The South Asia, Middle East and North Africa (SAMENA) Telecommunication Council's ‘Convergence to Doha 2011' began yesterday with an emphasis on the importance of collaboration and its impact on technological advancement. According to the CEO of the SAMENA Telecommunications Council, Thomas Wilson, the forum discussions yesterday had focused mainly on ICT in terms of broadband network, due to the ever increasing demand of the fastest growing regions in terms of economic growth and consumer technology. The gathering consisted of a large number of industry experts, decision makers, leading telecommunications executives, vendors and service providers. Wilson believes that the gathering is the most important event of the year, because ICT has a very influential and imperative role in economic growth, transforming the way humans communicate, network and live. The CEO of Saudi Telecom Company Group and Chairman of the board of the SAMENA Council, Saud al-Daweesh, said the conference allows for opportunities for industry leaders to exchange industry insights. “The region is filled with exceptional potential and it is up to every operator in this room to raise the expectations of our consumers and bring about a greater era of telecommunication technology,” al-Daweesh said. Amongst the attendants present were several key figures, such as Ross Cormack, CEO of Qtel Group's Nawras and Qtel Group's Executive Directos of Qtel's Technology Business Unit, Abdul Aziz Fakhroo. During the gala dinner the fourth Annual SAMENA Awards were held, which recognise leadership and excellence in the telecommunications industry within the region. BM
