AIM Congress 2024: Global Leaders Discuss Strategies Against Economic Volatility

The 2024 AIM Congress, held at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi from May 7 to 9, became a focal point for global economic discussions, attracting an elite group of ministers from around the world. These leaders convened under the Ministerial Roundtable on Investment, part of the Roundtables’ Track, to deliberate on strategies to overcome the challenges of economic volatility, geopolitical tensions, and a potential global economic downturn.

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade, stressed the critical role of emerging markets in spearheading future growth. He underscored the UAE's strategy of embracing a free economy, technological advancements, and regulatory improvements to discover new investment avenues. The emphasis on investing in sectors pivotal for future economies and supporting SMEs was highlighted as a testament to the UAE's dedication to economic resilience and job creation.

Elmedin Konakovic, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, pointed out the necessity of converting challenges into opportunities by integrating international investment and utilizing national resources to draw investors. Jean-Lucien Bussa from the Democratic Republic of Congo discussed his country's investor-friendly policies like tax exemptions to attract global capital. Similarly, Miguel Medina from Honduras showcased the nation's FDI growth and incentives designed to lure leading companies.

Indonesia’s Minister Of Tourism And Creative Economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, highlighted innovation and collaboration as key drivers of investment growth in sectors such as healthcare and digitisation. Ryad Mezzour from Morocco called for deregulation and trade openness to leverage hidden opportunities for economic independence.

Representatives from San Marino, Uganda, Tajikistan, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, Moscow City Government, Kurdistan Region Investment Board, and the Union of Arab Chambers also shared their insights. They discussed various strategies ranging from digitalization and streamlined regulations to promoting local products and liberalized economic policies to foster FDI growth and job creation.

The AIM Congress 2024 not only served as a platform for exchanging ideas and fostering partnerships but also highlighted the collective efforts of global leaders to navigate through an evolving economic landscape. With over 150 dignitaries, 900+ speakers, and more than 12,000 participants from 175 countries, alongside 27 joint events in cooperation with over 330+ partners, the congress underscored the importance of collaboration in unlocking investment opportunities worldwide.

This gathering underscored a unified approach towards leveraging technology, regulatory reforms, and international cooperation to stimulate economic growth amidst uncertainties. The insights shared at this event reflect a global commitment towards fostering an environment conducive to investment and sustainable development.

With inputs from WAM