Khaleejieh Issue 75 English

For Petrochemicals Issue (75) March 2011

GPIC Makes US $138

GPIC Sponsors Second Economic Conference

in 2010

UAE Foreign Trade Minister Visits GPIC Stand at GPCA Forum

EDITORIAL TEAM Electrical Superintendent Abdul Ameer Al Mulla Engineering Superintendent Khalid Al Bin Ali Media Analyst Raeda Al Shemery Marketing Superintendent Ahmed Mahmood Senior AdvisorMentoring & Development Trevor Burt Cost Control Engineer Hussam Bader GPIC Labor Union Representative Osama Salman Lulwa Al Muaili

Chief Editor Deputy Chief Editor Coordinator Member Member Member Member Member

Contents Speeches President’s Message...................................................................................................................................

Opening Keynote Speech by H.E. Shaikha Lubna Al Qassimi (UAE Minister of Foreign Trade) At..... the 5th Annual Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association Forum Opening keynote speech by Engineer Mohamed Al-Mady, Vice Chairman and CEO of .......................

SABIC, Chairman of GPCA. Keynote speech by Engineer Khalid Al-Falih President and CEO of Saudi Aramco “Chemicals: A Middle..

East Pillar Industry during a Decisive Decade of opportunity” at the 5th Annual GPCA Forum.

1 52 55

58 45 46 Achievements GPIC Makes US $138 Million Net Profit in 2010: AGM Representatives decide to distribute............... 2

profit to Shareholders.

GPIC Achieves Unprecedented Productivity Levels: December 2010 Highest Urea Output Since........

Commissioning.

GPIC: Unprecedented Achievements during 2010...................................................................................

Honours and Achievements won by GPIC in 2010..................................................................................

GPIC shines at Ministry of labour Annual Ceremony to reward distinguished individuals and ............. organizations of the private sector.

On the occasion of the Company’s 31st Anniversary: GPIC president presents Corporate Social ..........

Responsibility Certificate to the Deputy Chairman and the Managing Director.

Renewal of Memorandum of Understanding between GPCA and US Chemical Association.................

Ali Al Raies: First Bahraini Competent Arabic Speaker........................................................

GPIC’s Insurance broker wins several awards..........................................................................................

Support

7 31 34 35 64 73 99 101

GPIC Chairman supports the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Programme..............................

GPIC Sponsors Second Economic Conference.........................................................................................

GPIC Supports Al Wafa Centre.................................................................................................................

GPIC Sponsors the First International Self-Development Conference.....................................................

GPIC Joins hands with Al Rahma Centre to Mark National Day.............................................................

10 12 89 93 97

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa Visits GPIC Complex.............................................

The Queen of Denmark Visits GPIC and Praises Development of Bahrain Industry...............................

Minister of Municipalities and Urban Planning Visits GPIC Complex; Environmental Projects............

Praised by Minister .

Shaikha Hayat bint Abdul Aziz Al Khalifa, Member of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport ...........

Visits GPIC. UAE Foreign Trade Minister Visits GPIC Stand at GPCA Forum...........................................................

GPCA Chairman hails GPIC participation at GPCA 5th Annual Conference..........................................

PIC Chairperson Mrs. Maha Mulla Hussain visits GPIC stand at GPCA Forum.....................................

14 23 26

Visits

38 42 43 45

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Khaleejieh for Petrochemicals March 2011 Issue (75)

Contents Mr. Abdul Aziz Al Zamil Visits GPIC stand at GPCA Forum................................................................

Chamber of Commerce President Visits GPIC Complex.......................................................................

GPIC President meets the Judging Panel of the Ministry of Education - GPIC Environmental ...........

Research Competition.

President of ExxonMobil Chemical visits GPIC stand at GPCA Forum and praises GPIC achievements.............

GPIC hosts US Energy Delegation.........................................................................................................

GPIC hosts top Toastmasters International Executive Team..................................................................

Qatar Petrochemical Chief visits GPIC stand at GPCA Forum..............................................................

A delegation from EUC Vest visits GPIC...............................................................................................

Health Sciences College Students Visit GPIC........................................................................................

46 48 68

H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa Honours Abdulrahman Jamsheer In Recognition for...... being the First Sponsor of inJAz. Chamber of Commerce President rewards GPIC Employee of the Month............................................

GPIC Deputy General Manager retires after Three Decades of Continuous Service.............................

Ideal Mother Honoured by GPIC...........................................................................................................

Ceremony Marking GPIC’s 31st Anniversary: Long Serving Employees Honoured.............................

21

H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al-Khalifa meets inJAz Board of Directors......................................

GPIC Discusses Business Plans and Strategies for 2011 at the Strategic Extended Executive ............

Management Meeting.

19 70

Rewards

Strategies

74 78 80 82 89 100

51 66 83 108

Participation

GPIC Takes Part in 5th GPCA Forum...................................................................................................... 72 GPIC at the 36th Meeting of the IFA Board of Directors......................................................................... 76 GPIC Participates In Judging Environmental Public Speaking Contest................................................. 95

Toastmaster

In Cooperation with Ministry of Education, GPIC concludes public speaking skills workshops for... 29 Students.

GPIC Toastmasters Club Concludes its 2010 Meetings.......................................................................... 84

Activities

At the Annual Safety, Health and Environment week: GPIC distributes safety equipment to .............. 86 Employees.

GPIC holds its Annual Camping Event................................................................................................... 94

Information

Environment Committee Newsletter.......................................................................................................

Health Committee Newsletter.................................................................................................................

Fish Farm and Bird Sanctuary Committee Newsletter............................................................................

Safety Maturity Ladder and the new challenge.......................................................................................

for Petrochemicals |Khaleejieh March 2011 Issue (75)

102 103 104 105

Speeches

President’s Message As with previous years, 2010 has been, yet again, extremely successful. Despite the difficult economic circumstances experienced by most countries and organizations, GPIC managed to make US $ 138 Million profit; an increase of 31% compared to the year before. The company also won several awards and accolades, emphasizing once more its pioneering status in all business aspects. Such achievements would not have been possible without the wise vision and guidance of the Kingdom’s leadership, from which we extrapolate our own vision and energy to persevere in raising high the global reputation of our beloved country.

We therefore express our most gracious regards and appreciation to the leadership.

Our Board of Directors, headed by His Excellency Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Royal Highness the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs, has also played a pivotal role in these achievements, through their support and continuous follow up of the executive management and all employees. We also praise the dedication and efforts of all employees; chief amongst them the management of GPIC Labor Union.

We present to you this 75th issue of Khaleejieh to highlight some of GPIC’s brightest achievements, participation and activities inside and outside the Kingdom. As is always the case, the first issue of the year takes a new look and delivers a wider context, as part of our commitment to continuous improvement.

While we hope you find this issue interesting, we also take this opportunity to invite you to participate in our drive for improvement by giving your feedback to the editorial team.

Abdulrahman Jawahery

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Achievements

GPIC Makes US $138 Million Net Profit in 2010 AGM Representatives Decide to Distribute Profit to Shareholders H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Oil and industrial Affairs and GPIC Chairman announced that the Company made US $138 million in net profits in 2010, an increase of US $33 million over the profits made in 2009.

The Company was also successful in winning a number of prestigious awards during the year, the most important of which was the International Safety Award received from the British Safety Council for the third successive year in addition to the Chemical Sector Award received from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), UK.

The Company’s Chairman expressed his thanks to the shareholders, members of the Board, executive management and all the Company’s employees for their efforts, which contributed to making such high profits and significant achievements. He expressed his pride in the close relationship between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Shareholders in Saudi Arabia and State of Kuwait. Thanks to this strong relationship, the Company has become a model and successful example of joint Gulf cooperation.

The GPIC Chairman expressed his satisfaction at the remarkable achievements of the Company during 2010 which were represented by the continuation of operation and productivity at the same levels of quality and efficiency while maintaining the highest levels of safety and security. He added the Company was able to maintain its impressive safety record by registering 12,147,233 working hours without lost time accidents for its workers and the Contractors’ workers.

The announcement was made on the occasion of convening the GPIC Board meeting No.155 and The Company’s safety record has been highlighted the 32nd Annual General Assembly which was re- at the local and international levels especially folcently concluded in the Kingdom of Bahrain. lowing the completion in 2010 of numerous projects and the acquisition of a number of modern and sophisticated items of equipment that contributed

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Achievements

to the enhancement of occupational safety, health and the protection of the environment for both the employees and equipment. Moreover, the introduction of an intensive programme was a primary factor behind the enhancement of occupational safety and health for all the employees.

Concluding his statement, H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa expressed his thanks to all members of the Board of Directors, the shareholders, executive management and the Company’s employees for their sincere efforts and contributions during the year, enabling the Company to achieve high standards in all fields whether related to operations or GPIC Chairman expressed his sincere thanks and participating in social activities and training and appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al development programmes. He called upon everyKhalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, H.R.H. one to redouble their efforts to maintain such gains.

Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister and H.R.H. Prince Salman bin Hamad The 32nd Ordinary Annual General Assembly was Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme held under the Chairmanship of H.E. Shaikh Commander for their continuous support of the Mohamed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Board member of the National Oil and Gas Authority representing Company’s operations and activities. the Bahraini side. The Kuwaiti side was represent-

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Achievements

ed by H.E. Mr. Talal Isa Al Sultan, Finance Manager of the Petrochemical Industries Company of the State of Kuwait. Saudi Arabia was represented at the meeting by H.E. Mr. Fawaz bin Mohamed Al Fawaz, Vice Chairman for Finance at Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).

tion of profits to the shareholders for the financial year ended in December 2010. The Shareholders also approved the appointment of the Auditors and absolved the Board members for their activities during the year.

The GPIC Ordinary Annual General Assembly deDuring the Annual General Assembly, the Direc- cided to distribute the US $138 million net profits tors’ Report for the financial year 31st December, made by the Company during 2010 to the share2010 was approved. The Meeting also endorsed the holders on an equal basis.

Auditors’ Report, balance sheet and final accounts of the Company. Also approved was the distribu-

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Achievements The GPIC Annual General Assembly expressed its thanks and appreciation to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, H.R.H. Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister and H.R.H. Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander for their continuous support of the Company’s activities.

The Board of Directors expressed its thanks and appreciation to the shareholders represented by the National Oil and Gas Authority of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Petrochemical Industries Company of the State of Kuwait and Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) for their continuous commitment to ensuring the success of the Company and supporting its operational and marketing activities.

Meanwhile, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, said the Company continued in 2010 to make significant achievements that resulted in a reduction of expenditure and increased production that led to making higher levels of profits in spite of the challenges facing the petrochemical industry worldwide.

He added that the Company completed during the year the plant turnaround during which numerous items of equipment, systems and facilities were replaced by more advanced items to ensure more safety and reliability. During the process, all the major equipment and catalysts were replaced in the plants. Such investment resulted in achieving a plant utilization factor of 105.8% while the operational continuity factor achieved a level of 100% enabling the Company to produce a total of 1,475,892 tons of ammonia, urea and methanol.

The urea plant achieved the highest annual output since its commissioning in 1998, totalling 629,371 tons during 2010.

The Annual General Assembly praised the remarkable efforts of the Board of Directors, executive management and all the employees of the Company for their outstanding performance and for working hard to ensure the success of GPIC operations that led to achieving record profits and achieve- Mr. Jawahery said all the plants were able to ments during 2010. achieve the production targets for the year with an increased daily output of 5% as a result of the During the meeting, the Board of Directors re- continuous upgrading of the plants and increased newed their full confidence and support to the reliability thanks to the commissioning of the CO2 Company’s ambitious plan for expansion of its plant, which significantly contributed to limiting plants and launch of new projects according to CO2 emissions. The plant currently recycles around 450 tons of CO2 daily for use in manufacturing opGPIC Strategic Plan 2020. erations.

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Achievements He added that the profits achieved were due to the sincere efforts made by the employees towards the continuous reduction of expenditure and production costs while developing production levels, in addition to the close co-operation with the marketers Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) of Saudi Arabia and Petrochemical Industries Company of Kuwait, which significantly impacted the flow of exporting the Company’s products. The Company was able to ship a total of 1,133,618 tons of products on board 60 vessels.

exempted from payment of occupational training contributions. GPIC also won the Award of the Outstanding Gulf Company for the Localisation of Jobs and Development of Human Resources.

Mr. Jawahery stressed that the Company was committed to the protection of the environment which was further enhanced with the successful operation of the CO2 Plant. The most recent environmental project launched by GPIC was the Olive Trees oasis which was opened by Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II during her recent visit to the GPIC ComMr. Jawahery praised the tremendous efforts made plex.

by GPIC for the training of Bahrainis and development of the workforce with an achieved Bahraini- The Oasis called the Queen Margrethe II Oasis has sation level of 95% by the end of the year, including a large number of productive olive trees and this the trainees. The year witnessed the enhancement new project is a significant addition to the diverse of human resources’ efficiency and keeping abreast environmental projects set up by the Company in of technological and academic developments its Complex. GPIC considers that industrial operathrough the unprecedented transformation of the tions are not opposed to the protection and safety Training and Development Centre into a Leader- of the environment. ship Academy and During the last 5 years, GPIC was able to achieve E-learning Centre. its optimum performance levels winning the adThis new Academy is responsible for turning out miration of petrochemical industry leaders worlda new generation of highly qualified and trained wide, thanks to the support and assistance received leaders with a view to ensuring the continuous suc- by the Company from the Bahrain leadership. cess of the Company and seizing new investment opportunities. Mr. Jawahery, noted that the Company won the Bahrain Labour Ministry Award for the development of human resources. The Company won the top position among the businesses

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Achievements

GPIC Achieves Unprecedented Productivity Levels in December 2010: Highest Urea Output Since Commissioning

GPIC Urea, Ammonia and Meth- December 2010 witnessed the Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime anol plants achieved record pro- Urea plant’s highest production Minister, had realized numerous duction levels, well above pro- level since its commissioning, achievements since its operation. jected targets during 2010. The amounting to 60,574 metric tons. He noted that the plant was built

by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

total output of the plants was

1,475,892 metric tons which in- In a statement, GPIC President using the latest technologies procluded 629,371 metric tons of Mr.

Abdulrahman

Jawahery duced by the Italian Company

Urea, 429,307 metric tons of said that the Urea plant, which Saipem, which is reputed for its Ammonia and 417,214 metric was officially inaugurated on 3rd high quality and protection of the tons of Methanol.

March, 1998 under the patron- environment. age of H.R.H. Prince Khalifa bin

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Achievements

He added that the Company had around the world in spite of the record. Such achievements, he been able to meet production and regular plant turnaround during said, could not have been posexport targets according to plan the year. This operation was also sible without the support of the and at the highest levels of in- completed according to plan and Company’s Board of Directors, ternational safety and quality re- within the prescribed budget.

led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali

quirements.

Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. He added that thanks to the Com- the Prime Minister for Industrial

Mr. Jawahery noted that 2010 pany’s policy it has been able to and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairwitnessed the loading of 60 ves- firmly face all the challenges and man. sels carrying the Company’s to realize several special achieveproducts to various countries ments to be added to its excellent

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Achievements The

Company’s

President national manpower to prepare plant became operational, mak-

stressed that all the Company’s for the huge responsibilities and ing the Company one of the bigproducts were subject to inter- tasks facing the Company in gest manufacturing companies in national standards of quality, 2011.

terms of output. GPIC products

environmental regulations and

are exported to various countries

occupational health and safety GPIC plants came on stream in around the world and also meet standards. The Company is also 1985 with the commissioning the local market’s requirements pressing ahead with the devel- of the Ammonia and Metha- for urea fertilizer. opment and training of Bahraini nol plans and in 1998 the urea

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Support

GPIC Chairman supports the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Programme Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Programme. He also noted the special attention and follow-up to the programme at all levels, personally committed

by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander. In addition, the Crown Prince had launched the Fund Programme, which will contribute to achieving greater consistency and stability within this pilot programme.

Under the guidance of the Chairman, His Excellency Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Royal Highness the Prime Minister for Industrial Affairs and Oil, the GPIC President, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, received Dr. Ronald Koller, director of the Crown Prince International Scholarship Programme.

During the meeting Mr. Jawahery presented a cheque for BD 100,000 as a practical demonstration of the support of the Company to the Crown Prince”s International Scholarship Programme.

This is the fourth installment of a total of BD500,000 pledged by GPIC, which will have provided a Gold Category Sponsorship to the programme over a five year period.

During the meeting, which was attended by members of the company’s executive management, Mr. Jawahery praised the sustained and strenuous efforts made by the organizers of the

Mr. Jawahery confirmed that GPIC would continue to support the Crown Prince’s Programme and would be renewing its membership as a Gold Category

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Sponsor after the end of the current session, whereupon the company will have provided support amounting to one million dinars during the ten year period..

The GPIC President added that the Company supports education as one of the top priorities, given its determined focus on the development of the Bahraini national workforce. Such improvements serve to highlight the civilized face of our Kingdom with its citizens earning the highest academic qualifications at some of the finest universities and educational institutions around the world.

He added that, in addition to the Company’s commitment to provide generous material support to the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship, GPIC has committed itself to provide an opportunity for practical training in the Company’s facilities for students. On a yearly basis the Company is pleased to host a number of students enrolled in the CPISP programme to receive training. These internships are

Support and prosperity of the Kingdom.

The great contribution of this programme is to enable them to return to the Kingdom and assume leadership positions after they graduate from their universities. Mr. Jawahery wished the students every success in their study, expressing the Company’s readiness to offer unwavering support for all projects that serve students in our Kingdom.

also a contribution to the success of this ambitious programme and support the objectives of preparing a generation of administrative leaders who will work on building the future of this nation.

The GPIC President further highlighted that officials in the Kingdom are placing great trust in this distinguished elite of students to excel academically and then participate in the growing

the company, to include students and sponsor them as the future pillars and mainstays of development in Kingdom of Bahrain in the days and years ahead.

