Manama: Deputised by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Deputy Prime Minister, inaugurated the second Gateway Gulf Forum 2024. The event, organised by the Economic Development Board (EDB) on 3-4 November, brought together senior officials, experts, and business leaders from Bahrain, regionally and internationally.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah highlighted that HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister’s patronage of this key forum reflects Bahrain’s ambitious approach, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the support of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, aiming to position Bahrain as a premier investment hub. He noted Bahrain’s efforts in diversifying its economy and boosting non-oil sectors as key drivers of growth, in line with the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasised that Bahrain, committed to sustainable econo
mic growth through investment facilitation and robust infrastructure, has become a favourable business environment. This is supported by digital and technological advancements, innovation, and strategic partnerships with the private sector, creating quality job opportunities for citizens.
The Gateway Gulf Forum 2024, he added, is an ideal platform connecting Bahrain and GCC countries to the world, fostering sustainable partnerships among economic leaders, exploring investment opportunities, and enhancing cooperation for the region’s preparedness in a rapidly changing global economy.
Shaikh Khalid commended the EDB and partners for successfully organising the forum, welcoming guests and hoping that the forum’s outcomes would accelerate Bahrain’s and the region’s economic goals.
In his opening remarks, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, highlighted Bahrain’s steady path towards peace, stability, and progress through ambitious projects and initiatives, in collabora
tion with fellow GCC states and international friends and allies. He expressed gratitude to HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for the patronage of the forum’s second edition.
Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa underscored the forum’s role in bolstering joint economic cooperation and unify efforts aiming to create a resilient global economy. He said this contributes to increasing competitiveness, attracting promising investment opportunities and pushing towards higher economic growth.
Since Gateway Gulf’s first edition, he said, Bahrain has brought in $15.6 billion in foreign direct investment, with $6.8 billion secured in 2023 alone, demonstrating global confidence in Bahrain’s diverse economy.
The forum opened with the panel “Investing for Resilience in a Fast-Changing Global Reality,” featuring Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa; Khalid Al-Falih, Saudi Minister of Investment; and Lord Gerry Grimstone, Chairman of Gemcorp Capital, followed by the session “Shaping the Future Economic Landscape,” with Abdull
a bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy.