jobs for young people. to meet and communicate to exchange knowledge, ideas The forum highlighted the and experiences between Gulf importance of creating a culture companies to enhance their ability of innovation and creativity and to grow and prosper. the pursuit of excellence. It also discussed the integration of Dr. Jawahery also spoke about diverse aspects of technology, the importance of research and innovation as well as research development and said the GPCA’s and development to improve investment this sector increased performance and ensure by about 38 per cent as compared sustainable growth and maintain with previous years. profitability.

academia, governments and technology providers.It specifically focussed on best practices in expenditure management and guidance to maintain a competitive Gulf industry.

A group of academics from the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, attended the forum, where speakers outlined their success stories and focussed on how local technical capacity raises business efficiency.

Investments in research and development in the Gulf’s petrochemical sector is now $729 million, according to the GPCA. This is the highest growth globally, at a time when there has been a 10 per cent decline in spending on research and GPCA Secretary General H.E. It also provided a platform for development in the chemicals Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun said networking and gathering of sector. that the chemical industry is stakeholders from the industry,

32

Jubail Fertiliser officials visit GPIC

Saudi Arabia’s Jubail Fertilizer Company (Al Bayroni) President H.E. Mr. Fahad M. Al-Battar, along with other company officials, visited GPIC to take a look at the industrial complex.

contributes immensely to the safety and the protection of the status of the region’s industry. environment.

The head of the visiting delegation said he was delighted at the visit that had helped develop a relationship between the two companies to serve their common interests. He spoke of his pride at GPIC and said the Company is one of the most successful joint ventures in the Gulf region.

GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and members of the Executive Management received the visiting delegation.

Dr. Jawahery said the visit is continuation of bilateral cooperation between the two companies and would promote The delegation then toured close coordination for their the Company's facilities and mutual benefit. plants, including the Academy of Leadership and Learning and Speaking on the occasion, Dr. the eLearning Centre. They Jawahery said such meetings are were briefed on the specialised important for exchange of views training programmes offered not regarding the development of only for Company employees relations and common interests but also for university students. between the two companies. They were told about the plant He spoke about the Saudi operations, the production Company’s role in the field process, exports as well as the of petrochemicals and said it Company’s commitment to

The visitors were taken around the GPIC Complex where they saw the environmental projects and the green belt, which covers 13 per cent of its total area.

The guests said they were very impressed at what they saw, particularly environmental and charitable initiatives. They said they had a great opportunity to look closely at GPIC’s model as a successful and committed Bahraini Company to protect the environment.

They thanked the President and the Executive Management for the warm reception and the hospitality.

They said Bahrainis have a special relationship with the Saudi people and stressed on the cohesion and the common aspirations of the people of the two countries.

33

GPIC takes part in agriculture fair

GPIC took part in the First ways to use Urea as part of a Agricultural Education Fair successful Green Wave Campaign organised at the Bahrain Training by its Agri-Nutrients Committee.

Institute.

In a statement, GPIC President Dr. The fair, held under the patronage Abdulrahman Jawahery praised of Education Minister H.E. Dr. the Company’s participation Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi, on the in preserving the environment theme, Agricultural Education and gardens and spoke of its for a Prosperous Economy, was commitment to promote the part of the recommendations of agricultural sector and support it the GPIC Board of Directors on in various ways. He stressed on supporting environmental trends the environmental effectiveness and taking care of elements of of the National Initiative for the sustainability.

Development of the Agricultural Sector, which is consistent with The three-day exhibition was the higher goals of the Company. inaugurated by the Ministry of Education Resources and Dr. Jawahery said the fair relied Services Undersecretary H.E. Dr. on encouragement from all sides Mohammed Mubarak Jumaa, and since it provided an opportunity was attended by several officials for participants and farmers from the Ministry and educational to display their products and institutions. agricultural experience, including locally produced crops, fertilizers GPIC contributes high-quality and nutrients. international standards Urea produced by the Company He said the Company is to global markets and is also committed to protecting distributing large amounts in local the environment as well as markets to support farmers and maintaining a balance between in the garden sector. elements; taking advantage of the good ones. He said GPIC had The Company also distributes been working on observing these educational booklets on the best principles and playing a leading

34

role in carrying out the ethical and social responsibility toward environmental surroundings, and had worked diligently and sincerely to sustain its surroundings.

Dr. Jawahery spoke of the importance of the educational exhibition and stressed GPIC’s participation reflects its determination to protect the environment and contribute to spreading social awareness of the importance of the environment and in dealing with it properly.

GPIC Marketing Manager Mr. Ahmed Mahmood and other officials represented the Company at the exhibition.

A diverse selection of different companies and institutions, public and private sector representatives and others interested in the agricultural sector, as well as enthusiasts and lovers of agriculture were present.