It is worth mentioning that the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Programme was inaugurated in the month of May 2006, in a ceremony held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad At the conclusion of the visit, Dr. Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Koller sent his thanks and appre- Deputy Supreme Commander. ciation to the GPIC Chairman, His Excellency Shaikh Isa bin Ali This event was attended by a Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Royal number of senior officials of fiHighness the Prime Minister for nancial institutions and comthis generous support. He ex- panies in the Kingdom in addipressed profound gratitude to the tion to guests of honor from the Company’s executive manage- University of Cambridge and ment for the Company›s keen- the London School of Economness to provide practical training ics, Harvard University, Stanford programmes for students en- University and the University of rolled in the CPISP and said that Pennsylvania. this further reflects the interest of

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Support

GPIC Sponsors Second Economic Conference As part of the GPIC policy of supporting various economic, social and cultural events, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, presented a contribution by the Company to the Bahrain Economists Society, to support the Second Economic Conference organized by BES.

H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Oil and Industrial Affairs and Board Chairman. This is also part of the Company’s policy of fulfilling its social responsibility.

The GPIC President praised the effective role played by BES in the growth and development In a statement, Mr. Jawahery said that this of the Bahrain economy through conferences and contribution was in response to the directives of seminars held to discuss issues related to the econH.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to omy in the government and private sectors.

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Support

H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa (inJAz Executive Director) and H.E. Dr. Abdul Husassin bin Ali Mirza Minister of Energy between Banagas General Manager Dr. Shaikh Mohammed Al Khalifa (left) and GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery (left)

BES Chairman Ahmed Al Yousha’a expressed his sincere thanks to the GPIC management for this generous gesture in support of BES activities. He reiterated that the Company would always strive to give support to service and voluntary centres and associations in the country.

The Conference was held on 11th January 2011 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel under the patronage of HE Shaikh Mohamed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, under the theme of “The Role of the State and Private Sector in the Gulf Economy.”

The event discussed the structural transformations that affect the world economy in general and GCC During the Conference, BES honoured Mr. Jawah- economies in particular, with emphasis upon the ery for the major role played by GPIC in support- role of the state and private sectors in the Gulf ing various events and conferences for education economy. and enhancing the culture of the Bahrain community.

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Visits

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa Visits GPIC Complex

His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khali- and key officials of the major petrochemical and fa, President of the Supreme Council for Youth and fertilizer company in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Sport and Chairman of the Bahrain Olympic Com- During the visit, H.H. Shaikh Nasser held talks mittee paid an inspection visit to the GPIC Com- with Mr. Jawahery, who conveyed to him the greetplex in Sitra.

ings and best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Highness the Prime Minis-

On his arrival, he was welcomed by GPIC Presi- ter for Oil and Industrial Affairs and GPIC Chairdent Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, senior managers man.

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Visits Mr. Jawahery also briefed His Highness about ly involved in other organizations that seek their the Company’s industrial operations and its many skills and expertise in a wide range of fields. achievements, including the export of its products to key international markets, especially the United Following the meeting, which was attended by States.

members of the executive management, His Highness’ tour of the complex began with a briefing

The GPIC President also informed His Highness about GPIC’s operations, using a scale model of about the Company’s training and development the plants. Shaikh Nasser was also briefed about programmes for its employees. Enhancing em- the Company’s export activities, its safety achieveployees’ skills has enabled them to become active- ments, the marketing of its products and its efforts

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Visits

devoted to the protection of the environment that new extension to the Fish Farm, which was named have enabled GPIC to win a number of interna- in his honor on the occasion of this auspicious visit. tional awards.

Before heading to a ceremony held in his name, His Highness kindly planted a palm tree, to mark

His Highness also inspected the H.R.H. Princess the occasion of his visit.

Shaikha Sabeeka Perfumed Garden and the Medi- The ceremony itself was opened with a speech decal Herbs Garden that comprises rare plants and livered by the GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman herbs used for traditional medicinal purposes.

Jawahery, who reiterated the Company’s support for the youth sector since the young would become

Following a visit to the Charity Fish Farm and the the leaders of the future and the backbone of this Bird Sanctuary, His Highness kindly opened the country.

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Visits He noted that the Company’s employees included ness said that the Council was seeking to support skilled and talented athletes who had won honors youngsters’ ambitions on the sports field and called at numerous major events and competitions.

for further efforts to ensure the presence at local and regional competition of Bahraini sportsmen,

His Highness praised the significant role played by sportswomen and athletes. the Company in supporting sports events and local His Highness expressed his appreciation to GPIC and regional competitions, supervised by the Su- officials for their co-operation with the SCYS and preme Council for Youth and Sport and underlined praised the concern shown by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin that such support reflected positively on the youth Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor of H.R.H. the Prime Minsector for the good image of the Kingdom.

ister for Oil and Industrial Affairs and GPIC Chairman for his concern for sportsmen and his backing

In his role as President of the SCYS, His High- of local sports clubs

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Visits

A special Edition of Khaleejieh Comemorating the Auspicious Visit of His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa

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Strategies

H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa ‫‏‬Meets the Board of inJAz Bahrain

The Board of Directors of inJAz Bahrain held a very important meeting which was attended by H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Foundation.

The meeting was attended by Chairman of the Board Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and members of the board who, at the beginning of the meeting, thanked H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al-Khalifa for her commitment and follow-up of the activities of the Foundation. He highlighted her tireless efforts to involve all national institutions, both private and public, in activities directed towards the development of Bahrain, either by providing financial support or moral support to the Foundation’s programmes.

At a meeting held on Thursday, January 27th, 2011 the board detailed its strategic objectives for the current year. These were adopted by board members, and were added to the goal of doubling the number of graduating students participating in the programme. From both preparatory and secondary public schools, the Foundation is this year targeting a total of 9200 students, whereas the Governing Council confirmed its intention to include all students, targeted according to plan, and to seek to involve undergraduate students as part of the Foundation’s ambitious plans for the year.

The meeting also discussed how to develop and encourage the spirit of volunteering among employees in the private sector.

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Strategies inJAz Bahrain aims to double this number, up to 160 volunteers in each season of the year. The Foundation is planning to address institutions and private companies, urging them to provide more volunteers who could offer special courses and lectures on the transfer of practical experience for students participating in the programme.

The meeting also discussed how to enhance the level of effectiveness of the three pillars that underpin the programme: the training of Bahrain’s future leadership in financial literacy and how to prepare for the labour market, with a focus on leadership, which is perhaps the most important of the three pillars.

The Board also approved the Governing Body as well as its objectives for the current year. A comprehensive assessment of the Foundation’s activities would be provided to all concerned parties, in particular companies and members of the Board of Directors and the Foundation’s supporters.

The meeting was pleased to honour Mr. Farid Al Mulla and Mr. Ahmed Saleh Al Nuaimi, former Presidents of the Board of Directors as well as honouring two former members of the Board of Directors, Dr. Mustafa Al-Sayed and Mr. Abdul Elah Al Qassimi. Tributes were paid to the special efforts made by these national figures in leading the devel-

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opment of the first building blocks of this Foundation, which aims to encourage young people and make them aware of the value of projects and work and the economy, how to improve their lives by providing them with information and skills, methodology and practical experience relating to the economy and the skills that they need when they enter the labour market.

At the conclusion of the meeting Her Highness Sheikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa expressed sincere thanks to the Chairman and members of the Board of Directors for attending the meeting and providing valuable guidance with respect to the objectives and plans of the institution for the current year. Her Highness also expressed her deep appreciation to all the companies for their continued support and commitment to community service through participation in these programs. She also passed thanks to the Ministry of Education, headed by His Excellency Dr Majid Al Nuaimi, for their support by allowing the institution to offer programmes in public schools in order to help achieve the desired objectives.

Finally, H.H. Shaikha Hessa also commended the active role played by the volunteers who have taken the lead and showed great interest in participating in the implementation of the Foundation’s programmes.

Rewards

H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Kahilfa Honours Abdulrahman Jamsheer In Recognition for being the First Sponsor of inJAz

In accordance with the directives of Her Highness Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of Injaz Bahrain, the Board of Directors of inJAz has honoured Mr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed Jamsheer, Managing Director of Esterad Investment Company, for being the first to sponsor inJAz.

The decision was adopted during a meeting held recently by the Board of Directors of inJAz, under the Chairmanship of Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, Chairman of the Board and in the presence of H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa.

This recognition comes in appreciation of the continuous support given to inJAz by Mr. Abdul Rahman Jamsheer, which has enabled it to continue

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Rewards carrying out its programmes. These are designed to give full opportunities to youngsters to acquire concepts related to the work environment, assisting them to understand the value and importance of entrepreneurship in providing job opportunities and therefore enhancing living standards.

Under the guidance of Mr. Jamsheer, Esterad Investment Company plans to set up a Young Leadership Centre, in keeping with the Company’s major concern with devoting a proportion of its profits for the benefit of a voluntary Bahraini organization.

“Corporate Programme” and “Job Involvement Programme”. The support received by inJAz has enabled it to implement all these programmes.

Concluding, Her Highness stressed that in order to continue to offer its programmes to serve this vital sector of the community, inJAz relies on the help of volunteers, partners and businessmen to enable youngsters to discover the basic skills and necessary elements of learning for success in the job market.

Mr. Jamsheer has been a Board member of several national companies such as Balexco, Bahrain National Warehousing Company, Ahli Commercial Bank, Kuwait Investment Projects Company, United Cement Company and has been the Chairman of Itisalcom Holding Company.

The proposed new Centre will serve as a base for implementing Injaz programmes. These programmes are designed to enhance youngsters’ knowledge and encourage them to appreciate and respect free enterprise by educating them about the national economy and giving them the knowledge and skills required for success in the job market.

In addition, Mr. Jamsheer was the Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council in its first and second sessions H.H. Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalida ex- and Chairman of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and pressed her sincere thanks to Mr. Abdul Rahman National Security Committee during the second Jamsheer for his continuous initiatives towards legislative. He is also a prominent member of a inJAz Bahrain. His stand has encouraged other ex- number of local clubs and charities. He is a holder perienced businessmen and national companies to of the Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa medal of participate in giving their support to Injaz Bahrain merit of the Second Degree. and to help it carry out its programmes.

Her Highness added that Injaz sponsors many constructive programmes including the “Work Ethics Programme”, “Skills of Success Programme”,

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Visits

The Queen of Denmark Visits GPIC and Praises Development of Bahrain Industry

On Saturday 5th February 2011, H.M. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, accompanied by H.R.H. Prince Henrick, visited the GPIC Complex.

Upon the arrival of Her Majesty, she was welcomed by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Royal Highness the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman.

H.E. Shaikha Mai bint Mohamed Al Khalifa, Minister of Culture accompanied Her Majesty the Danish Queen. H.E. Dr. Abdul Husain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs and President of the National Oil and

Gas Authority, Mr. Anwar Saeed bin Salameh, Managing Director, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, Board members and senior officials of the Company were also present to greet Queen Margrethe.

Following a ceremonial reception, GPIC President Mr. Jawahery delivered a speech in which he welcomed the prominent guest and her accompanying delegation. He underlined the importance of this Royal visit, which was an honour for both the Company and the Kingdom’s oil and gas sector.

Mr. Jawahery lauded the bilateral relations between the two friend-

ly countries, especially the close and successful economic bonds between GPIC and Danish companies over the 30 years since the Company’s inception.

The Danish Queen began her visit by inspecting the Academy of Leadership and Learning and the E-Learning Centre. She was also shown a scale model of the Company’s plants and was informed about the Company’s programmes for developing the national workforce to qualify leaders of the highest standards to assume responsibility for the future growth of the Company.

In the presence of Her Majesty

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Visits the Queen of Denmark and her husband, H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa and Dr. Topsoe, owner and founder of Topsoe Technology Company of Denmark honoured a number of outstanding male and female employees. This was followed by an inspection visit of the Company’s plants and facilities. The Danish Queen expressed her admiration for the Company’s plants and equipment that are backed by the most advanced technology available in the world.

The Queen of Denmark and her party then opened the Olive Tree Oasis, which is the latest project launched by GPIC. The site was named the “Queen Margrethe II Olive Oasis” in commemoration of the Queen’s visit to the Company’s Complex. The Oasis includes various species of mature olive trees and Bahraini palm

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trees. Her Majesty admired the beautifully landscaped Oasis with its many olive trees, palm trees and other Bahraini fruit trees.

Following her walk through the Company’s gardens, the Queen of Denmark held a press conference attended by journalists representing the Danish and Bah-

raini media.

Later, the Danish Queen attended a signing ceremony, confirming an Ammonia reactor design and supply contract with Haldor Topsoe of Denmark, one of the most established overseas companies in the area of Ammonia engineering and technology. In addition, the firm specializes in the manufacture of catalysts that are vital for this industry.

The contract was signed by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President and Dr. Haldor Topsoe, Chairman of Haldor Topsoe.

The signing of the contract confirms the Company’s efforts to enhance and increase productivity levels in line with the latest available international technologies while maintaining at the same time the highest level of

Visits safety in operations.

On this occasion, H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, GPIC Chairman, presented a commemorative gift to H.M. the Queen. This was followed by a luncheon held in honour of the Danish Queen and her accompanying party.

At the end of the visit, H.M. Queen Margrethe expressed her thanks and appreciation to GPIC led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Board members, executive managers and all the employees in the Company for their warm hospitality. She expressed her appreciation to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa for naming the Company’s latest environmental project in her honour.

Her Majesty praised the Company’s concern with the environment and the numerous attractive environmental projects within its Complex, which she thought commendable. The Queen lauded the remarkable growth of the oil and gas industry under the guidance of H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs President of the National Oil and Gas Authority. In a statement, H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, GPIC Chairman expressed his sincere thanks to H.M. Queen Margrethe and her husband for their visit to the GPIC Complex and for her kindness in opening the Queen Margrethe II Olive

Tree Oasis.

He added: “This day is considered as an historic day for the Company, Gulf industry in general and Bahraini industry in particular. This day will remain as a memorable landmark in the history of the Company and will motivate us to continue our contributions to the Kingdom and our efforts to preserve the environment.”

In another statement, HE Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza said that Her Majesty’s choice of a visit to the GPIC Complex as one of the landmarks of her state visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain was a testimony to the high international reputation enjoyed by GPIC, which should make every Bahraini proud.

Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery added that the royal visit was both historic and a great honour to the management and employees of the Company.

Concluding, Mr. Jawahery thanked H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Board Chairman and members of the Board for their wise directives and firm commitment to supporting the Company’s environmental projects that continue to attract large numbers of visitors from all parts of the world.

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Visits

Minister of Municipalities and Urban Planning Visits GPIC Complex Environmental Projects Praised by Minister

On Tuesday 8th February 2011, the Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning H.E. Dr. Juma bin Ahmed Al Kaabi paid a visit to the GPIC Complex during which he was informed about the Company’s modern management systems as well as programmes organized by the Company to train and develop its employees and qualify them for occupying senior positions.

The Minister was also briefed on the corporate culture and management programmes provided for the employees which reflect

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the Company’s keenness to develop its national workforce and provide them with the opportunity to gain experience and knowledge for their respective jobs.

GPIC firmly believes that its success is closely linked to the quality of people who carry out their duties in the Company. Thus, GPIC considers its Bahraini employees as the real wealth and basis for all the international, regional and local achievements of the Company.

Upon arrival, the Minister and the accompanying delegation

were received by GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, who conveyed to them the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Highness the Prime Minister for Oil and Industrial Affairs and GPIC Chairman.

During the meeting, the Company’s President reviewed the Company’s operations and corporate philosophy. The increased focus of the Company upon modern management systems, training programmes for staff development, environmental proj-

Visits

ects and the promotion of local agriculture and cultivated areas are all reasons for the Company’s keen desire to enhance bilateral co-operation with the Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry.

A briefing was given about the Company’s operations related to processes, production and exports, using a scale model of the plants. The Minister was informed about GPIC’s achievements in the areas of productivity, safety, marketing and environmental protection. The Minister learned about the major international awards won by the Company and its good reputation, gained in regional and international markets.

Following a briefing about training programmes and activities offered by the Training Centre and E-Learning Centre in the Company, H.E. the Minister and his party made a tour of the Company’s plants and projects that reflect a beautiful harmony between industry and the environment.

The Minister started his tour by inspecting the Princess Sabeeka Perfumed Plant Garden which was recently inaugurated under the patronage of Her Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Women.

Later, the Minister visited the Folk Medicines Plant and Herb Garden, which is part of the Company’s commitment to preserve rare indigenous medicinal herbs that are used for medical

purposes.

The Minister planted a palm tree, marking his visit to the GPIC Complex and this was followed by inspection of other environmental projects such as the Charity Fish Farm and Bird Sanctuary.

On this occasion, GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery gifted 1000 bags (around 50 tons) of Urea produced by the Company to be distributed by the Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry to local farmers.

This initiative comes upon the directives of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman, to coincide with the national initiative for the development of the farming sector launched by Her Highness Princess Sabeeka bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and Chairperson of the Initiative’s Consultative Council. The move aims at

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Visits unifying efforts directed toward the agricultural sector with the aim of reaching new and broader horizons and increasing the contribution of the agricultural sector to GDP. The initiative is consistent with the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 and the Strategic Social Plan 2014.

Later, the Minister and accompanying delegation visited the GPIC Club and familiarized themselves with its facilities and the programmes offered to its members. The Minister was also invited to a luncheon held in his honour at the Company’s Club.

At the end of the visit, HE Dr. Al Kaabi expressed his pleasure at this visit and his admiration of GPIC as a successful example of close Gulf co-operation. He described the visit as a good opportunity to learn closely about suc-

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cessful Bahraini companies that implement management systems and programmes in the training and development of their employees. He also praised the special concern of the Company towards landscaping and increasing green areas within the Complex.

He expressed his sincere thanks

and appreciation to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Premier for Oil and Industrial Affairs and GPIC Board Chairman and to the President and executive management for their warm reception and hospitality. He wished GPIC and its officials further success in the future.

Toastmaster

In Co-operation With Ministry of Education GPIC Concludes Public Speaking Skills Workshops for Students As part of the ongoing co-operation between GPIC and the Ministry of Education, the Company’s Toastmasters Club organized a number of workshops on public speaking and listening skills at five government schools. The events were organized

under the directives of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor of H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Oil and Industrial Affairs.

The workshops were organized during the first semester of the current school year and attracted the participation of more than 100 students.

Marking the conclusion of the workshops, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, expressed his sincere thanks to the Education Ministry, represented by H.E. Dr. Majid bin Ali Al Noaimi, Min-

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Toastmaster ister of Education, for the keen interest shown in providing students with various life skills that help improve their character and enable them to prepare for the requirements of the future and its challenges.

