Khaleej Times Online: A region to rival Europe and US

Khaleej Times OnlineA region to rival Europe and US

As Europe looks to expand economically into the Muslim world with the possible accession of Turkey into the European Union, many European economies including France and Germany are still struggling to drag themselves out of the GDP doldrums. Growth is showing signs of stalling even in the United Kingdom after the longest period of sustained economic development in our history. Meanwhile, a new economic giant is stirring. A market of more than 400 million people and a combined GDP of $1.4 trillion is opting for a common future of regional free trade and rapid economic liberalisation. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA Region) could enjoy sustainable growth as swift and sure as that enjoyed by Asia in recent years. The will is there. It is now a matter of means. Dubai and Abu Dhabi may well share a key role in enabling the essential coming together of regional and international strategists that will create an inspirational and culturally sensitive vision of a desired future in the forefront of economic development. With education at the core of national policy and infrastructure second to none the United Arab Emirates is in the ideal position to lead and support regional growth and expansion to achieve the potential of the region demands leadership.