Mehmood Ul-Hassan Khan

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ACHIEVEMNETS IN IDEX 2011

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Mar 112011
 

MEHMOOD UL HASSAN KHAN

The 10th edition of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2011 was recently held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The IDEX 2011 was showcased under the kind patronage of the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The grand opening ceremony of IDEX 2011 was attended by a high-profile officials, foreign delegations and ministers. Large numbers of senior civilian and military officials along with 66 defence ministers, 64 chiefs of staff, top commanders as well as VIP guests, dignitaries, diplomats and leaders of the world defence industry attended the opening ceremony today. IDEX and NAVDEX 2011 attracted over 60,000. For the first time since IDEX’s inception in 1993, exhibitor numbers reached to 1,000 mark recording 18.2 per cent growth over IDEX in 2009, to reach 1,060 exhibitors.

Exhibitors demonstrated a comprehensive range of highly technical maneuvers and operational abilities for the latest land vehicles, UAV’s, UGV’s and sea craft. From small arms to long range artillery, various types of ground transportation, tanks and armored personnel carriers, light aircraft to state-of-the-art fighter aircraft, fast patrol boats to submarines, computers to radars, etc most items have to be showcased in the IDEX 2011.

UAE and IDEX

The UAE succeeded to achieve a global reputation for staging and organising security and defence exhibitions; this soft image is due to its grand success for hosting IDEX and the Dubai Air show. IDEX is now counted amongst the most established and prestigious international defence shows/exhibitions which provide an excellent opportunity for the manufactures and far and wide to share expertise and technological achievements and enhance their global presence.

UAE Armaments Companies/ Manufacturers

More than 169 manufactures of the UAE actively participated in the IDEX 2011. Mubadala Development Company was the largest UAE exhibitor. According to many regional as well as international military experts that United Arab Emirates has been put on the armaments industry map by the successful holding of successive IDEX UAE achieved substantial contracts in IDEX 2011. Major General Obaid Al Katbi Head of Committees and Spokesman for IDEX 2011 shared that the value of these deals reached to Dh18.4 billion.
Details are given below as:

A large portion of the Dh14.5 billion worth of contracts awarded by the UAE Armed Forces in the IDEX 2011were granted to UAE-based military companies. In efforts to upgrade the country’s naval vessels, fire control systems, tanks, armoured vehicles, and ammunition, the UAE government has spent billions of dirhams on attracting international military expertise to the UAE. Apart from turning diverse Blackhawk choppers into gun ships, a deal worth approximately Dh1 billion, the government has also invested in training UAE-based pilots, technicians, and navigators on military products.

UAE Armed Forces Deals

UAE Local Worth Dh million Details
IGG 786 For the purchase of the 120mm mortar system designated RG 31m was also accorded.
NIMR 736 For the purchase of 1,000 NIMR vehicles
Al Fattan Ship Industry 356.7 For the purchase of 18 boats
Abu Dhabi Ship Building 107 To provide technical support for naval boats

Atlas Telecom 63 For the provision of Tetra Communications systems, a secure radio network
HCT 103 UAE Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) to include aviation programmes and maritime sciences in bachelor degree’s, in efforts to develop human resources
Foreign Manufacturers
Germany
Atlas Electronics 469. To maintain and develop mine sweeping units.

Aero-maritime Systems 71.8 To purchase and set communication systems for boats.
Diehl BGT Defence 84 For the purchase of German ammunitions
France
Penhard Defence Company 22.5 For the purchase of spare parts for Penhard vehicles
Italy
Piaggo Aero Industrie 63.2 to provide plans known as P180 Avanti II
Source: IDEX 2011 different official press releases

Other Major Contracts

• Dh252 million signed with Booz and Company to transfer logistics
• Dh230.9 million signed with IGG to purchase 30 MK 47 calibers, 40 mm
• Dh136.7 million to be spent on ammunition for 80mm vehicles, as well as the installation of gas bombs, 80mm calibers on BMP-3 vehicles
• Dh126.8 million spent on maintenance of tanks and armours.
• Dh64.8 million to train pilots, technicians, navigators on black hawks
• Dh53.2 million to provide arms for ehicles through IGG
• Dh45.5 million equipment installed on radars through Raneen Wireless Development
• Dh39.3 million to buy ammunition through Hanawa Cooperation

Biggest Purchases

Worth Dh. million Details
993.5 It will be used to install 23 Blackhawk aircraft, the UH60M, with weapons
853.6 Signed with Emirates Response Service and ASSETCO in their bid to provide the armed forces with firefighting services, human resources, equipment and maintenance
551 To provide air cargo services through Maximus National Company.
336.7 To purchase four AW 139 aircraft for VIPs through the Abu Dhabi Aviation National Company.
Source: IDEX 2011 official press releases

Performance of UAE based Companies/Manufacturers

After another successful holding of the IDEX many regional as well as international military experts and war strategists are of the opinion that UAE defence companies have matured enough to capture the regional markets. Now, UAE is likely to become a defence or military equipment manufacturer in the Middle East and help the Mena (Middle East and North Africa) countries meet their future defence needs. The UAE has already been exporting military supplies to the rest of the Mena region for the past three years. The shipbuilding industry of the UAE is making its inroads in the regional markets. It has already supplied ships to Oman and Bahrain, and Caracal has already sold handguns to a number of Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan.

Star Performers

Company/manufactures Details

Tawazun and Mubadala

Both actively participated in the IDEX 2011 and succeeded to open avenues of joint ventures and grabbed many meaningful contracts. Tawazun has manufactured some spare parts for military aircraft and exported them to various parts of the Mena region; Nimr vehicles have also found buyers through the Bin Jabber Group. Tawazun Holding, the government-owned investment company that specialises in defence manufacturing, technology and capability development, is among many companies that have been working to build a manufacturing base in the UAE. During IDEX 2011, it had announced it will acquire 26 per cent of the shares in International Golden Group (IGG). Both have complementary strategies, networks and business models that enable them to align to develop our mutual capabilities in the future. Furthermore, it signed a contract with the UAE Armed Forces worth Dh736 million for 1,000 NIMR vehicles. It also bought an ammunition factory earlier this year from Adcom Systems, a group of 30 plus companies specialising in the manufacturing of UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles), aerial targets and air traffic radars in the UAE.

Historic Perspectives

Since its inception in 1993, IDEX has grown tremendously to become a globally recognised tri-service defence exhibition and the largest event in the Middle East and Africa. The International Defense Exhibition & Conference, or IDEX, is a biennial arms and defense technology sales exhibition. According to many prestigious regional and international defence journals IDEX is the largest arms exhibition in the Middle East. The business conducted at the 2005 IDEX totaled 2 billion US dollars.

Year on year IDEX continues to attract a growing attention of international decision-makers and key military and government representatives. The strong representation of individuals from the GCC and MENA countries make IDEX a primary mechanism to reach these influential audiences.

Originally launched on February 14th, 1993, with the active participation of more than 350 companies, representing 34 countries, one of the key features of IDEX’ success has been the active participation of a wide range of military delegations. The second in the series, in March 1995, saw the participation of more than 600 companies from 55 countries, with more than 45,000 visitors during the five-day show. The third IDEX, in 1997, was honoured by the visit of H.H. President Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan – the late President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces – who toured the entire exhibition. IDEX 1999 saw further growth, with 848 companies from 41 countries receiving 70 military delegations.

The fifth IDEX, in 2001, built on this success, attracting 865 companies from 43 countries and numerous delegations led by Heads of State, Ministers of Defence, Chiefs of Staff and Heads of Military Procurement which underlined its unique position in the region and further enhanced the status of the UAE as the host nation. IDEX 2003, the sixth event, maintained the show’s reputation as an important platform for the announcement of military contracts and as a reflection of the strategic importance of the region. In 2005 IDEX continued the successful series with the seventh edition. The event continued to see growth across the show with substantial visitor numbers, exhibitors and delegations participating at the event.

