DUBAI, 15th May, 2017 (WAM) -- Dubai Land Department, DLD, has hosted a discussion forum on the second anniversary of the United Nations Global Compact Network UAE.
The forum took place at Emirates Towers Hotel, Dubai, and was organised by Dubai Real Estate Institute, the educational arm of DLD, in collaboration with the UN Global Compact and the local UN Global Compact Network UAE. The various panel discussions focused on Dubai's ambitious endeavours to achieve sustainability across the board in line with the vision of Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Sultan Butti bin Mejren, Director General of DLD, said, "Following the UN Global Compact conference hosted in Dubai two years ago, and to demonstrate our expertise in organising prestigious international meetings, we are pleased to have established a UN Global Compact Network UAE under the stewardship of DLD. We are extremely pleased to have attracted more than 120 members from organisations and companies operating across the country, and proud with the success of our growing network, which provides a bright model for the UAEs ongoing efforts to achieve sustainability and adopt international best practices in this field."The networks activities contribute to building a business environment where sustainability is a priority that is embedded in the culture and all day-to-day operations, he said. Mahmoud Al Burai, Executive Director at the Dubai Real Estate Institute and representative of the local UN Global Compact Network UAE, said, "The forum attracted over 300 people including a diverse range of stakeholders such as multinationals, family businesses, government entities, small and medium sized enterprises, academics, students and sustainability professionals.""Among other topics, the forum highlighted innovative solutions for furthering sustainable development goals, practical solutions for integrating sustainable development strategies, and the principles of the UN. It also reviewed efforts to support the UAEs #Year of Giving 2017, as well as ways to encourage participation in the UN Global Compact," he added. The Sustainable Development Goals Expo 2018 was also announced, as the upcoming event will serve as an international platform for showcasing innovative technologies and solutions that aim to fulfill the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals by the end of 2015. The event will take place in Dubai and be the first of its kind to showcase the latest innovative global solutions in support of the goals of the 2030 Agenda. The forum also witnessed the launch of the Youth of Sustainability Programme for the Global Compact Network UAE, which employs more than 150 young men and women from seven UAE Universities. Future generations will motivate the private sector to adopt high ethical standards to act as a driving force in supporting the country's efforts towards sustainability. It also trains young people to write sustainability reports and formulate their goals. Osman Sultan, CEO of du, a member of the UN Global Compact Network UAE and one of the most prominent speakers at the forum, said, "As a signatory to the UN Global Compact since 2011, and in line with the UN principle that companies can support positive change to benefit society, it is our duty to continue to provide greater support for meaningful community initiatives and promote sustainable development across all business sectors." The UN Global Compact Network UAE was founded two years ago and now has 120 members from major national and international companies. The network has also launched the Youth Ambassadors for Sustainability programme to lead the country's sustainability efforts. Local Global Compact networks are made up of a group of participants who meet to promote the ideals and principles of the Global Compact within a specific region, with Dubai being registered as a member of the Global Compact through DLD.Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2017.
