The Forum, meeting after a gap of seven years, underlined key areas for enhanced bilateral cooperation, including green energy, electric mobility, space technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital technology, data centers, healthcare, and electronics.

In his address, Mr. Kalyani emphasized the strategic importance of the India-Japan partnership, describing it as a resilient and vital force for global economic security and sustainable growth, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing trade uncertainties. Mr. Kalyani highlighted several medium-term focus areas to further strengthen the partnership.

He stressed the need to build greater resilience in global value chains by leveraging India and Japan’s complementary strengths, while also welcoming increased Japanese investments in India across banking, financial services, and the establishment of global capability centers. He underlined the importance of co-creating and co-developing solutions for Society 5.0, the vision of a technology-driven, human-centered society. He also called for the creation of joint standard-setting bodies to drive mutual recognition agreements across sectors, and emphasized the significance of skill mobility and human exchange, noting India’s demographic advantage in providing a young and skilled workforce to support Japan’s evolving needs.

Mr. Kalyani and Mr. Tsutsui-san, Chairman of Keidanren, collectively submitted the Joint Forum Report to the Prime Ministers. The report outlines recommendations and opportunities to take the India-Japan partnership to the next level.

The Joint Statement outlined a series of forward-looking initiatives designed to enhance strategic autonomy, strengthen cooperation, and diversify bilateral economic ties for sustainable growth. These include:

• Revising the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA),
• Amending the tax treaty, and supporting India’s potential accession to the CPTPP;
• Launching an India-Japan Private-Sector Dialogue on Economic Security;
• Advancing decarbonisation through clean energy technologies and the Joint Crediting Mechanism.  
• Strengthen cooperation across semiconductors, smart manufacturing, and AI
• Promoting SME and startup collaborations
• Expanding partnerships in third-country markets like Africa, and promoting greater talent and cultural exchange.
• Both sides also discussed bilateral cooperation in the space sector as well as potential for collaboration in film, animation, gaming, and extended reality (XR).

The occasion reaffirmed that the India-Japan economic partnership is entering a new era of innovation and shared prosperity, creating a win-win model for both nations and the global economy.

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PUNE: FICCI FLO Pune, in collaboration with Ayugen Biosciences and Roche Diagnostics, organized Shield Her Future – Cervical Forum 2025, a dedicated awareness program focusing on cervical cancer prevention, diagnosis, and early screening.

The event featured esteemed medical professionals and public health leaders, with Dr. Gauravi Mishra, Deputy Director of the Center for Cancer Epidemiology at Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, as the Guest of Honour.  Anita Agarwal, Chairperson, FICCI FLO Pune, and Manish Punglia, Director, AyuGen Biosciences, along with other dignitaries, were present on the occasion. 

The second half of the program featured a powerful panel discussion moderated by Dr. Sandeep Sewlikar, Head of Medical Affairs, Roche Diagnostics. Panelists included Dr. Harshad Parasnis, Gynecological Oncologist, Dr. Milind Dugad, Past Vice President, POGS, Dr. Aarti Nimkar, Past President, POGS, and Manish Punglia, Molecular Genomics Expert

Dr. Mishra emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating, “We know the exact cause of cervical cancer and how to diagnose and prevent it. Yet India bears one-fifth of the global burden, with over 1.3 lakh women diagnosed annually—many at advanced stages. This is a cancer that is both preventable and curable if detected early.”

She highlighted that persistent infection with high-risk oncogenic HPV is the only cause. The symptoms that may arise at a later stage include bleeding between two periods and that too frequently, bleeding after sexual intercourse, post menopausal bleeding or spotting, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, etc. Dr. Mishra also advocated for routine screening beginning at age 30, noting that pre-cancerous stages can be identified and treated effectively. 

Dr. Aarti Nimkar stressed the importance of shifting perceptions: “We must overcome the myth that cervical cancer cannot be treated. With timely screening and treatment, cervical cancer can be treated .”

Dr. Meenu Agarwal emphasized the need for regular checkups.

Elaborating on symptoms in later stages, Dr. Milind Dugad said that when HPV is persistent, it may not give any signs; therefore, it is important to do screening, especially after the age of 30 years, even if they have taken vaccines. 

Talking about the guidelines, Dr.Harshad Parasnis said that screening methods are available, such as a Pap test, where we pick up the changes in the cells, whether mild, moderate, or severe.  The other test is where we pick up the virus, and that is known as the HPV test. 

