Financial Sector

Most countries in the MENA region are heavily dependent on primary production and resource-based sectors, with narrow export bases.

Countries are considering and developing strategies of economic diversification based on inter-sectoral linkages in petrochemical and other industries, the development of agricultural resources and the growth of the services sector -- a process in which foreign direct investment can play a crucial role.

In this context, the Working Group on Financial Sector Development and Economic Diversification works toward

• assessing economic diversification of MENA countries
• developing the financial sector of MENA countries
• improving the policy environment and building capacities for entrepreneurship and SME development

Reference Material

• 3 May 2006, Bahrain
• Promoting Employment and Economic Diversification through Financial Sector and Enterprise Development, September 2005, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia [ Draft agenda ]
• 7-8 February 2005, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia [ Meeting conclusions / List of participants ]
• W11-12 July 2006, Istanbul