Abu Dhabi
, UAE
- November 22, 2006:
A gathering of the world's most influential and revered speakers joined together today to share strategies for excellence in leadership during the Abu Dhabi World Leadership Summit, held under the patronage of General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
The conference, organised by Global Events, was attended by Economy Minister Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Member of Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Affairs Authority, Gerhard Schroder former Chancellor of Germany, former U.S. President George Bush (S.) and Lee Kuan Yew Minister Mentor of Singapore.
Welcoming guests, Al Mubarak affirmed that Abu Dhabi places education at top of its priorities and that the emirate started to privatise 30 percent of its public schools.
He said that key elements for leadership and success include patience, competitiveness and management.
Al Mubarak added that evolution and progress must be coupled with efforts to preserve one's traditions and culture.
Schroder called on the world leaders to focus on providing job opportunities and developing free global trade to achieve global security and stability.
He cited GCC countries as a good example for security and stability, adding that monetary union, scheduled for 2010, will further push the region to the forefront of global economy.
Sheikha Lubna attributed the respectable status attained by UAE women to the support given by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and efforts of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.
She urged UAE women to "make the change without fearing failure." Sheikha Lubna affirmed that Islam does not object to woman taking work, noting that some try to "politicize Islam" to prevent her from work.
George Bush said that the voices of extremism will not derail peoples' aspirations for tolerance, peace and progress.
He added that building savvy and wise leaders is the best way to stamp out chaos, extremism and conflicts in the world.
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