The 2009 World Economic Forum (WEF) on the Middle East will convene over 1,200 business, government and civil society leaders in Jordan on May 15-17, the Jeddah-based Saudi Gazette reported today. Held under the patronage of King Abdullah II Ibn Al Hussein of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, discussions will focus on the theme “Implications of the Global Economic Crisis for the Middle East: Home-grown Strategies for Success”. “The meeting comes at a crucial time for the Middle East and is an opportunity for participants to discuss the region's response to the global economic crisis in concrete terms,” said Professor Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman, World Economic Forum. “The Forum believes that only by bringing together decision-makers representing all sectors of society - business, politics, civil society, culture, media and academia - can sustainable solutions to the current challenges be found.” “Jordan is proud to welcome the World Economic Forum once again, especially as the countries of our region confront the effects of the global financial crisis,” said King Abdullah- 11 of Jordan. “The World Economic Forum is always a source of inspiration for those who work to advance development in our region and tap into the vast potential of our young people.”
