Hamed bin Zayed attends opening ceremony of AIM Congress 2025
Organised with the support of UAE Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, and the Ministry of Investment, the congress drew significant attention from global leadership, including Vahagn Garniki Khachaturyan, President of Armenia, and Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of Republic of Congo-Brazzaville.
In addition to heads of state and government, the congress welcomed an extensive roster of high-ranking officials, including ministers, central bank governors, city mayors, leaders of international organisations, and prominent figures from the private sector. Participants included major multinational corporations, venture capitalists, startup founders, SMEs, and business delegations from more than 180 countries.
The opening day of the AIM Congress featured thematic discussion sessions aligned with eight strategic portfolios: Foreign Direct Investment, Global Trade, Startups and Unicorns, Future Cities, Future Finance, Global Manufacturing, Digital Economy, and Entrepreneurs. These sessions aimed to explore emerging trends, foster cross-sector collaboration, and develop actionable insights for a rapidly evolving global investment climate.
In parallel with AIM Congress, the third edition of World Local Production Forum was launched under the theme ''Advancing Local Production for Health Equity, Global Health Security, and Sustainable Development''. Hosted in Abu Dhabi in collaboration with the Emirates Drug Establishment and organised by the World Health Organisation, the forum brought together ministers, senior officials, global health experts, and representatives from the private sector and international financial institutions. The forum served as a platform for knowledge exchange and the advancement of innovative frameworks to finance and scale local production, strengthen health resilience, and promote technology transfer across global supply chains.
The inaugural day of the congress concluded with a series of high-level roundtable meetings. These included a dialogue for heads of stock exchange markets titled ''Confronting Market Volatility and Promoting Sustainable Financing in Global Stock Exchanges''; a roundtable for finance ministers and heads of central banks under the theme ''Challenges and Opportunities in a Multipolar World''; a strategic roundtable for global family offices; and a regional focus forum for Arab countries.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
6 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
How your diet influences your colorectal cancer risk
Katie Kennedy had always thought that colorectal cancer primarily affected older men. So she was shocked when, at 48, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. 'It just didn't compute,' especially since she had always been healthy and active, said Ms. Kennedy, now 55, a communications consultant in Westwood, Mass. There has been an alarming increase in colorectal cancer diagnoses in younger people, and it's now one of the top causes of cancer-related deaths in those under 50. Experts don't know what's causing the uptick, said Dr. Kimmie Ng, an oncologist and the director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. But at any age, factors like obesity, smoking, alcohol use, a lack of physical activity and a poor diet can increase the risk. While other types of cancer have been associated with what people eat, colorectal cancer has a particularly strong link, Dr. Ng said. In a 2019 study, researchers estimated that nearly 40 percent of colorectal cancer cases in the United States could be traced back to poor diet. That may be because food directly contacts 'the insides of our intestines,' Dr. Ng said, and it influences the balance of 'good' and 'bad' microbes in our guts. FOCUS ON FIBER-RICH WHOLE FOODS. Following a diet that prioritizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, said Dr. Edward Giovannucci, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Fiber is especially protective, said Dr. Heather Greenlee, a professor of cancer prevention at Fred Hutch Cancer Center in Seattle. You should aim for about 30 grams of fiber per day, she added. (You can get about that much in a day if you eat an apple and a cup each of broccoli, cooked quinoa and cooked lentils.) On average, adults in the United States consume about half as much. Eating a variety of fiber-rich foods feeds your gut microbes and promotes the growth of more 'good' bacteria, which may outcompete certain 'bad' gut microbes that can produce toxins that damage DNA in the cells lining the colon