With the expansion of sea trade through the Middle East and various challenges to it, businessmen and government officials from around the world will meet in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in April for the World Ports and Trade Summit 2012.

Rising costs and political instability and piracy in the region will be the focus at the summit to be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre April 2 to 4.

Over 4,000 delegates representing port authorities, shipping lines, cargo operators, logistics companies, technology solutions providers and investors will attend the summit to discuss the state of the industry.

An exhibition showcasing cutting edge services and technology related to sea trade will also be part of the event.

The first World Ports and Trade Summit hosted in Abu Dhabi in 2011 drew over 3,000 delegates from 52 countries.

--IANS/WAM

pm/vd