Schema Announces the Upcoming Second Regional Corporate Governance and Responsibility Forum 2009

Amman, Jordan, October 16, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Schema, an advisory practice specialized in corporate governance and corporate social responsibility, in a press conference held on October 13, 2009 at the InterContinental Hotel – Amman announced that it will be conducting its second Regional Corporate Governance and Responsibility Forum (CGR Forum)2009 on November 2-4, 2009. The CGR Forum 2009 will gather business people and leaders from across the Levant, Gulf, and North Africa to engage in the discussions, debates and support for the advancement of corporate governance and responsibility in the region. The CGR Forum 2009 will aim to ensure a framework for the development of effective, suitable, and best business practice policies that will safeguard the sustainability of businesses.

The CGR Forum 2009 is sponsored by Goldman Sachs and Aramex as gold sponsors, Eskedenia and Bridge for Africa as silver sponsors. In Addition to Arabian Business and Jordan Business Magazines as Media sponsors.

In 2007, the Corporate Governance and Responsibility Forum provided tangible successes. It engaged prominent businesspeople and leaders from across the region and the globe to discuss topics and issues pertaining to the sustainability and enhancement of the MENA economy through best business practices. Following the feedback provided at the CGR Forum 2007, a White Paper was published with an action plan for furthering corporate governance and responsibility in the region. The White paper ensured continuous engagement with the private sector and implementation of projects that are deemed of value and benefit to businesses.

The Corporate Governance and Responsibility Forum 2009 will build on outcomes and action plans developed in 2007 for the development in the MENA region to ensure stable economic development, growth as well as attract foreign investment. The CGR Forum 2009 will increase partnerships between the private sector, public sector, and civil societies and further develop practices for effective implementation of corporate governance and responsibility practices. Most importantly, it will identify a road map for the further advancement and implementation of corporate governance and responsibility.

Ms. Maali Qasem, Managing Partner of Schema and Chairwoman of the Corporate Governance and Responsibility Forum, stated, “The CGR Forum has gained regional recognition because forum’s success is not only based on its on-ground achievements, but also on its thorough follow up. Building on the findings of the CGR Forum 2007, this long-awaited CGR Forum has been gaining huge interest and participant requests, along with over 15,000 online visits in the past month!”

Based on the needs identified at the CGR Forum 2007, the CGR Forum 2009 will be launching two new products: CGR Integration Tool and Ethical Online Tool. These products are intended to increase awareness on corporate governance and responsibility, encourage more effective implementation of corporate governance and responsibility and to address how small and medium size enterprises may participate while taking into consideration time and cost efficiency. These products were developed by Schema in collaboration with various regional/international companies and universities in commitment to the outcomes of CGR Forum 2007 and the needs of its stakeholders.

The CGR Forum 2009 will also be the host to the first public event for the Responsible Business Forum (RBF), an initiative of the MENA-OECD Investment Programme. Its aim will be to help governments in the region, in co-operation with business and civil society organizations, to create a climate that seeks to maximize the investment potential that may contribute to sustainable economic and social development. Aligned with the CGR Forum 2009 objective in advancing corporate governance and responsibility, the RBF will add a new perspective to the CGR Forum. It will also utilize the participant’s experiences, knowledge and expertise to expand on its framework for sharing best practices that will assist governments and businesses in measuring the impact of their policies.

Commenting on their sponsorship of the Corporate Governance and Responsibility Forum, Mr. Raji Hattar, Aramex Chief Sustainability and Compliance Officer, said: "Aramex has continuously been at the forefront of efforts related to corporate governance and responsible business practices, we have set an example by releasing the first Sustainability Report in the Arab world, and set targets to become the first carbon neutral global logistics and transportation company in the world. We have taken and will continue to take active steps in order to promote and advocate sustainability among the private sector in the region whilst developing innovative services, practices and programs that reflect the company's strategic objectives towards sustainable social, economic, and environmental development."

Ms. Qasem stated, “The world economic crisis brings in a new dimension to the important role of corporate governance and responsibility; making this forum more exciting and relevant. We believe that it is actually during these difficult times that we must revisit these topics to ensure the sustainability of businesses in the region.”

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