Consolidation in the defence industry was mirrored in exhibitor attendance at IDEX 2007 but the list of international delegates continued to grow and contracts worth more than $545m (Dhs2bn) were announced, including $380m (Dhs1.4bn) signed by the UAE Armed Forces. IDEX 2009 was the 9th edition of the event, took place on the 22-26 February 2009 in Abu Dhabi, UAE at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE IDEX 2011

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  1 Response »
Mar 112011
 

MEHMOOD-UL-HASSAN KHAN

United Arab Emirates has been put on the armaments industry map by the successful holding of successive IDEX

It is one of the important lessons of all the splendid ancient dynasties and modern day wars for power pursuits that self defence is the best defence and relies on indigenous armaments industry always guarantees safety of the national strategic assets and protects the desired goals of foreign policy and socio-economic plans. It is also one of the key philosophies and curial factors of colonialism, communism, social democracy, imperialism or free market arena that weakness always tends to encourage aggression, subjugation, socio-economic embargos and above all political isolation. So a strong deterrence has become the symbol of survival in the hot pursuits of power, domination and possession in power struggle of today complicated world. Continue reading »

Defence Showcase IDEX 2011 officially inaugurates today

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Feb 202011
 

By Mehmood-Ul-Hassan Khan

Abu Dhabi, February 20, 2011-Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the 10TH International Defence Exhibition and Conference IDEX 2011 in Abu Dhabi on Sunday February 20, 2011. His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces were also presented.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared that Abu Dhabi’s International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) is gaining prominence and wider acclaim among the world countries and companies producing weapons and defence equipments as the event provide them with a window, through which they look at the markets in the region.

He was of the view that the exhibition also represented a platform for the local, regional as well as international arms manufacturers to showcase their latest products and defence technologies. He further elaborated that it would allow the countries of the region, the Middle East and North Africa the opportunity to view these modern defence products and procure them through commercial transactions taking place in the exhibition every year.

We in the UAE do not look at IDEX or Dubai Airshow as two platforms for arms race in the region, as some claim, but see them purely in terms of trade, tourism and technology, because of the diversity in attendance and participation in these events, which have gained international fame and earned great confidence among the exhibitors and consumers he added. He said this makes the United Arab Emirates a meeting place for people of different races and a gateway between East and West, not to mention the experience and knowledge which the men of our armed forces and our police gain through mixing with the experts who arrive from all over the world.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is confident that IDEX 2011 will see a large turnout and the increase in the proportion of exhibitors and visitors because it brings with it all that is new in the world of defence industries and military equipment.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is of the opinion that IDEX has achieved high momentum, development and the volume of demand from countries, companies, factories and individuals demonstrate its success, strength and quality and positions itself as an event of economic and tourism importance as well as creates an opportunity for cross-cultural understanding. The visitors get a chance to see the cultural expressions of our country, its Arab and Islamic traditions and customs.

We in the UAE, both the people and the leaders, are proud of the reputable status of our country and its well established position on the regional and international levels. We are also proud of our young people as well as their competencies and expertise in various sectors that make them worthy of our confidence as leaders and are able to assume their responsibilities in business leadership and the tasks entrusted to them he further added.

The IDEX 2011 is being showcased under the kind patronage of the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from 20-24 February 2011. The grand opening ceremony of IDEX 2011 was attended by a high-profile officials, foreign delegations and ministers. Large numbers of senior civilian and military officials along with 66 defence ministers, 64 chiefs of staff, top commanders as well as VIP guests, dignitaries, diplomats and leaders of the world defence industry attended the opening ceremony today. For the first time since IDEX’s inception in 1993, exhibitor numbers have gone past the 1,000 mark, recording 18.2 per cent growth over IDEX in 2009, to reach 1,060 exhibitors.

The UAE has achieved a global reputation for staging and organising security and defence exhibitions; this soft image is due to its grand success in hosting IDEX and the Dubai Air show. IDEX is now counted amongst the most established and prestigious international defence shows/exhibitions which provide an excellent opportunity for the manufactures and far and wide to share expertise and technological achievements and enhance their global presence.

The exhibition has a long history of growth and has served as a major influence in the armaments decisions of nations located in the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Attention from the world’s defence and homeland security industry.

IDEX is not an end in itself but a means to promote soft image of the UAE. It represents an opportunity for foreigners to visit UAE and learn about its achievements, cultural acquisitions, Arab traditions and noble Islamic values. It is also an opportunity for UAE citizens to interact with other cultures.

IDEX is the largest tri-service defence and security exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa region. The 2011 international exhibition marks the 10th edition of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference. It is organised by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) with the collaboration of the UAE Armed Forces GHQ, IDEX 2011. It succeeded to draw more than 1000 exhibitors. Tawazun Holding is the headline sponsor for the event.

UAE arms manufacturers

More than 169 manufactures of the UAE is actively participating in the IDEX 2011. Mubadala Development Company is the largest UAE exhibitor. According to many regional as well as international military experts that United Arab Emirates has been put on the armaments industry map by the successful holding of successive IDEX

UAE is expected to achieve substantial contracts in the ongoing international exhibition. According to Major General Obaid Al Katbi, Head of Committees and Spokesman for IDEX 2011, that the value of these deals would be close to Dh18.4 billion. It is hoped that more than $ 20 billion of defence contracts will be achieved in the 10th International Defence Exhibition and Conference. Some of these deals could be signed during the IDEX 2011, which has in the past been chosen forum to announce major purchases.


Pakistan’s companies participation

Many Pakistani arms manufactures are taking part in the IDEX 2011. AERO, Al-Techniques Corporation of Pakistan, Pakistan Ordnances Factory, EPERT Engineering Services, Pakistan Defence Export Bureau, IDEAS-Pakistan and many others are actively participating this international exhibition, showcasing their diversified expertise, specific products and professional services to audiences with high hopes to earn some meaningful contracts.

Country Pavilions

Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Estonia, Libya and Taiwan are the new entrants and taking part first time in the IDEX. Germany holds the largest international country pavilion followed by those of the United States, Turkey and Italy. Rheinmetall AG, is the largest international exhibitor is from Germany.
Saif Al Hajiri, Chief Executive Officer of Tawazun Holding and the Offset Program Bureau) told Gulf News that military purchases in the GCC countries have encouraged defence manufacturers in the GCC and the Middle East to become more visible in such a strategic position.

Tawazun Hodling, the headline sponsor of Idex, is expected to launch new products and make announcements on joint ventures at Idex this year. “Our target is for our products to be of an international standard and to sell in any market,” Al Hajeri said. Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Daheri, Managing Director of Andec, said that the direct economic impact of this year’s edition of IDEX might exceed the ninth edition of Dh2.5 billion.
The International Defence Exhibition and Conference 2011 would now further pave the way towards mutual understanding and cooperation between the nations jointly involved in serving the global cause of peace where United Arab Emirates keeps playing its dominant role in the GCC and Middle East.

China 2nd largest global economy and opportunities for Pakistan

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  1 Response »
Feb 152011
 

By Mehmood-Ul-Hassan Khan

According to recent official figures of the Japanese government and the IMF (2011), China has surpassed Japan and succeeded to become world second largest economy after the US. The country of 1.4 billion souls has achieved it after three decades of spectacular socio-economic growth. During this period despite global economics recessions and financial crunches, China’s economy stood firm, stable and sustainable.

The above diagram clearly verifies that China has been eclipsing Japan economically and now its GDP stand at US$5.879 trillion which is grater than Japan’s GDP US$5.474 trillion. Many international economists around the globe are forecasting that China will pass the United States as the world’s biggest economy as early as 2030. America’s gross domestic product was about $14 trillion in 2009.

In recent years, China has started to reshape the existing global economic order and system by virtue of its growing dominance of international trade, its huge deposits of foreign exchange reserves and United States government debt and its voracious appetite for oil, coal, iron ore and other natural resources.

The above given diagram indicates China’s leading trade partnership with many countries around the globe. China is already a major driver of global growth. China the new economic superpower has begun to assert greater influence in Asia, Africa and Latin America by promoting bilateral trade, investments and joint ventures of multibillion dollars.

Beijing has also determination to shape global dialogues on a range of issues and it asserts that the dollar must be phased out as the world’s primary reserve currency. And while the United States and the European Union are struggling to grow in the wake of the worst economic crisis in decades, China has continued to climb up the economic league tables by investing heavily in infrastructure and backing a $586 billion stimulus plan in 2009-2010. According to the latest data of the World Bank (January, 2011), China’s economy is forecast to expand about 10 percent in 2011 continuing a remarkable three-decade streak of double-digit growth.

