At the 2018 World Government Summit (WGS), the UAE demonstrated to the global community its foresight and focus on the future by sharing the countries latest advancements in all relevant technical and scientific fields. Our country’s status on the world scene was reflected in the high profile delegates who visited the summit. The World Government Summit, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates from 10 - 13 February 2018 attracted more than 130 speakers who are decision makers, experts, thinkers and leaders from around the world.
WGS represents a remarkable addition that reflects the UAE's philosophy, identity and vision for leadership, represented by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of UAE and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai , His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and their Highnesses the Emirates Rulers, members of UAE Supreme Council. This philosophy formed the framework for the modern revitalization of our beloved country, the renaissance that was first established by the late Sheikh Zayed, may Allah have mercy on him.
When we talk about the WGS, we have to discuss a number of relevant indicators. Although we cannot offer a full summary, our goal is to highlight some of the main themes, which open our minds to further brainstorming and contemplation about WGS. There were ten critical takeaways.
First, the UAE is a dreamland with an eye on the future. For any observer, the pride and loyalty of local citizens is palpable. Via WGS we invite the world to take part in our celebration of achievements, which stem from a continual push toward expansive, inclusive thinking. As such, the UAE stands as a model in the community and is ready to share its vision with the global community.
Second, intellectual aspirations promote peace and stability in the world. The WGS was honored by a constellation of decision-makers, thinkers, experts and executive leaders from around the world. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and other symbols of the nation whose discussions and speeches formed a genuine expression of UAE’s uniqueness in this regard.
Third: The global participation in this summit, which comes amidst regional and international variables, certainly shows the importance of United Arab Emirates and reflects the confidence of the world in its presence and leadership. This adds more hope in enhancing our bright future in UAE, the dreamland of prosperity, development and future foresight.
Fourth, artificial intelligence has been one of the most prominent themes in the summit sessions and discussions. The UAE has had an outstanding role in this important area since it is the first country in the world to introduce the position of Minister of Artificial Intelligence.
Fifth: The WGS highlighted a number of themes and issues with a global dimension, including the industrial revolution, quality of life, happiness of the human being, the use of modern technologies in enhancing food security, and other issues that covered various development aspects.
Sixth: The main achievement to be highlighted is the success, excellence, and the extraordinary ability of the Organizing Committee of the WGS. The committee created a vibrant atmosphere that attracted more than 4000 personalities from 140 countries and 16 international organizations, including heads of state and deputy prime ministers and prime ministers, in addition to global leaders from the public and private sectors. There was participation across 120 interactive sessions with more than 130 global speakers.
Seventh: The WGS, in cooperation with strategic partners, succeeded in providing all the accommodation requirements for the large numbers that came from all around the world to participate in the Summit. The Organizing Committee provided guests with the positive atmosphere that made their participation and attendance at the Summit a historic occasion for all.
Eighth: The team of volunteers, consisting of UAE locals, enhanced the success of this summit. The intense commitment to volunteerism is another aspect that demonstrates the philosophy of teamwork and its ability to achieve excellence and leadership.
Ninth: The Summit has also succeeded in opening up a wide door for young men and women to have the opportunity of presenting their innovative projects along with the world leading thinkers and experts. This is a fundamental message that highlights the importance of intergenerational dialogue, which must be a priority for all institutions.
Tenth: Now, you may note that I did not delve into the actual content of the WGS; this is to encourage your curiosity so that you may also draw your own conclusions. I therefore encourage you to visit the link of the summit (https:// www.worldgovernmentummit.org/ ) so that you may actively consider the roles we all play in refining our talents and enhancing our role as a team member to improve not only administrative and institutional performance, but society as a whole. I invite you all to sail on an intellectual journey in the dreamland of the UAE, a global capital with a window seat to the future.