The exhibition sought to enhance the capacity for innovation in the agricultural field, and to choose the best ideas regarding the participation of individuals in the field of agriculture.

GPCA Forum Youth Delegates visit GPIC Delegates at the Fourth Research the-art carbon dioxide recovery and Innovation Summit organised plant, the first of its kind in the

by GPCA in Bahrain visited GPIC. Middle East, which contributes significantly to the reduction of Company officials, who welcom- harmful emissions as a result of ed the guests, conveyed to them factory operations. the greetings of GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and The guests were taken to said the visit would provide GPIC’s training facilities, them an opportunity to get including the eLearning Centre acquainted with the nature of the and the Academy of Leadership Company's work and witness its and Learning, where they were development. briefed on the continuing education process for employees The delegation was briefed as well as the role they play on the Company's business in providing practical training and strategy as well as on its to university students and operations, production, and institutions. The visitors praised most important achievements the modern technology in use in the field of safety and the and said such facilities confirm protection of the environment. GPIC’s attention towards staff training and its keenness to They also listened to an provide them with the latest explanation about the state-of- industry knowledge.

The visitors went around the several environmental projects around the complex, including the HRH Princess Sabeeka Aromatic Plants Garden and the Medicinal Plants and Herbs Garden, the Palm Tree Oasis, the Charity Fish Farm and the Bird Sanctuary.

The members of the delegation thanked Dr. Jawahery and the Executive Management for the welcome and the hospitality and said the visit allowed them to become acquainted with the development of Bahrain in general and the company in particular. They said the unique environmental projects set up by within the industrial complex underlined GPIC’s commitment and orientation towards a clean industry.

35

Outgoing Malaysian envoy received at GPIC Outgoing Malaysian Ambassador to Bahrain H.E. Mr. Ahmed Abdul Samad was received at GPIC at the end of his tenure.

Company President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery received the Ambassador in the presence of members of the Executive Management and Company officials.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed cooperation between Malaysian industrial companies and GPIC at all levels during the Ambassador’s tenure.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Jawahery praised the strong friendship with the Ambassador and described him as one of the best in promoting his Country's relations with Bahrain.

36

He pointed out that the Ambassador showed great interest in increasing cooperation between Malaysian companies and GPIC and said the Company’s Board had given this great importance in view of Malaysia’s experience in the field of petrochemical and fertilizer industry, as well as in the field of advanced manufacturing equipment and spare parts GPIC needs.

providing them with storage facilities in Singapore and China to enable easy access to regional Asian markets.

Dr. Jawahery expressed the hope that cooperation would continue at this high level with the new Ambassador. He thanked the outgoing envoy for his contribution in promoting bilateral relations between the two friendly countries and Dr. Jawahery said Bahrain’s increasing cooperation in all fields.

National Oil and Gas Authority (NOGA) is keen on closer ties The Ambassador acknowledged with foreign companies in general the close ties with GPIC and and with Malaysian companies in thanked Dr. Jawahery and particular. other Company officials for the welcome and the hospitality. He He said GPIC had exported expressed great satisfaction at 40,000 metric tonnes of methanol the high level of cooperation that to Malaysian customers since its links GPIC and several Malaysian establishment, in addition to companies.

GPIC attends Careers Fair

GPIC took part in the Careers plaque to enhance the rel- The fair aims to build bridges Fair 2017 organised by the ationship between GPIC and the between students and institutions University of Bahrain (UOB).

UOB. wishing to take in Bahrainis who are equipped with academic and The event, under the patronage The President expressed professional qualifications, based of the Minister of Education H.E. appreciation at the Company's on their requirements.

Dr. Majed Bin Ali Al Nuaimi, was efforts to support university held at the Sakhir Campus. activities, including training The fair also aims at guiding students before they graduate, in students towards the needs of the GPIC’s participation came as all engineering and administrative market and helps them identify part of the ongoing cooperation disciplines, as well as cooperation their specialties according to between the Company and between the two sides in market needs. This is supported Bahrain’s higher education organizing conferences and by Bahrain’s economic stability institutions, and to reach out to workshops. and advanced financial and the students who are about to commercial status in the region. graduate.

GPIC's participation in the exhibition underscored its close The Company's participation UOB President Dr. Riyad and continuous cooperation comes alongside other national Yousif Hamza and a number of with the UOB, one of Bahrain’s companies and institutions that officials visited the Company's prestigious institutions. The target Bahraini UOB students pavilion and were briefed on Company is keen to showcase to inform them of the job its recruitment and training opportunities available to students opportunities needed by the procedures. The President was who are expected to graduate at Bahraini market, in accordance presented a commemorative the end of the academic year. with the nature of their work.