According to the Washington-based institute for international economics in terms of purchasing power, China overtook the U.S. as the world’s largest economy in 2010. It further elaborated that in purchasing power parity (PPP) terms the size of China’s economy was U.S. $14.8 trillion in 2010, compared to the U.S. economy’s $14.6 trillion. It is now the world’s biggest auto market and the largest energy consumer.

New Chinese model of economic growth

During the recent time of global economic and financial crises the government of China introduced new economic growth model due to which it has succeeded to mitigate the bad effects of ongoing global economic recession on its macro-economy.

(a) Role of the state, concentrates much more on increasing domestic demand for the products of the expanding industrial base.
(b) Relies on building trading ties with the countries in its immediate neighborhood.
(c) Paradigm shift in structure of the economy.
(d) Mega projects of urbanization in order to discourage migration process
(e) Exports-oriented policies and mechanism
(f) Equitable exchange rate management
(g) High levels of domestic savings invested in United States Treasuries.
(h) Active participation of private sector
(i) Renewal of agricultural sector especially in western provinces such as Xinjiang and Gansu.

Vast opportunities for Pakistan

Pakistan and China have jointly declared 2011 as “Pak-China friendship year” in recognition of 60 years of exemplary, all-weather friendship that has stood the test of time. Being the second largest economy of the world offers vast opportunities for the government and private sector in the country in the fields of energy, construction, agriculture and science and technology etc. China has already become the second leading economic partner of Pakistan and its entrepreneurs are making huge investments in the country. The Chashma power plants, heavy mechanical and electrical complexes and Gwadar deep sea port are the prime examples of Chinese huge investments in Pakistan.

During the recent visit of Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao both countries signed 17 agreements, four MoUs and one joint venture worth $15 billion for investment in various sectors of the economy. Moreover, both the countries agreed to initiate a new 5 year development plan.

The public-private sector of Pakistan is keen to extend ties with Chinese firms in the field of energy in order to overcome its severe energy shortage. Many Chinese companies such as Harbin Power Engineering Company Ltd., Dongfang Electric Corp., CWE, Sinohydro Corp., Zhongyuan Engineering Group, Gezhouba Group, CMEC, and CMC are working in the energy sector of Pakistan. Chinese private companies are engaged with 40 projects amounting $5 billion of hydropower, thermal power, nuclear power, and electricity transmission and transformation. Chashma Nuclear Power Plant II and the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Station and the Sardhi wind power project are the prime examples of extended Pak-China energy cooperation. Remarkably, a project of $6.5 billion generating 2,300MW of electricity through wind turbines and solar panels was also recently signed.

The bilateral trade between the two countries was $6.8 billion in 2008, which was higher by 30 per cent as compared to the 2007. Bilateral trade volume in the first five months of 2010 increased by 31 percent and Pakistan’s exports to China grew by 72 percent, as compared to the same period 2009. It is expected that trade between Pakistan and China is likely to surge to $18 billion in the next 5 years.

Table-1 ($US million)
Year Exports Imports
2001-01 228.63 575.37
2002-03 244.59 839.00
2003-04 288.259 1,153.514
2004-05 354.092 1,842.270
2005-06 463.967 2,706.159
2006-07 575.903 3,533.794
2007-08 684.739 4691.813
Source: Federal board of statistics and WTO (2009).

Table-II: Major Pakistan’s exports (commodities) to China
($US million)
Commodities 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08
Cotton yarn & woven fabrics 157.358 206.767 213.133 379.219 352.867
Organic chemicals 33.427 8.487 37.718 19.911 24.71
Leather & leather manufacturers 15.08 14.55 28.132 31.639 39.27
Ores, slag, ash 3.641 9.909 25.615 22.092 27.42
Fish and its products 18.659 19.604 22.252 29.767 34.94
Source: Federal board of statistics and WTO (2009).

The above table shows that mix of Pakistani exports to China is confined only to few items which should be increased in the future.

Major Pakistan’s imports (commodities) China

Table-III ($US million)
Commodities 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08
Boiler machinery & appliances 161.208 257.74 483.87 618.937 808.22
Electrical appliances & parts 114.668 171.332 327.49 449.72 587.25
Organic chemicals 62.03 77.838 104.672 128.508 167.81
Petroleum products & oil 6.47 22.96 66.83 97.596 127.428
Misc. products 44.458 74.50 81.773 75.735 98.89
Source: Federal board of statistics and WTO (2009).

Pakistan needs to extend bilateral ties in the fields of agriculture, seafood, basic raw materials, coal and marble. It must set up joint ventures with Chinese private companies with buy-back arrangements due to which our labours can learn Chinese technology, increase productivity as well increase yield per acre, and export backed arrangements with China will help us to further increase its exports to China.

Expected cooperation

Sectors
Defence production, Reko-Diq Copper Mining project in Balochistan, energy generation, technology development, industrial base and software park building and communications infrastructure to promote ICT sector, including e-government, e-commerce and e-enterprise.

According to the central bank of China (January, 2011) rose by $199 billion to $2.85 trillion, the biggest quarterly gain since 1996. Pakistan and China agreed to start currency swap which could be win-win situation for both the countries.

Concluding Remarks

Pakistan and China are strategic friends and now being the second largest economy of the world prospects are very bright to further strengthening of bilateral trade relations between the two countries in the days to come. The government of Pakistan must protect the Chinese interests as well as investments in the country. Joint ventures with China hold the key of success for Pakistan.

UAE NOW ARAB WORLD’S LARGEST CONTRIBUTOR TO IMF

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Feb 112011
 

ABU DHABI // The UAE has become the Arab world’s biggest contributor to the International Monetary Fund after increasing its US$611 million (Dh2.2 billion) stake. Cabinet members agreed yesterday to raise the country’s share in the capital of the Washington-based fund.

Under existing arrangements, it contributes $611.7m in special drawing rights, valued on a basket of four key international currencies.

Each member of the IMF is assigned a quota to contribute to the fund based on its relative size in the world economy. The fund uses contributions to extend finance to poor countries or those beset by financial problems.

It is striving to replenish its capital after having to bail out Greece and other countries hit by the global financial crisis. It agreed to provide €30bn to Greece in May last year.

Quotas are reviewed at least every five years to reflect the changing economic size of members. The latest changes were approved in April 2008, and raised contributions by an overall 11.5 per cent. Leaders of the Group of Twenty major industrialised and emerging market economies decided last year to significantly increase the IMF’s lending capacity. The UAE joined the IMF in September 1972.

UAE FINANCIAL SYSTEM IS SAFE: CENTRAL BANK

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Feb 112011
 

ABU DHABI — The Central Bank of UAE on Monday asked all financial institutions in the country to immediately report any suspicious money transactions or cases they come across to its Anti-money Laundering and Suspicious Cases Unit (AMLSCU).

After inaugurating a workshop for insurance companies and brokers on Monday, ALMSCU executive director Abdulrahim Mohammed Al Awadi said it was the responsibility of all entities to report such transactions and cases to help the country keep its financial system sound.

“The Anti-money Laundering Law (AML) has obligated the reporting requirements in relation to any suspicious transactions to banks, other financial, commercial and economic entities that include insurance companies and brokers,” Awadi said.

About the progress in the implementation of the AML/CFT regulations in the country, he said great achievements have been made with the establishment of AMLSCU at the central bank.

According to him there has an increase of over 131 per cent in the suspicious transaction reporting (STR) from 2008 to last year. “Total statistics show there were 1,170 STRs in 2008; 1,750 in 2009 and 2,711 last year. That shows the effectiveness of our aims and implementation of the regime.”

Al Awadi said it was the responsibility of all in partnership with the regulators in ensuring the UAE financial system to stay clean and protected from being abused by criminals, money launderers, and terrorist financing. “The suspicious transactions reports submitted by all the reporting entities are therefore of utmost importance in our endeavours to combat money laundering and financing terrorism),” he said.

He said the country’s financial system was safe, sound and secure, and all entities are required to actively participate in the regulators’ efforts to maintain the high standards in complying with the various laws, regulations and procedures to further strengthen the integrity of the system. “The Federal and Local Governments, Central Bank and the National Anti-Money Laundering Committee (NAMLC) over the years have codified and implemented various laws, regulations and procedures in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing,” he said.

