Two Bahraini businesswomen learned about women's contribution to global economic growth as they attended a G8 conference, held under the auspices of the G8 Deauville Partnership with Arab Countries in Transition at London.

At the invitation of the British Council, Golden Trust Training Company owner Dr Lulwa Al Mutlaq and Bahrain University assistant professor Dr Jameela Almahari took part in the event entitled "Supporting open economies, inclusive growth - women's role in Arab countries" that took place in Lancaster House.

The conference was aimed at creating new business partnerships between G8 and Arab businesswomen to achieve shared prosperity, taking into account women's increasing importance in the global economy, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication.

The sessions covered the role of women in international trade and ways to strengthen women's economic contribution through policy reform, entrepreneurship and finance, looking on ways to support conditions within the workplace and public life which support women's economic role.

The second day included a series of workshops led by prominent businesswomen, which helped in stimulating a challenging discussion around women's participation in areas such as financial services, creative industries, health and education, technology, retail and tourism, infrastructure and environmental services.

The conference ended with an award event to celebrate the contribution that Arab women had made.

The event was billed as a networking opportunity, supporting the development of partnerships in innovative sectors, with businesses from the G8, trading with the Arab world - in areas ranging from energy to retail and from IT to fashion.

"I had the opportunity to meet and network with some of the most powerful female entrepreneurs in the region," Dr Almahari said.

"Listening to their stories, challenges and how they were able to survive and compete in industries, some of which have been traditionally classified as male industries in areas such as transportation, construction and hotels, was a great experience," she stated.

"I was honoured to be among such a wonderful elite group of women, who set examples for Arab women and showed them what they are capable of achieving," she added.

Based on researches, over one billion women will enter global labour force over the next decade. Arab businesswomen are at the forefront of global markets and their business network will play an increasing role in promoting trade and creating jobs in the Mena and elsewhere.-TradeArabia News Service