Manama: Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum (WEIF) 2026 opened today at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre. The opening was attended by Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, along with other notable dignitaries. According to Bahrain News Agency, the event also saw the presence of Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary General of the Arab League; Gerd Mller, Director General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), and senior officials. The forum aims to unite policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs to promote entrepreneurship and innovation as key drivers of sustainable economic growth. The Minister of Finance and National Economy emphasized Bahrain's ongoing efforts under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to foster an integrated national ecosystem supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. He cited government initiatives led by HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister as pivotal in enhancing the national economy's competitiveness and creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, start-ups, and SMEs. Furthermore, he highlighted the role of UNIDO's Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, stressing the importance of investing in human capital through skills development and practical training to prepare a workforce capable of adapting to global economic changes. During the forum, the Minister toured the exhibition featuring sections like the School Olympiad, a productive families section showcasing home-based enterprises, and an innovation and technology section for persons with disabilities. He noted how these initiatives reflect creativity and innovation, supporting national talent and promoting community empowerment. Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Aboul Gheit praised Bahrain's efforts in hosting the forum and acknowledged the cooperation among participati ng entities. He expressed gratitude to Bahrain's leadership and people for their hospitality and stressed the role of entrepreneurship and innovation in sustainable development and Arab economic integration. UNIDO Director General Gerd Mller emphasized the global capabilities, knowledge, and resources available to tackle development and economic challenges, highlighting the need for strong will and international cooperation. He noted that supporting entrepreneurs, especially women and youth, is crucial for building resilient and inclusive societies. Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, presented the National Innovation Strategy (2025-2035), focusing on research and development, innovation-driven start-ups, and digital transformation to build a knowledge-based economy. He also mentioned efforts to strengthen the financing ecosystem to position Bahrain as a regional hub for entrepreneurship. Dr. Hashem Hussain, Head of UNIDO's Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, stat ed that the forum represents years of work to support global entrepreneurs. He highlighted the importance of access to skills, funding, and opportunities for economic development and the shared responsibility of governments, development partners, and the private sector in empowering women, youth, and persons with disabilities. The sixth edition of the World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum serves as an international platform for decision-makers, investors, and entrepreneurs, organized by UNIDO's Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, in partnership with the Arab League, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Union of Arab Chambers, and the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The focus is on advancing Sustainable Development Goals through entrepreneurship and innovation.
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