Middle East Naval Commanders Conference (MENC) discusses the “Economic Growth Prospects Amidst Security Challenges and Their Global Impact

English , Qatar - قطر , Snippets , / Wednesday, March 6th, 2024

The conference is held as part of DIMDEX 2024 activities, in partnership with the Strategic Studies Centre of the Qatar Armed Forces

The second day of the eighth edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition & Conference (DIMDEX 2024) witnessed the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference (MENC) held at the Al Mayassa Theatre in the Qatar National Convention Centre. This conference, hosted in partnership with the Strategic Studies Centre of the Qatar Armed Forces, centered around the theme “Economic Growth Prospects Amidst Security Challenges and Their Global Impact.”

Under the esteemed patronage of HH Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and organized by the Qatar Armed Forces, the conference brought together delegations, ministers, ambassadors, naval leaders, experts, specialists, and academics. The DIMDEX 2024 overarching theme was “Igniting the Future of Maritime Security and Beyond.”

Major General (Navy) Abdullah bin Hassan Al-Sulaiti, Commander of the Qatar Amiri Naval Forces, highlighted the importance of maritime security in global trade routes, stressing the need to address challenges that impact over 90% of global trade. He emphasized the significance of experts’ perspectives and practical experiences in formulating strategies to tackle these challenges.

The conference comprised two sessions featuring distinguished speakers. In the first session moderated by Professor Osama Kubbar, Vice Admiral George M. Wikoff highlighted the importance of international waters’ openness and joint efforts in protecting regional waters. General Sir Patrick Sanders outlined the UK’s strategic vision, with Qatar emerging as a critical strategic partner. Dr. Khalid Shames discussed the impact of the international maritime cable crisis on the global economy, while General Claudio Graziano addressed new trends and challenges in the Middle East maritime domain.

The second session moderated by Prof. Omar Ashour featured Cdre Mark Anderson CBE RN discussing an integrated vision for maritime security. Professor Merve Seren focused on advanced technology’s role in security and defense industries, while Marine Major General Emmanuel Salers spoke on maritime navigation safety and submarine cables’ preservation. Dr. Mohamed Al Duranni addressed the advantages and disadvantages of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity.

The conference aimed to provide insights into best practices for addressing maritime challenges and their global implications. For further details and registration, interested parties were directed to visit www.dimdex.com or follow social media pages on Platform X, Facebook, and YouTube at @DIMDEX_Qatar.

Overall, the event served as a platform for exchanging knowledge, experiences, and strategies to enhance maritime security and promote economic growth amidst evolving security challenges. By fostering collaboration among military leaders, academics, experts, and industry professionals, the conference aimed to contribute to the development of effective solutions to safeguard global maritime interests.

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