The GPIC President added that the support given

by GPIC is not limited to its staff members but extends to providing material and moral support for most conferences held by the Toastmasters International Clubs in Bahrain.

He praised the co-operation between GPIC and the

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Ministry of Education through joint programmes designed to train students on public speaking skills.

He pointed out that the GPIC Toastmasters Club was the only Club in the Kingdom that held its meetings in both Arabic and English.

It is certainly true that the task of the Company is not merely the manufacture of basic products needed for the world agricultural industry but also to focus strongly on the development of Bahraini human resources, who are the country’s real wealth.

Achievements

GPIC: Unprecedented Achievements during 2010

As 2010 came to an end, the GPIC Board of Directors held its ordinary meeting to review the Company’s achievements during 2010 and to discuss plans for the new year. During the meeting, the Board approved the Company’s 2011 budget. Also discussed were strategies related to the progress of operations required to maintain the high level of performance achieved during 2010. Such levels were the result of continuous production operations at a high level of reliability and safety, thanks to the cohesion and synchronization amongst the various departments and the spirit of teamwork evident throughout the Company.

emplary during the year, as the Company’s plants continued operating without any disruption. This steady operational level was due to the completion of regular shutdown maintenance early in the year which increased the plant reliability level and prevented any breakdowns or disruption of production operations. He stressed that strict compliance with safety standards had had a significant impact upon achieving this excellent performance.

The GPIC President added that 2010 was a year of many challenges and achievements in the Company’s history. It had been possible to realize all the planned objectives, owing to the outstanding In a statement marking the last Board meeting efforts made by all the employees of the Company held in 2010, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC and the remarkable support of the Board of DirecPresident, said that production operations were ex- tors led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali AL Khalifa,

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Achievements Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs. Therefore, the Company had been able to produce 429,000 tons of Ammonia, 629,000 tons of Urea and 417,000 tons of Methanol, bringing the total output to 1,475,000 tons of petrochemicals. This output is considered as the highest production level since the inception of the Company. Moreover, December 2010 witnessed the highest production of urea in the history of the Company (60,000 metric tons) and the highest level of daily output following the introduction of additional improvements to the plant.

Due to the high global reputation of the Company, the high quality of products and superior plant reliability, GPIC was able to export 60,000 tons of Ammonia, 611,000 tons of Urea and 427,000 tons of Methanol to bring the total exports to 1,098,000 tons of petrochemicals.

Mr. Jawahery further explained that the CO2 unit, which was launched by GPIC in December 2009 and which is the first plant of its kind in the Middle East, successfully completed its first year of operations and contributed to increasing the output of the Methanol and Urea plants by approximately 60,000 tons during the year and with a 22% return on investment. This project, he said, is consistent with the policies of the country’s leadership and the Economic Vision 2030 launched by His Majesty the King. The project also meets the obligations of the Kingdom of Bahrain to combat the climate change phenomenon. He noted that the Company would continue setting up more new and successful projects in the future as soon as the required

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quantities of natural gas were available for such new expansion projects.

Commenting on safety, Mr. Jawahery praised the great concern of the employees for safety. Thanks to such keen interest, GPIC employees were able this year to clock more than 9 million man-hours without lost time accidents while the total number of hours achieved by the employees and contractors was more than 12 million man-hours without lost time accidents. Moreover, we were able to win the International Safety Award from the British Safety Council for the third successive time and the Chemical Sector Award from the Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), UK. The President of GPIC continued by saying that, in addition to the many awards and certificates of recognition received by the Company, we were also able to receive the Responsible Care Certification RC 14001:2008, becoming the first enterprise in the Middle East to receive such prestigious certification. He added that this significant record is a cause of pride not only for GPIC employees but also for Bahrain industry in general and the Kingdom in particular.

He stressed that training and development are the best investment since they effectively contribute to increased productivity and safety of performance.

During the year, the Company conducted around 300 training courses and programmes inside and outside the Kingdom. The Leadership and Learning Academy, which was opened during the year

by H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs, offered training not only for

Achievements employees but also for their families and students of local schools, universities and institutes.

These tremendous efforts have enabled the Company to win the award for the outstanding organization in training and the development of human resources from the Bahrain Ministry of Labour.

GPIC also won an award, for the second time, from the GCC Labour Ministers’ Council, for being the best Gulf Company in the localization of jobs and development of human resources. The GPIC Toastmasters Club won the Effective Communication Award from the US-based Toastmasters International for its huge efforts in training employees and other community groups in the acquisition of public speaking skills.

Mr. Jawahery spoke about GPIC’s financial performance and said that the employees’ efforts and cost rationalization efforts enabled the Company to make higher profits than had been forecast, with the results due to be presented to the next General Meeting for approval.

Finally, he expressed his sincere thanks to their excellencies board members, led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and H.E. Dr. Abdul Hussain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs, for their wise vision and strategies.

The Company President expressed his thanks and appreciation to the executive managers, all the employees and workers for their high level of professionalism and their team spirit that made such achievements possible. He also paid tribute to the GPIC Labour Union who worked with the management hand in hand to realize such achievements.

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Achievements

Honours and Achievements Won by GPIC in 2010 The International Safety Award from British Safety Council for the third consecutive year.

The Chemical Sector Award from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

Kingdom of Bahrain, Ministry of Labour Award for The outstanding Companies in Training and Human Resources Development - First Place.

Effective Communication Award for GPIC Toastmasters Club.

First Organisation in the Middle East to obtain RC 14001:2008 certification for Responsible Care from DNV. The outstanding GCC Companies in Nationalization and Human Resources Development Award from GCC Labour Ministers Council.

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Achievements

GPIC Shines at Ministry of Labour Annual Ceremony to Reward Distinguished Individuals and Organisations of the Private Sector

GPIC has achieved high scores with its Safety, Health and Environment Manager Mr. Yasser Abdulrahim winning the Outstanding Manager Award 2010. The honour also included Human Resources Supervisor Mr. Ebahim Abdulghani who was one of the outstanding private sector employees in the Kingdom of Bahrain being recognized at a major ceremony held on Wednesday 29th December 2010.

H.E. Dr. Majeed bin Mohsin Al Alawi, Minister of Labour who deputized for His Majesty the King, in addition to a large number of senior executives of private sector companies and firms.

On this occasion, GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery expressed his sincere thanks and best wishes to both Mr. Yasser Abdulrahim and Mr. Ebrahim Abdulghani for this achievement which The ceremony was held under the kind patronage of was considered as a new addition to the CompaHis Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King ny’s numerous achievements during 2010. He conof the Kingdom of Bahrain and in the presence of sidered this recognition as a cause of pride for all

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Achievements

the Company’s employees as it was held under the skills. He cited the programmes of the E-Learning Centre in the Company as examples of the numerpatronage of His Majesty the King. ous courses for the promotion of self-learning and Mr. Jawahery added that the win by two GPIC staff gaining IT education. members comes as a demonstration of the tremendous efforts made by the Company and its care for He added that all these resources are dedicated by national manpower by providing them with train- the Company to be used by its employees, enabling ing and promotion opportunities in addition to their it to win a huge number of awards locally and inparticipation in conferences and other events in the ternationally and enabling its employees to overcome various challenges. The care and support of Kingdom and abroad.

His Majesty the King to the Company, its operaHe also paid tribute to the Company’s efforts to tions and employees should give us a strong modevelop the talents and skills of its employees by tive to go forward and to realize more significant launching such programmes as report writing, ef- achievements. fective communication, work and time manage- The Company President praised the skills and ment, total quality concepts, community service, qualities enjoyed by the honoured employees Mr. protection of the environment, meeting manage- Yasser Abdulrahim and Mr. Ebrahim Abdulghani ment, emotional intelligence and Toastmasters’ and noted their ambitions and contributions to the

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Achievements Company over the years during their many years UK. He has taken part in the membership of many panels of judges for international awards in addiin service. tion to his membership of numerous committees Meanwhile, Mr. Yasser Abdulrahim, Safety, Health and councils such as the High Council for Occupaand Environment Manager and Mr. Ebrahim Ab- tional Safety and Health. He has attended a number dulghani, Human Resources Supervisor expressed of specialized courses in the US and UK and is an their thanks to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, active sportsman.

Advisor of H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial He initially joined the Company as Training Superand Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman, members of intendent and then became Engineering Services the Board of Directors and executive management Supervisor. He was promoted until he took over his for providing all the appropriate conditions to make current position as Safety, Health and Environment such achievement possible. They also thanked the Manager.

Presedent for his wise directives and encouragement to achieve this distinction.

Mr. Ebrahim Abdulghani, Human Resources Supervisor, joined GPIC in 1983 as Personnel AssisMr. Yasser Abdulrahim has a B.Sc. degree in elec- tant and held several positions in the Personnel Detrical engineering awarded by the University of partment until he became Personnel Affairs officer Bahrain in 1988 and MBA from Hull University, and later Industrial Relations Officer.

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Visits

Shaikha Hayat bint Abdul Aziz Al Khalifa Member of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport Visits GPIC

On Thursday 30th December 2010, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, received at the GPIC Complex HE Shaikha Hayat bint Abdul Aziz Al Khalifa, member of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport and Chairperson of the Women’s Committee at the Olympic Committee, during her visit to the Company.

and means for the Company to continue its support of sports and cultural events as supervised by the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport.

This was followed by a meeting between Shaikha Hayat and a group of sportsmen working in GPIC. Also, a number of female employees who spoke about their experience in different sports and the competitions they had taken part in. Shaikha Hayat The meeting was attended by members of the ex- was briefed by them about the sports facilities proecutive committee and discussions focused on an vided by GPIC to enable them continue their sports exchange of views and an examination of the ways activities.

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Visits The honoured guest was briefed on the Company’s operations through a scale model of the plants and she was acquainted with the Company’s achievements in the areas of productivity, safety, marketing and environmental protection. Her Excellency was also given a briefing about the major international awards won by the Company, enabling it to establish a first class reputation in regional and international markets.

After hearing a detailed briefing about training courses and programmes offered by the GPIC Academy of Leadership and Learning, H.E. Shaikha Hayat bint Abdul Aziz Al Khalifa made a tour of the plants and environmental projects that reflect the harmony between industry and the environment.

She began her tour by visiting the site of the H.R.H. Princess Sabika Perfumed Plants Garden and this was followed by a visit to the Medical Herbs and Plants Garden set up by GPIC for the protection of rare medical herbs that were used in the past for medical treatment purposes. she observed the modern facilities in the Club and Her tour took her to other environmental projects the sports events organized by the Club. such as the Charity Fish Farm and Bird Sanctuary. In a statement on this occasion, Mr. Jawahery Later, Her Excellency visited the GPIC Club where said he was delighted with the visit of H.E. Shaikha Hayat and considered this event as a suitable means of discussing an increase in the support of the Company to youth and sports activities. GPIC already gives financial and moral support to various sports events held in the Kingdom in addition to its support to the sports clubs and national teams.

Mr. Jawahery added that GPIC is committed to support the youth sector and to prepare and train them well since they are the leaders of the future, in addition to being the cornerstone of social development in this country. He underlined that as part of its corporate responsibility the Company

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Visits

was fully committed to support this vital sector and sought to provide all possible facilities to ensure its success. He noted that the Company’s employees had succeeded, indeed excelled, in various sports

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events and competitions due to the assistance and facilities provided by the Company, especially the well-equipped GPIC sports club.

For her part, Shaikha Hayat bint Abdul Aziz Al Khalifa expressed her admiration for GPIC in its status as a major industrial complex, one which is considered as a successful example of joint Gulf co-operation and an impressive model of a successful Bahraini company. She praised the support given by GPIC to sports activities and its encouragement of its own athletes to participate in different sports events and competitions.

Shaikha Hayat called upon GPIC’s female employees to make more efforts to excel in the sports field to follow the example of the male employees in the Company and to take advantage of the services and

Visits facilities provided by the Company in this area.

She reiterated the support of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports to Bahraini women in the sports arena.

She pointed out that women’s full physical and intellectual potential must be fully exploited and emphasized that sports activities receive the full support of HRH Princess Sabika bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King.

Shaikha Hayat then expressed her thanks to GPIC officials for their significant co-operation with the Council and noted that there were numerous talents among the Company’s employees who would receive every support from the Council.

Finally, she expressed her sincere thanks to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Industry and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman for the support given to sports and cultural clubs. She expressed her thanks to the GPIC President and executive managers for their warm reception and hospitality.

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Visits

UAE Foreign Trade Minister Visits GPIC Stand at GPCA Forum

H.E. Shaikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, inaugurated the 5th Annual Forum of Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) and the exhibition held on its sidelines. During the opening of the event, she visited the GPIC stand where she was welcomed by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President and the Company’s delegates to of the Forum.

Her Excellency said she was impressed with the Company’s stand and exhibits and underlined that GPIC was an exemplar among the companies in the Kingdom of Bahrain. She noted with admiration the presence of Bahraini women at such an important forum, which was not surprising for the Kingdom of Bahrain, where women are given all possible opportunities in all activities.

She also recalled the significant efforts made by

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H.R.H. Princess Sabika bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Women as she seeks to encourage Bahraini women to play their part in the community and to effectively participate in all walks of life.

Mr. Jawahery expressed his thanks to H.E. Shaikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qassimi for kindly visiting GPIC stand and emphasized that she was a role model for successful Gulf women.

The Forum, which was first launched in 2006, has attracted increasing interest from Gulf and international companies and attracts annually a large number of participants from different parts of the world, representing major companies involved in this industrial sector.

Visits

GPCA Chairman Hails GPIC Participation at the GPCA 5th Annual Conference

H.E. Mr. Mohamed H. Al-Mady, GPCA Chairman, Vice Chairman and CEO of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation SABIC visited GPIC’s stand at the exhibition held on the side of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Conference (GPCA) 5th Conference.

The prominent guest was received by GPIC General Manager Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and members of the company’s delegation to the annual forum.

H.E. Mr. Al Mady toured GPIC stand and listened to a briefing on GPIC’s latest achievements and environmental projects. The

two officials discussed ways of promoting mutual cooperation.

H.E. Mr. Al-Mady said that GPIC’s participation in such a Conference reflects the company’s keenness to develop its national workforce and provide them with the opportunity to gain experience and knowledge.

Such participation will also grant them the chance to develop their skills and techniques and discover what the Chemical and Petrochemical industry has to offer in the region, he explained.

Commenting on the GPCA 5th Conference, H.E. Al-Mady said

that such a gathering reflects the close cohesion and co operation among Chemical Industrial Organizations, praising in this regard GPIC as a model of successful Gulf cooperation. Affirming his absolute support to the GCC industries, H.E. Al-Mady highlighted the significant role played by GPCA in providing the most up-to-date knowledge and eliminating obstacles faced

by Petrochemical and Chemical industries regionally and globally. He noted that GPCA now has five committees to deal with issues and challenges facing the

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Visits Industry, the Human Resources, Supply Chain, Plastics, Responsible Care, Advocacy and the Fertilizer Committees.

GPCA Chairman said that the Association is committed to the support of the Petrochemical and Chemical sector in the region, adding that a number of initiatives will be initiated soon.

He explained that Gulf Arab states tend to orient their investment towards new sectors such as Chemicals and Petrochemicals, which will entitle the region to play a more effective role in the global Petrochemical markets.

He went on to say that the world’s major industrial power has now been shifted from west to east, noting in this regard the growing role played by G20 against the previous G8. “G8 has included Japan as the only Asian member in the group, while G20 now includes China, Japan, India, South Korea, Indonesia and Australia” he elaborated.

At the end of his comment, GPCA Chairman expressed his best wishes to the GPIC’s management and staff, wishing them every success. He thanked the company’s delegation for their positive contribution in the GPCA 5th Conference and exhibition.

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For his part, GPIC General Manager Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery expressed his sincere thanks and gratitude to H.E. Al-Mady for his kind visit to the company’s stand, stressing GPIC’s keenness to take part in the various regional and international gatherings especially those organized

by GPCA. He also praised the distinguished ties between GPIC and SABIC and the exchange of information and visits between the two organisations.

It is worth mentioning that GPCA’s Fifth Annual Forum was held in the period from 7th to 9th December, 2010, at the Intercontinental Hotel, Festival City, Dubai, UAE under the patronage of H.E. Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of UAE’s foreign Trade.

Top-notch speakers, top-calibre networking receptions and special events took place during the two days event; all focused on growth in this extremely important petrochemical sector.

GPIC General Manager Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery led the company’s delegation to the Forum.

The Forum discussed shifting the focus away from crisis management to driving innovation for future growth. During the event, H.E. Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi shared her thoughts

on the role of petrochemicals in the economic development of the GCC. Since 2006, the GPCA forum has continued to be a dynamic platform and attract the cream of the industry’s leaders and decisionmakers while serving as a forum for market intelligence and the sharing of ideas on matters of mutual interest.

The Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), the first such industry association in the Middle East, has grown from strength to strength since its inception in March 2006, steering the regional industry towards a whole new era of co-operation.

As the regions’ Petrochemicals and Chemicals Industry’s representative body, GPCA works to enhance the role of the region in international debate and policy making to facilitate regional co-operation, and to ensure that growth is both sustainable and socially responsible.

GPCA’s mission is to offer its members networking opportunities through various platforms to meet and share knowledge; exchange insights and expertise and advocate the development, growth and prosperity of the petrochemicals and chemicals industry and related businesses in the Gulf.

Visits

PIC Chairperson Mrs. Maha Mulla Hussain visits GPIC Stand at GPCA Forum H.E. Mrs. Maha Mulla Hussain, Chairperson of Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC) of Kuwait and Managing Director visited GPIC stand at the exhibition held on the side of the fifth forum of the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) Upon her arrival at the GPIC stand, she was received by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and members of GPIC delegation to the forum. H.E. expressed her pleasure at the high quality of the Company’s products on display. She was also briefed on the models of the Company’s environmental projects which have been established within the industrial complex of the company and which reflect the attention and care given by the Company to the good care and management of the environment. During her visit to the Company’s stand, Mrs. Maha Mulla Hussain discussed with GPIC chief ways of supporting and strengthening the bilateral cooperation between the two sides. She also expressed her pleasure at the regular attendance of GPIC personnel at such specialized gatherings and wished the company and its management all success.

