Manama: His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bapco Energies, inaugurated the 19th Annual Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Forum. The forum, under the theme "Catalysing Competitiveness through Strategic Partnerships," will run until December 11.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the event is held under the patronage of HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad and was attended by prominent figures including His Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Thunayan Al Saud, Former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC), and several senior officials. The forum sees extensive participation from representatives of regional and international industrial entities.
HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad highlighted that Bahrain's hosting of this global industrial event for the first time marks a significant milestone in the development of its energy sector. This move strengthens Bahrain's position as a regional hub capable of hosting major international events. His Highness stated that the forum underscores Bahrain's commitment to supporting initiatives that foster innovation and sustainability, contributing to an industrial ecosystem adaptable to global changes.
His Highness remarked on Bahrain's belief in the importance of forging effective partnerships that unite industry leaders, policymakers, experts, and youth. This aims to open new avenues for the development of the petrochemical and chemical sectors and to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise. HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad described the forum as a leading platform that aids in formulating innovative visions to drive regional industrial development.
HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad also noted that the exhibition, with over 300 international companies participating, signifies Bahrain's growing status as a major destination for industrial innovations and advanced technologies. The exhibition serves to strengthen communication with leading companies, promote experience exchange, and foster quality partnerships among participants.
The opening ceremony included speeches by Abdulrahman Al Fageeh, Chairman of the GPCA and CEO and Board Member of SABIC, and Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak bin Dina, Minister of Oil and Environment and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs. During the ceremony, the GPCA Legacy Award was posthumously awarded to Dr. Ibrahim bin Salamah, Former Vice Chairman and Managing Director of SABIC, with his family receiving the award on his behalf. A short film on his career and contributions was also showcased.
Abdulwahab Al Sadoun, Secretary General of the GPCA, highlighted the significance of the award and commended the contributions of the late Dr. Ibrahim bin Salamah. The forum includes participation from global experts and specialists discussing key trends and challenges in the chemicals sector, focusing on digital transformations and geopolitical developments, along with initiatives to support innovation and sustainability.
Additionally, the forum hosts various side events and initiatives such as the Start-up Nexus, which is dedicated to supporting start-ups, the third edition of the GPCA's Solutions XChange programme, the GPCA's Sustainability Pavilion, and an accompanying exhibition featuring over 300 companies showcasing the latest technologies and studies related to the sector.