DUBAI, 29 June 2006 — At the recently concluded US-Arab Economic Forum in Texas, Dubai Properties (DP) highlighted the strategic value of conducting business in the Middle East through bilateral trade agreements between the United States and Arab States.
Addressing over 1,500 business leaders and policymakers, Haiyan Mujarkech, chief officer, Dubai Properties, said: “If we’re to change perceptions of US-Arab trade, we must show that ‘strategic value’ translates into tangible benefits, that people understand how these benefits have been made possible by trade.
“The challenge is how best to achieve a balance in trading infrastructure, so that benefits are not weighted too heavily in favor of one partner. In this respect, more bilateral agreements must be encouraged, and the United States can help by providing the Arab world with technical assistance for economic reform, promotion of the private sector, the provision of financial aid, and helping to achieve peace and stability in the region.” Haiyan also laid stress on intra-cultural relations as an integral part of Dubai Properties’ business practice, policy, and operational strategy.
“Our corporate responsibility as an organization is to address the ethical, social and environmental impact of business operations within the markets in the Middle East.
“International trade can help bring this about by being an ‘engine of job creation’ — particularly increased intra-regional trade. Generating new jobs for a rapidly growing labor force is imperative for most Middle Eastern countries — even the relatively wealthy members of the Gulf Cooperation Council.” Haiyan invited global decision makers to become partners in the transformation taking place in the Middle East.
Dubai Properties’ participation in the US-Arab Economic Forum is in line with the UAE’s vision to bridge cultures through commercial initiatives. It also reflects its corporate philosophy to promote investments and integration into the region.