For his part, Mr. Jawahery offered his sincere gratitude to Her

Excellency for taking the time to visit the Company stand, stressing the Company’s desire to be present at all events in the petrochemical industry and in particular those events held by GPCA. He also commended the close cooperation between Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company and Petrochemical Industries company of Kuwait in various fields.

Mr. Jawahery further stated that the event is extremely important for the industry due to the large number of participants and wealth of topics under discussion. GPIC has therefore participated with a large delegation to reap the benefits.

GPIC also constructed a special booth at the forum, which included an exhibition of the company›s products and its plants and environmental projects. Many dignitaries and prominent guests visited the Company’s stand, as

did a number of conference participants. The participation of GPIC at this conference provides a testimony of its importance to the Company’s management under the chairmanship of H.E Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Royal Highness the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs. The conference is not only of great interest to the Company’s employees but also provides them with an opportunity to gain experience and knowledge through participation at gatherings within the conference itself.

It is worth mentioning that GPCA is the first Association of its kind in the Middle East and has seen its activities expand rapidly since its inception in March 2006, where its formation heralded a new era of fruitful cooperation between the Gulf States in the field of chemical and petrochemical industries.

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Visits

Mr. Abdul Aziz Al Zamil Visits GPIC Stand at GPCA Forum

On the sidelines of the 5th Annual Forum of Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), which was recently concluded in Dubai, HE Mr. Abdul Aziz Al Zamil, former Saudi Minister of Industry and Electricity, visited the GPIC stand at the exhibition held on the sidelines of the Forum.

He was welcomed upon arrival at the stand by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and the GPIC team taking part in the Forum. During the meeting, H.E. Mr. Al Zamil received a number of new trainees in the Company who briefed him about the nature of operations and individual products. He was briefed about training courses offered by GPIC. For his part, Mr. Jawahery thanked H.E. Mr. Al Zamil for kindly visiting the stand and meeting with the new trainees. Mr Jawahery noted that Mr. Al Zamil is one of the most prominent industrialists in the region.

Dubai played host to the 5th Annual Forum of Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association from the 7th to 9th December, 2010 under the patronage of H.E. Shaikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade and attracted the participation of 1300 delegates from various parts of the world.

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Visits

Abdulaziz Abdulla Al Zamil in brief His Excellency , Mr. Abdulaziz Abdulla Al Zamil holds a Master and Bachelor degrees both in Industrial Engineering from South California University since 1986. His Excellency held the following high ranking positions after his return from the United States: • Deputy General Manager of Saudi Consulting House (1968-1976) • Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Saudi Basic Industries (SABIC) (1976-1983) • Minister for Power and Industry (1983-1995) • Chairman, Board of Directors Al Zamil Industries (1996-Now).

• Chairman, Board of Directors Saudi International Petrochemicals (SIPChem) (1999-till now) • Chairman, Board of Directors, Desert Petrochemicals (2004 – till now) • Chairman, Board of Directors Development Bank (2007-till now)

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Visits

Chamber of Commerce President Visits GPIC

On Tuesday 28th December, 2010 H.E. Dr. Esam Abdulla Fakhro, President of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry and accompanied by members of the BCCI Board of Directors, visited the GPIC Complex.

They were welcomed by the Company’s President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and senior officials of the Company.

Mr. Jawahery reiterated that the visit was a good opportunity for an exchange of views concerning issues of industrial investment in the Kingdom. It was also a timely opportunity to brief the visiting group on the growth and achievements of GPIC in operational and production areas.

The GPIC President also con-

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veyed to the prominent visitors the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and

GPIC Chairman. He conveyed his appreciation of the efforts made by the President and Board members of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry in their leadership of the country’s private sector, enhancing its capabilities for dealing with all conditions and challenges in order to implement the reform and development of the national economy.

He also praised the keen interest shown by the BCCI officials to explore the future requirements of the Bahraini economy by adopting an effective role in dealing with the views and aspirations of the trade, industrial, business and investment sectors.

During the meeting, the visiting

Visits delegation was briefed about the company’s operations including the running of the CO2 Recovery Unit recently launched by the Company’s Chairman H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa.

This unit recovers a total of 450 tons of CO2 per day, in a technology which is the first of its kind in the Middle East. The new Unit increases the output of the methanol and urea plants by around 8%. The visitors were also briefed about the Company’s future projects.

This was followed by a presentation about GPIC’s achievements in the areas of productivity, safety, marketing, protection of the environment and social responsibility. A brief was also given about the numerous global awards won by the Company, allowing it to enjoy a good

reputation in the regional and international markets. Training programmes and courses offered by the Leadership and Learning Academy and the E-Learning Centre were some of the highlights of this visit. This was followed by a tour of the Company’s plants and environmental

projects that reflect the harmony between industry and the environment.

The visitors started by visiting the Princess Sabika Perfumed Plant Garden and later went to see the Folk Medicine Herb and Plant Garden set up by the Company to preserve medical herbs that were used in the past for medical purposes. The BCCI President planted a palm tree on this occasion.

As part of their tour, the guests visited the Charity Fish Farm and Bird Sanctuary. They also visited the GPIC Club, which plays host to the company’s employees and their families. The sports, cultural and social events held by the Club for its members were explained to the visiting party.

They also attended a luncheon held by the Company in honour

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Visits of the BCCI President and visiting group.

In a statement, H.E. Dr. Esam Abdulla Fakhro expressed to the Company his congratulations for the recent success where the company was bestowed the GCC Award for Localisation in the Area of Training and Replacement of Employees. He added that this award was not at all surprising, given the company policy of employing national manpower wherever possible. He praised the Bahraini employees for their high professional skills and their efficiency in carrying out their duties.

The BCCI President said he was pleased to visit this major Gulf organization, one that is considered as a successful example of joint Gulf co-operation. The visit, he said, was a good opportunity to have a close look at a model example of a successful Bahraini company that is committed to the highest standards of quality and safety. He noted that the new industrial projects of the Company would certainly yield fruit to the Bahrain economy as part of the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.

Mr. Fakhro expressed his appreciation of the environmental projects launched by the Company in addition to social and sports welfare programmes for the employees.

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Concluding, he expressed his thanks to GPIC Chairman and Board members for their concern with developing the Company’s production operations in addition to setting up environmental projects that enjoyed the admiration

of those concerned with environment affairs.

He thanked the GPIC President and executive management members for their warm hospitality and wished them all further growth and success.

Rewards

Chamber of Commerce President Rewards GPIC Employee of the Month

On the occasion of his kind visit to the GPIC, H.E. Dr. Esam Abdulla Fakhro, President of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, accompanied by members of the BCCI Board of Directors and in the presence of GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, presented a merit certificate and award to Mr. Tawfeeq Salman Habib, Support Analyst from Information Technology and Knowledge department for winning the title Employee of the Month

for November 2010.

H.E. Dr. Fakhro also awarded Mr. Hesham Reyadh Juma, Planning Engineer from the Maintenance department, who won the title Employee of the Month for December 2010.

These two employees have proved their loyalty and sincerity in carrying out their duties. The purpose of this recognition is to encourage the company’s employees to develop and improve their performance.

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Speeches

Opening Keynote Speech by H.E. Shaikha Lubna Al Qasimi UAE Minister of Foreign Trade At the 5th Annual Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association Forum

Your Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, It gives me great pleasure to address this regional gathering which is rapidly emerging as the flagship of petrochemical conferences in the Middle East. I would like to thank Eng. Mohammed Al-Mady, the Chairman of the GPCA Board, as well as the Secretary General Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun for their kind invitation.

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Distinguished Guests;

environment by avoiding flaring.

Since then, the GCC’s petrochemical industry has witnessed a consistent and exponential expansion which has transformed the region into a major global producer of commodity petrochemicals. The Gulf’s leading position in the international markets is set to grow even further over the next 5 years as the petrochemical industry aims for additional capacity. As a result, the overall share of the GCC region in the world petrochemical capacity is projected to grow markedly. This will be fuelled by massive domestic and foreign investment inflows coinciding with the international petrochemicals sector’s movement towards bestcost areas with excellent access to global markets, as reflected by the increasing involvement of the world’s major petrochemical players in the GCC.

In the early 1980s the Gulf Governments embarked on a program aimed at utilizing the abundant supply of natural gas to support the region’s rapid industrialization. Of particular focus was the development of the petrochemical industry due to their exceptional potential to effect economic and social growth. This sector provided the best option to add The international markets were value to gas and its associated significantly affected by the products as well as to protect the sharp recession of 2009, with

Speeches the global economy shrinking by 4.6 per cent and the chemical industries of all regions, including the Gulf, experiencing business shifts. However, the impact on the global chemical industry was not so drastic and chemical companies have experienced significant improvements since then.

In the Gulf, petrochemical capacity expansion continued unabated despite the difficult global environment. Production went up by an average of 3.7 per cent across the Middle East last year, with Saudi Arabia posting an increase of 6.3 per cent; the UAE’s Abu Dhabi 4.4 per cent; Kuwait 3.2 per cent; and Qatar 7.4 per cent.

Even within a tough economic environment where capital infusion has become increasingly challenging, the ability of GCC producers to fund their expansion projects has not been an issue. In 2010, the Gulf added more than 4 million tons of ethylene capacity, and by 2013 will see nine new crackers and downstream plants come on stream in the region; five in Saudi Arabia, one in Qatar; one in Abu Dhabi and the remaning two in Iran. In Saudi Arabia, 7 million tons of

ethylene capacity will be added through 2014 to account for 25 per cent of global ethylene capacity growth. In Abu Dhabi, Borouge has commissioned the world’s largest cracker, reflecting its ongoing aggressive expansion plan which will triple the company’s annual production capacity to over 4.5 million tons within the next four years.

I would like to mention that innovation has played a huge role in the development of our region’s petrochemicals business.

The Research and Development (R&D) activities of companies such as Borouge have brought in technologies that have not only enhanced industry efficiencies but have helped promote a culture of innovation within the region as well. Such emphasis on innovation can lead to sustained economic growth, improved global competitiveness and more employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.

are pursuing this vision through the enforcement of highly effective intellectual property policies and the development of vital talent – especially among UAE Nationals – that align with national priorities; the provision of incentives for enterprises and international institutions that focus on innovation and applied research and encouraging collaboration between them; the exploration of new sources of research funding; and the creation and dissemination of a database on research conducted within the Emirates.

Borouge has been a valuable partner in promoting an innovative mindset among industry and society in the UAE. Through its Abu Dhabi Innovation Centre Borouge aims to fulfill its vision of becoming the leader of innovative plastic solutions in the Middle East and Asia. The centre will feature state-of-the-art tools for plastic processing and analyzing and will bring together scientists, engineers and technicians to develop petrochemical products that provide the best value to local, regional and international customers.

In the UAE, part of our aspirations is to build up a highly competitive knowledge economy that encourages innovation, R&D, the growth of key sectors and the ex- Distinguished Guests; pansion of value-added ones. We The global ethylene share of the

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Speeches Gulf’s petrochemicals producers is projected to reach 20 per cent by 2014, a long way from the 5 per cent share the region had at the beginning of the previous decade. Overall, the coming years will see the share of Gulf producers in global chemicals production capacity rise further to reach an estimated 16 per cent in 2015 and 20 per cent by 2020.

Similar to other Gulf states, Abu Dhabi’s latest projects will shift its focus from basic petrochemicals to performance chemicals and specialty products with the aim of stimulating the development of downstream industries, thus capturing higher value from their products and creating more job opportunities for our youth.

The Chemweyaat projects in Abu Dhabi will be a major step in this direction.

and Asia, making the Gulf region the future centre of gravity for the global petrochemicals and chemicals industry.

sizing the fact that in today’s increasingly competitive environment “sustained cooperation” among regional and global players and all stakeholders is key to a more promising future for the chemical industry, a future in which chemicals and petrochemicals produced by the Gulf help millions of people to realize the promise of better standards of living and greater prosperity.

Ladies and Gentlemen; The emerging markets led by China are a key outlet for petrochemical production from the Gulf region and may experience economic growth of up to 12 per cent in the coming year. The Gulf is expected to supply up to 40 per cent of incremental Asian I wish all the delegates attending demand for polyolefins in the this important event the very best medium term. for the coming two days.

A major challenge observed between 2009 and 2010 is the surge in remedy cases and protectionist actions from countries such as China and India and the EU to block imports and protect indigenous industries. While we in the Gulf are pleased that some of these cases in China and India had been closed we remain concerned about the potential impact of such measures on the development and health of regional and global industry. That said, we remain committed to free trade and expect all countries to abide by WTO rules.

The solid financial status of the Gulf’s petrochemicals players has enabled them to sustain their “globalized production” drive from 2009 to 2010 through further investments outside of the region to boost their regional supply chain networks. (e.g. Borouge, Sabic, Saudi Aramco, PIC JVs in China) as well as the acquisition of global players with leading technological expertise such as Nova which Abu Dhabi’s IPIC procured.

The longer-term trend continues to be one of global petrochemical supply migrating away from the traditional production centers in Europe and North America and towards low-cost regions such as the Middle East and in particular the Gulf region. Industry anaThank you and good day. lysts suggest that this downturn should see further migration of the industry to the Middle East I would like to close by empha-

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Speeches

Opening Keynote Speech by Engineer Mohamed Al-Mady Vice Chairman and CEO of SABIC Chairman of GPCA II. GPCA’s Growth and Role in the Region Now, I would like to make a few brief opening remarks on several topics that are important to our industry. The first is in regard to the rapid growth of GPCA and the role it plays in our region and our industry.

I.Welcoming Comments Good morning. I wish to extend a warm welcome to all of our forum attendees at the Opening Session of the 5th Annual GPCA Forum. We are delighted to have an outstanding array of distinguished speakers from around the world with great insight on our industry and the global economy. I am sure that we can all benefit from their vast experience and wisdom.

I want to express my appreciation to “Chemical Week” for the co-sponsorship of this forum; and also I want to give thanks to Dr. Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary General of GPCA, for

the leadership he has provided to GPCA and his outstanding efforts in putting on this forum.

The confluence of attractive hydrocarbon feedstocks, financial strength, and an excellent geographic location, have combined to establish a strong and rapidly growing petrochemical industry in the Gulf Region. Many companies involved in this dynamic industry have come together to form GPCA. GPCA has experienced rapid growth consistent with the growth of companies in the region allied with the chemical industry.

Last year at this time, there was significant apprehension regarding the condition of the global economy and the ability to achieve a sustainable economic recovery. There were uncertainties about the future for the As GPCA has grown, so have the chemical industry. activities of the trade association with respect to well organized Thankfully, we are on more solid workshops on common industry ground this year and while some concerns and needs. These inclouds still linger, the global clude Responsible Care®, prodeconomy and financial markets uct stewardship, safety/health/ are far healthier than last year at environmental issues, sustainthis time. ability concerns, training, logis-

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Speeches tical studies, and concerns regarding rising protectionism and barriers to free trade.

Our chemical industry is being challenged on many fronts, both legislative and regulatory, such as: product stewardship and safety, sustainability, protectionism, CO2 emissions and other critical issues. GPCA in collaboration with other regional trade associations provides a strong voice of advocacy for our industry as governments around the world seek remedies for these issues.

We must promote and protect our products which are consumed around the world, improving the daily lives of millions of people.

III. Innovation The theme of our forum this year and the topic of a number of speakers is: “Driving Value and Growth Through Innovation.”

While it appears that global economic growth is occurring, this is no time for complacency. In no small measure the future of our industry is dependent upon innovation and continuous improvement in all aspects of our activities.

It is important that we adopt best practices in our manufacturing operations, our marketing and logistical activities and our administrative and financial processes.

We participate in a global industry where all are seeking to grow

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and increase their market share.

Those that fail to continuously improve their operations will lose competitiveness and fall by the wayside.

Research and development activities can provide a route to new as well as improved processes and products. Additional progress can be achieved through development of proprietary technology which can yield an advantaged position – this can come through feedstock advantages, superior product yields, lower operating costs, advantaged product properties and performance, and superior customer service and product delivery systems.

Innovation is a key element in providing a stronger and more competitive chemical industry.

We cannot stand still – we must create and innovate. Innovation is key to remaining relevant players in the global chemical industry and achieving strategic objectives.

IV. Sustainability Now I would like to offer a few thoughts on sustainability and its importance to the future progress of our industry.

Responsible Care® is a core element in our program of sustainability. GPCA has been accepted in the International Council of Chemical Associations “Respon-

sible Care® Leadership Group.

The Responsible Care® ethic is the global chemical industry’s foundation for a sustainable future through “continuous improvement” in the industry’s environmental, health, safety and product stewardship practices.

Responsible Care® is a commitment to sustainability around the world.

Sustainability programmes within our respective companies can be advanced through the establishment of strategies and goals.

Strategies can be developed for operations, social responsibility, products, and our employees.

Goals for operations can consider specific targets for reduction in CO2 emissions, energy consumption and waste from our plants. Goals for social responsibility can include specific targets for programmes designed to improve children’s lives in markets we serve and goals for our employees to build sustainability training into their DNA and their daily work practices. Sustainability goals for products could include specific targets for innovation of products that have an improved environmental profile, such as lighter or recyclable.

There are many ways to achieve objectives that will improve the sustainability profile of our companies and innovation is a pathway for such achievements.

Speeches Also GPCA workshops and other resources can be valuable tools for our member companies in establishing a strong programme of sustainability.

V. Free Trade and Barriers Now, I would like to make a few comments regarding free trade and the rising threat of protectionism. While globalization and the relatively free movement of goods around the world had been a prevailing norm for many years, the global recession and its consequences have resulted in some voices now challenging the benefits of globalization, in some countries.

High unemployment in the western world and the substantial export of jobs from the developed world to emerging countries are causing some re-examination of the “free trade” concept by some politicians. Also, serious structural imbalances between countries with large export surpluses and those with large export deficits is creating an environment conducive to protectionist activities.

As the global economy has emerged from the recession, global trade flows have returned to the volumes of the mid-1980s.

So far, the group of 20 (G 20) has done a good job in having its members not fight the recession by introducing protectionism

measures. Nevertheless, there are still concerns that parochial political forces may still emerge to push for some form of protectionism in an effort to correct the large imbalances in trade.

