Investing in Sustainable Development: 8th World Investment Forum to Commence in Abu Dhabi
The eighth edition of the World Investment Forum officially opens tomorrow, Monday, October 16 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC). Spanning five days and concluding on October 20, the forum will gather leaders, prominent investors, and stakeholders in the investment sector from around the world.
Established as a premier event by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the biennial WIF has historically served as the paramount platform for facilitating high-level discourse on the world’s most pressing investment-development challenges.
The forum is organized by UNCTAD’s Division on Investment and Enterprise, which seeks to ensure inclusive growth and sustainable development around the world.
Supported by the Ministry of Economy and the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) as lead partner, the 8th edition of World Investment Forum’s emphasis is “Investing in Sustainable Development”, a theme that is particularly prescient given the prevailing global developments and challenges.
From tackling food security issues and addressing energy needs to bolstering health infrastructure and ensuring supply chain resilience, WIF aims to provide solutions while maintaining sustainability at its core.
H.E Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, remarked: “As a nation that values both economic growth and sustainability, the UAE is excited to host to such an esteemed gathering of international leaders, policymakers, and prominent members of the global investment community.
"The World Investment Forum stands as a testament to the global community's resilience and dedication to forging a sustainable path forward, especially in the midst of several overlapping challenges. With the added focus on climate finance ahead of COP28, we are proud to be at the center of these vital conversations.”
H.E Al Zeyoudi noted: “As we gear up for the forum, it's crucial to remember the essential role global trade plays in socio-economic growth, and its potential for driving sustainability. The recently unveiled UNCTAD World Investment Report 2023 only heightens our anticipation for the event.
"The UAE's record of US$23 billion foreign direct investment in 2022 showcases our nation's strong position in the investment realm, making the forum's Abu Dhabi edition even more significant."
H.E Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) said: “Hosting the 8th World Investment Forum in Abu Dhabi reflects our leadership’s vision and unwavering commitment to enhance international cooperation and collective action to develop innovative solutions benefitting the global community.
"The Forum provides a suitable platform for policymaker to formulate policies and strategies that will address key and emerging investment-development issues, ensuring that today’s investments are geared towards a sustainable tomorrow."
The biennial forum attracts more than 7,000 stakeholders from 160 countries, representing a diverse range of sectors – from heads of state and CEOs of multinational corporations to civil society representatives and the international media.
With COP28 discussions around the corner, the 2023 WIF edition has earmarked significant sessions for climate finance and investment. The forum aspires to create a synergistic environment where policymakers and stakeholders can align their strategies, with outcomes expected to significantly influence the COP negotiations.
Complementing the core events are a series of partner and side events designed to provide a holistic view of the investment landscape. Key highlights include the 2nd Global Dialogue on COP 28, co-hosted with the UAE and UNFCCC, and the Agrifood Forum in partnership with FAO.
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