The United Arab Emirates "UAE" will host the ‘Forum for the Future 2008' in Dubai, jointly with the G-8 countries, to support the development plans globally. Dr Mohammed Anwar Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs told Khaleej Times that the fifth edition of the forum would be held from October 15 to 19. Delegates from G-8 countries and 28 countries from the Middle East and Northern Africa Region are slated to take part in the event. The choice of the UAE to host the forum is a reflection of the country's international standing, Dr Gargash said, adding that the country has become a global centre for the international community. “We want to highlight important issues such as women's rights, clean energy, and the need to protect the environment. We also hope to use the forum to strengthen ties between governments and civil society organizations to achieve universal peace, progress and prosperity,” Dr Gargash noted.
