KARACHI, Sept 1: The first World Islamic Economic Forum is being held from October 1 to 3 in Malaysia in which heads of the states and governments and the ministers from several Muslim countries along with many non-Muslim dignitaries will attend.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Mr Shaukat Aziz will deliver the opening keynote address while Indonesian President Mr Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono will give a special keynote address. The Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato’ Seri Abdullah bin Hj Ahmad Badawi will give the closing address. The former Malaysian Prime Minister Dr Muhathir will also deliver a speech.

This World Islamic Economic Forum evolves from the OIC Business Forum, which was first held along with the 10th summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference. The organizers are now confident to make this event “Davos’’ of the Muslim world. Apart from the plenary sessions, there will be specific sectoral workshops dealing with trade, investments, human capital development, Islamic banking and finance and tourism. The Forum will provide an opportunity for business interaction and networking.