Manish Punglia, Director AyuGen, echoed these sentiments: “In an age of medical and technological advancement, it is unacceptable that cervical cancer still claims so many lives. This forum is not just about creating awareness, but about driving the message that cervical cancer is preventable.” 

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With India’s economy accelerating at an average growth rate of 7.2% over the past three fiscal years, and industries swiftly embracing disruptive technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, and fintech, the forging sector stands at the threshold of a significant transformation. The GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is AIFI’s proactive response to this new industrial paradigm, recognising the enthusiasm, adaptability, and global outlook of the next generation in family-owned forging businesses.

Speaking on this transformative initiative, Yash Munot, President, Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI), said, “The GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is not just a platform, it’s a movement to shape the future of the Indian forging industry. Our vision is to position Indian forging as a global benchmark for innovation, quality, and sustainability. Through this forum, we aim to harness the creativity, energy, and ambition of the next generation of entrepreneurs. We are committed to offering them strategic insights, access to industry’s best practices, leadership training through academia-industry partnerships, and global exposure. This initiative will play a critical role in addressing succession challenges, updating traditional business models, and building a collaborative ecosystem that ensures the industry’s sustained growth and global competitiveness. Our mission remains focused on promoting excellence in technology, operations, and leadership anchored firmly in sustainable and inclusive development.”

The Forum seeks to provide a dedicated platform for young forging entrepreneurs to engage in peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, participate in leadership development programmes, and stay aligned with emerging global trends and technologies. Its activities include strategic sessions, academic collaborations, policy discussions, and exposure visits to innovation hubs. The initiative marked its first milestone with a launch event in Hyderabad, which included a visit to the CII-Godrej Green Business Centre, India’s first LEED Platinum-certified green building, and an engaging leadership workshop titled “Re-inventing Family-Owned Businesses and Shifting Orbits of Growth”, conducted by renowned innovation strategist Dr. Rahul More.

Ankit Mehta, Director, KLM Forge Pvt. Ltd., Pune, said, “In an evolving industrial landscape, collaboration and innovation are more critical than ever. AIFI GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum invites young forgers like me to actively engage with peers, exchange ideas on modern forging practices, and explore the latest technologies shaping our industry.”

Future activities under the Forum will include interactions with young leaders from across industries, leadership programmes in collaboration with top academic institutions, overseas study missions, and capacity-building initiatives on cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, cybersecurity, and ESG frameworks. By creating a culture of continuous learning and forward-thinking, the AIFI GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is set to become a defining platform for shaping the future of the forging industry in India.

Sivarjun Rachamallu, GM,  Rachamallu Forgings Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad, said, “I am honoured to be part of the GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum, a visionary initiative by the Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI). GenNext serves as a platform for the next generation of forging professionals, where fresh perspectives meet seasoned expertise. The forum aims to drive positive transformation in the forging sector by advancing technology, promoting sustainability, and contributing to the development of progressive industry policies at the governmental level.”

This initiative aligns seamlessly with AIFI’s broader vision to position the Indian forging industry as a global leader in manufacturing excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Through strategic advocacy, skill development, and a strong focus on collaborative growth, AIFI remains committed to empowering the sector and driving its transformation on the world stage.

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VIENNA, AUSTRIA: The fourth OPEC Fund Development Forum concluded with a strong slate of new commitments, loan agreements, and strategic partnerships to advance inclusive transition and sustainable development. The Forum brought together more than 700 global leaders, including government representatives, development institutions, and private sector stakeholders, under the theme “A Transition That Empowers Our Tomorrow”.

The OPEC Fund announced some US$720 million in new financing to support development efforts across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, and saw the signing of US$362 million in new loan agreements. A new Trade Finance Initiative is set to secure vital supplies and help close trade-related liquidity gaps in partner countries.

OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said, “The OPEC Fund Development Forum reflects our conviction that partnerships must deliver results. Today, we achieved tangible progress – with new signings, new partnerships, and new approaches to help our partner countries turn ambition into action. Whether in energy, infrastructure, agriculture, or finance, we are responding with solutions that make a difference.”

As part of its Small Island Developing States (SIDS) initiative, the OPEC Fund signed cooperation agreements with Grenada and the Solomon Islands, expanding support for climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure.

