World Islamic Economic Forum to develop coop of small and medium businesses of our states, Syed Abu Bakar Almodzar
ASTANA. May 17. KAZINFORM /Meiram Baigarin/ As the international authority of Kazakhstan grows our capital plays a host to international top-level events. On June 7-9 this year the VII World Islamic Economic Forum themed "Global economic development: understanding, competition, cooperation" will bring together above 2,500 people to Astana. WIEF Foundation Managing Director Syed Abu Bakar Almodzar told Kazinform agency about the preparations for the forthcoming forum.
How do you assess the preparations for the forum in Astana?
Preparations continue smoothly. We have already had many working meetings. I believe the forum will be a success. Above 2,000-2,500 people are expected to attend the forum. It is noteworthy two special sessions will take place within the forum for businesswomen and young entrepreneurs. Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Massimov will take part in the opening sitting of the sessions.
We have invited 20 countries for the forum. Indonesia, Malaysia, Iraq, Bahrain, Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan have already confirmed their participation. Prime ministers of Malaysia, Iraq and Bahrain, vice president of Indonesia will arrive in Astana. Ex-premiers of Pakistan, Malaysia, Mauritania and the Netherlands are also expected to take part in the forum. President of the Islamic Development Bank will attend it.
What issues are on the WIEF agenda?
Well, our forum is purposed to provide opportunities for the development of cooperation of small and medium-sized businesses. It sets us apart from the Davos World Economic Forum. We create a platform for businessmen from around the world to debate their plans and decide for example what business they could start in Kazakhstan.
Those gathered will also focus on Islamic countries' food security issues. Kazakhstan has considerable opportunities for farm production and it interests the business community. Alternative energy sources will also be given consideration at one of the sessions of the forum. Certainly, when the program is ready we will present it.
What else does your Foundation deal with?
We also realize a number of own programs. For example, we hold women entrepreneurs workshops. Two of such seminars already took place in Kuala Lumpur. Another workshop will be held in Bangladesh soon. These workshops are designed for women willing to do business in the Islamic countries and also in less developed states. Last year we welcomed 30 women from 20 states such as Cambodia, the Philippines, Iraq, Bahrain and Yemen. We have also internship programs. Another program our Foundation is engaged in is carrying out of international conferences with the participation of the best professors of the leading universities, we also host international roundtables on Islamic financing and introduction of halal standards.
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Thank you for interview.