Chairmen, CEOs and representatives of the Malta Maritime Authority, the Malta Financial Services Authority, Bank of Valletta, AirMalta, Fimbank, Farsons, PriceWaterhouseCoopers, the Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Industry, Standard Publications and the Malta Economic Update - all sponsors or partners in the Commonwealth Business Forum at Hilton Malta on November 22 - 24 - gathered at the Hilton last week to meet Dr Mohan Kaul, director general of the Commonwealth Business Council, and Louis Farrugia, chairman of the CBF 2005 Steering Committee.

With a speakers' list that includes six presidents, five prime ministers and 40 global CEOs, the Common-wealth Business Forum is one of the most significant events ever to be held in Malta. Dr Kaul and Mr Farrugia thanked the sponsors for their support of an event that offers such great potential for Malta and the entire Mediterranean region.

Dr Kaul explained that the CBC is a practical organisation that works with the private sector to promote trade, investment and international partnerships between Commonwealth countries and beyond: "The Commonwealth Business Forum, held concurrently with the Common-wealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), presents an unparalleled opportunity for delegates and leaders in business and government to interact with one another, shape new business opportunities and form partnerships for mutual long term benefit."

This major international business event, which will put Malta directly into the international business limelight for three full days, organised by the Commonwealth Business Council in London in conjunction with the government also coincides with the Commonwealth Foreign Ministers Meeting, the People's Forum and the Youth Forum.

The CBF 2005 will bring up to 600 international delegates together to network, discuss and debate how best to increase trade and business links between their countries, their industry sectors, their individual business interests and companies.

The event focuses on some of the most critical global issues affecting business across the world today. As Mr Farrugia said: "Never before has Malta been privileged to play host to so many of the world's influential government and business leaders at the same time, in the same place.

"The people who will be addressing and attending the Commonwealth Business Forum are the very personalities who can impact the way global economies develop in the future, the very individuals whose influence can change the way businesses interact across international borders. Malta's business community must be there to take advantage of this unique opportunity too."

The CBF 2005's three principal sponsors are HSBC, Malta Enterprise and Maltacom.

Bookings for the Forum

Delegate booking for the CBF has already begun and Maltese delegates are strongly advised to book early to avoid disappointment. For bookings or more information call 2381-4440, 9989-6252 or 9933-2005.

Alternatively e-mail cbcforum@cbcglobelink.org. A full conference brochure and downloadable application form is available at www.cbcglobelink.org.