This could come in the form of restricting foreign investment (e.g. Canada’s recent decision to block BHP Billington’s takeover of Potash Corp.) or currency devaluations by various countries.

Some have spoken of potential “currency wars”.

As participants in the global chemical industry – an industry whose customers and global citizens benefit from free trade – it is important for us to be strong advocates of free and open trade.

VI. Petrochemical Industries Update and Outlook The world has experienced a recovery from the recession and global trade has certainly recovered. There is little to no talk of a “double dip recession.” For the most part petrochemical producers recently have experienced improved margins, volumes and earnings. Most of the growth in demand has come from emerging markets while growth in the developed countries has been very modest.

This trend is likely to continue in 2011 with global GDP growth expected to be about 4.0%. The emerging economies will con-

tinue to lead the way with GDP growth estimated at: China (9.0%); India (8.3%); Russia (4.4%); South Korea (4.2%); Indonesia (5.1%).

The developed economies, burdened by heavy unemployment and impaired balance sheets, are expected to have slow GDP growth, some of whom are: U.S. (2.4%); Germany (1.9%); Japan (1.3%); UK (2.1%).

There are a few concerns for 2011, including: excess capacity in some petrochemicals, the potential for “currency wars” and potential bubbles in certain asset classes, particularly commodities; products such as metals, fixed asset financial products, equities, and possibly crude oil.

In general the outlook for the petrochemical industry is relatively good and once again the focus will remain on serving the emerging economies as the most significant source of growth.

This concludes my opening remarks and thank you so much for your kind attention and participating in this forum. We have some outstanding speakers for the rest of today and tomorrow.

Now I have the great honour of introducing our first keynote speaker, H. W. Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Bin Al-Oasimi, Minister of Foreign Trade for the United Arab Emirates.

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Speeches

Keynote Speech by Engineer Khalid Al-Falih President and Chief Executive Officer of Saudi Aramco Chemicals: A Middle East Pillar Industry During a Decisive Decade of Opportunity at the 5th Annual GPCA Forum

Your Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid AlQasimi; Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen; good morning.

It gives me great pleasure to deliver this keynote address and to express my appreciation to the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association for the important role it has played in helping the region become a major hub for the global chemical industry.

Chemical products are vital to each of us as institutions and individuals, but the petrochemicals sector itself is also pivotal for our

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national and regional economies, since it serves as both an enabling industry and an important driver of broad economic development.

Today I will first take stock of the many achievements of the Gulf’s petrochemical sector, and then look at the major challenges it faces between now and 2020—a period I believe will be a decisive decade of opportunity and potentially far-reaching transformation. The next ten years will be a golden age for our region in terms of economic conditions and commercial opportunities,

but we also face many structural and demographic hurdles and challenges. We must therefore seize this moment before it passes.

In the second part of my remarks I intend to outline three vital areas where the industry needs to do more in order to achieve business as well as national and regional economic objectives, before closing with a proposed set of demanding but doable targets for the Gulf’s chemical sector.

Ladies and gentlemen, this year global chemical sales will total roughly 3.5 trillion dollars, or nearly four times the combined GDP of the Gulf Cooperation Council nations. Worldwide, the industry directly employs more than 10 million people, and enables the indirect employment of another 50 million or more.

Here in the Gulf, petrochemical firms can take pride in three decades of sustained growth. Thirty years ago, our region was a net importer of chemicals, while this year GCC chemicals production will be around 40 billion dollars,

Speeches with the vast majority of that exported to global markets In the last decade alone both production and exports have multiplied more than six-fold in value terms, driven upwards by both rising global prices and growth in volume —an impressive achievement.

And yet, when we consider the enormous impact the industry has had in other parts of the world— particularly in terms of value addition and job creation—our enthusiasm is somewhat dampened, and we must concede that the Gulf’s chemical sector can and should do much more in the future.

To date, our petrochemical enterprises have been built largely on the competitive advantage derived from gas-based feedstocks, with refinery petrochemical integration only now starting to emerge. This area of the business, which offers many opportunities for product diversification and value addition has significant room for growth in the Gulf —and Saudi Aramco intends to take an active role in realizing those opportunities.

Furthermore, as I mentioned earlier, our economies still face structural challenges related to industrialization, economic di-

versification, and employment creation, particularly for young people.

Without a doubt we enjoy significant energy advantages: the GCC is home to more than one-third of the world’s oil and nearly a quarter of its natural gas reserves, enabling us to be a big player in basic petrochemical commodities.

But is the Gulf pulling its weight when it comes to the wider petrochemical and chemical industry?

The answer is—unfortunately— no, because when we consider downstream conversion and finished products—that is, areas of the value chain that are much richer in terms of value and employment potential—the broader region has a lot of catching up to do.

Consider that the Gulf’s share of global chemical production is only one-and-a-half percent, note that Europe’s 60,000 chemical companies employ more than 1.2 million people, and think about the fact that, on that continent, chemicals stand second only to pharmaceuticals in terms of value-added per employee: more than 80 percent higher than the combined average of all manufacturing sectors.

So how do chemical industries elsewhere in the world generate

such massive revenues, contribute so much to GDP, and create so many good jobs—all economic areas where our region needs to perform better?

The simple answer is wide product diversity and immense downstream value addition. In other words, they go far beyond petrochemicals to supply specialty and performance chemical products to industries like automotives, construction, electronics, textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and others.

Capturing additional value is critical as our nations travel along their inevitable journeys from a dependence on exports of natural resources to more diversified economies—not only to increase GDP, but also to create more well-paying employment opportunities than come with oil and gas production, refining, and primary petrochemicals, all of which are more capital-intensive and less labor-intensive.

The development of industrial parks surrounding petrochemical facilities is a cornerstone of such a downstream development strategy, and Saudi Aramco is committed to driving that change with our sustained support for the first industrial estate for conversion industries in Saudi Ara-

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Speeches bia, the Petro Rabigh Plus Tech Park on the Red Sea, as well as the Value Park planned in association with our Jubail petrochemical venture.

Those highly advanced chemical complexes will be producing numerous specialty and performance materials including polyurethane building blocks, metallocene-based elastomers, glycol ethers, solution polyethylene, MMA/PMMA, nylon, and EP rubber —many of which have never before been produced in the Middle East. These products will in turn serve as feedstock for conversion and input for manufacturing industries, helping to grow and diversify our economies.

I am excited that Saudi Aramco and its joint-venture partners, Sumitomo Chemical and Dow Chemical respectively, will shortly be announcing further progress in both of these forward-looking ventures, which we believe will generate even greater momentum for the kind of fundamental transformation I am describing today.

It is also important to note that these value parks will allow us to further benefit from the clustering concept, where interrelated manufacturing and production companies, their customers, sup-

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pliers, service providers and associated institutions reinforce each other, thus helping all participants while also broadening economic and social development.

You see such clusters in the automotive industries of Bavaria, the American Midwest, and Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, with financial institutions in New York and London, and of course along the US Gulf Coast, which is home to many of that country’s petrochemical and chemical plants and facilities.

Clusters can also pay big dividends in our region, particularly when it comes to allowing supply chain improvements and integration and the maximization of local content, which is why Saudi Aramco’s integrated petrochemical ventures have been designed with this concept in mind.

In addition to these localized clusters, though, we should also think of the entire region as a potential “mega-cluster” for chemicals. That is, we should look at the Gulf as a unified whole, rather than as a collection of smaller individual markets, or even worse as a set of boxes which are walled off from one another.

Even as we compete, we should concurrently collaborate at the regional level, with greater inte-

gration and cooperation providing critical mass in terms of local markets for chemicals.

Such a robust home market can in turn serve as a springboard to competing on the global stage, even while the GCC chemicals “mega-cluster” spurs economic diversification and new opportunities within our societies.

So what needs to change during this decisive decade for our region’s chemicals industry to contribute more effectively to economic development and diversification?

I see three key areas where we must focus our attention given the enormous impact and plentiful opportunities contained within this trio of interlocked and interlacing factors.

First, we must do more in the area of research, technology development, and innovation as a whole. R&D plays a central role in obtaining and maintaining a competitive advantage in the chemicals arena, since this is a business which at its essence is based on chemistry, material sciences and the clever manipulation of molecules to provide the innovative materials demanded by increasingly complex end-use applications and ever-more sophisticated customers. Successful chemical enterprises create

Speeches products which evolve alongside or even in advance of consumer demands, and thus they must continually expand their capacity for innovation.

Thus far our region has relied primarily on the licensing of technology from others, which is indeed a sound strategy for entry into new businesses. But, if we aspire to lead the global chemicals industry, our region must also become a leader in chemicals R&D. That won’t be easy and there will be very few overnight successes.

But in addition to the key role of chemical companies in this area, I believe part of the solution also lies with academic and research institutions throughout the Gulf, which have an important part to play in the development of knowledge in the areas of materials science, chemistry and basic research. By tying their initiatives back to the needs of the region’s chemical enterprises, these research centers can develop into significant hubs of excellence—and I believe they should impact developments on a global plane, rather than just on a regional level.

In this regard I would like to recognize the bold steps undertaken by SABIC in establishing research centers at leading Saudi

universities.

The second key transformative area is human resource development. We must recognize that success in chemicals hinges not just on fuel and feedstock supplies, industrial infrastructure and advanced technology, but also on our people’s skills, competencies and boundless capacity for innovation and entrepreneurship.

My friends, there is absolutely no reason we can’t set in motion a tidal wave of innovation and creativity here in our region, given that we have talented individuals with just as many grey cells as the scientists and researchers found elsewhere in the world.

Our companies should take a leading role in addressing those challenges—in partnership with others where possible, and on our own when necessary.

Of course, we all recognize the importance of the so-called STEM disciplines—Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics -- to improve as well as develop new technologies. But to convert breakthroughs into commercial successes, we also need to develop talent in areas like marketing, business development, finance, customer service, and supply chain management.

In fact, I believe we should start to assess the economic impact of petrochemicals and chemicals not only through revenue and value addition, but also in terms of the transformation of our human resources. That is, we should shift the discourse to the production of a greater number of increasingly sophisticated researchers, scientists, entrepreneurs and marketers, rather than just cranking out more gas-based commodities.

This observation brings me to my third but equally important area of endeavour: the cultivation of a dynamic environment for commercial success. Such an ecosystem encompasses a spirit of entrepreneurship, the availability of venture capital and other forms of risk financing, integrated value parks, and a welcoming business environment which encourages investment, growth, enterprise and value addition.

In fact, this is another area where chemicals can contribute to our region’s transition to a knowledge economy: not just leveraging talent and technology in their own right, but also creating a landscape which encourages innovation and innovators, and which has a greater capacity to deal with an increasingly complex, kinetic and ambiguous

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Speeches global business landscape.

At Saudi Aramco, we’re planting the seeds for this kind of environment through our new Entrepreneurship Centre, which provides local small businesses and startups not only with seed capital, but also learning opportunities to develop their business acumen and commercial capabilities.

Such a business-friendly ecosystem also needs to embrace the vital role that small and mediumsized enterprises play within the chemicals sector. Collectively, as part of our transformative efforts we should provide greater support to SMEs within the industry, since they play an essential complementary role in terms of innovation and exploiting unlimited niche opportunities. We should also encourage the growth of local customers, since together with SMEs, they can spur greater job creation and employment opportunities than the region’s handful of globally successful large players.

At the same time, a more entrepreneurial mindset can help us better appreciate the limitations of our traditional approach to the chemicals business, where everyone in the Gulf is basically fighting for a greater share of basic chemicals and commodities like ammonia, methanol, poly-

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olefins and ethylene glycol.

Instead, we should consider what the INSEAD business school has termed a “blue ocean strategy,” and strike out for relatively open waters like life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals food and nutrition, and advanced materials. By doing so, companies can move away from just seeking incremental improvements to achieving step changes that create fresh opportunities and even entirely new businesses within the Gulf.

In other words, the strategic challenge for the region’s chemical industry is not to grow from 40 billion to 50 billion dollars in per annum revenue, but to fundamentally alter its economic role within the region, to serve as a true enabling industry for other sectors, and to leapfrog other regions within the global chemicals landscape. That, my friends, requires ten years of transformation, not just tweaking around the edges of the existing business model. Therefore, I would like to close by encouraging those of us in the industry to accept four stretch targets which I believe are essential if the chemical industry is to take its place alongside oil and gas as one of the Gulf’s pillar industries:

• First, by 2020, the region’s petrochemical and chemical industry should increase sales by a factor of five. In a businessas-usual scenario, GCC chemicals production is forecast to rise from around 40 billion dollars to nearly 80 billion dollars per year over the coming decade—but I would like to see the year 2020 value hit the 150 to 200 billion dollars per annum range, capitalizing not only on the growth of existing enterprises, but more importantly creating new ones.

• Second, we should increase the chemicals-related workforce in the Gulf by a factor of ten in the next ten years—something I believe is achievable given the tremendous job-creation potential of specialty chemicals and associated downstream industries. As noted earlier, for every one person directly employed in the global chemical industry, five more people work in related businesses, and for every million dollars that is invested in the conversion industry 30 jobs are created, versus less than three jobs for the same investment in primary industry. I think that’s a pattern of job creation we should seek to replicate here on our shores.

Speeches • Third, while data are scarce, our region’s petrochemicals sector currently spends about a half percent of its revenues on research and technology development, compared to two-and-ahalf to three percent by leading European and American chemical companies. If we are to compete and lead globally, I believe the Gulf’s chemical sector must increase its R&D spending by a factor of ten, to roughly five percent of total sales.

That’s a big jump, but it is imperative that we catch up from our relatively low level of current nvestments. To give you some sense of the distance we have to cover, last year only one company in any business in the entire Middle East—namely SABIC— ranked among the top global thousand corporate investors in R&D, according to a study by Booz & Company. That must change and therefore a well-conceived, well-executed and sustained increase in R&D spending is essential for the long-term competitiveness of our regional chemicals sector.

• And fourth and finally, we must tackle the task of developing talent. It is very difficult to quantify this challenge.Traditionally, levels of R&D expenditures, the

volume of high technology trade or the number of scientists, journal articles or patents and licences have all been used to gauge the innovative capacity of advanced economies.

Since so little data is available for the Gulf, I will hazard a guess that at the most there are 500 true scientists, engineers and researchers currently employed in chemicals R&D across the GCC. I therefore propose that we establish an aggressive target of multiplying the number of R&D scientists and engineers at work in the sector by a factor of 50 over the coming two decades. Again, that is a stretch goal, but one I consider essential to the longterm health and competitiveness of the Gulf’s chemical industry.

My friends, over the last three decades the region’s petrochemical industry has benefited greatly from a range of policies and initiatives designed to establish and grow this critical economic sector. You have done much to capitalize upon those opportunities, and I congratulate the industry on its many accomplishments and landmark achievements.

Today, though, the time has come for chemicals to step up and take their rightful place as a pillar industry by growing the petrochemicals downstream in a

variety of ways that I have highlighted, with the aim of more rapidly expanding and diversifying our economies.

I firmly believe that this is a key strategy to pursue, if we are to create enough well-paying jobs for our youth—a task that will require us to grow our regional economies at a desirable, although admittedly challenging, rate in the range of eight percent per year compared to three or four percent per year at present.

That means ten years of sweeping change in which we extend the sector’s portfolio into more value added products and activities, place new emphasis on research and technology, invest significantly in the development of our people and their innate skills and talents, and create an environment which bolsters business, encourages a spirit of entrepreneurship, and rewards wise investment.

This can indeed be a decisive decade for our region and our organizations—and I encourage each and every one of us to seize the many opportunities and realize the massive potential which characterizes the Gulf’s petrochemical and chemical industries.

Thank you.

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Achievements

On the occasion of the Company’s 31st Anniversary GPIC President Presents Corporate Social Responsibility Certificate to the Deputy Chairman and the Managing Director

During a ceremony marking GPIC’s 31st Anniversary, Company President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery presented a Corporate Responsibility Certificate to both H.E. Mr. Yousuf Abdulrahman Al Zamil, Deputy Chairman and H.E. Mr. Anwar Saeed bin Salama, Managing Director of the Company.

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The presentation embodied the recognition by GPIC’s management of the efforts made by the two board members to further upgrade the company’s operations and to eliminate obstacles, thus enabling it to become an excellent operation and to win numerous awards at both regional and international levels. The two board members have made significant contributions to support national

Achievements manpower and provide Bahraini workers with all Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman, in suitable training opportunities to further enhance the Al Ghazal Ballroom at the Ritz Carlton Hotheir technical and professional skills. tel. The event was attended by a large number of Board Chairmen of major industrial companies, In a statement, the two Directors said that receiv- board members and invited guests. ing the Corporate Responsibility Certificate was a cause of pride for them and reaffirmed that this GPIC recently received the RC 14001: 2008, to becertificate was the product of efforts made by all come the first Middle East Company to receive this members of the Company including the Chairman certificate, awarded by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) and members of the Board of Directors, whose ex- after the latter conducted an overall evaluation of pertise and wise vision were behind drawing up the the Company’s operations and activities on 21st Company’s policies. They also praised the execu- January 2010. tive management team and ultimately the employees who have spared no efforts to carry out the du- Corporate Responsibility is a system that ensures ties assigned to them. the Company’s compliance with its responsibility towards its employees and their families and also The Directors expressed their thanks and appre- ensures the protection of the environment and the ciation to the Company’s Chairman and executive corporate social role towards various community management team, led by the President. They felt sectors, in addition to maintaining the safety of the that this was a kind gesture from them and wished plants for a risk-free operation. all the employees further growth and success.

The RC 140001 Certificate is the latest addition Meanwhile, GPIC President, Mr. Jawahery, said by GPIC to its record of systems endorsing its opthat the Company was proud of all its employees erations. The company already holds the Quality who spare no effort for the progress and advance- Certification ISO 9000, Environmental Management of operations. He praised in particular the ef- ment Certification ISO 14000, Information System forts made by H.E. Mr. Yousuf Abdul Rahman Al Security Certificate ISO 27000 and the PAS 99 Zamil, Deputy Chairman and H.E. Anwar Saeed Certification. All these certificates ensure a strict bin Salama, Managing Director, for their efforts in management system for the company’s operations, serving the Company for so many years. which enhance confidence in a safe operation and ensure high quality services for employees and st GPIC recently held its 31 anniversary ceremony customers alike, while maintaining plant safety under the patronage of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al and appropriate application of international enviKhalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister for ronmental standards.