He said NAMLC has effectively carried out its mandate to propose Anti-money laundering and combating financing of terrorism regulations and procedures, facilitating exchange of information and coordination among various authorities and financial institutions represented in the committee as well as representing the UAE in regional and international forums.

UAE nominal GDP up 1.5% to reach Dh928b

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Feb 112011
 

DUBAI – The nominal gross domestic product, or GDP, of the UAE is estimated to have reached Dh928 billion, up 1.5 per cent in 2010, while the real GDP grew 0.6 per cent to Dh517.6 billion in the same year, Global Research reveals in its latest Economic Review.

Refuelling the economic growth in 2010 was the hydrocarbon sector, accounting for 34 per cent of the GDP, up from 29 per cent in the previous year, the review shows. The difference between the nominal GDP, which is based on current prices, and real GDP is due to the inflation rate in market.

The UAE posted a trade balance of Dh173.3 billion in 2010, up from Dh154.7 in 2009. Total exports dropped to Dh669.5 billion from Dh705 billion while imports declined to Dh496.2 billion from Dh551.1 billion in 2009, the Global review shows.

UAE’s current account surplus surged to Dh75.2 billion from Dh22.8 billion, and now accounts for 8.1 per cent of the GDP, according to the review.

Global said all countries of the GCC are expecting to post growth in terms of real GDP for 2010. “The average growth of the region is expected to be 4.5 per cent reaching $567 billion, with Qatar leading the way at 16 per cent. Based on IMF projections, the region is predicted to post even stronger growth in 2011. The real GDP growth for the GCC in 2011 is projected to reach 5.9 per cent, with Qatar leading the way yet again at 20 per cent.”

The average barrel price of oil, which was $79.5 in 2010, is projected to rise to $87 in 2011, the review said. “Since the GCC is a predominately oil-driven region, we expect hydrocarbon revenues to witness strong growth during 2011 due to increasing oil prices,” it said.

The Middle East North Africa, or Mena, region, a major contributor to the world’s economy accounting for more than 30 per cent of the global oil supply.

The GDP of the region, in nominal terms grew by 12 per cent during 2010 to reach $2 trillion, while the population of the region grew by 2.3 per cent to reach 346 million, Global review said.

UAE’S NON-OIL TRADE RISES TO DHS605.4B

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Feb 112011
 

ABU DHABI: The UAE non-oil foreign trade maintained a sturdy growth of 11.5 per cent Y-o-Y till last October, Federal Customs Authority (FCA) said in its report. FCA preliminary statistical data confirmed that the value of UAE non-oil foreign trade in the first ten months of 2010 jumped Dhs62 billion to Dhs605.4 billion from Dhs543.2 billion in the year 2009.

UAE non-oil foreign trade mirrors the sound economic polices pursued by the UAE wise leadership since the onset of the global financial crisis in 2008.

The sturdy uptick in trade volume suggests economic rebound and viability indicating more positive outlooks and results in the near future. The Authority also stated that the most notable readings from these statistical data are the record surge in exports and re-exports compared to imports.

“Preliminary statistical data for October 2010 reflected a 5.5 per cent rise in imports during the first ten months of 2010 to record Dhs391.8 billion in October 2010 as compared to Dhs371.5 billion in October 2009 . Exports jumped 37.4 per cent from Dhs51.1 billion in the 10-month period to Dhs70.3 billion.

Similarly, re-exports maintained a Y-o-Y growth rate of 19 per cent to Dhs143.3 billion from Dhs120.5 billion,” FCA added.

Total volume

The Total volume of UAE non-oil trade grew 14 per cent in October 2010 as compared to October 2009, as it jumped to Dhs70 billion in October 2010 from Dhs56.8 billion in October 2009. The preliminary data reflected a 27 per cent increase to Dhs8.5 billion in non-oil trade exports for the same month, rising from Dhs6.7 billion in year-earlier period. Re-exports amounted to Dhs15.3 billion in October 2010, jumping 22 per cent Y-o-Y from Dhs12.6 billion. Imports rose 10 per cent from Dhs37.5 billion in October 2009 to Dhs41.1 billion.

In terms of weight, the UAE non-oil foreign trade volume in October 2010 reached about 6.4 million tonnes, including 3.9 million tonnes of imports, 1.7 million tonnes of exports and 778 thousand tonnes of re-exports.

Thus, the average weight of imported, exported and re-exported shipments and consignments dealt with by the different customs ports for the same month amounted to about 27 thousand ton per day on the basis of official working hours (8 hours for 5 days a week), at an average of 3 thousand tons per hour.

According to FCA India, China, US, Japan, Germany, UK, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and France were the top ten exporters to the UAE in October 2010 with a total value of Dhs24.5 billion, or 59 per cent of the UAE imports. On the level of non-oil exports, India, Switzerland, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Pakistan, Kuwait, China and Oman spearheaded importers from the UAE with Dhs6.9 billion, accounting for 81 per cent of the UAE exports.

Meanwhile, India, Iran, Bahrain, Afghanistan, Iraq, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UK and Kuwait topped the list in terms of re-exports with Dhs10.9 billion, representing 71 per cent of the UAE re-exports.

UAE-GCC trade

The total value of UAE-GCC non-oil foreign trade hit Dhs5.2 billion in October 2010, with Dhs2.1 billion imports, Dhs906 million exports and Dhs2.2 billion re-exports. Saudi Arabia maintained its first rank among GCC region’s trading partners with a total value of Dhs1.7 billion. Bahrain came second with Dhs1.4 billion, followed by Qatar (Dhs774 million), Kuwait (Dhs709 million) and Oman (Dhs670 million).

IDEX 2011 to feature 151 exhibitors from the UAE

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Feb 112011
 

The UAE will highlight its defence capabilities to the world with 151 companies from across the Emirates taking up indoor and outdoor exhibition space at the 10th International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2011), marking a 48 percent increase in the number of UAE participants compared to 102 UAE companies at IDEX’s last edition in 2009.

IDEX 2011

IDEX 2011 will be hosted from February 20th to 24th 2011 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. In total, more than 950 exhibitors are participating at the show representing more than 50 countries. More than 50,000 visitors are expected to attend including around 150 official delegations from around the world.

Main Organizer

IDEX 2011 is organised by ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ.

Details of UAE active participation

At 10,299sqm, the UAE pavilion will be the largest national pavilion at IDEX 2011, and will host many of the 151 UAE exhibitors including: Tawazun Holding, Mubadala Development Company, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, Etisalat, Griffon Aerospace, Thales Advanced Solutions LLC and Advanced Integrated Systems.

Other Countries engagements

Besides the UAE, other large national pavilions at IDEX include Germany (3,518sqm, 55 companies), USA (3,295sqm, 65 companies), Turkey (2,600sqm, 45 companies), Italy (1,516sqm27 companies), France (1,427sqm, 61 companies) and China (1,058sqm, 18 companies).

Importance of IDEX

“Each year the UAE’s contribution to IDEX grows and the evolving nature of our country’s defence and security industry becomes more apparent at every new edition. Whilst we are known for making significant investments both at home and abroad, each year increasing interest falls on what the UAE has to offer the industry in terms of technology and services, and this year it seems will be no exception,” according to a statement from the IDEX 2011 organisers.

Tawazun’s contribution

“Core investment companies such as our headline sponsors Tawazun, have really shaped the evolution of the UAE’s defence industry over the past few years, and have brought a greater onus on what we as a nation can offer-up for the growing defence and security demands of this region.” Tawazun, the show’s headline sponsor, has also contracted a significant amount of space – 1,547sqm indoors and 146sqm outdoors, housing 10 related subsidiaries including, Caracal International LLC, Burkan Munition systems LLC, Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments LLC, Tawazun Precision Industries and Caracal Light Ammunition.

Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, Chief Executive Officer of Tawazun

“Tawazun is proud to sponsor IDEX and NAVDEX. These events provide a unique opportunity for Tawazun companies to showcase their capabilities to key government and military decision makers from the Middle East, North Africa and Asia, and leading defence companies from around the world,” said Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, Chief Executive Officer of Tawazun.