37

GPIC Women Engineers Attend Leadership Workshop

Women Engineers at the GPIC took part in a special workshop held on the sidelines of the Middle East Oil and Gas Show (MEOS-2017).

In a statement, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said the Company’s Board of Directors is keen to encourage Bahraini women to take part in such events and specialized Held on the theme, Women conferences that contribute to in Leadership – invest, initiate, their professional and efficient innovate, the GPIC attendance development. was on the guidelines and desire of Her Royal Highness He said it was also part of Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim the Company's approach Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty to the empowerment of the King and Supreme Council Bahraini women and preparing of Women President. them to take over tasks and responsibilities.

Human Resources Executive Director at Saudi Aramco Ms. Dr. Jawahery commended Huda Ghoson presented a employees’ efforts and said working paper that highlighted women have proved their the role of women on top ability to cope with and adapt positions at Saudi Aramco. She to the nature of work in spite spoke about the Company being of its complex process and placed fourth in the Arab world technology that required in executive departments as specific professional skills. part of the Forbes ranking and at seventh place in the energy He said Bahraini women sector for 2015 in the Arabian Engineers at the GPIC have Business category. proved their unmatched efficiency in all areas of work GE Oil & Gas Chief Growth within and outside the factory.

Officer Dr. Manar Mneef spoke He said they have specialized on how she reached one of the courses and participated in top positions at an international workshops both within and Company. outside Bahrain. The company

38

has also spared no effort in providing all possible support.

GPIC Management is keen to support all employees – men and women – in their development.

The Company is working on the development of manpower by providing opportunities for experience, education and training aimed at equipping workers with adequate skills that qualify them to achieve and gain more and to meet the Company’s future needs.

MEOS 2017 was held from March 6 to 9 under the patronage of His Royal Highness, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister. It is the largest and most important forum to share knowledge and experience in the field of oil exploration and production in the region.

More than 8,000 specialists in the field of oil and gas, who discussed the future of the oil and gas industry in the region, attended this year’s show.

GPIC attends human rights workshop

GPIC took part in a workshop on human rights and the environment, organised by the National Institution for Human Rights at the Isa Cultural Centre.

He said GPIC is implementing a large number of initiatives and volunteer activities in the field of environment and its maintenance and care. He praised the working paper and said such workshops Company Technical Services aimed at the promotion and Manager Mr. Khaled Al-Binali protection of human rights. presented a working paper on the role of the private sector in Dr. Jawahery said care of the the promotion and protection of environment is one of the the environment, and spoke of fundamental principles of the GPIC’s efforts in preserving the Company’s vision and values environment and its concern in since they relate to the safety providing a suitable atmosphere of the employees and their for its employees and the right to enjoy a safe and healthy community around the plant. environment not only at work but also away from it.

Speaking on the occasion, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman He said GPIC is keen to abide Jawahery said the Company is by all the environmental laws of eager to take care of sustainability Bahrain within its operational issues, especially those related and engineering systems and to the environment. He said is committed to submitting GPIC also full compliance with periodic environmental reports environmental laws and decisions to the Supreme Council of the of the Supreme Council of the Environment since these contain Environment. It also cooperates results of plant operations and with regulatory agencies while emissions corresponding to the continuing its efforts at improving set standards. the work atmosphere to build a positive reputation and bridges He said GPIC is subject to of trust with local communities, checks and periodic field investors, shareholders and the visits by the representatives media. of the Supreme Council when

samples are randomly taken and examined verify the accuracy and effectiveness of monitoring systems.

Dr. Jawahery, who is also member of the Economic, Social and Cultural Committee at the National Institution for Human Rights, said all international human rights treaties recognize the right to a clean environment to ensure everyone lives in peace and enjoys other rights such as the right to a dignified life and the rights of education, health, access to water and food.

Dr. Jawahery spoke of the importance of continuing to raise awareness about the Company's commitment to environmental issues and thanked the event organizers in promoting a culture of environmental care and preservation.

He said GPIC is keen to regularly develop and modernize its facilities to fully utilise its environmental protection capabilities as it had recently updated the lighting system at its facilities and had started using standard LED lights to save energy.

39

GPIC holds meetings on leadership programme The Executive Management of GPIC held a meeting on its leadership development programme with the President of Stepping-Stone Global, Jean Nocolai.

This was the first in a series of meetings to be held over the next six months to ensure a succession plan at GPIC and identify Company Officials to take over senior management positions.

GPIC launched a successful programme in 2013 in association with the Hay Group on evaluating and developing its future leaders.

SteppingStone Global designed the programme specifically for GPIC after preliminary analysis of a series of interviews with Executive Management and others that aimed to stimulate high performance by improving individual and institutional capacities.

This programme is in line with Bahrain’s Vision 2030 and that of His Royal Highness Prince

40

Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister to make Bahrain a centre of knowledge in the Arabian Gulf region.