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Rewards

GPIC Deputy General Manager Retires after Three Decades of Continuous Service

As part of GPIC’s 30th Anniversary Celebrations, Mr. Yousuf Abdulla Al Yacoob, Deputy General Manager, was honoured at his retirement. During three decades of continuous service Mr. Al Yacoob helped to lay the foundation stones of a Company that has today become one of the most esteemed petrochemical firms in the region.

Mr. Jawahery added: “Honouring Mr. Al Yacoob is an event that witnesses mixed feelings. As much as we are delighted that he will have a period of relaxation after many years of service, hard work and sacrifice, we are sad to bid farewell to a colleague with whom we enjoyed working during his many years of service.”

In the presence of Board members, executive managers and senior Company officials, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to Mr. Al Yacoob for his outstanding efforts. Along with his fellow pioneers, Mr. Al Yacoob had helped to establish the foundation stones, strategies and policies of the Company. He was indeed one of the finest engineers to join this pioneering Company and his efforts contributed to its growth, development and expansion.

He continued: “Mr. Al Yacoob is a dear friend and fellow colleague who has served the Company since its early years. With him, we have witnessed the difficulties and challenges faced by the Company in its beginnings. We have also enjoyed working together when we witnessed success and tremendous achievements. He has undertaken his duties perfectly and has been the best representative of the Company at different events and gatherings inside and outside the Kingdom.”

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Rewards Meanwhile, Mr. Al Yacoob expressed his thanks and appreciation to the management, led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Board Chairman and members of the executive management, led by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, for their friendly feelings as expressed during the ceremony. He also thanked the Company’s employees for their co-operation during his period of his service.

Mr. Yousuf Abdulla Al Yacoob was born in 1950 and has a B.Sc. degree in mechanical engineering from the UK. He began his career by working in Bapco for 13 years before joining GPIC on 3rd December 1983. He also attended a number of intensive training courses, both within Bahrain and

overseas. He took up several key positions in GPIC including the posts of Project Manager, Maintenance Manager, Technical Services Manager and then Plant Operations Manager until his appointment in January 2008 as Deputy General Manager.

Mr. Al Yacoob is a member of BTTS and is an active member of the Board of Directors of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority and a member of the Board of the Processed Gas Association.

He is also a member of several professional and social associations such as AIChE, the Bahrain Society of Engineers and was also a former member of the Arab Fertilizer Association.

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Visits

GPIC President Meets the Judging Panel of the Education Ministry-GPIC Environmental Research Competition

As part of the ongoing co-operation between the Company’s programmes which serve the local Ministry of Education and GPIC, Mr. Abdulrah- community and the environment. man Jawahery, GPIC President, met the judging panel of the Education Ministry-GPIC Scientific At the opening of the meeting, Mr. Jawahery welResearch Competition. The event is one of the comed members of the judging panel and expressed

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Visits his appreciation and thanks to H.E. Dr, Majid bin this constructive co-operation aimed at enhancing Ali Al Noaimi, Minister of Education, for giving the principles of scientific research in the Kingthe opportunity to the Company to participate in dom’s schools. He also lauded the commitment of this competition. This event complies with GPIC’s the Ministry to develop the programme in co-oppolicy of involvement in environmental protection eration with the Company. He added that the Minprogrammes.

istry is keen on ensuring that students take part in such research activities as an introduction to their

The Company President expressed pride in the development of culture and thought. success of this initiative which supplements the Company’s environmental and community pro- Dr. Al Khozai urged students to take advantage of grammes. The event is now in its 6th year and still this successful programme and called upon them to receives the strong support of both GPIC and the make the proper choice of topics presented and to Education Ministry in encouraging students to compile information and field surveys in order to show interest in research and productivity with the successfully complete their projects. aim of serving the community and protecting the environment.

Education-GPIC Environmental Research Programme, which was launched by GPIC jointly with

Mr. Jawahery praised the role of the Company the Education Ministry, is the first programme of through its environmental programmes, targeting its kind to support and sponsor scientific research different community groups, in addition to its proj- related to the environment. It is designed to proects launched within its manufacturing complex. mote research related to the environment among He expressed his appreciation of the efforts of the Bahrain schoolboys and girls, with a budget set by judging panel and secretariat of this pioneering en- the Company for financing such research projects. vironmental contest.

Meanwhile, Dr. Saeed Abdulla Al Khozai, Judging Panel member, expressed his thanks to GPIC and its executive management for the continuation of

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Strategies

GPIC Discusses Business Plans and Strategies in 2011 at the Strategic Extended Executive Management Meeting

As part of GPIC’s efforts to enhance and improve the quality of its operations and to boost productivity, the Company’s executive management and heads of departments held an extended meeting on Saturday 8th January, 2011.

members of the Board of Directors. The Board had thanked Company staff members for their highly professional performance during the previous year, especially in the areas of productivity, export and occupational safety and health.

The meeting focused on the most important achievements of 2010. The talks also dealt with the short-term plans and strategies due to be applied during 2011 and a review of the long-term fiveyear plans and strategies, with a view to promoting the Company’s operations and maintaining the high performance levels of its employees.

Mr. Jawahery praised all the employees in the Company for their sincere efforts that had contributed to raising the levels of efficiency, profitability and productivity, while taking into account necessary safety measures and a rationalization of expenses.

The meeting was opened by a presentation made

by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President.

He conveyed to the participants in the meeting the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to His Highness the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman and

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The Company’s President talked about the most important tasks to be carried out in the near future and the challenges facing the Company during the coming phase of operations, which call for all members of staff to work cohesively as one team in order to realise the Company’s objectives and policies.

Strategies

Mr. Jawahery dealt with the Company’s policies and vision and noted that it was imperative to revise such policies to keep abreast of international developments in the petrochemical industry. He underlined the need to take into account all external effects and difficulties that may cast their shadows on the Company’s growth.

The meeting dealt with the plans, strategies and proposals to be carried out during 2011. The objectives laid down for each of the Company’s departments were discussed. Targeted growth was outlined and much hope expressed about being able to achieve such growth during the current year.

Other topics on the agenda of the meeting included cases of absenteeism, the total management system and the General Employees’ Meeting 2011 and these were discussed to find out the best means of boosting performance and productivity.

This was followed by a review, presented by department managers, who compared past results and future plans with the actual results achieved during 2010. They talked about how to deal with the difficulties faced by GPIC, while seeking to achieve At the end of the meeting, the executive manageits objectives. ment members and heads of department agreed to The Company’s achievements came under review continue the policy of modernization and developduring the meeting and they were considered over- ment of the Company’s operations whilst seeking all to represent a continuation of the record suc- to further enhance productivity and encourage incesses realized by the Company during the last few novation as the established principles of running decades, thanks to the contributions of the manag- the business. ers and staff members.

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Participation

GPIC Takes Part in 5th GPCA Forum

Under the patronage of H.E. Shaikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of External Trade, the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association held its 5th Annual Forum from 7- 9th December, 2010.

The event was organized by the Dubai-based GPCA and GPIC took part in it with a delegation led by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President and a number of senior managers and officials. This annual forum attracts worldwide interest from major international and Gulf companies as it is attended by many

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participants from different parts to work in this industry. of the world, representing key in- Since its launch in 2006, this dustrial companies.

Forum has witnessed a growing interest from international and Commenting on the conven- Gulf companies and is well attion of this Conference, Mr. tended by many delegates repreAbdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC senting major industrial compaPresident, GPCA Board member nies from all parts of the world. and Chairman of the GPCA Re- The significance of this Confersponsible Care Committee, said ence stems from its focus on disthat GPIC’s participation in this cussing key scientific and practievent was a genuine example of cal topics that are of interest to the great concern shown by the leading global companies. ParCompany to the importance of ticipants show special interest in developing national manpower sharing their expertise and learnand giving national citizens the ing from papers presented at the opportunity to gain the neces- annual event. sary experience and knowledge

Achievements

Renewal of Memorandum of Understanding between GPCA and US Chemical Association On the sidelines of the 5th Annual Forum of Gulf Petrochemical and Chemical Association which recently concluded its deliberations in Dubai, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Al Madhi, GPCA Board Chairman signed the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding with Mr. Cal Doley, President of the US Chemical Association in the area of Responsible Care.

Signing this Memorandum is designed to continue the effective partnership with the US Chemical Association and seeking to procure the transfer and making use of such expertise to meet the GPCA requirements. GPCA is seeking to set up responsible industrial organizations that care for the material, human and environmental aspects so that such organizations can develop and enhance the community’s capabilities.

Commenting on this occasion, Mr. Abdul Rahman Jawahery, GPIC President who is also chairman of the GPCA Responsible Care Committee said the signing of this Memorandum comes after GPICA realized the immense benefits gained from signing this Memorandum in the first instance with respect to its results as regards the exchange of responsible care expertise and systems which fully comply with the requirements and nature of GPCA member organizations.

Mr. Jawahery noted that GPIC was one of the leading Gulf companies that has played a pioneering role in the creation of GPCA in addition to being the first Gulf company to obtain the Responsible Care certification in June 2010, after having applied its requirements successfully and professionally.

Dubai played host to the 5th Annual GPCA Forum during the period from 7 to 9th December, 2010 under the patronage of H.E. Shaikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Foreign Trade Minister.

Taking part in the Forum were prominent speakers, decision-makers and world leaders of the chemical industry.

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Visits

President of ExxonMobil Chemical Visits GPIC stand at GPCA Forum and praises GPIC achievements

President of ExxonMobil Chemical Steve Pryor visited the GPIC stand at the exhibition held in Dubai at the side lines of GPCA’s Fifth Annual Forum.

in compliance with the world specifications and standards of safety and quality. He also expressed his admiration of the overall accomplishments of GPIC, which made it a wonderful example of fruitful Gulf cooperation, noting that the Company is The prominent guest was received upon arrival by now at the forefront of the regional petrochemical the GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery scene, and is one of the largest regional manufacand members of the Company’s delegation to the turers of basic petrochemicals and fertiliser.

Forum. He was briefed on the Company’s products, activities, current and future expansions as During the tour, the two sides exchanged views on well as the Company’s excellent performance in ways of further strengthening mutual cooperation the areas of safety and quality. and coordination. Mr.Pryor praised the presence of the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company in Mr.Pryor cited the efforts exerted to get GPIC’s such significant gatherings. He also acknowledged products delivered to the international markets the valuable efforts made by GPIC to protect the

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Visits environment and observe environmental regulations, wishing the company all success.

For his part, Mr. Jawahery expressed his sincere thanks and gratitude to the President of ExxonMobil Chemical for his kind visit to the company’s stand, stressing the company’s keenness to attend industrial events especially those hosted

by Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA). He noted that such a gathering is a chance to exchange views with counterparts in the petrochemical industry, expressing the GPIC’s willingness to enhance closer economic relationships with ExxonMobil Chemical on the basis of mutual benefit.

panies. They discussed the future of the industry, growth areas and what companies can invest in innovation centres to enhance their competitiveness in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

GPIC’s participation in this Forum came in accordance with the directives of H.E Shaikh Isa bin Ali AL Khalifa, Advisor to HRM the Prime Minister for Oil and Industrial Affairs and GPIC Board Chairman. Such participation also reflects the Company’s keenness to share and hear insight and experience from leaders of major global and Middle Eastern companies as well as keeping abreast of the latest technological developments in this vital sector.

Meanwhile, GPCA’s Fifth Annual Forum was held on December 7-9, 2010 in Dubai, UAE under the Steve Pryor is the president of ExxonMobil Chempatronage of H.E. Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Min- ical, the company running several projects in the ister of UAE’s foreign Trade. region, mainly in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, both in the refining and the petrochemical sectors.

Top-notch speakers, top-calibre networking recep- Currently, the company and its local partners (SABtions and special events took place during the two IC in Saudi Arabia and Qatar Petroleum in Qatar day event; all focused on growth in this extremely (QP)) are studying two new projects. The first one important petrochemical region. is a project with SABIC, which is estimated to cost $5bn, while the second is a petrochemical complex The GPIC president Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery to produce polyethylene and ethylene glycol, with led the company’s delegation to the Forum which an estimated budget of $6 billion. is considered to be the largest and most prestigious petrochemical gathering in the Middle East, if not The project with QP will utilize feedstock from globally. gas development projects in Qatar’s North Field and produce a range of premium products to serve The Company also participated in the exhibition global petrochemical demand, with a particular foheld on the sidelines of the Forum. The GPIC stand cus on the growing Asian markets. In Saudi Arahighlighted the Company’s products, plants and bia, its project with SABIC is going up for develenvironmental projects and it was visited by num- opment. ber of guests and participants.

This year’s event brought together over 1300 delegates from various regional and international com-

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Participation

GPIC at the 36th Meeting of the IFA Board of Directors

The 36th meeting of the International Fertilizer As- The meeting was attended by a high-level group of sociation Board of Directors and Chairmen of the speakers, experts and decision makers in the IFA Executive Committees of the International Fer- member states. tilizer Association was held in New Delhi, India, from 2-4 December, 2010 to discuss the current The participants took part in discussing a number challenges facing the world’s fertilizer industry.

of different issues and future plans for the development of the fertilizer industry to meet the world’s

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Participation growing food requirements.

to use modern and high tech irrigation methods to

The consensus was that the world’s fertilizer in- prevent the waste of water. dustry was going ahead with steady steps in spite of difficult prevailing conditions and the conse- The GPIC President further said that it is imporquences of the financial crisis that swept world tant to provide farmers with suitable facilities and markets in late 2008, helped by the steady price to ensure the freedom of trade systems related to of natural gas (which is the main feedstock for the agricultural products in addition to finding radical manufacture of nitrogen fertilizers) and owing to solutions for minimizing the impact of farming on its stable price in the foreseeable future.

global climatic conditions.

The steady growth of the fertilizer industry and its On the sidelines of the Conference, Mr. Jawahery ability to adapt to various conditions have had a presented a commemorative plaque to Mr. Ajay great impact on attracting huge financial invest- Shriram, IFA President in appreciation of his efments, amounting to $45 billion during the last 3 forts to sponsor this conference and organize it. years, in addition to current investment projects and plans estimated at around $85 billion, due to GPIC took part in this Conference through the be completed during the next 5 years.

presence of a high level delegation led by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and consisting of Mr. Fadhel

In remarks given by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, Al Ansari, Technical Services Manager, Mr. YasGPIC President, he spoke about how to overcome sir Abdul Rahim, Safety, Health and Environment the challenges faced by the fertilizer industry Manager and Mr. Khalid Al Binali, Engineering worldwide. He said it must first start to acquaint Services Superintendent. community organizations and groups with the importance of the fertilizer industry and its links to agricultural production and food security.

He added that it is imperative that all those concerned with these issues look for ways and means to provide secure water resources for farming and

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Visits

GPIC Hosts US Energy Delegation

On Sunday 12th December 2010, GPIC played host to the US energy delegation, led by Mr. David Philips, Board Chairman of the American-Arab Chamber of Commerce, who were on a visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain as part of a regional tour.

The delegation was received upon arrival in GPIC by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, members of the executive management and senior officials.

Mr. Jawahery welcomed the visiting US delegation and conveyed to them the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khal-

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ifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman. He assured them of the strong interest in strengthening ties of co-operation between the United States and the Kingdom of Bahrain in all spheres, especially with regard to the trade and industrial relations that the two countries seek to consolidate.

Mr. Jawahery also expressed his pleasure at the visit of this select group of the American-Arab Chamber of Commerce and noted that the Kingdom of Bahrain was a lucrative land of investment and successful joint ventures as it had an integrated infrastructure

and established systems for the protection of corporations and investors in addition to enjoying a secure and stable environment.

The GPIC President added that the free trade agreement between the two friendly countries had undoubtedly contributed to furthering and strengthening trade relations between the two sides, especially with regard to the petrochemical sector, considering that the US is one of the key importers of GPIC products. He further said that US companies apply the Consumer Protection Programme that allows cooperation only with companies

Visits

that have quality certificates and apply social responsibility programmes. This has enabled GPIC to be one of the major suppliers of US companies.

The Company’s President further said that his selection for membership of the US National Safety Council was also a further demonstration of the existing cooperation between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United States.

Later, the visiting US delegation was given a briefing about the Company’s operations, productivity and exports, covering a review of the key achievements of the Company in the areas of safe-

ty, quality and the protection of the environment. The group was later informed about the CO2 Recovery project that was recently launched by the Company. Training programmes offered by the Learning and Leadership Academy and the E-Learning Centre were also highlighted during the discussions.

At the end of their visit, the US delegation said that they were impressed by the high standards achieved by GPIC and its remarkable accomplishments in the areas of operations, productivity and environmental projects.

Members of the American dele-

gation expressed their best wishes to the Company, its management and staff for further growth and success.

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Visits

GPIC Hosts Top Toastmasters International Executive Team

On Tuesday 11th January 2011, a delegation from Toastmasters International made an inspection tour of the GPIC Complex.

Upon the team’s arrival, Mr. Ahmed Abdulla Nuruddin, General Manager Manufacturing, welcomed the visiting delegation that included Mr. Daniel Rex, Executive Director of the Organisation’s World Headquarters, Mr. Theo Black, International Affairs Director and a number of the Organisation’s members, in

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addition to its Bahrain representatives.

During the meeting, which was attended by senior officials in the Company, in addition to GPIC Toastmasters Club members, Mr. Black praised the effective role played by this organization in developing leadership skills and promoting its members’ personal public speaking skills.

He praised the vital role played by the GPIC Toastmasters not only in the development of the

employees’ skills but also in the development of community members through holding educational workshops and holding joint meetings that contribute to the development of human resources in the Kingdom.

Mr. Daniel Rex expressed his appreciation of the continuous support provided by GPIC to Toastmasters International in the region. This support has enabled the continuous growth of Toastmasters and public speaking

Visits clubs. He added that the corporate concern with toastmasters’ activities enhances the organisation’s objectives in promoting a public speaking culture among members of the international community. He noted that though its serious and genuine interest in the Toastmasters programmes, GPIC had encouraged the organisation to ensure that this programme becomes an integral and basic part of higher education programmes in universities.