Mubadala Stand

Mubadala will host the largest UAE stand, in a massive 1,870 sqm space, which will be home to subsidiary companies including: Al Taif, AMMROC, Bayanat, Horizon, Injazat, Waha Capital, and YahSat. Abu Dhabi Ship Building, also a Mubadala subsidiary, will be a leading participant at the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX), being held in parallel with IDEX 2011.

High Repute of IDEX

“IDEX has established a reputation for attracting a global audience of industry leaders and dignitaries. The UAE’s defence industry has become an important economic driver, drawing high-end skills and incubating knowledge that is vital to continued innovation and growth across a range of UAE industry sectors,” a spokesperson from Mubadala said. “Mubadala is delighted to be participating at IDEX along with eight of its subsidiary companies that support the UAE Armed Forces and regional militaries. In line with global military trends, these companies are focused on enabling the military to concentrate on its core operations by helping provide sophisticated outsourced support services,” he added In addition to long-standing UAE exhibitors at IDEX, 54 UAE companies are making their IDEX debut in the exclusive First-Time Exhibitor Zone. This reiterates the UAE’s evolution from buyer to supplier, and the country’s ongoing commitment to developing defence manufacturing and supply capabilities.

Ideal Platform

Celebration its 10th edition in 2011, IDEX is considered to be the ideal platform within the region for the defence industry to showcase emerging technology, equipment, trends and strategy. This year, with the inaugural NAVDEX running in parallel, the combined events will feature a comprehensive array of land, sea and air defence systems and equipment. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

UAE ammunition firm eyes GCC market

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Feb 092011
 

By Mehmood-Ul-Hassan Khan

Burkan Munitions Systems (BMS) L.L.C. the first national company specialising in manufacturing medium and heavy ammunition in Abu Dhabi, is on the move to supply the UAE’s armed forces with multiple use ammunitions, maintenance and recycling obsolete munitions, and supply orders according to the agreed contracts.

The BMS factory will not just produce ammunitions for the UAE’s armed forces but will also employ and train UAE nationals on research and development and other areas related to the production, maintenance and recycling of the same.

“The factory is reaching a stage to witness the opening of new production lines that meets the growing market demand, and looks forward to expand exports to the GCC countries,” Saeed bin Khadim Al Mansouri, General Manager and CEO of Burkan, Said .
“Our success is achieved by the support and guidance of General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, to create a national industrial base serving the
needs of our armed forces,” he added.

Al Mansouri said that they will be opening a special building capable of dismantling and recycling used munitions within BMS by July 2011, pointing out that the building is composed of environment-friendly materials, and dismantling munitions in a modern way to preserve the natural environment.
The plant also includes a dedicated area for the environmentally safe disposal of explosives and ammunition, using the latest technology of ‘explosives thermal disposal’, which makes BMS the best compared to other companies in this area.
In response to a question about product quality and their conformity with international standards, Al Mansouri said, “Burkan production meets best standards applied globally and specifically meets the NATO union products, which are similar the western products, the United States of America and 
Turkey.”
He added that the factory has passed all testing phases and now in the process of production, under the sophisticated multi-use licenses from European companies in Germany, Italy, Austria and Turkey in addition to South Africa.

He noted that BMS is seeking the International Quality Certificate (ISO) in 2011, after the completion of certain procedures within the company. And plans for future growth by acquiring and applying the latest international practices in this area, while working with our technical German partner ‘Rheinmetall AG Munitions’ to import the best equipments used in manufacturing our munitions.

Al-Mansoori said that the BMS is a joint project between Tawazun Holding Corporation and Al Jaber Trading and ‘Rheinmetall AG Munitions’, in additional costs up to Dh268 million.

He said the training opportunities for UAE nationals will be in the areas of advanced technology research and development, chemical and mechanical engineering, quality and marketing, in addition to areas of administration, finance and also contribute in supporting the country’s economy through the export of technology and products to foreign markets.

THE INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE (IDEX), UAE

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  1 Response »
Feb 082011
 

By Mehmood-Ul-Hassan Khan

United Arab Emirates has been put on the armaments industry map by the successful holding of successive IDEX

Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Local, regional and international defence manufactures will showcase a comprehensive selection of tri-service defence and security systems, services, technology and equipment.

Achievements of IDEX

IDEX has emerged as the most interactive exhibiting and networking platform in the Middle East, Africa and Asia regions with an international focus on developments within the dynamic defence industry of today. This year IDEX is set to host an even bigger display of technology, combined with a significantly greater participation from the regional and international industry.

IDEX now counted amongst the most established and prestigious international defence shows/exhibitions provides an excellent opportunity for the manufactures and far and wide to share expertise and technological achievements and enhance their global presence.

Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE

IDEX is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, from 20th-24th February 2011. It is organised by ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ. Since defence budgets of the regional countries in the Middle East and Africa are constantly on the rise, and according to recent research by Frost ‘&’ Sullivan, the GCC and Jordan defence budget is expected to hit USUS$68Bn (Dh249 billion) in 2011, growing to around US$80 billion by 2015. Overall defence spending in the Middle East is also expected to cross US$100Bn by 2015. So, 10th IDEX would be huge success and bring good desired goals.

Full Support of the UAE Armed Forces

Right from the beginning, the Armed Forces of the UAE support the concept and holding of the IDEX in the country. The Armed Forces have helped it to establish its position in the international calendar. IDEX has now emerged as a icon of defence business in the Middle East for the regional and as well as international manufacturers.

High Expectations

With having expanded ADNEC venue and the new naval facilities on site, it is hoped that the IDEX 2011 will represent an important chapter in the developing story of this key international event where the latest in tri-service defence technology and innovative solutions will, again, be unveiled.

It is predicted that strong economic growth, continuing regional security concerns and the desire to develop indigenous capabilities through the use of offset programmes are driving the demand and strong growth projections for the region in the run up to IDEX and NAVDEX 2011.

Main Idea

The nature of the defence arena has evolved through the years. Technology today has become one of the key focuses in Defence and Security. In an ever-changing environment, it is vital to be kept up-to-date on the latest technologies and developments.

In this connection, the IDEX provides a fresh avenue for all participants in the Defence and Security industry to exchange know how and share experiences, in application of current leading-edge technology, planning and operations, procurement and logistics in the field of Defence and National Security.

People relating to R&D, Policy and Acquisition, procurement executives, capability manager, attache, scientists, engineers, designers, Defense specialists, Defence Researchers and the last but not the least, Defence Companies participate in IDEX and take advantage from it.

(a) Preparation for the domestic defence production industry to compete and match with regional or any international companies.
(b) It may also give a fillip to UAE local defence industry
(c) The country’s defence exports may be increased in the GCC because a larger number of the UAE local defence manufactures i.e. Burkan Munitions Systems and others will be actively participating and has the capacity to capture the GCC markets in the near future.
(d) Facilitations with regard of fairly economical cost as compare to individual company trips in the exhibitions
(e) It facilitates manufacturers and suppliers of defence and security technology in securing contacts and contracts within the Middle East and surrounding regions.
(f) Concept and chances of transfer of technology may be easily accorded.
(g) The decision makers can easily select the state-of-the-art weaponry systems in the IDEX.
(h) It will promote the UAE and its institutions and will allow foreigners the opportunity to learn more about the country’s achievements, cultural aspects and Arabic and Islamic traditions.
(i) UAE has founded such exhibitions by building state-of-the-art infrastructure, providing government facilities and competent nationals, experienced in organising and hosting international exhibitions.
(j) Seeking of foreign investments
(k) Greater scope for joint ventures
(l) Strengthening of country’s defence capabilities
(m) Get first hand knowledge about the latest machineries, equipments and arms production in the region and around the globe
(n) Get facilitation for the instructors and researchers etc.

Importance

The UAE has achieved a global reputation for staging and organising security and defence exhibitions; this reputation is due to its success in hosting IDEX and the Dubai Air show.
The exhibition has a long history of growth and has served as a major influence in the armaments decisions of nations located in the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Attention from the world’s defence and homeland security industry will be on Abu Dhabi as it stages the monumental 10th anniversary edition of IDEX. Many domestic, regional and international defence manufactures will showcase the latest products and technology indoor exhibition halls.

