Page 300 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2024 (Part 1)

commerce. They noted that global conflicts, crises, trade disruptions, and protectionist
trade policies are imposing new challenges on trade flows and economic growth
internationally. However, they also highlighted that rapid technological advancements and
global sustainable development efforts are creating new opportunities for countries and

industries.

A Global Platform
H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Chairman of the World Free Zones Organization, said: "The
success of the 10th edition of the organization's World Congress reaffirmed the visionary
leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President,
Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, who witnessed the founding of the
organization a decade ago. Today, it serves as a global platform that elevates the
performance of free zones and their strategic contribution to global economic growth,

bringing together an integrated system that supports one-third of global trade passing
through these zones across various regions."

Al Zarooni added: "This year's edition not only marks a decade since the organization's
founding but also looks toward the future by shedding light on trends and developments.
We aim to strengthen the role of free zones worldwide in various sectors and industries
while increasing the volume and smooth flow of trade and investment opportunities. Our
goal is to keep free zones at the heart of the comprehensive transformation toward the

economy of the future, anchored by the organization’s new corporate identity, which was
launched during the congress. This identity focuses on three key strategic pillars, which
aim to achieve sustainable development: Impact, Influence, and Trust."

The sessions, focused events and workshops focused on the future of the organization, the
free economic zones sector, and key industries over the next decade. The discussions
emphasized the importance of actively contributing to achieving inclusive growth and
prosperity at the global economic level, while continuing to build and strengthen trade
relations and partnership networks between the economic zones of the member states.

Additionally, there was a focus on expanding activities to include modern economic
sectors that align with the requirements of the age of artificial intelligence, digital trade, the
Fourth Industrial Revolution, and advanced technologies.

The congress agenda featured plenary sessions on the future of logistics, energy, access to
finance, manufacturing, and the digital sector. Each session outlined the latest
developments, challenges, and solutions for these sectors. The ‘Future of Logistics’

session highlighted the UAE's use of automation and the Internet of Things to increase

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congress-concludes-in-dubai