This enables students to keep pace with the requirements of the world labour market that suffers from scarcity of leadership skills capable of communicating technical ideas to the management and consumers.

The Company President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery attended part of this meeting and thanked officials of Toastmasters International for their visit to the Company, to learn about its role in the manufacture and export of high quality petrochemical products.

He added that GPIC considered the Toastmasters’ programmes as an integral part of the training and development of young managers.

to take advantage of the golden opportunities offered by the programmes provided by such clubs.

During the meeting, Mr. Ahmed Nuruddin, Mr. Daniel Rex and Mr. Theo Black honoured a number of GPIC Toastmasters Club members for their achievements in the areas of leadership and public speaking during 2010.

Later, the visiting delegation was briefed about production, operation and exports operations and reviewed achievements in the areas of safety, quality and the protection of the environment. The discussions also dealt with the recently launched CO2 Recovery Plant Project and the training activities offered by the Academy of Leadership and Learning and the E-Learning Centre.

The guests made an inspection tour of the Complex, during which they visited the plants and environmental projects within the Complex, where both industry and the environment exist harmoniously side-by-side.

They also visited the H.R.H. Princess Sabika Perfumed Plants Garden and then inspected the Medical Herbs and Plants Garden, where rare and almost exMr. Jawahery added that GPIC tinct medical herbs are grown. is always keen on urging and encouraging young Bahrainis The guests visited other projects to join Toastmasters’ Clubs and such as the Charity Fish Farm

and the Bird Sanctuary. This was followed by a visit to the Company’s Club that offers wellequipped facilities for employees’ use.

The Toastmasters International’s Executive Director expressed on behalf of the delegation members his sincere admiration for this major industrial complex, which is considered as a model example of joint Gulf co-operation. He described the visit as a good opportunity to have a close look at a striking example of a successful Bahraini company that is committed to the protection of the environment. He also praised the interest shown by GPIC in extending its support to Toastmasters’ programmes.

This was the first time that the Toastmasters International Executive Director had visited one of the Toastmasters’ Clubs outside the United States, which was a demonstration of the high status of the Kingdom of Bahrain in Toastmasters and leadership activities. The first Toastmasters Club in the Middle East was set up in Bahrain in 1964 and was followed by the creation of some 50 clubs that included the GPIC Toastmasters Club in early 2008.

It is the only Toastmasters Club in Bahrain that holds its meetings in both Arabic and English.

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Visits

Qatar Petrochemicals Chief Visits GPIC Stand at GPCA Forum

On the sidelines of the 5th Annual Forum of Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) which was recently concluded in Dubai, H.E. Dr. Mohamed Yousuf Al Mulla, of the Qatar Petrochemical Company (Qapco) visited the GPIC stand at the exhibition, held on the sidelines of the Forum.

Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, who briefed him about GPIC’s High quality exhibits, welcomed him. Dr. Mohamed saw a scale model of the Company’s plants and environmental projects in the GPIC Complex.

H.E. Dr. Mohamed Yousuf AlMulla exchanged talks with Mr. Jawahery about means of further enhancement of bilateral relations between GPIC and Qapco.

Mr. Al Mulla praised the regular presence of GPIC at such events.

Meanwhile, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery expressed his thanks to Dr. Al Mulla for his visit to the GPIC stand and praised the close ties with the Qatari Company in the field of exchanging expertise.

He underlined the strong interest

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of GPIC in participating in GPCA sponsored events. Mr. Jawahery noted the huge projects carried out

by Qapco which contributed to bringing about a qualitative shift in this growing and prosperous industry worldwide, making the Gulf region one of the most vital regions in the petrochemical industry. Dr. Al Mulla is in charge of the management of numerous multimillion-dollar projects some of which are operational and others still in progress. In addition to Qapco, Dr. Al Mulla also manages Ras Laffan Olefins Company and the Qatofin Project.

During the Forum, GPIC set up a special stand displaying the Company’s products, plants and environmental projects. Several prominent figures and participants at the Forum visited the stand.

GPIC’s participation in this event is a true demonstration of the interest shown by the Board of Directors led by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, GPIC Chairman in taking part in such events for the exchange of ideas and expertise.

These events are an excellent opportunity for the Company’s Bahraini employees to gain an insight into this specialized industry. The Company was represented by a high level delegation led by Mr. Jawahery and a number of senior executives and officials of the Company. Dubai played host to the 5th Annual Forum of Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association from the 7th to 9th December, 2010 under the patronage of H.E. Shaikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade and attracted the participation of a group of reputed speakers, decision makers and leaders of the petrochemical industry from around the world.

Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) is the first association of its kind in the Middle East. Since its inception in March 2006, its activities have witnessed a great deal of growth and opened up a new era of fruitful co-operation among the Gulf States in the chemical and petrochemical industries.

Rewards

Ideal Mother Honoured by GPIC

During the annual function held recently by GPIC, the management selected the wife of our employee Mr. Abdullah Husain to be the ideal mother of the year owing to her sincerity and sacrifices.

Commenting on this choice, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, said that the Company is not only concerned with making profits but it is also interested in showing that it is a caring employer when it comes to its national human resources. They are indeed the real wealth and assets of the Company on all levels, he added.

Mr. Jawahery further said that the Company provides its employees with convenient working conditions in addition to offering training opportunities at the E-Learning Centre and the Leadership

Academy or through sending them on overseas scholarships.

Care for the employees extends to their families as the Company makes sure of organizing recreational and social events for families on various national and social occasions. Special programmes and events are organized for the employees’ children during the summer holidays and the GPIC Club plays host to some of these events in the summer.

Commenting on the scholarships offered by GPIC to gifted students, Mr. Jawahery said that the Company has been keen for many years on sending abroad employees’ children on scholarships to attend university courses to achieve the highest academic degrees.

Higher education is therefore a

possibility for many of the employees’ children.

Concluding, the GPIC President said that the Ideal Mother Competition is a new award and yet another way of expressing the management’s appreciation of the employees’ contributions in all circumstances. Bahraini mothers are known for their sacrifices and care in looking after their family members, in addition to playing an effective role in the Kingdom’s development.

The event was held on the occasion of the Company’s 31st anniversary, under the patronage of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa. H.R.H. the Prime Minister’s Advisor for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman.

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Toastmaster

GPIC Toastmasters Club Concludes its 2010 Meetings In the presence of GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery and Mr. Khalid Al Qaoud, Deputy Governor of the Toastmasters for Sector 79 for Education and Training, the GPIC Toastmasters Club held its final meeting for 2010.

The 51st meeting was held in English on Wednesday 29th December at the GPIC Club House, concluding yet another eventful year.

On this occasion, Mr. Jawahery delivered a speech in which he said he was happy with the continuous achievements of the Club and the efforts of its members to raise the standards of public speaking in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The Company President dealt with the effective role played by Toastmasters Clubs in general in enhancing personal skills and fa-

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Toastmaster cilitating the acquisition of effective communication skills with others in addition to increasing self-confidence.

Mr. Jawahery added that the Company was seeking to provide suitable conditions for Club members to play their role in the community and to further their experience in this vital field. He pointed out that GPIC gave the Club every possible support by sponsoring Toastmasters Conferences hosted within Bahrain. In addition, GPIC always co-operates with the Education Ministry by organizing joint events in the art of public speaking for students of government schools.

Meanwhile, Mr. Khalid Al Qaoud praised the outstanding performance of the Club members during 2010 at the level of the Gulf in particular and the Arab world in general. He recalled the successful presentation of the

GPIC Club representatives at the public speaking contest held recently in Kuwait.

The meeting included a number of educational items that included pre-prepared speeches depending upon public speaking skills acquired during earlier meetings.

The winner during the meeting was Mr. Mohamed Al Maskati as the Best Speaker and Mr. Ali Fakhro, of GPIC Maintenance Department as the Best Impromptu Speaker.

At the end of the meeting, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery honoured all the winners and thanked all the participants at the meeting for their invaluable efforts.

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Activities

At the Annual Safety, Health and Enviroment Week GPIC Distribuutes Safety Equipment to Employees

As part of the GPIC Safety, Health and Environment Week, the Company distributed gifts of home fire extinguishers and smoke detectors as part of the management’s concern with using such items at home for safety following a recent spate of house fires which could have been avoided if such vital items were available at home.

Meanwhile, GPIC distributed brochures explaining how to avoid fires and how to deal with them in case of such unfortunate incidents. Also presented were brochures covering a wide range of safety topics in easy-to-understand language for the employees and their families. The Company firmly believes in the importance of enhancing safety awareness in the local community.

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Activities This year’s events coincide with achieving 12 million man-hours without lost time accidents culminating in a whole year of unprecedented achievements in the areas of safety, health and the environment.

In an unprecedented event in the Middle East and the Arab world, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, has been appointed as a member of the Board of the National Safety Council in the United States, in addition to his appointment as a member of the Board of Trustees and a member of the Council’s Strategic Committee, which is an international recognition of Mr. Jawahery’s contributions and the outstanding level achieved by Bahraini citizens in the areas of safety.

chemicals sector from the Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) for the ninth time in 10 years and the Safety Award from the British Safety Council for the third successive time. Such awards are a worthy recognition for the Company.

During the Company’s maintenance turn around in March 2010, GPIC was able to complete all maintenance operations safely, smoothly, with a high level of efficiency and without any lost time accidents.

During 2010 GPIC’s achievements included acquiring full membership of the international Responsible Care initiative, designed to activate the role of chemical companies in partnership with the community in the areas of safety, health, environment and security within a record period of time.

In addition, GPIC won the safety shield for the

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Support

GPIC Supports Al Wafa Centre On Sunday 26th December 2010 senior managers, led by Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, paid a visit to Al Wafa Centre.

They were welcomed on arrival

by Mrs. Farida Abdul Rahman Al Moayyed, Board Chairperson of the Al Wafa Autism Centre, who welcomed the GPIC group and briefed them about the Centre’s operations.

During the meeting, Mr. Jawahery presented the Company’s contribution in support of the Association’s efforts to help special needs children and to provide care and rehabilitation services to them, in order to enable them to lead a happier life in the community.

Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and Chairman of the Company. It is also on confirmation of the Company’s policy of undertaking its social responsibility by providing all possible support to all humanitarian institutions and charities in the KingMr. Jawahery said that this con- dom. tribution was in response to the For her part, Mrs. Farida Al directives of H.E. SHaikh Isa bin Moayyed expressed her thanks

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and appreciation to GPIC for its efforts and support to various sectors of society at large, especially in backing voluntary organizations and charitable associations.

She added that this generous support would be used to provide better quality services to the Centre’s children and expressed the hope that other private sector companies and firms would follow GPIC’s example.

The Bahrain Association for Mental Retardation was established in 1992 by a group of specialists. The Association’s objectives include offering rehabilitation, education, training and recreational services to this group of special needs children by providing counselling for the families of such children. The Al Wafa Centre is an offshoot of this Association.

Visits

A Delegation from EUC Vest visits the GPIC

GPIC’s President Mr. Abdul Rahman Jawahery received in his office a delegation from the EUC Vest Training Institute in Denmark, currently visiting the country to exchange training experience and skills between the Danish institute and Bahrain Training Institute (BTI). Present were members of the GPIC’s executive management and senior officials.

Mr. Jawahery welcomed director of EUC-Vest Peter Armstrup and his delegation and acknowledged the importance of this visit. He conveyed to him the best wishes of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister

for Industrial Affairs and GPIC Chairman, stressing the need to enhance co-operation in training by making good use of the experience of the two countries, as it represents the basis for developing human resource skills consistent with latest administrative and technological systems.

The GPIC official admired the broad selection of vocational training programs offered by the Institute, which is considered to be one of the most modern vocational training centers in the world.

Later, the guests were briefed on the Company’s operations and the adopted institutional work which has enabled the Company to win impressive

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Visits

awards, highlighting the company’s global reputation. Then, Danish delegation was briefed on the Company’s achievements in the areas of production, safety, marketing and environment.

Mr. Jawahery then explained to the guests the intensive and comprehensive training programs offered by the Academy of Leadership Learning and the E. Learning Center. This was followed by a tour to the Company’s plants and environmental projects such as the Princess Sabeeka Aromatic Plants Garden, Charity Fish Farm and Bird Sanctuary.

On behalf of the delegation, Mr. Armstrup expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali AL Khalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Oil and Industrial Affairs and GPIC Board Chairman.

He also expressed his admiration for the overall accomplishments of GPIC, which made it a wonderful example of fruitful Gulf cooperation.

Starting in 1883, EUC Vest is considered to be one of the modern vocational training centers in the world. A complete new building was opened in 2002 with an open learning centre that includes At the end of the day’s visit, the visiting delegation areas for IT, library and book, stationery and tuck toured the Company’s club where they attended a shop. luncheon held in their honour.

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Visits

Today EUC Vest is offering a broad selection of vocational training programmes, four study areas at the technical upper secondary school level and three programmes at the technical academy.

Vocational training is provided within six cat-

egories that include craft and engineering trades, building and construction, transport and logistics, Service industries, technology and Communication as well as food production and catering.

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Support

GPIC Sponsors the First International Self-Development Conference

As part of its efforts to support the Bahraini community, GPIC sponsored the First Conference of Self-Enhancement and Development due to be held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from the 11th to 14th January, 2011.

contributions over a long history of sacrifice and selfdenial in all areas of development, including the industrial sector. Although women account for only 10% of the workers in industry, they have played a key role on many occasions. He attributed the decline of this The sponsorship was in the form of financial support percentage to the fact that working in industry requires to meet the costs of the participation of 100 women in work on a shift basis round the clock. Indeed, this is not this international conference that was held at the Bah- possible for Bahraini women owing to their social and rain International Convention and Exhibition Centre. family duties, in addition to the fact that the Bahrain This support reflects GPIC’s determination to support Labour Laws do not allow women to work on shifts events that promote creative practices that may ensure in industry. a life free of tension and also support individuals in discovering their inherent skills and unleashing their Mr. Jawahery further said that Bahraini women have abilities to lead a better life and to enjoy better com- great potential and have creative capabilities that need munity conditions. support in overcoming all obstacles and providing the necessary climate for innovation and contribution. In In his remarks, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC this context, he praised the significant role played by President, said that this support comes in recognition of the Supreme Council for Women led by H.R.H. the role of Bahraini women and in appreciation of their Princess Sabika bint Ebrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His

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Support

Majesty the King and the efforts made to enhance the role of women and their status within the community.

Meanwhile, the GPIC President stressed that the Company was very keen on contributing to the different social, sporting and cultural events organized by civil societies organizations, with the aim of spreading knowledge and awareness among community members. He added that this prudent strategy as pursued by the Company focuses greatly on social responsibility, which is an integral part of the Company’s mission.

The Company does not seek only to make profits but also strives to develop Bahraini human resources and the Bahraini community as a whole.

Mr. Jawahery praised the policies pursued by H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali AL Khalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Oil and Industrial Affairs and GPIC Chairman, who always ensures that the Company gives its support to various events in the community to promote awareness and knowledge among Bahrain community members. He stressed that the Company would support the community and all its groups for the realization of human development as called for by the country’s leadership.

For his part, Mr. Ebrahim Al Dosari, Chairman of the Bahrain Meditation and Self-Development Society expressed his thanks to H.E Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Chairman and Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President for the generous support to the Conference, which is the first international conference of its kind to be held in Bahrain. He added this is not unusual for the Company, which is known for its sense of initiative, to support local events of various kinds. He called upon other private sector companies to follow suit by co-sponsoring this event.

The Conference of Self-Enhancement and Development was held under the patronage of H.E. Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister and was attended by experts and professionals from different parts of the world.

The Conference, held under the theme “Invigorating Your Inner and Potential Strength,” also attracted delegates from different parts of the Middle East and included workshops for the participants to explore and develop their skills and means of self-development.

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Activities

GPIC Holds its Annual Camping Event

As part of GPIC’s policy of enhancing “one family” ties and feelings and in order to further develop social interaction among the employees and their families, GPIC organized the first of its annual evenings for the Company’s employees at the Spring Camp held in Sakhir. The event was also held to recognize the efforts of hard working employees in

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the Company.

The event was held in a pleasant spring atmosphere and was attended by senior managers and a large number of employees and guests.

On this occasion, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, praised the thorough organization of this year’s camp and noted in particular the efforts and contributions of the Social Activities Committee’s members. He added that the event was a good opportunity for staff members to enjoy themselves by attending such recreational events.

He also thanked them for their remarkable achievements during 2010.

GPIC holds this event on an annual basis in the desert and the camping event is known for its organization and recreational programmes, offered as part of its annual activities. Folk music is usually played and raffle draws are held, offering attractive prizes to the winners.

Participation

GPIC Participates In Judging Environmental Public Speaking Contest

Electrical Maintenance Superintendent Mr. Abdul In a statement, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said Amir Al Mulla took part in judging the 10th Envi- that participation in this event is an integral part of ronmental Toastmasters Contest for Colleges and GPIC’s duty to promote awareness of the environUniversities held in Dubai, UAE from 29th to 30th ment in the Arabian Gulf region and also suppleNovember and which was organized by the Emir- mented the environmental awareness programmes ates Environment Group. 300 people, from all the already implemented by the Company. It is also the GCC States, attended the event.

outcome of experience gained by the GPIC

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Participation Toastmasters Club members.

ally, the GPIC-Education Environmental Research

The environment awareness enhancement pro- Programme is now in its sixth year and has so far grammes are divided into two parts. The first one been very successful. Through it, students have is internal and focuses on educating the workers contributed numerous innovative ideas. The GPIC and their families about the environment through President praised the Emirates Environment Group regular environmental lectures and by attracting for organizing this event and sponsoring annually employee participation in environmental projects the Arabian Social Responsibility Award, which launched by the Company. These include the Prin- was won by GPIC in 2008. Mr. Jawahery also concess Sabika Perfumed Plants Garden, the Charity gratulated the University of Bahrain for winning 3 Fish Farm, the Bird Sanctuary, the Medical Herbs prizes in this year’s competition.