Exhibitors will demonstrate a comprehensive range of highly technical manoeuvres and operational abilities for the latest land vehicles, UAV’s, UGV’s and sea craft. From small arms to long range artillery, various types of ground transportation, tanks and armoured personnel carriers, light aircraft to state-of-the-art fighter aircraft, fast patrol boats to submarines, computers to radars, etc most items have to be showcased in the upcoming IDEX.

UAE feels proud about the IDEX exhibition’s success and the growing participation of major companies from industrialized countries. IDEX enjoys a fine reputation among military equipment and armament manufacturers. Hence, they showcase the latest military technology in UAE markets. This is, of course, due to the great confidence these companies have in UAE markets and institutions.

IDEX is not an end in itself but a means to promote soft image of the UAE. It represents an opportunity for foreigners to visit UAE and learn about its achievements, cultural acquisitions, Arab traditions and noble Islamic values. It is also an opportunity for UAE citizens to interact with other cultures.

Historic Perspectives

Since its inception in 1993, IDEX has grown tremendously to become a globally recognised tri-service defence exhibition and the largest event in the Middle East and Africa. The International Defense Exhibition & Conference, or IDEX, is a biennial arms and defense technology sales exhibition. According to many prestigious regional and international defence journals IDEX is the largest arms exhibition in the Middle East. The business conducted at the 2005 IDEX totaled 2 billion US dollars.

Year on year IDEX continues to attract a growing attention of international decision-makers and key military and government representatives. The strong representation of individuals from the GCC and MENA countries make IDEX a primary mechanism to reach these influential audiences.

Originally launched on February 14th, 1993, with the active participation of more than 350 companies, representing 34 countries, one of the key features of IDEX’ success has been the active participation of a wide range of military delegations.

The second in the series, in March 1995, saw the participation of more than 600 companies from 55 countries, with more than 45,000 visitors during the five-day show.

The third IDEX, in 1997, was honoured by the visit of H.H. President Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan – the late President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces – who toured the entire exhibition.

IDEX 1999 saw further growth, with 848 companies from 41 countries receiving 70 military delegations.

The fifth IDEX, in 2001, built on this success, attracting 865 companies from 43 countries and numerous delegations led by Heads of State, Ministers of Defence, Chiefs of Staff and Heads of Military Procurement which underlined its unique position in the region and further enhanced the status of the UAE as the host nation.

IDEX 2003, the sixth event, maintained the show’s reputation as an important platform for the announcement of military contracts and as a reflection of the strategic importance of the region.

In 2005 IDEX continued the successful series with the seventh edition. The event continued to see growth across the show with substantial visitor numbers, exhibitors and delegations participating at the event.

Consolidation in the defence industry was mirrored in exhibitor attendance at IDEX 2007 but the list of international delegates continued to grow and contracts worth more than $545m (Dhs2bn) were announced, including $380m (Dhs1.4bn) signed by the UAE Armed Forces.

IDEX 2009 was the 9th edition of the event, took place on the 22-26 February 2009 in Abu Dhabi, UAE at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

Combining the Gulf Defence Conference and an extensive exhibition featuring over 900 local and international companies, IDEX had become renowned for assembling the broadest range of suppliers, delegations, industry analysts and military strategists and had gained an enviable reputation as one of the world’s foremost venues for defence business.

Chairman’s Welcome Message

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan Chairman Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company

It is an honour for Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ, to organise the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX), to be held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

IDEX 2011 celebrates the 10th edition of this prestigious event which has grown since it’s inception in 1993 to become one of the world’s largest and most important tri-service exhibition for the global defence industry.

The guidance of our leaders including HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces have been instrumental in the evolution of IDEX, into the outstanding event that it is today.

Over the recent years significant investment in resources and facilities at our host venue, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), have enabled IDEX to sustain its reputation as the largest defence exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa region.

We are proud to continue our commitment to the 10th anniversary edition with the opening of additional venue facilities and two on-site hotels for IDEX 2011.

Regional and international participation

Over 200 companies from Arab Nations confirmed to exhibit at 10th International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX), the evolving nature of the region’s defence industry which is moving from buyer to supplier, is being highlighted.

Representing Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, some of the companies exhibiting at this year’s show include Griffon Aerospace, TLD Group, NP Aerospace and Hawker Pacific, offering aerospace vehicle manufacture, ground support, personal protection and aviation sales In Aerospace, Jordan Light Vehicle Manufacturing exhibiting its range of light combat and transport vehicles, says a press release issued yesterday.

Headline sponsors of IDEX, Tawazun Holding

Headline sponsors of IDEX, Tawazun Holding, a government-owned company designed to diversify the national economy into a wide range of industrial and commercial ventures, and its related subsidiaries such as Caracal International, and Tawazun Advanced Defence Systems in Land Defence and Abu Dhabi Ship Building a world-class ship builder, specialising in the construction, repair, refit, and upgrade of naval, military and commercial vessels, Abu Dhabi Mar specialising in the building and refitting of yachts, Stellar Composites specialising in consumer and defence vessels, and Ocean Power International, suppliers of Thordon Bearings in Naval Defence.

Statement of the Mohamed Al Mashgouni, IDEX 2011 Show Director

Mohamed Al Mashgouni, IDEX 2011 Show Director, said “We are seeing an emerging role for Arab nations in the defence sector; while this region is still investing heavily on importing technologies, the manufacturing and supply capabilities in the region, have also ramped up in the last few years. In line with this, nearly 10 percent of our exhibitors at this edition are from the region – providing a strong backdrop for this year’s show. Exhibitors from the Arab world, will therefore definitely, be among the ones to watch this year”.

Concluding Remarks

The International Defence Exhibition and Conference would now further pave the way towards mutual understanding and cooperation between the nations jointly involved in serving the global cause of peace where United Arab Emirates keeps playing its dominant role in the GCC and Middle East.

Arab Nations prepare for front line at IDEX and NAVDEX 2011

 News & Articles  No Responses »
Feb 032011
 

Over 200 companies from Arab Nations confirmed to exhibit at this year’s International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX), the evolving nature of the region’s defence industry which is moving from buyer to supplier, is being highlighted.

Representing Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, some of the companies exhibiting at this year’s show include Griffon Aerospace, TLD Group, NP Aerospace and Hawker Pacific, offering aerospace vehicle manufacture, ground support, personal protection and aviation sales In Aerospace, Jordan Light Vehicle Manufacturing exhibiting its range of light combat and transport vehicles, says a press release issued yesterday.

Headline sponsors of IDEX, Tawazun Holding, a government-owned company designed to diversify the national economy into a wide range of industrial and commercial ventures, and its related subsidiaries such as Caracal International, and Tawazun Advanced Defence Systems in Land Defence and Abu Dhabi Ship Building a world-class ship builder, specialising in the construction, repair, refit, and upgrade of naval, military and commercial vessels, Abu Dhabi Mar specialising in the building and refitting of yachts, Stellar Composites specialising in consumer and defence vessels, and Ocean Power International, suppliers of Thordon Bearings in Naval Defence.

Commenting on the regional presence at this year’s show, Mohamed Al Mashgouni, IDEX 2011 Show Director, said “We are seeing an emerging role for Arab nations in the defence sector; while this region is still investing heavily on importing technologies, the manufacturing and supply capabilities in the region, have also ramped up in the last few years. In line with this, nearly 10 percent of our exhibitors at this edition are from the region – providing a strong backdrop for this year’s show. Exhibitors from the Arab world, will therefore definitely, be among the ones to watch this year”.

IDEX is being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, from 20th – 24th February 2011. It is organised by ADNEC (Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company) in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ. Although supply capabilities have increased, demand for products by Arab Nations from domestic and international suppliers, is still predicted to be one of the highest globally. According to recent research by Frost ‘&’ Sullivan, the GCC and Jordan defence budget is expected to hit USUS$68Bn (Dh249 billion) in 2011, growing to around US$80 billion by 2015. Overall defence spending in the Middle East is also expected to cross US$100Bn by 2015.