Deepening Country Partnerships for Long-term Impact

New country-level agreements and cooperation frameworks include:

• A US$212 million loan agreement with Oman to finance the Khasab-Daba-Lima Road Project (Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road), improving local and regional connectivity, as well as a Country Partnership Framework (CPF) to strengthen cooperation over the next five years.
• A US$25 million loan agreement with Cameroon to strengthen the Rice Value Chain Development Project, supporting smallholder farmers and strengthening food security in vulnerable regions, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), and the Kuwait Fund.
• A CPF with Rwanda to allocate up to US$300 million in financing for 2025 – 2028, supporting the country’s development priorities, including quality infrastructure, improved essential basic services, and the promotion of entrepreneurship and the private sector.
• Other country partnership agreements included: Azerbaijan to support infrastructure, energy transition and sustainable development; Botswana to support infrastructure, renewable energy, innovation and digital transformation, as well as private sector export-led growth over the next three years; Grenada to build resilience through sustainable development initiatives; Kyrgyz Republic to increase cooperation in transport, water supply and sanitation, energy, agriculture and banking sectors; and Solomon Islands to expand engagement and increase cooperation including in the private sector.

Scaling up Private Sector Support

The OPEC Fund continues to prioritize private sector-led growth with targeted financing to financial institutions across Africa:

• In Côte d’Ivoire, a €30 million loan agreement with Coris Bank International Côte d’Ivoire and a €35 million loan agreement with NSIA Banque will facilitate access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
• A US$40 million loan agreement with the East African Development Bank (EADB) will boost economic investments across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda, strengthening regional integration and inclusive growth.

New Trade Finance Initiative

• At the Forum, the OPEC Fund also announced a new Trade Finance Initiative to boost trade resilience in partner countries by facilitating access to essential imports, closing liquidity gaps, and strengthening resilience to external shocks in vulnerable economies.

Advancing global cooperation

The Forum also featured new agreements to deepen multilateral cooperation:

• A new cooperation agreement with the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) will strengthen collaboration in infrastructure, energy, and human development projects across the Latin American and Caribbean region.
• The OPEC Fund and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) formalized a cooperation agreement to coordinate efforts on climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food systems.
• A cooperation agreement with the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) will support training programs to promote institutional transparency and anti-corruption capacity building in partner countries.

Ahead of the Forum, the OPEC Fund hosted the Annual Meeting of the Heads of Institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG). Delegates participated in a high-level roundtable with the President of Mauritania, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, to strengthen development collaboration and mobilize investment flows to Mauritania. The roundtable resulted in an ACG joint pledge of US$2 billion in financing over the next five years. This will be directed to vital sectors, including energy, water, transportation, and digital infrastructure, to stimulate economic growth. A dedicated Arab Donors Roundtable on the Sahel addressed strategies to mobilize greater support for the region’s urgent challenges. It was organized by the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CLISS) and sponsored by the OPEC Fund’s partner institution, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA).

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OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa will open the Forum alongside President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania and Minister of Finance Mohammed Aljadaan of Saudi Arabia. Senior government officials from across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and the Caribbean, along with heads of multilateral institutions, will join forces to drive solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.  

President Alkhalifa said: “Today’s interconnected crises – from climate change to economic volatility – demand institutions that are agile, responsive, and resolute. The OPEC Fund stands firmly with our partners and with the Global South. Our Development Forum is not just a platform for dialogue – it is a catalyst for collective action and transformative impact. Together, we can transform adversity into opportunity.”

The 2025 Forum will tackle four high-impact themes: financing development, climate resilience, digital inclusion, and sustainable transitions for vulnerable economies. Sessions will focus on generating actionable ideas and partnerships that can accelerate progress toward the delivery of the Sustainable Development Goals. A series of cooperation agreements will be signed to further strengthen South-South partnerships.

Confirmed speakers at the OPEC Fund Development Forum include the Vice-President and Minister of Finance of the Republic of Botswana, Ndaba Nkosinathi Gaolathe, the Prime Minister of São Tomé and Príncipe, Américo d’Oliveira dos Ramos; the Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Jeremiah Manele; the Minister of Finance of Nigeria, Adebayo Olawale Edun; the Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan, Mikayil Jabbarov; the  Minister of Planning and International Cooperation of Guinea, Ismaël Nabé; the Minister of Finance of Nepal, Ghanshyam Upadhyaya; and the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning of Rwanda, Yusuf Murangwa.

Institutional leaders participating include the President-elect of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and current President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), Sidi Ould Tah; the Executive President of CABEI,  the Central American Bank for Economic Integration, Gisela Sánchez; the Executive President of CAF, Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, Sergio Díaz-Granados; the President of the Caribbean Development Bank, Daniel M. Best, and the Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser.  