and rectum. Ms. Kennedy, who has been cancer free since 2019, was happy to learn that coffee — one of her 'favorite things in life' — was associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Coffee, tea, fruits and vegetables can be anti-inflammatory and may protect against the development of cancer or its recurrence, Dr. Ng said. GET ENOUGH CALCIUM. Research suggests that calcium-rich foods like milk, yogurt, tofu and dark leafy greens can reduce your risk. Calcium may attach to certain harmful compounds in the gut, preventing them from damaging cells lining your colon and rectum, Dr. Giovannucci said. In a study published this year of nearly 500,000 people aged 50 to 71 in the United States, those who consumed the most calcium from food and supplements had a 29 percent lower risk of developing colorectal cancer over more than 20 years than those who consumed the least amount of calcium. The evidence linking calcium with a decreased risk of colorectal cancer is strongest when it comes from food, especially dairy products, but research suggests that calcium supplements may be similarly protective, Erikka Loftfield Cronin, an epidemiologist at the National Cancer Institute who led the calcium study, wrote in an email. Experts recommend that most adults get around 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium per day. (You can get about 400 milligrams from a cup of yogurt or a half cup of tofu.) Yogurt has the added benefit of containing probiotics, which may prevent certain 'bad' bacteria linked to colorectal cancer from taking up residence in your gut, Dr. Giovannucci said. LIMIT ALCOHOL, RED AND PROCESSED MEATS, AND SUGARY DRINKS. Alcohol can increase the risk of colorectal cancer and at least six other types of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, it's best to not drink alcohol at all; if you do, they suggest limiting your consumption to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women. There's also evidence that regularly consuming processed meats like deli meats, bacon, jerky, sausages and hot dogs, as well as unprocessed red meats like beef, pork and lamb, increases the risk of cancer, especially when charred, smoked or cooked at high temperatures, said Carrie Daniel-MacDougall, a nutritional epidemiologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas. According to one recent analysis, diets high in red meats were associated with a 30 percent increase in the risk of colorectal cancer, and those high in processed meats were associated with a 40 percent increase. Avoid processed meats as much as possible, Dr. Daniel-MacDougall said, and limit red meat to one serving per week. Choose fish, poultry, tofu or legumes instead, she said. Dr. Daniel-MacDougall also suggested cutting back on ultraprocessed foods and drinks such as sugary sodas and most packaged desserts and snacks, which recent studies have linked to poor gut health and a greater risk of developing colorectal cancer. These foods often contain additives that may negatively affect the gut microbiome or the protective lining of the intestines, she said. Ms. Kennedy now avoids most ultraprocessed foods. Cooking at home — with plenty of fresh vegetables, tofu, fish and yogurt — has become a passion. And she's given up red and processed meats entirely. 'A hamburger smells good on the grill,' she said, but 'the smell does it for me now.' Diet is important, but it's not everything. Experts recommend that most people get a colonoscopy or an at-home stool test, which can catch early signs of colorectal cancer and prevent it from developing further, starting at age 45. For general health, federal officials recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as walking, jogging, biking or swimming, as well as strength training twice per week. Following that advice can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, Dr. Greenlee said. A recent study found that physical activity also prevented new or recurring colon cancers in survivors. Your risk of cancer develops over many years and is influenced by your genetics, too, experts said. There's no guarantee that eating well and exercising will prevent it, but they will likely cut your chances — and reduce your risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and other health conditions, too. 'Everything that's good for colon cancer is actually good for overall health,' Dr. Giovannucci said. (Alice Callahan is a New York Times reporter covering nutrition and health. She has a Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of California, Davis.) The article originally appeared in The New York Times.