Strong economic growth, continuing regional security concerns and the desire to develop indigenous capabilities through the use of offset programmes are driving the demand and strong growth projections for the region in the run up to IDEX and NAVDEX 2011. – Emirates News Agency, WAM

United Arab Emirates Macro-Economy 2010: A Review

 News & Articles  No Responses »
Jan 262011
 

Mehmood-Ul-Hassan Khan

Most recently the central bank of the UAE published a report (January 2011) in which it said that the country’s GDP has crossed Dh1 trillion mark in 2010 due to rigorous diversification of macro-economy, rapid industrialization, small and medium enterprises contributory role, infrastructure, trade, service sector and tourism. In the ongoing global economic and financial crisis the United Arab Emirates economy was one of the few countries to achieve steady and sustainable economic growth. Confidence of the local businessmen and foreign investors along with the persistent policies of the government played very important role in the socio-economic achievements of the UAE in 2010. Now, its marco-economy has noticeable diversification, vibrancy and self-reliance and propsects are very bright even for the 2011.

Economic Development

Right from the beginning, the visionary leadership initiated many mega projects and introduced effective policies for the betterment of its people. The UAE Government Strategy 2011-2013 and the UAE Vision 2021 are the two master pieces policies of macro-economic development which is not confined only to social, cultural, health, schooling, infrastructure, communications, and rural development. Both these major policies will deal the enhancement of collaboration between federal and local authorities, delivering high quality services, consumers and customer satisfaction, good governance and human resource management.

The world economic crisis 2008 affected the Gulf economies and the UAE is not any exemption but timely paradigm shift and institutionalization of important policy adjustments of the country succeeded to lessen its multiplier economic ramifications.

Foreign Direct Investments

According to UN statistics (December, 2010) UAE has become ideal and attracted more than $73 billion as foreign direct investment (FDI) since it was created nearly four decades ago to emerge as the second top capital recipient in the region. Cumulative FDI flow into the UAE totaled around $73.4 billion. Investment, business and the last but not the least people’s friendly policies are contributing positively to seek greater inflows of the FDIs in the country.

Innovation-Driven Economy

According to the latest Global Competitiveness Report (2010) by the World Economic Forum, UAE has been included in the most advanced stage of “innovation-driven economies” in the world for the second consecutive year for its technological readiness along with others pillars of WEF. Moreover, UAE ranked “third” in “government provision of high technology products”. Again, according the latest report of the WEF (2010) UAE ranked “third” in the world for quality of infrastructure. UAE has biggest Airports, biggest Cargo Terminal, Tallest Buildings, and other wonders of the modern age. Moreover, the UAE has been ranked among the top 10 countries in more than 18 indicators of competitiveness globally, and has reached an advanced position among the 139 countries assessed by the report.

(a) Prosperous Country

According to the London-based Legatum Institute (September, 2010), the UAE is the top-ranking Middle Eastern country on the Prosperity Index by taking into account both economic growth and citizens’ quality of life.

(b) Second Largest Economy in the Region

According to Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy, despite the UAE’s small size and population it has the second largest Arab economy in the region where the gross national product reached Dh914.4 billion in 2009 and is confidently expected to cross the one trillion dirham mark by the end of 2010.

(c) Diversification of Economy

The key macro-economic indicators of the UAE provide clear evidence of the success of its government’s policy of economic diversification. In 1971, 70 percent of GDP came from the oil and gas sector. Accorirdng to the Federal Customs Authority (FCA) the UAE non-oil foreign trade maintained a sturdy growth of 11.5 per cent Y-o-Y till last October. The statistical data confirmed that the value of UAE non-oil foreign trade in the first ten months of 2010 jumped Dhs62 billion to Dhs605.4 billion from Dhs543.2 billion in the year 2009.
The Ministry of Foreign Trade (September, 2010) revealed that the UAE has been the top global re-exporter of rice over the past 5 years (2005 – 2009). Moreover, The data also indicated that the industrial sector increased by about seven per cent to Dh127.6 billion in 2010 from Dh119.2 billion in 2009, raising its contribution to GDP to around 12.8 per cent last year, the second largest component after oil.

(d) Effective Monetary and Fiscal Policies

Thanks to the policies taken by the government such as guaranteeing bank deposits and pumping of Dh120 billion in the domestic banking industry in order to support the banking sector, the United Arab Emirates’ national economy has proven its strength and competence in dealing with the repercussions of the economic crisis. Furthermore, the UAE ranked 20 at the WEF (2010), for the countries which have achieved the best financial development in 2009.

Sultan bin Nasser Al Suwaidi, the governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, that its country’s banking industry is strong and stable. According the latest report of the central bank of the UAE (2010), the overall performance of its banking sector is positive, stable and sustainable. Standard & Poor’s believes that the UAE authorities have a strong incentive, as well as willingness and capacity, to preserve the stability of their banking sector. The Central Bank of the UAE said that the country banks’ assets continued to rise and have reached to Dh1.6 trillion at the end of November 2010. Its banking assets increased 7.5 per. The growth in total bank assets means that there is liquidity in the market and no fear of credit crunch.

Steady Progress in Millennium Development Goals (2015)

The leaders of the UAE have already initiated diversified but integrated policy measures to achieve its MDG (2015). All the positive indicators in education, health, housing and social welfare indicate that the UAE is rightly placed on the right path to achieve all the MGDS before 2015. They have already introduced effective and people friendly policies to increase employment opportunities. They have adopted holistic strategies to provide every possible basic necessities of life to its people. They have relaxed its immigration policies for the benefits of many developing countries around the world.

Selected MGDs

MGDs indicators UAE Achievements

Universal Primary Education: The net enrolment rates for grades 1-5 is 98 % in 2005, which suggests 100% target ratio is achievable by 2015. The literate rate of 15-24 years is 98.55% in 2004. The number of government schools has increased from 1,256 in the 2007-2008 to 1,350 in the 2008-2009 with the number of students increasing from over 600,000 to more than 700,000. The number of accredited universities and institutes, both government and private, having reached 64.

Reduce Child Mortality: In 2006, there were 33 government hospitals in the country. In 2009, the number had increased to 40. There are 115 primary health care centres, 67 health centres and 11 primary school health centres in the UAE. It is ranked No. 1 in the Gulf region by providing all possible health care facilities, medication to its people

Ensure Environmental Sustainability: It has already initiated effective policy measures to protect the environmental sustainability.

Concluding Remarks

Keeping in view all the important indicators of the macro-economy of the UAE it seems that it is strong, stable and sustainable. Its society is articulated and educated and enjoys with all the possible facilities of education, health, housing and law and order. Its culture is dynamic with full of life which combines traditions with modernity. It has become hub of foreign direct investments, trade, service sector and tourism. It is hoped that successful implementation of Government Strategy 2011-2013 and the UAE Vision 2021 would bring all the desired results in the days to come.

WORLD FUTURE ENERGY SUMMIT, 2011

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  No Responses »
Jan 222011
 

Mehmood-Ul-Hassan Khan

More than 25,000 delegates actively participated in the World Future Energy Summit, 2011 and rigorously discussed renewable and future energy solutions, innovations, investments, policy and vision. The WFES also covered a wide range of policy initiatives, future plans not confined only to energy policy, investment and funding, green buildings, clean transport, solar, wind and bio-fuels.

The opening ceremony witnessed a strong international presence as global leaders from both developed and developing nations expressed their commitment towards developing clean, renewable energy for future generations. During the WFES, 2011 the industry professionals, government leaders, academicians and environmental enthusiasts discussed the progress made in using bio-fuels, hydro-power, wind energy, solar power, electricity and other alternatives as of future energy sources.

Inauguration Ceremony

The four-day summit was inaugurated by General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon. The summit was attended by a number of world leaders.

Main Organizers and Theme

It was organised under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s symbol of development and deployment of renewable energy and clean technologies. The fourth edition of WFES themed “Enabling future energy solutions finding practical answers to the energy security global challenge’, at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

Main Important Personalities

Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary General, United Nations, His Excellency Olafur Ragnar Grimsson, President, Iceland; His Excellency Asif Ali Zardari, President, Pakistan ; His Excellency Jose Socrates Carvalho Pinto de Sousa, Prime Minister of Portugal; Her Excellency Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister, Bangladesh; His Excellency Nikoloz Gilauri, Prime Minister, Georgia; Her Royal Highness Crown Princess Victoria, Princess of Sweden, His Royal Highness Guillaume, Crown Prince of Luxembourg, and other royals and Heads of State were present on the occasion. Government and industry leaders, CEOs, high-ranking private and public sector officials also attended the opening ceremony.

