Next week sees another trip for me to the Middle East, the latest of over 2 dozen (!) specifically this time to Dubai in the UAE.
It’s worth reflecting I think on what the ACT Middle East (ACTME) has achieved in the region over the past few years. I shall write more about this trip afterwards especially on our inaugural ACTME Annual Dinner and Treasury Awards ceremony.
There is no question then of the scope and depth in the ACTME.
Much more to the point is the fact that it seems that there is increased recognition of the influence of the principles of treasury on business strategy and practice in the region. The type of organisations that are represented in these numbers range from SME private businesses to global industry leaders alongside government and quasi-government bodies. It’s been a real pleasure to have seen this development and growth
As with much of the ACT’s work everywhere, volunteers, particularly the ACTME Committee, have worked selflessly to promote, support and shout about the virtues of professional treasury and professional treasurers. A grateful thanks to them.
There’s more to do of course especially in positioning the ACTME as a trusted partner to regional legislators, policy-makers and regulators. Our medium-term intention is that ACT Policy and Technical support can be enhanced to ensure the ACTME both has its own voice but one which formally and informally works with the ACT, and IGTA in terms of regulatory and governmental interactions.
Above all though are the friendships that treasurers and others build through the ACT and ACTME as their professional network. That’s what has made the whole journey to date such a pleasure