Garden and the Olive Oasis. The employees’ families participate annually in safety, health and en- The Environmental Toastmasters Contest for Colvironmental competitions through writing essays, leges and Universities was held for the tenth time, paintings and the best kept home garden event, with the participation of more than 60 colleges and with prizes given to the winners.

universities from all the Arabian Gulf states and has the aim of enhancing environmental aware-

The second part of this effort focuses on commu- ness. The Bahrain colleges and universities that nity relations such as the close relationship main- took part in this year’s event were the University tained with the Ministry of Education to promote of Bahrain, Ahlia University and the Health Scienvironmental awareness. As part of this plan, our ences College. engineers visit more than 30 schools annually to deliver lectures about the environment, which has so far benefited more than 16,000 students. Every week, hundreds of students visit the GPIC environmental projects to become acquainted with the role of industry in serving the environment. Addition-

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Support

GPIC Joins Hands with Al Rahma Centre to Mark National Day

GPIC Women’s Committee members visited the Al Rahma Centre to participate with its members in celebrating the 39th National Day and Accession Day. The event was organized as part of the Company’s policy to attract the participation of all community groups in various social and national events.

During the visit, Committee members distributed presents to the Centre’s members and en-

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Support

joyed with them a number of recreational events held on this festive occasion.

Commenting on such participation, Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President, expressed his sincere thanks to the Women’s

Committee for this humanitarian initiative and praised the steady and continuous efforts made by the Committee.

He added that, under the directives of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.R.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs, the Company was keen on providing all kinds of support to local charities and women’s organizations. He considered that this humanitarian gesture was a demonstration by the Company of its social mission to serve the Bahrain community.

On this occasion, the Centre Di-

rector Mrs. Nadia Al Bakr said she was delighted with the initiative of the GPIC Women’s Committee to celebrate National Day with the Centre’s members. She said she can always rely on the Company to provide support for the less fortunate members of the community.

The Al Rahma Centre for Youth Care was established in March 2003 to provide services and programmes targeting youngsters suffering from moderate to severe levels of mental disability, through offering day care services. It caters for youngsters of both sexes, with ages ranging between 15 and 35 years.

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Achievements

Ali Al Raies: First Bahraini Competent Arabic Speaker

Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, GPIC President recently received Ali Al Raies, a GPIC employee who won the Bronze Medal for being a Competent Arabic Speaker from Toastmasters International to become the first Bahraini to win this prestigious international title. Mr. Jawahery congratulated Mr. Al Raies for this win and for his efforts at the GPIC Toastmasters Club.

The Company President said that the Company is very happy with the achievements of the GPIC Toastmasters Club’s at both local and regional levels. On the local level, the Club was able to qualify a number of its members had and discovered a significant number of talented speakers with skills in leadership and public speaking. The Club’s services are not only limited to its members also but also extend to the local community at large. The members regularly organize training courses and workshops for schools and civil society organizations.

In this context, Mr. Jawahery praised the role

played by Dr. Majid bin Ali Al Noaimi, Minister of Education who encouraged the art of public speaking among students as he honoured a number of students who had participated in public speaking workshops. Continuing, he said that the Company’s winning of this award had given a big boost to the GPIC Toastmasters Club and was proof of the strong concern and interest of GPIC in developing this activity. This is an embodiment of the Bahrain Vision 2030, which was launched by His Majesty the King. He added that GPIC had made the Toastmasters programme a basic element in the development of young managers in the Company and so far this exercise had been quite successful.

It should be noted that GPIC has provided generous financial and material support to the annual conferences of the Toastmasters Clubs over the last 3 years and has played host to a number of renowned international champions of public speaking who had performed in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

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Visits

Health Sciences College Students Visit GPIC On the 23rd November 2010 a 14-member group of students from the Health Sciences College visited the GPIC Complex to have a close look at the occupational safety and health systems adopted by GPIC at the Medical Centre.

The visit’s itinerary included a tour of the Training Centre, the Company’s plants and the Medical Centre. The students were welcomed by Dr. Mohamed Salem and the Acting Training Superintendent Abdul Ameer Al Mulla. The Centre’s officials briefed the students on the occupational health services provided to all the Company’s employees. All the students expressed their satisfaction with the international standards adopted by the centre for health in its monitoring services of the employees.

GPIC President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery said that the Company does not spare any effort to support students and youngsters in general as it opens its doors to students in different academic

institutions to learn and to take advantage of the programmes offered by the Company. GPIC gives ample opportunities to students to learn about its products, services and the standards adopted in its operational activities, to enable them to conduct their research assignments.

Mr. Jawahery pointed out the major support given

by GPIC to regular students on the Crown Prince’s International Scholarship Programme by playing host annually to a number of candidate students prior to their going on scholarships. This is part of GPIC’s contribution to ensure the success of this ambitious programme.

He also noted GPIC’s co-operation with the Ministry of Education through environmental lectures for students and the GPIC Award for Environmental Research. The Company also offers summer training opportunities to hundreds of school and university students.

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Achievements

GPIC’s Insurance broker wins several awards GPIC’s specialist independent broker Miller Insurance Services Limited (Miller) has finished the year 2010 on a high note by having its unique approach and achievements acknowledged with a number of prestigious industry awards.

In December 2010, Miller was awarded the title of Company of the Year at the Insurance Day London Market Awards 2010. This is a key event in the insurance calendar and recognises excellence, achievement and innovation within the industry.

The judges felt that Miller’s successful strategy

demonstrated very clearly the appeal of an alternative broking proposition for clients and employees alike.

Earlier in the same year and for the third consecutive time, they were named best direct and reinsurance claims broker in the 2010 Global Broker and Underwriter London Market Leaders survey.

This was a strong endorsement from peers in the London market for their wealth of experience in managing and collecting extremely complex and ground-breaking claims.

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Information

Environment Committee Newsletter Environmental Science Environmental science is an interdisciplinary academic field that integrates physical and biological sciences, (including physics, chemistry, biology, soil science, geology, and geography) to the study of the environment, and the solution of environmental problems. Environmental science provides an integrated, quantitative, and interdisciplinary approach to the study of environmental systems.

Related areas of study include environmental studies and environmental engineering. Environmental studies incorporates more of the social sciences for understanding human relationships, perceptions and policies towards the environment. Environmental engineering focuses on design and technology for improving environmental quality.

Environmental scientists work on subjects like the understanding of earth processes, evaluating alternative energy systems, pollution control and mitigation, natural resource management, and the effects of global climate change. Environmental issues almost always include an interaction of physical, chemical, and biological processes. Environmental scientists bring a systems approach to the analysis of environmental problems. Key elements of an effective environmental scientist include the ability to relate space, and time relationships as well as quantitative analysis.

GPIC Environmental Strategy Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company has felt the need for maintaining an environmental balance.

The project’s environmental impact was thoroughly examined and studied. All the necessary measures and steps were than taken to maintain such a balance. Although more than 25 years have passed since the plants (Ammonia, Methanol & Utilities) went on stream, all the plants are still operating according to the strictest local and international environmental standards. Gas emissions, waste water release and liquid effluents resulting from various processes have been minimized and are constantly monitored and controlled.

The urea plant, which came into operation in 1998, was subjected to the same system of environmental review at the design stage.

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Information

Health Committee Newsletter Effects of Smoking on the Lungs & Heart Lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, are largely due to smoking. Heart disease, which includes coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke are far more common in smokers.

One of the effects of nicotine is constricting the blood vessels, which in turn causes high blood pressure. Another effect is raising your heart rate, which adds extra stress on your heart.

5 Reasons to Never Start Smoking:

•Even one cigarette slows down your cilia (the little “brooms” in your lungs). Heavy smoking kills the cilia.

•Mucus and dirt pile up and germs don’t get swept out.

•Tar sticks to the insides of your lungs and can cause cancer.

•Nicotine makes your blood vessels smaller.

•Formation of Carbon Monoxide.

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Information

Fish Farm and Bird Sanctuary Committee Newsletter Fish Farm

The fish farm at GPIC is an Environmental project, with its aim to increase fish resources in Bahrain. GPIC Fish Farm is an enclosure with a surface area of 2225 Sq. meters and is made of steel pipes, concrete, rocks, wood and synthetic materials. The first phase was constructed in October 1996 (600 Sq.meters). The second phase in January 2001 (1,000 Sq Meters) and in the final phase in May 2010, 625 Sq. meters was added. This project involves the culture of known species of fish in a fixed enclosure, exposed to all natural climatic conditions for a considerable length of time, specifically from the months of November to July. Each year we release 60,000 fish into the deep sea with a weight of 0.750 Kg to 1 Kg of each fish.

Local names: Sobaity (adult).

Emzaizy (young) Physical appearance : Body oval, elongated, Eyes small. Standard length of 2.6 to 3 inches.

Head and body marks: Silvery dark grey with Light bluish tinge; belly whitish. Scales on sides of body Dark spots, forming dark lines along each row of Scales. A dark spot at pectoral axial. Snout and nape darker than other parts on head. Dorsal spines silvery, Membrane grey with blackish free margin. Soft dorsal and caudal fins dark grey.

Bird Sanctuary

The south west coast adjacent to the complex attracts various migrating & resident bird waders that feed on marine creatures. This coastal strip was declared in 2002 to be a bird sanctuary in order to protect these birds & preserve their food supply.

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Information

Safety Maturity Ladder and the new challenge

Safety Culture Maturity Ladder

Continually Improving L 5

Improving Safety Culture

Cooperating Level 4

Involving Level 3

Emerging Level 1

Develop consistency and fight complacency

Managing Level 2

Engage all staff to develop cooperation and commitment to improve safety

Realise the importance of frontline staff and develop personal responsibility

Develop Management commitment

Increasing Consistency

GPIC has an honourable safety track record and seeks to continually improve all safety aspects. In

the coming months GPIC will introduce the ma turity ladder to have a clear goal to aim for and to measure performance. The maturity at the company will be assessed by questionnaires and improving existing systems. A main feature will be the introduction to zero tolerance to unsafe conditions, actions and behaviour. For this to improve GPIC’s maturity in Safety requires full commitment from all employees and those who work at GPIC. This article explains about the Safety Maturity Ladder.

With your help GPIC will ascend and continue to improve to achieve the pinnacle of success in Health and safety

Ten elements of the safety culture maturity model •Management commitment and visibility •Communication •Productivity versus safety

•Learning organization •Safety resources •Participation •Shared perceptions about safety •Trust •Industrial relations and job satisfaction •Training

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Information Level One: Emerging (Pathological) Safety is defined in terms of technical and procedural solutions and compliance with regulations.

Safety is not seen as a key business risk and the safety department is perceived to have primary responsibility for safety. Many accidents are seen as unavoidable and as part of the job. Most frontline employees are uninterested in safety and may only use safety as the basis for other arguments, such as changes in shift systems.

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Level Two: Managing (Reactive) The organisation’s accident rate is average for its industrial sector but they tend to have more serious accidents than average. Safety is seen as a business risk and management time and effort is put into accident prevention. Safety is solely defined in terms of adherence to rules and procedures and engineering controls. Accidents are seen as preventable.

Managers perceive that the majority of accidents are solely caused by the unsafe behaviour of frontline staff. Safety performance is measured in terms

Information of lagging indicators such as LTI and safety incentives are based on reduced LTI rates. Senior managers are reactive in their involvement in health and safety (i.e. they use punishment when accident rates increase).

all employees feeling valued and treated fairly is recognised. The organisation puts significant effort into proactive measures to prevent accidents. Safety performance is actively monitored using all data available. Non-work accidents are also monitored and a healthy lifestyle is promoted.

Level Three: Involving (Calculative) Accident rates are relatively low, but they have reached a plateau. The organisation is convinced that the involvement of the frontline employee in health and safety is critical, if future improvements are going to be achieved. Managers recognise that a wide range of factors cause accidents and the root causes often originate from management decisions.

A significant proportion of frontline employees are willing to work with management to improve health and safety. The majority of staff accept personal responsibility for their own health and safety.

Safety performance is actively monitored and the data is used effectively.

Level Five Continuous improvement (Generative) The prevention of all injuries or harm to employees (both at work and at home) is a core company value. The organisation has had a sustained period (years) without a recordable accident or high potential incident, but there is no feeling of complacency. They live with the paranoia that their next accident is just around the corner. The organisation uses a range of indicators to monitor performance but it is not performance-driven, as it has confidence in its safety processes. The organisation is constantly striving to be better and find better ways of improving hazard control mechanisms. All employees share the belief that health and safety Level Four: Cooperating (Proactive) is a critical aspect of their job and accept that the The majority of staff in the organisation are con- prevention of non-work injuries is important. The vinced that health and safety is important from both company invests considerable effort in promoting a moral and economic point of view. Managers and health and safety at home. frontline staff recognise that a wide range of factors cause accidents and the root causes are likely to come back to management decisions. Frontline staff accept personal responsibility for their own and others health and safety. The importance of

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Rewards

Ceremony Marking GPIC’s 31st Anniversary Long Serving Employees Honoured

Under the patronage of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Advisor to H.H. the Prime Minister for Industrial and Oil Affairs and GPIC Chairman, the Company marked its 31st anniversary at a major ceremony held at the Ritz Carlton.

In a speech at the opening of the event, the President Mr. Abdulrahman Jawahery welcomed the guests and conveyed to them the best wishes of the Board Chairman. He seized the opportunity to express his thanks to the Board of Directors for his

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appointment as President of the Company. He also congratulated the executive management on the new administrative structure which was approved by the Board and which will keep pace with the aspirations of the Board and shareholders for the expansion of the Company.

In his speech, Mr. Jawahery reviewed the achievements of GPIC during the year, achievements which enable the Company to occupy a unique position among industrial firms in addi-

tion to being a model example of joint GCC co-operation.

He also said he was delighted and proud that the Company’s ceremony coincided with the National Day and other national cerebrations in the Kingdom. He expressed his best wishes to the wise leadership of the Kingdom and the people of Bahrain.

The President said that everyone was proud of the achievements of the Kingdom of Bahrain during 2010. The most significant of these achievements is the

Rewards Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 which prudently translates the clear vision and foresight of Bahrain’s wise leadership in a move that everyone hopes and expects will achieve fruitful results. In this regard, this Economic Vision does not overlook the role played by Bahraini women who have been able to occupy key and leading positions, even Ministerial offices, in the country. He praised the move to dedicate the first day of December as Bahraini Women’s Day and commented that this is an initiative that reflects the extent of the respect held for women in Bahrain and an appreciation of their key role.

In the area of the oil and gas sector, the framework agreement for the deep gas project, which was concluded under the directives of His Majesty the King, will certainly provide the Kingdom with its local gas requirements. He described the agreement as a historic document that would meet GPIC’s requirements for natural gas in order to fulfill its future expansion projects.

In his speech, Mr. Jawahery praised the tremendous efforts made by the Company’s employees and their contributions to the team spirit enabling the Company to win numerous prestigious He added that, in spite of the prizes at regional and interna- global financial crisis that swept the markets, GPIC had contintional levels. ued its declared strategy, mak-

ing 2010 a year of achievements.

Armed with the ambitions and efforts of its staff members, who showed a sincere desire to main-

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Rewards tain the success and gains of this pioneering company, all these achievements had been made possible.

Mr. Jawahery said that the main achievements of the Company represented a golden recognition of Gulf industry in general and Bahraini industry in particular.

This includes but is not limited to the Outstanding Organisation Award for Training and the Development of Human Resources from the Bahrain Ministry of Labour. In 2010, for the second year in a row, GPIC won the GCC Award for Best Gulf Company for the Localisation of Jobs and the Development of Manpower.

On the international level, the Company was proud to win the Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Award for the Best Company in the World in the Chemical Industries Sector.

This Award focuses on the fields of occupational safety, health and the environment. GPIC also won the International Safety Award from the British Safety Council for the third successive time. Another award, this time for effective communication, was won by the GPIC toastmasters Club from the International Toastmasters Board. Moreover, GPIC was also selected to become the first Middle East organization to receive the RC 14001:2008 certification

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for Social Responsibility from DNV. In addition to production, safety, environmental and marketing achievements, GPIC was able to make high levels of profits. The urea plant was able to register international records for continuous production by registering 820 successive days of production without any shutdown. The year also witnessed full operation of the Carbon Dioxide Recovery Unit with a high level of efficiency and a production capacity exceeding 450 tons daily. This project, which is the first of its kind in the Middle East, contributed to an increase in the outputs of the urea and methanol plants of around 8%. Production of ammonia amounted to 417,591 metric tons, methanol output totaled 406,215 tons and production of urea reached 611,593 tons.

GPIC’s President underlined the

fact that GPIC is a living embodiment of joint Gulf integration, hence it enjoyed considerable support from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, H.R.H. Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Prime Minister and H.R.H. Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander. He also paid tribute to the wise directives of H.E. Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa that made such progress and excellence possible. In addition, the National Oil and Gas Authority led by H.E. Dr. Abdul Husain bin Ali Mirza, Minister of Oil and Gas Affairs, had played a key role in drawing up a sound approach to the future for the Company, side by side with sister companies in NOGA. Mr. Jawahery praised the significant efforts made by the executive management and all the staff

Rewards members. However, the ambitions of the Company do not stop at this point; hence a long-term strategy has been drawn up, extending to 2020, for developing on a firm footing the future vision of expansion with the support of home-grown skills and with valuable contributions from experienced members of staff.

Their efforts will surely contribute to the training and qualification of local national manpower for the operation and management of this industrial concern.

Meanwhile, the achievements of GPIC highlight a major responsibility of all its employees who thus have a duty to safeguard such successes in spite of all the different forms and shapes of the challenges to come.

The President called upon everyone to make more efforts and sacrifices to overcome the consequences of the unprecedented global financial crisis. He expressed faith in the ability of all the workers and employees to maintain the Company’s gains and to work hard to shoulder this responsibility.

Mr. Jawahery wished everyone a happy new year and expressed his best wishes to the staff members who had just retired after many years of continuous service in the Company. There is

no doubt that GPIC appreciates the loyalty of all the staff members who have done everything possible to assist the growth and progress of the Company.

Concluding, the GPIC President expressed his thanks to the Board members for their attendance at the ceremony and for their unwavering support for the Company’s operations. All this had played a significant role in GPIC’s achievements. He thanked the GPIC Workers Trade

Union for its exemplary efforts and for its trade union activities not only on the local level but also on the regional level.

During the event, long serving employees who had completed 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 years of continuous service were honoured. Also recognized at the ceremony were recently retired employees, hard working employees and the Best Department in the year 2010.

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