Multilateral Roundtable Kick-Off Event: A Day at the World Bank |
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Washington, DC
The Committee held its' Multilateral Roundtable kick-off event, a "Day at the World Bank", on November 13, 2006. With the support of the U.S. Executive Director, Jennifer Dorn, the meeting took place at the World Bank headquarters.
The Committee identified select companies representing key sectors and industries to participate in the kick-off event. Among the 30 participating companies were Sony, Mars Pfizer, Siemens, Medtronic, Altria, HSBC, 3M, John Deere, Oracle, Intel, to cite a few.
At the gathering leading executives of the World Bank Group briefed company representatives on programs designed for the private sector. Participating companies had the opportunity to ask questions and provide comments to Bank executives who head divisions offering services or opportunities important to the private sector. Some of the key suggestions that emerged included:
- The World Bank should use its leverage to promote trade liberalization
- Business and the World Bank should cooperatively explore agricultural supply chain constraints
- An examination is needed of the impact of trade agreements on health sectors of developing countries
- Creation of a "Road show" - target/ pilot cities to promote the work of the IFC and other multilateral institutions
- Establishment of an educational program and initiatives for local workers - and the need for World Bank guidance and input on how to proceed with this effort
- A change of US public opinion on the notion of internationalism and international involvement. Post 9/11, the US public and Congress perceive "internationalism" and international engagements as negative elements
- Assessment and improvement of the communication between the private sector and the World Bank on procurement issues
Speakers included:
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Jennifer Dorn Juan Jose Daboub Lars Thunell Simeon Djankov Laszlo Lovei |
Acting U.S. Executive Director, World Bank Managing Director, World Bank Executive Vice President, International Finance Corporation Manager of the Indicators and Analysis, Private Sector Development, World Bank Director, Infrastructure, Economics and Finance, Sustainable Development Network, World Bank |
It is anticipated that the Multilateral Roundtable will meet quarterly to address issues important to both business and the multilateral institutions. The Committee will continue to gather inputs and ideas to shape the program of the Multilateral Roundtable.
