UAE to host 'National Roundtable of Financing and Investing in Green Economy Projects' for 6th Green Economy Annual Conference

The UAE is set to host the sixth edition of the Green Economy Annual Conference under the title National Roundtable of Financing and Investing in Green Economy Projects on 25 May in Dubai.

The conference is being organised by the Ministry of Environment and Water, in co-operation with the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.

The conference forms part of the UAE s preparations for hosting the Global Roundtable under the theme of Islamic Finance within the context of Green Economy and Sustainable Development in 2016, in collaboration with the UNEP FI, it said.

Dr. Rashid Ahmed bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, said that hosting the 14th roundtable meeting in 2016 represents the UAE's strategic initiative to accomplish the leaderships objective of becoming one of the best countries in the world according to UAE Vision 2021.

In addition, he highlighted the state s commitment to contribute to worldwide efforts towards finding sustainable solutions for global environmental issues.

The ministry aims to create a systematic change in the field of financing by supporting and building capabilities through the UNEP FI and taking advantage of its mechanism and investment opportunities of green projects.

He also referred to the state s mission to create an environmentally conscious society for current and future generations by launching notable projects and initiatives. Such efforts adopt the UAE s strategy of creating a new stage of development based on long-term economic growth that takes into account the preservation of the environment.

Bin Fahad said that hosting the roundtable meeting in 2016 highlights the strategic location of Dubai by being associated with the slogan 'Capital of Global Islamic Economy Initiative', which was introduced by Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2013.

He added that Dubai's crucial financial position in the region and beyond and its political and environmental interests, which are in line with the objectives of the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI), will be emphasised.

The conference in May will gather concerned parties from diverse sectors such as banks, financial institutions, insurance companies, key players in investment and manufacturing, chambers of commerce and industry, economic development departments, the Ministry of Economy, the Ministry of Finance and Municipalities as well as environmental organisations.