Zawya
9 hours ago
- Zawya
Al Jalila Foundation supports 60 organ transplant patients through 'Your Donation Saves Lives' campaign
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni: Your Donation Saves Lives campaign has now evolved into a permanent initiative under the Foundation's A'awen program. Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, announced that it has contributed to saving the lives of 60 patients by supporting organ transplant surgeries as part of the first and second editions of the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign. The announcement coincides with World Organ Donation Day, observed annually on 13 August, and reflects the Foundation's long-term commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and fostering a culture of organ donation as a humanitarian value. Since its launch in April 2021, the campaign has supported 60 transplant procedures, including 53 kidney transplants and 7 liver transplants. Among these are 24 children with kidney failure and 5 children with liver failure. As part of this program, the Foundation continues to support more than 65 patients with life-saving transplants, who are unable to access or afford specialized care. These efforts are aligned with the goals of HAYAT, the National Program for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation and are carried out in partnership with Dubai Health's integrated academic health system. From Campaign to Permanent Program Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, announced that the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign has now evolved into a permanent initiative under the Foundation's A'awen program, which provides financial assistance to patients in need of critical medical treatment across the UAE, a step that aligns with Dubai Health's commitment, 'Patient First'. 'On World Organ Donation Day, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous donors, individuals and institutions alike, who contributed to both the first and second editions of the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign. Their support represents a powerful model of human solidarity, with the first edition alone helping to fund nearly 30% of all organ transplants performed in Dubai,' said Dr. Al Zarooni. He also extended his appreciation to living organ donors and to the families of deceased donors, saying: 'Your compassion has given others a second chance at life. We thank you for your extraordinary generosity.' Ensuring Safe, Successful Transplants Dr. Ashraf Al Hinnawi, Consultant Transplant Surgeon at Dubai Health, explained that the medical team works collaboratively to thoroughly evaluate both the donor and the recipient before transplantation, ensuring the highest possible long-term success rates. 'We conduct comprehensive assessments of kidney function and immune compatibility between the donor and recipient, along with detailed medical and surgical evaluations that include lab tests and imaging studies to ensure the success of the transplant. We also follow up with patients regularly after the procedure to ensure adherence to the treatment plan and to closely monitor kidney function.' Regarding living donors, Dr. Al Hinnawi noted that they undergo meticulous evaluations, including assessment of the kidneys, functional testing, and screening for any infectious or cancerous conditions, in addition to psychological and social assessments. He added that all cases are reviewed by a multidisciplinary medical committee to determine donor eligibility, ensuring the highest levels of safety for both donor and recipient. A Lifeline for Patients in Need Al Jalila Foundation continues to welcome donations through A'awen, offering individuals and organizations the opportunity to fund life-changing programs that enhance well-being and provide essential medical care. The first edition of the campaign was launched in April 2021 in collaboration with Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, and Emarat Al Youm newspaper. The second edition took place in September 2024 and concluded in December of the same year, as part of a collaboration between the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Al Jalila Foundation, and Emarat Al Youm newspaper. Transplant surgeries were conducted in partnership with Dubai Health's Dubai Hospital and Al Jalila Children's Hospital, alongside Mediclinic City Hospital and King's College Hospital London in Dubai. Stories of Hope Yousef's New Beginning Among the beneficiaries of the campaign, is the child Yousef Jashim, who underwent a kidney transplant with the support of Al Jalila Foundation. Yousef suffered from constant fatigue and recurring pain and was undergoing regular dialysis sessions that significantly affected his daily life and imposed strict dietary restrictions. When he turned fourteen, the doctors informed his family of the necessity of a kidney transplant as an essential step in his treatment journey. Al Jalila Foundation's support was instrumental, helping the family cover the cost of the surgery. Following the transplant, Yousef's life transformed. He regained his energy and no longer required dialysis. His mother expressed deep gratitude to Al Jalila Foundation, the medical teams involved in his care, and the wider community whose support helped save her son's life. Roula's Healing Journey Roula Tabba'a is also among the beneficiaries of the campaign, following a long journey with kidney failure. She underwent dialysis three times a week, which caused severe physical and emotional exhaustion. Her condition was first diagnosed in 2016, and she underwent several surgeries. Al Jalila Foundation covered the cost of her dialysis sessions and medical tests, eventually supporting her inclusion in the kidney transplant program. After years of waiting, Roula received a life-changing call from the medical team confirming that she had been approved for the procedure. Thanks to the dedication of the medical staff, the transplant was successful. Her life was completely transformed following the surgery, she no longer needed dialysis and regained her ability to move freely, travel, and live independently. Roula expressed her deep gratitude to Al Jalila Foundation, saying its support not only saved her life, but also restored hope and stability for her entire family. -Ends- About Al Jalila Foundation Established in April 2013 under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Al Jalila Foundation, leads the giving mission of Dubai Health, to advance health for humanity. The foundation provides essential treatment for those unable to afford healthcare, funds scholarships for medical professionals, and supports pioneering research addressing critical health conditions. As a member of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and leader of the A'awen program, Al Jalila Foundation continues to serve as a beacon of hope for patients and their families.
