Former Norwegian Minister Plans to Deepen Public-Private Collaboration at the World Economic Forum

Geneva, Switzerland, 22 November 2007 – Former Norwegian Minister and Member of Parliament, Børge Brende, will join the World Economic Forum as Managing Director, particularly in charge of relations with governments and civil society. Norway’s former Minister of the Environment and Minister of Trade and Industry will be a full member of the Forum’s Managing Board.

“Børge Brende will be an excellent addition to the top management team at the World Economic Forum. In pursuing its mission, the Forum constantly works together not only with companies but also with governments and international organizations, as well as NGOs and trade unions. His arrival reflects, reinforces and facilitates the Forum’s unique global position as a platform for leaders from all walks of life to interact for the good of the world. Coming from the very senior level of government, his experience and insight will strengthen the Forum and more importantly further the mission of the organization,” said World Economic Forum Founder and Executive Chairman, Professor Klaus Schwab.

Commenting on his move, Brende said: “The Forum is one of the world’s foremost catalysts for shaping global, regional and industry agendas. Provided permission from the Norwegian parliament is granted, I am looking forward to joining a global team that is highly committed to using the unique position of the Forum to improve the state of the world. In order to solve the vast challenges facing humankind, it is essential that collaboration between the world’s largest companies and governments and civil society is deepened.”

Brende chaired the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) from 2003 to 2004 and played a key role in forums such as the Global Ministerial Environment Forum, the Johannesburg World Summit and the Conferences of the Parties to the Climate Change Convention.

As Minister of Trade and Industry, Brende promoted Norwegian commercial interests and improved the framework conditions for trade and industry, and for innovation and industrial development. By the end of his term in office, funding for innovation and research had increased by 30%.

The World Economic Forum is an independent international organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging leaders in partnerships to shape global, regional and industry agendas.

Incorporated as a foundation in 1971, and based in Geneva, Switzerland, the World Economic Forum is impartial and not-for-profit; it is tied to no political, partisan or national interests. (www.weforum.org)

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Mark Adams

Director, Head of Communications

World Economic Forum

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