The international trading system is undergoing a profound transformation driven by forces including geopolitical tensions, technological advances, and the unfolding revolution in supply chain management. These shifts present serious risks and significant opportunities for the Middle East and Africa, which hold a combined 30 percent of global mineral reserves, 42 percent of oil and gas reserves, 50 percent of natural gas reserves, and growing technology and manufacturing ecosystems, but nevertheless account for just 12 percent of global trade. What are the most pressing trade and investment challenges facing government and private sector leaders across these two diverse and dynamic regions? What further steps should be taken to deepen regional economic integration, building on initiatives including the African Continental Free Trade Area and the Gulf Cooperation Council? How will national and regional economic diversification efforts contribute to and benefit from deeper integration into global value chains? 

Opening Remarks

Michael Piwowar

Executive Vice President, MI Finance, Milken Institute

Moderator

Ziad Daoud

Chief Emerging Markets Economist, Bloomberg Economics

Speakers

Eddie Ahmed

Founder and CEO, ITI Ventures

Eric Bundugu

Deputy Executive Director, Capital Market Authority, Rwanda

Steven Ciobo

Managing Director, Head of Global Affairs, Stonepeak; Former Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment of Australia

Mona Haddad

Global Director for Trade, Investment and Competitiveness, World Bank Group