AIM Congress takes off with call for global investment, innovation

Staff Reporter, Gulf Today

The Annual Investment Meeting Congress (AIM Congress 2025), one of the world’s premier platforms for foreign direct investment and economic cooperation, officially opened on Monday in Abu Dhabi, with high-level addresses delivered by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Alzeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Vahagn Garniki Khachaturyan, President of Armenia.

Sheikh Hamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, has attended the 14th edition of AIM Congress, held at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi). The event sets the stage for global dialogue on sustainable investment, technological advancement, and inclusive economic development.

In his opening keynote, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Alzeyoudi welcomed delegates to the UAE capital, emphasizing the nation’s longstanding commitment to investment-led growth and global partnerships.

“Our approach is deeply embedded in our national policies. These are not just ambitions—they are realities already shaping communities across the world,” said Dr. Alzeyoudi. “In 2023 alone, the UAE allocated $22.3 billion to international projects across developing markets, driving infrastructure development, renewable energy, education, and healthcare.” He highlighted major UAE-led investments, including $4 billion in port expansions across Pakistan, Georgia, Angola, and Kazakhstan, as well as over $50 million invested globally in renewable energy projects such as floating solar farms and wind energy solutions. These efforts reflect the UAE’s comprehensive model of economic diplomacy—leveraging capital to build resilience, modernize industries, and foster global collaboration.

“This investment model is not just for the UAE; it is a blueprint for the world,” he added. “We envision a globalized investment landscape where economic growth, social development, and international stability go hand in hand.” Vahagn Garniki Khachaturyan, President of Armenia, echoed the importance of strategic investments in his guest address, focusing on the role of innovation, education, and cooperation in a rapidly transforming global economy.

“In Armenia, we see infrastructure as the foundation for growth, but we are equally committed to investing in creative technologies and education,” said President Khachaturyan. “We are preparing our youth for the future by building hubs for AI, robotics, and next-generation tech.” The Armenian President emphasized the urgent need to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and human rights, positioning responsible investment as a critical tool in tackling these issues. He called for simplified investment procedures, strengthened international cooperation, and the creation of open, stable ecosystems for investors.

“Armenia is stable, peaceful, and ready to play a constructive role in shaping the future of global investment,” he said. “Let us build a world where opportunity and progress are shared by all.” The AIM Congress 2025 continues throughout the week, bringing together policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from around the world to explore transformative investment strategies, sustainable development goals, and global partnerships for prosperity

His Excellency Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of the Republic of Congo, delivered a powerful address highlighting the vast investment potential of his country and outlining a strategic vision for sustainable development and global collaboration.

President Sassou Nguesso emphasized Congo’s commitment to becoming a central hub for transformation and international investment. “By 2050, we aim to transform the lives of 2 million inhabitants,” he stated, pointing to infrastructure modernization, clean energy initiatives, and agricultural development as the key pillars of progress.

He showcased Congo’s wealth of natural resources—gold, zinc, diamonds, petroleum, and gas—as vital economic drivers, positioning the country as a strategic trade gateway. “Congo is strategically located, serving as a principal point of entry and exit for goods,” he noted.

In line with global sustainability goals, the President also announced major investments in hydroelectric and solar energy, aiming to ensure widespread access to clean and reliable power. He reiterated Congo’s readiness to support entrepreneurs and modernize public services to boost innovation.

Calling on the global investment community, President Sassou Nguesso remarked, “Investing in Congo is not just an opportunity; it is a win-win proposition for all. We are committed to making our country a destination of choice for long-term collaboration and shared prosperity.” The address concluded with a strong message of invitation to international partners to join Congo on its journey toward transformation and inclusive growth.

Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary General of the League of Arab States, delivered a profound and forward-looking speech during AIM Congress 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for unity, sustainable development, and strategic investment across the Arab world in the face of growing global challenges.