Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The tragic developments in Gaza won’t have a huge impact on the overall outcome of the FII summit in Riyadh, according to the CEO of the FII Institute Richard Attias.
In a virtual press conference, Attias said the seventh Future Investment Initiative (FII) will be very inclusive and global as always. He brushed aside the fears of slowdown in investment in the region due to the ongoing Israel-Palestinian conflict.
He said that most investors take a long-term view, so the ongoing war won’t have big impact on the overall investment climate.
“Riyadh is becoming a new business hub of the region, investors want to come and explore business opportunities. FII is a global conversation happening in Riyadh. I don’t expect a slowdown,” he said.
Attias pointed out that there have been some cancellations by participants apologizing that won’t be able to attend as their travel insurance is not covering the travel of senior executives to the region. However, they have recorded their speeches or messages to be included in the three-day conference.
“China and India are important partners, and we will have sessions and good number of participants from those countries,” he said.
Being held under the theme “The New Compass” from Oct 24-26, the event expects nearly 6.000 participants from 90 countries.
This year’s conference will be exclusive to FII Institute members, strategic partners and their guests, decision-makers, and international leaders. The theme of the flagship conference will highlight the impact of global dialogues in navigating today’s uncertain times, FII Institute said.
“As a symbol of guidance and direction, the compass represents the interconnectedness of all directions. More than ever in these current unpredictable times, it is essential for the FII community to come together to redesign a new compass as a tool for navigation and inspiration,” FII Institute CEO Richard Attias said.