On June 16, one day prior to the Development Forum, the OPEC Fund will host the annual meeting of the Heads of Institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG), followed by a high-level roundtable on Mauritania with President Ghazouani to mobilize coordinated support for Mauritania’s national development priorities, particularly in energy, food security and infrastructure.

The week’s activities will culminate with the OPEC Fund Ministerial Council and Governing Board meetings on June 18, where new projects supporting sustainable development will be approved.

For the full agenda and speaker list of the OPEC Fund Development Forum 2025, visit: opecfund.org

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The forum highlighted the IsDB Group’s activities and initiatives aimed at empowering both public and private sectors in member countries, particularly in the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria. The discussions focused on prevailing opportunities and challenges facing the business sector and highlighted the Group’s suite of financing instruments, including lines of financing, private sector financing, trade development support, investment insurance, and export credit facilities, among others.

The forum agenda featured a series of dialogue sessions and workshops addressing key economic themes and development projects. Participants also attended presentations on trade and investment opportunities. In addition, bilateral meetings between public and private sector institutions (B2B and B2G) facilitated networking, strategic partnerships, experience sharing, and the promotion of successful ventures.

The forum attracted high-level participation from Algerian government officials, presidents and CEOs of local, regional, and international private sector companies, investors, businessmen, chambers of commerce and industry, trade and investment promotion bodies, and regional and international financial and development institutions.

In his opening remarks, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Jasser, President of the Islamic Development Bank Group, welcomed all participants to the forum. He stated: “This forum is not just an annual event, but a renewed strategic platform through which we highlight the innovative tools and services offered by the Islamic Development Bank Group institutions to support investment and trade, and expand partnerships within our member countries, including the beloved Republic of Algeria. This session represents a unique opportunity for investors, businessmen, and CEOs from member countries to open channels of communication, establish partnerships, and forge business relations with their counterparts in the Republic of Algeria.”

In his turn, Dr. Khalid Yousif Khalafalla, CEO of the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) and Acting CEO of the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), stated, “The Private Sector Forum witnessed a distinguished cohort of partners from both public and private sectors. Sustainability and development constitute the core focus of our mission, as we strive to unify the efforts of our private sector partners and other financing agencies to bridge the sustainable financing gap, provide co-financing opportunities, and develop innovative solutions to address the challenges of sustainable development. In this context, we are proud of our role in private sector development by providing effective financing solutions to financial institutions and large corporations, as well as facilitating access to suitable financing for small and medium enterprises. We also continue to finance infrastructure projects that enhance development impact, encourage cross-border investment, support member countries’ exports, and create new job opportunities.”

He added, “Since its inception and until 2024, the ICIEC provided cumulative insurance coverage exceeding 121 billion USD, including 96 billion USD to support trade flows and more than 25 billion USD to facilitate foreign investments. Leveraging a robust global reinsurance network, the Corporation has mobilized a cumulative reinsurance capacity of 69 billion USD from the private reinsurance market. Through more than 65,000 transactions across vital sectors including agriculture, renewable energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, and healthcare, the Corporation continues to drive significant development impact across  member countries.“

On his part, Eng. Adeeb Al-Aama, CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), stated, “The 13th edition of the Private Sector Forum reaffirmed the vital role of the private sector in fostering economic growth, generating employment, and reducing poverty in member countries. The active participation of the business investors greatly enriched discussions and strengthened collaborative efforts to promote economic resilience and business dynamism.”

He added, “Since its launch in 2008, ITFC has extended over 83 billion USD in financing to OIC member countries, becoming the leading provider of trade solutions in the region. Of this, 19 billion USD was allocated to enhance SMEs competitiveness – combining financial support, technical assistance, and capacity building efforts to help these enterprises access regional and international markets.”

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Organized annually as a flagship side event of the Annual Meetings, this year’s Forum will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, financial experts, and other stakeholders in the Islamic finance industry to deliberate on innovative tools to foster sustainable development.

Under the theme “Digital Transformation and Financial Inclusion in Islamic Finance”, this year’s forum is jointly organized by the IsDB Institute, the Kuala Lumpur Center of Excellence, the Resilience and Climate Action Department, and the Treasury Department.

The forum will have keynote speeches by H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, Chairman of the IsDB Group; H.E. Salah Eddine Taleb, Governor of the Bank of Algeria; H.E. Mr. Nikolai Podguzov, Chairman of Eurasian Development Bank (EDB); and H.E. Dr. Noureddine Ouadah, Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups and Micro Enterprises, Algeria.

