In the United Arab Emirates, optimism is the essence of life; and positive energy is the key to success, Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, Chairperson of the AMF Organising Committee and President of Dubai Press Club, has said.

Welcoming Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who witnessed the opening of the 14th edition of the Arab Media Forum at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, yesterday, Al Marri said AMF 2015 discussions are being held with this spirit of optimism.

The opening was attended by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated, Mohammed Abdulla Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and a number of senior government officials and media experts.

"A few months ago, Your Highness announced 2015 to the Year of Innovation in the UAE. A few days ago, you revealed the details of the first-ever Arab mission to planet Mars from the UAE, which you named ‘The Hope'.

"Hope summarises the philosophy of the United Arab Emirates towards excellence and development," Al Marri said. She said AMF 2015 is being held with the same philosophy. "Innovation is the key characteristic of our Forum."

This is reflected in the title of the Forum, which is ‘New Perspectives'. AMF 2015 is geared towards developing the Arab Media to face new realities with a spirit of excellence and innovation.

"Today, we face extreme challenges in the region. We should react with open mindedness and honest determination to reach best results."

"In this Forum the new developments will be discussed to form a clear understanding of the future with its opportunities and challenges. We will discuss issues in a serious and honest manner. We will discuss how the West sees Arabs and Muslims. We have seen developments in the region attracting the attention of the world," Al Marri said.

"We hope that we will be able to create ideas and visions of the future through this Forum," she added, while wishing the dignitaries and delegates a warm welcome.

The Arab Media Forum 2015 is being attended by more than 1,500 delegates from the region and the wider world. A third of the speakers this year are foreign experts. In keeping with the ‘2015 Year of Innovation' in the UAE, AMF 2015 features two key new concepts – The Media Walk which features a brief history of media; and Davos-style 20-minute sessions sponsored by Nakheel. Additionally, AMF 2015 also features workshops sponsored by DP World.
Source: WAM