He said the Company pays great attention to the development of its cadres since they are an important element of its success.

He said GPIC has highly efficient and professional technical staff that works hard on achieving the Meanwhile, in its celebration of objectives of sustainability in line Bahraini Women's Day 2017, GPIC with the business strategies of oil has committed to hiring more and gas companies.

Bahraini women to support and encourage them to achieve the GPIC Human Resources Manager, highest levels in the Company’s Mr. Yousef Fakhroo said the functional structure.

Company is happy to start work on the Leadership Development The meeting was presided over Programme and stressed in by the GPIC Youth Committee particular the manner in which Chairperson, Ms. Ruqayah Ishaq, the senior management team too who said the Company is keen for part in the strategic initiative. He young people to understand how said this is the first initiative of its to achieve the desired maximum kind and appreciated the efforts benefit from this programme. and support to develop Bahraini talent.

In a statement, GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said Commenting on the occasion, the Company, since its inception, Mr. Nicolai said he was happy realized that efficiency alone is working on the programme with not enough to run well. A team of a committed group of leaders. He qualified and motivated personnel said this is characterised by the were equally important and formed Company’s keenness to get the an integral part of the Company. most out of it.

Government leaders visit GPIC GPIC received a delegation of participants at a gathering of government leaders organised by the Bahrain Institute of Public Administration.

The visitors were briefed on the Company’s business activities and its various programmes as well as its commitment to teamwork and fulfilling its role and mission towards the community. They The visit was part of GPIC’s were told that the Company not keenness on consolidating only seeks to make a profit but also bonds of cultural and academic has a vision of social responsibility cooperation with higher educ- as an important aspect. ational institutions in Bahrain and abroad.

GPIC Training and Development Superintendent Dr. Ahmed GPIC Human Resources Man- Bucheeri briefed the delegates ager Mr.Yousif Fakhroo received on the Company’s training the delegation in the absence of programmes that are designed its President, Dr. Abdulrahman to raise the efficiency and Jawahery, who is on a visit professionalism of its employees. outside Bahrain.

He highlighted the Bahrainisation

levels at the Company and its succession policies.

He said the Company is proud of its excellent record in occupational safety, health and the environment. GPIC, he added, had won many local, regional and global awards from specialised institutions and had achieved a record number of hours without a lost time accident.

The delegation interacted with the hosts and sought answers to questions on aspects of leadership and management as well as the nature of the Company’s operations.

41

AFA officials train at GPIC

Newly-recruited staff at the Arab Fertiliser Association (AFA), who were in Bahrain to familiarise themselves with the working of the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC), also attended the Fourth Research and Innovation Summit organised by the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA).

to taking part in more training opportunities and workshops to enhance their skills.

Dr. Jawahery thanked them for their dedication and commitment and spoke about their rich and varied experience. He said he was sure they would add to the AFA with their professionalism and commitment and would During their stay in Bahrain, continue to work as a team, they met with GPIC President bearing in mind its goals and Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and objectives. members of the company’s executive management, sharing Dr. Jawahery spoke about the with them their experiences and important role of the AFA as an knowledge. association of Arab companies producing non-organic and raw They said they looked forward fertilizer that provides a forum

42

to exchange experiences and coordinate efforts, promotes regional trade and gives members the opportunity to meet with experts from foreign companies.

The AFA officials thanked Dr. Jawahery for the opportunity to be at the GPIC and said their stay at the company had motivated them to make more efforts and to contribute to the development of the AFA. While at GPIC, the AFA officials went through an integrated training programme in various departments and divisions under the supervision of expert supervisors.

GPIC employee honoured for Master’s degree Saudi Basic Industries Company Executive Vice President of Agricultural Nutrients Anas bin Yusuf Quintab, who visited the GPIC, has congratulated company employee Latifa Khalil for having obtained a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Ahlia University.

Members of the Executive Management and Vice President of the company’s Trade Union were present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, GPIC President applauded the achievement and said Ms. Khalil had set an example for others in the company to follow.

He said GPIC always sought to provide opportunities that equip workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform tasks efficiently and create positive energy among workers in line with the challenges facing this dynamic industry.

GPIC employee is congratulate for degree success During the same event, H.E. Anas bin Yusuf Quintab also attended a ceremony to congratulate company Corporate Communications Department employee Ruqayah Ishaq for receiving an Executive Diploma in Corporate Communications and Public Relations with distinction from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations of U.K.

GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, members of the Executive Management and vice president of the employees Union were present. The President congratulated Ms. Ishaq and expressed pride and admiration in her achievement.

He also complimented her for the excellence she demonstrated

during her education and said she were an example of excellence and a model for other workers.

He said that GPIC always sought to provide opportunities that equip employees with the necessary skills and knowledge.

43