Subsequently, the Forum will have two sessions. The first is a panel discussion on leveraging the potential of postal services and digital Islamic finance tools. The panelists for this session will include Mr. Ihab Zaghloul, Program Manager of Financial Inclusion at the Universal Postal Union (UPU); Dr. Mohammad Farrukh Raza, Group CEO of Islamic Finance Advisory & Assurance Services (IFAAS); and Dr. Ali Mohamed Bourouiba, Head of Innovation & Products Development at Al Salam Bank. The panel will be moderated by Dr. Hilal Houssain, Associate Manager of Knowledge Solutions at IsDBI.

The second session will showcase IsDB’s leadership in sustainable finance and explore the integration of Islamic finance principles in existing sustainable finance frameworks. The discussants will include Sheikh Prof. Dr. Mohamed Ali Elgari, Chairman of the IsDB Group Shariah Board; Mrs. Sharifatul Hanizah Said Ali, Executive Director of the Securities Commission Malaysia; and Dr. Ghiath Shabsigh, Secretary General of the Islamic Financial Services Board. The session will be moderated by Dr. Zamir Iqbal, IsDB Vice President (Finance) and CFO.

Additionally, the Forum will unveil two groundbreaking reports. The first, titled “Islamic Finance in Central Asia”, was developed in partnership with the Eurasian Development Bank. The second report, “Islamic Microfinance Toolkit”, is a collaborative effort with the IsDB Global Practice and Partnerships Directorate.

The IsDB Global Forum on Islamic Finance is an annual high-level forum initiated in 2006 as a platform for strategic policy dialogue on knowledge and innovation in Islamic finance and development. More information about the 2025 Forum is available on the IsDB Group Annual Meetings website here: https://am.isdb.org/index.php/event/19th-isdb-global-forum-on-islamic-finance/

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• EBRD holds its 34th Annual Meeting and Business Forum in London 
• Bank’s new London HQ hosts the event for the first time 
• Shareholders to approve the Bank’s next five-year strategy and new countries of operations  

LONDON: The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will be hosting its 34th Annual Meeting and Business Forum in London next week under the banner of “Expanding Horizons, Enduring Strengths”. 

Usually held across the EBRD regions, this year’s event marks the Annual Meeting’s return to its host city for the first time since 2016 and its debut in the Bank’s new Canary Wharf headquarters. 

The event, which takes place between 13-15 May, will assemble the Bank’s shareholders, partners, and clients, including government officials, financial and corporate executives, entrepreneurs, civil society, and media from across its regions. 

The Bank was set up in 1991, with London as its home, to build open market economies and promote private enterprise, and with sustainable development as one of its core values. Almost 80 per cent of its investments have been in the private sector. 

It has also moved into new countries neighbouring its existing regions on several occasions.  

This year’s meeting will see the EBRD’s Governors take several milestone decisions. At their plenary session on Thursday, 15 May, they will be asked to approve the Bank’s next Strategic and Capital Framework, setting out its strategic direction for the next five years.  

They will also be asked to approve EBRD country of operations status for Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, and Nigeria, marking the beginning of the Bank’s move into sub-Saharan Africa. 

The Board of Governors’ opening session for the event will take place at Westminster Central Hall on Wednesday, 14 May. The Chair of the Board of Governors, Slovenia’s Klemen Boštjančič, and EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso will deliver speeches at the session.    

As well as the Annual Meeting’s institutional business, the Business Forum will hold multiple events over the three days, featuring high-profile guest speakers.  

These include a high-level event on Ukraine and a wide range of panels on the role of international financial institutions in a changing world, capital mobilisation, industrial policy, water security, and Africa’s potential in critical raw materials, among many others. Several countries where the EBRD works will also be holding investment outlook sessions. 

A central focus of the discussions will be our continuous support to Ukraine through wartime and subsequently, its recovery and reconstruction. The EBRD has deployed €7 billion in Ukraine’s real economy (€2.4 billion of it in the energy sector) since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, and is ready to do even more to support its future reconstruction. 

On Tuesday, 13 May, the Bank will also release its Regional Economic Prospects report, announcing its latest growth forecasts for its regions.  

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Under the theme “Diversifying Economies, Enriching Lives” PSF 2025 aims to reinforce the pivotal role of the private sector in fostering sustainable economic growth, enhancing trade and investment flows, and unlocking opportunities for strategic partnerships across the IsDB member countries. The forum will provide an exclusive platform for key stakeholders to explore new business opportunities, exchange knowledge, and strengthen regional and international economic cooperation.

