ALBA was actively involved in events in recent weeks that discussed vital aluminium issues and investment matters – the 17th International Arab Aluminium Conference & Exhibition (Arabal 2013) and the Invest in Bahrain Forum & Exhibition. It also took part in The Gulf Strategic Conference 2013. The company provided sponsorship for all the events.  

Arabal was held at the St Regis Hotel, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE. As one of the top exhibitors, Alba showcased its portfolio of high-grade aluminium products, quality-focused production process and environmentally-friendly and safety-conscious operations.

 Chief executive Tim Murray joined key officials from other GCC smelters for a panel discussion on “GCC smelters – opportunities, investments and future plans.” It centred on challenges and opportunities in upcoming projects in the GCC region and cooperation between aluminium producers.

“As the first aluminium smelter in the Middle East, Alba is proud to support this prestigious event, which brings global recognition for the region and Bahrain,” he said. “Arabal presents a unique opportunity for smelters to exchange ideas and experiences, learn more about the industry, look at emerging trends, and strengthen ties with all customers. Alba is honoured to be associated with Arabal, which underlines the company’s commitment to foster strong links with smelters in the region and provides a platform for expanding the global presence of Alba’s portfolio of high-grade aluminium products.”

The Invest in Bahrain Forum & Exhibition took place at the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre. It was held under the patronage of the Prime Minister, Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, and organised by Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

“Bahrain has been ranked as one of the world’s freest economies and praised for its investor-friendly and forward thinking economic policies,” said chairman Mahmood Hashim Al Kooheji. “Alba has greatly benefited from such a growth-focused business environment, which is one of the key reasons for the company’s transformation from a regional pioneer into one of the world’s leading aluminium smelters. We are proud to provide sponsorship support to the Invest in Bahrain Forum and Exhibition 2013 and are confident that it will provide an opportunity to showcase Bahrain’s attractiveness as an investment destination.”

The forum highlighted Bahrain’s role as a pioneer in investor-friendly policies and best-investment opportunities for economic investors.

The Gulf Strategic Conference, held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, looked at the impact of regional and global changes on the Middle East and a shared understanding of regional and international security.

Organised by the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International and Energy studies, the two-day event discussed numerous strategic initiatives to strengthen security at regional and international levels.

Commenting on Alba’s sponsorship of the event, its chief marketing officer Jean Baptiste Lucas said: “Bahrain is an important destination in the Middle East and demonstrates immense potential for business opportunities. We are proud to be part of a region that continues to experience tremendous economic growth and our support for the Gulf Strategic Conference 2013 highlights our commitment towards initiatives that are focused on strengthening co-operation and boosting security in the Middle East.”

The Gulf Strategic Conference featured prominent speakers, former world leaders, researchers and analysts who specialise in Middle Eastern studies.