Sultan Al Qasimi Opens 13th International Government Communication Forum

Photo : Sharjah Govt Media Bureau

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, officially inaugurated the 13th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024) on Wednesday. The event, held at Expo Centre Sharjah, was attended by His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council (SMC).

The forum, themed ‘Agile Governments... Innovative Communication,’ is organized by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB). It spans two days and features over 160 sessions, including discussions, debates, workshops, and youth capacity-building activities. The forum brings together more than 250 international guests and experts.

In his opening address, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi posed several provocative questions to the audience regarding the necessity of agility in government operations and whether technological advancements have necessitated this shift. He emphasized that these and other crucial issues would be explored throughout the forum's discussions.

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During his keynote speech, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi reflected on the Ruler of Sharjah’s guidance, highlighting the importance of flexibility in governance. He recounted a historical example of Caliph Sayyidna Omar ibn Al-Khattab, known for his balance of firmness and flexibility. The story illustrated how Caliph Omar adapted policies based on the needs of his people, which Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi used to emphasize the need for governments to embody flexibility while integrating modern technology.

The Deputy Ruler also praised Sharjah’s proactive approach to government communication, citing initiatives like the 'Direct Line' program and the 'Mabara' communication channel, which have significantly addressed public issues and supported debt relief efforts in the emirate.

The opening ceremony included a short film highlighting global advancements and the significance of effective and flexible government communication in improving lives and fostering progress. 

The 13th IGCF focuses on enhancing government communication to build resilient and sustainable communities. The forum features over 250 speakers from around the world, presenting across 18 stages. The agenda includes 160 activities, such as panel discussions, keynote speeches, and 40 capacity-building workshops, with a strong emphasis on youth engagement and research.

The inauguration was attended by numerous high-profile officials, including Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority; Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler’s Office; Sheikh Khalid bin Isam Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation; Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah; and Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Department of Suburbs and Villages Affairs. Also present were Sheikh Saud bin Sultan bin Muhammad bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Office; Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, Director of Sharjah International Airport Authority; Sheikh Salem bin Mohammed bin Salem Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; H.E. Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office; H.E. Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE Minister of State for Youth Affairs; H.E. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council; and H.E. Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority. The event also saw the participation of senior officials from various government departments and leading national and international media representatives.