General Shaikh Mohammed’s Thoughtful Statement

General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces said that visionary leadership of the UAE and guidance of the President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE is the driving force behind all the mega projects of sustainable development which is instrumental to bring comfort and ease in the lives of common people and economic stability for the generations to come. The WFES reflects our commitment and strong political will to provide a global platform for meaningful dialogue around renewable energy and clean energy innovation he added.

Gen. Shaikh Mohammed spoke proudly about the good work of the UAE in tackling challenges relating to renewable energy resources and climate change with the international community. He pinpointed the merging threats to mankind of earth not confined only to high levels of climate change, finding scalable sources of clean energy, and providing fresh water supply. He suggested the meaningful means to tackle these challenges which are given below as:

(a) Collective support of the international community to cope with the climate change
(b) Appropriate and result-oriented solutions and common ground to work together
(c) Rigorous collaboration, consultations and discussions to find an effective international response, both at the policy and legislation level
(d) Fostering innovation and clean tech solutions.

Ban Ki-moon’s Deliberations

Secretary General Ban Ki-moon stressed the need to have a “global clean energy revolution” due to its phenomenal rise around the globe. He predicted that in the next 20 years, global energy demand would be increased by 20 per cent mostly in developing countries where 1.6 billion still lack access to electricity and 3 billion rely on traditional biomass fuels for cooking, heating and other basic household needs. So, to make renewable energy available and affordable for all is the need of the hour he added.

He mentioned the different potential benefits of using renewable energy resources including minimising climate risk, reducing poverty, ensuring global economic growth, peace and the last but not the least human survival on this planet. He talked about the good progress on climate change last month in Cancun, Mexico, including developing a mechanism to share green technologies in which they had also agreed on a financially backed action plan to reduce annual deforestation, which leads to one-fifth of all carbon emissions. Moreover, he shared that these targets will require annual outlays of $35 billion i.e. Dh128 billion for 20 years.

Abu Dhabi: Important Platform and hub for renewable energy investments and resources

In the World Future Energy Summit 2011, General Shaikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, welcomed Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations, at Masdar stand at the parallel exhibition and expressed the different mega projects of renewable energy in the United Arab Emirates. He praised the UN agencies’ role in spreading knowledge and awareness about uses and technologies of renewable and clean energy around the globe.

Shaikh Mohammed acknowledged that the active participation of the UN Secretary General in the 4th World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi gathers the attention and support lent by the largest international organisation to such world gatherings that have positive impact on the humanity at large. He expressed that “what we are seeing today in Masdar City is an extension of the far-sighted vision of the founding father, the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the wise policy of The President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. It was derived from our indigenous culture and values and originality of our heritage in preserving the environment and the optimum use of resources,” he further added.

He assured that we should pursue our efforts with the same enthusiasm, determination and perseverance and have the same vision to address future challenges even under the scarcity or depletion of our resources from underground energy riches. He explained that the quality of education to make our generations capable of giving and protecting gains with high sense of responsibility in pursuance of our wise leadership’s aspirations for handling future challenges efficiently may be useful to achieve our national and collective goals of renewable energy.

For his part, the UN chief said he was impressed with what he had seen at Masdar City and UAE’s initiatives on renewable and clean energy. He was of the view that by launching these pioneering projects the UAE is providing a living example and delivering a valuable message to others at the region and beyond.

He further added that Abu Dhabi has become an important platform for international cooperation in renewable energy through its advanced research work/projects being undertaken and implemented at Masdar City.

Energy Experts Suggestions

The energy experts belonging to many continents, CEO of the multinational companies and heads of the international corporations stressed the need to have a specific integrated energy policy addressing all the issues, including reducing carbon fuel subsidies globally to make renewables more competitively priced. They all valued the essential roles of the policy makers and statesman in this regard.

Suggestions

(a) Governments must have developed a well-designed, long term and consistent price support mechanism, which is able to adapt predictably over time to changes in technology and costs
(b) Prevalence of strong political will to bring changes and achieving desired goals of renewable energy resources and reducing levels of emissions.
(c) Urgent need for greater government involvement in moving things forward on renewable energy resources around the globe.
(d) More incentives for the private sectors to make huge investments in the renewable energy resources.

Masdar Initiative

The CEO of Masdar Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO expressed his valuable views on many interrelated subjects in the WFES 2011. He praised the remarkable achievements of Masdar in a very short span of time. He elaborated the objectives of the “Masdar initiative” and termed it a testament of his wise and visionary leadership’s determination to advancing renewable energy technologies, mitigating climate change, diversifying economy, and preparing the nation for a clean energy future. He mentioned that through Masdar, Abu Dhabi provides an open global platform for cooperation and partnerships to all.

He was of the opinion that this summit will encourage an open dialogue and promotes new ideas, innovation and investment, in the renewable energy and clean technology sector. He also stressed the importance of partnerships, collaboration and cooperation as energy is no longer confined to one single country, but the efforts of many together.”

He said that the future will bring nations closer to fighting climate change and getting results.” Energy must come from a mix of sources, which should include clean energy, cost efficient energy and clean fossils,” said Al Jaber. “We must create a competition, not within the mix, but for the energy sources, which will result in energy innovation. In parallel we must focus on energy efficiency and water conservation.”

Concluding Remarks

World Future Energy Summit, 2011 has brought new ideas of renewable energy resources. It has provided a business platform from where a public-private partnership can be initiated for the betterment of the people and environment alike. It has succeeded to highlight the dangers of emerging concerns of high levels of global warming, finding of new ways of energy production and providing of clean drinking water around the globe. United Arab Emirates vision and effective initiatives on renewable energy resources could be pioneering for the rest of the world to follow.

Abu Dhabi’s major environment friendly policy initiatives of renewable energy

 Mehmood Ul Hassan Khan  1 Response »
Jan 222011
 

By Mehmood-Ul-Hassan Khan

United Arab Emirates being a hub of foreign direct investments, tourism, trade and the last but not the least service sector is also taking all possible policy initiatives to lead the region and world in the field of renewable energy resources/technologies.

The deteriorating global warming levels and drastic changes in the climates have forced us to find new sustainable, renewable energy resources to power the planet without further damages to environment equilibrium.

On the part of the United Arab Emirates, it launched the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 to provide the emirate with the strategic environment that achieves sustainable urban planning and economic growth in 2007. It is estimated that UAE population may reach to five million in 2030 so its main focus is to on creating a diversified economy to reduce its dependence on oil and building the necessary foundations and infrastructure that will support a sustainable society. In the ongoing World Future Energy Summit, 2011 (WFES), the experts, researchers, technologists, and common people got mesmerized about knowing and seeing the 17 pioneering projects of the better conserve energy and drive sustainable development in the UAE. It includes the DMA and the three regional municipal administrations: Abu Dhabi Municipality, Al Ain Municipality, and Western Region Municipality projects of the renewable energy which also showed the gradual lessen reliance of the UAE on more traditional forms of energy.

The UAE have initiated many diversified but integrated policies to institutionalize renewable energy resources, through the emirate which are not confined only to the introduction of a set of building codes by the Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA). It is hoped that the new building codes will unify building practices and create better, safer, greener buildings that are more cost-effective and meet safety standards. It has also introduced the International Energy Code, which sets out minimum standards for energy conservation that it is hoped will help the emirate meet all United Nations Green Building targets for extremely hot areas.

The other mentionable project was showcased in the WFES, 2011 include the Mohammad Bin Zayed City Project. It is is setting the standard for building sustainable communities. Introduction of more energy-efficient street lighting using solar energy and LED technology and the use of solar panels for lighting and providing air conditioning in bus shelters are the few prime policy initiatives taken by the UAE government.

Majid Ali Al Mansouri, chairman of the Department of Municipal Affairs said that with the successful implementation of many local sustainability initiatives such as regulating mandatory use of energy efficient LED street-lighting, creating environmental health and safety management frameworks and introducing a unified set of building codes for the construction sector, the emirate of Abu Dhabi is leading by example with practical initiatives to reduce energy consumption and protect the environment in the MENA region.”

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