Khaleej Times
10 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Campaign saves 60 lives through organ transplant surgeries
The lives of 60 patients have been saved through organ transplant surgeries since 2021 as a part of the 'Your Donation Saves Lives' campaign by Al Jalila Foundation. The foundation, which is the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, announced this figure ahead of World Organ Donation Day, observed annually on August 13. Since its launch in April 2021, the campaign has supported 60 transplant procedures, including 53 kidney transplants and 7 liver transplants. Among these are 24 children with kidney failure and 5 children with liver failure. These efforts are aligned with the goals of HAYAT, the National Program for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation and are carried out in partnership with Dubai Health's integrated academic health system. Permanent programme Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, announced that the campaign has now evolved into a permanent initiative under the Foundation's A'awen program, which provides financial assistance to patients in need of critical medical treatment across the UAE. 'On World Organ Donation Day, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting patients with organ failure and extend our heartfelt thanks to the generous donors, individuals and institutions alike, who contributed to both the first and second editions of the Your Donation Saves Lives campaign. Their support represents a powerful model of human solidarity, with the first edition alone helping to fund nearly 30% of all organ transplants performed in Dubai,' said Dr. Al Zarooni. He also extended his appreciation to living organ donors and to the families of deceased donors, saying, 'Your compassion has given others a second chance at life. We thank you for your extraordinary generosity.' Al Jalila Foundation continues to welcome donations through A'awen. Changing lives Among the beneficiaries of the campaign, is Yousef Jashim, who underwent a kidney transplant. Yousef suffered from constant fatigue and recurring pain and was undergoing regular dialysis sessions that significantly affected his daily life and imposed strict dietary restrictions. When he turned fourteen, the doctors informed his family of the necessity of a kidney transplant. Al Jalila Foundation helped the family cover the cost of the surgery. Following the transplant, Yousef regained his energy and no longer required dialysis. Roula Tabba'a is another patient who benefitted from this programme. She underwent dialysis three times a week, which caused severe physical and emotional exhaustion. Her condition was first diagnosed in 2016, and she underwent several surgeries. Al Jalila Foundation covered the cost of her dialysis sessions and medical tests, and added her to the kidney transplant programme. After years of waiting, Roula received a life-changing call from the medical team confirming that she had been approved for the procedure. Thanks to the dedication of the medical staff, the transplant was successful. Her life was completely transformed following the surgery, she no longer needed dialysis and regained her ability to move freely, travel, and live independently. Safe, successful transplants Dr. Ashraf Al Hinnawi, Consultant Transplant Surgeon at Dubai Health, explained that the medical team works collaboratively to thoroughly evaluate both the donor and the recipient before transplantation, ensuring the highest possible long-term success rates. 'We conduct comprehensive assessments of kidney function and immune compatibility between the donor and recipient, along with detailed medical and surgical evaluations that include lab tests and imaging studies to ensure the success of the transplant. We also follow up with patients regularly after the procedure to ensure adherence to the treatment plan and to closely monitor kidney function.' Living donors undergo meticulous evaluations, including assessment of the kidneys, functional testing, and screening for any infectious or cancerous conditions, in addition to psychological and social assessments. He added that all cases are reviewed by a multidisciplinary medical committee to determine donor eligibility.
