Panel Discussion
Thursday, April 20 2006

Investment Policy Reforms
in the Middle East North Africa Region

Moderator:
Donald J. Johnston
Secretary General, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development

Panelists:
H.E. Mahmoud Mohieldin
Minister of Investment, Arab Republic of Egypt

H.E. Karim Kawar
Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Lisa Schroeter
Director of International Policy, Dow Chemical

Michael Gadbaw
Vice President of International Law and Policy, General Electric Co

Thursday April 20, 2006
The Theater, Embassy of Canada
501 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC
3:30 – 5:00 pm

Event Description:

Broad reforms are being undertaken to enhance the investment climate throughout the MENA region as 18 Arab countries participate in a dialogue with policymakers from OECD countries.  The primary objective is to mobilize private investment -- foreign, regional and domestic -- as a driving force for economic growth, business development and employment.  The panel discussion will highlight the reforms which have occurred since early 2005 and the work that remains to be done.

More information about OECD's MENA initiative is available online at www.oecd.org/mena