The Pearl Initiative and United Nations Global Compact's second regional forum on ‘Sustainability in Action: Business and the Sustainable Development Goals' concluded on a high note on Thursday and shed light on the GCC private sector capabilities in advancing the SDGs. At a welcome dinner that preceded the event, The Pearl Initiative recognized Gulf-based companies for their significant contribution in advancing sustainability and corporate governance. Among the Saudi companies honored were King Khalid Foundation (KKF) and SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation). Carla Koffel, Executive Director, The Pearl Initiative spoke on the companies' achievements at the dinner, and applauded their holistic efforts in making corporate governance a business priority. SABIC has implemented stringent supplier screening, and for educating its supplier base through extensive awareness campaigns and training, and was recognized for its work in improving governance and integrity practices, not only within the company but also across the entire supply chain. Mohammed AlSubayel, SABIC Dubai General Manager, received the recognition award on behalf of SABIC. King Khalid Foundation (Riyadh) was commended for its outstanding work in improving social and economic development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, notably through its the ‘Saudi Responsible Competitiveness Index and Award'. Launched in 2008, this index today has over 50 participating companies who have committed to adhering to the highest standards in managing social and environmental issues throughout their business' core operations. Ragdah Rabah, Manager, King Khalid Award, received the recognition on behalf of King Khalid Foundation. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, ‘Sustainability in Action,' which was held on Oct. 27 in Dubai, served as a successful ‘call to action' - encouraging collaborative strategy and practical action towards creating diverse, prosperous and competitive economies. The event successfully convened over 700 public and private sector representatives, who discussed how the GCC private sector could help advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). — SG