PSF 2025 will promote investment and trade by highlighting emerging opportunities in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, technology, healthcare, and finance while facilitating cross-border investments and trade.  The forum will enhance public-private partnerships by strengthening collaboration between governments and private enterprises to drive economic diversification and sustainable development. It will also empower entrepreneurs and startups by providing a dedicated platform to support innovative startups and SMEs through networking, capacity-building, and funding opportunities.  Additionally, it will facilitate business networking by organizing B2B and B2G meetings, fostering strategic alliances between businesses, investors, policymakers, and financial institutions.  Finally, it will showcase success stories and best practices by sharing real-world insights from industry leaders and experts to inspire growth, resilience, and transformation within member economies.

The event is expected to attract over 1,500 participants, including high-level government officials, chairpersons, presidents, and CEOs of leading local and international companies, multilateral development institutions, chambers of commerce and industry, business associations, investment promotion agencies, individual investors, and entrepreneurs.

In addition to insightful panel discussions and keynote speeches, PSF 2025 will feature a dedicated exhibition where partners can showcase their projects, services, and investment opportunities. It will include a startup competition designed to foster innovation and highlight groundbreaking business ideas. For the third time, the event will introduce the IsDB Group recognition awards, honoring distinguished organizations and individuals for their contributions to economic development and trade facilitation.

The forum will welcome prominent speakers, including the Chief Executive Officers of the IsDB Group entities, Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, CEO of ICIEC and Acting CEO of ICD, and Eng. Adeeb Al Aama, CEO of ITFC. These leaders, along with industry experts, will share success stories, experiences, and best practices to further strengthen investment and trade across the IsDB member countries.

For further details, please visit the event’s official website: www.isdbg-psf.org

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WHEF 2024 is part of the annual Conference and Expo held by the Forum to foster economic development and societal empowerment within the global Hindu community. The previous editions were attended by thought leaders and policymakers like Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh; Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways; Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Finance Minister; Rt. Hon. Priti Patel, British Home Secretary; Shri Ajay Piramal, Chairman of Piramal Group; The Hon. Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius; and others.

Over three days of WHEF 2024, attendees will engage in plenary sessions addressing a range of critical topics. It will feature three grand panel sessions, six plenary sessions, and twenty-four parallel sessions across six halls. Nearly 1,000 participants are expected to attend these sessions, which will provide in-depth explorations of specialized topics, encouraging detailed discussions and knowledge sharing.

A key highlight will be the networking sessions and a Shark Tank-style event, aimed at fostering business connections and innovative ideas. The expo, which will run throughout the forum, will showcase leading domestic and international companies. With many prominent Bharatiya companies participating, this year’s expo is set to reach new heights, featuring a broad array of firms eager to present their products and services and expand their global footprint.

WHEF 2024 will start with a grand inaugural session on December 13th, featuring a series of sessions and keynote speeches. WHEF will conduct a range of activities, including lectures, panel discussions, workshops, and an EXPO with the vision ‘Think in the Future, for the Future, and Viksit Bharat.’ Rooted in the shared values and collective strengths of the global Hindu community, WHEF is dedicated to advancing economic development and societal empowerment. Following successful annual forums in cities such as Hong Kong, New Delhi, London, Los Angeles, Chicago, Bangkok, and various regional economic hubs worldwide, WHEF is set to host an important conference in Mumbai this December,” said Swami Vigyananand of WHEF.

This year, Chief Ministers, Central Ministers, and State Ministers related to finance, business, and the economy, as well as Chairpersons, Managing Directors, and CEOs of leading industrial, technology, and financial companies, have been invited to WHEF 2024 in Mumbai. Their presence is expected to enhance the event’s significance and its role in shaping the Bharat economy.

The sectors represented include Defence and Aerospace, Construction, Steel Industry, Cement Industry, Automobile, Electric Vehicles and Mobility, Transport, Coal, Minerals and Mining, Conventional Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution, Renewable Energy, Oil and Gas, Pharmaceuticals, Health and Wellness, Medical Device Technology, Chemicals and Fertilizers, Agriculture, Banking and Finance, Insurance, Startups and Ecosystems, Technology, Telecommunications, Electronics, Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG), Film and Television, and Hospitality and Tourism. Additional plenary sessions will cover regional opportunities in Maharashtra, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh.

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