Under the theme ‘Building Capabilities in Challenging Environments through Visionary International Military Cooperation and Defence Engagement.”

Doha, 28 February 2018 - As part of the highly anticipated 6th edition of the Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (DIMDEX) taking place between 12 to 14 March 2018 at Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), the DIMDEX organising committee has announced the theme of the Middle East Naval Commanders Conference (MENC) - ‘Building Capabilities in Challenging Environments through Visionary International Military Cooperation and Defence Engagement.”

The Middle East Naval Commanders Conference (MENC) taking place on 13th March, is one of the key elements of DIMDEX. It offers deep insights from prominent leaders and experts, who share their experiences and knowledge on the geopolitical trends that affect the maritime sector on a strategic, operational and security level. The conference is for thought-leaders and offers a comprehensive summary of the factors affecting the prospects for international navies and militaries, as well as the military and maritime industry in the region.

Brigadier (Sea) Tariq Al-Obaidli, the Panel Chairman of MENC 2018, stated that “This year’s MENC theme has particular relevance to Qatar as we embark on a major programme of maritime capability enhancement and transition from a Gulf Centric Brown-Water Navy into a globally influential and internationally engaged Blue-Water Navy.”

“MENC promotes international military collaboration and exchange, with the vision of accomplishing regional and international peace and security,” said Staff Brigadier (Sea) Abdulbaqi S. Al-Ansari, Chairman of DIMDEX. “Over the years, MENC has been bringing together leading defence experts to discuss strategic topics that affect security in the region and beyond, through a united vision.”

Staff Brigadier (Sea) Al-Ansari added, “This year’s theme will allow panellists to share their practical experience of building defence and military capabilities in the challenging environment of the Arabian Gulf, the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea.”

MENC Panellists and speakers will feature Chiefs of Navies and other top-level officials such as fleet commanders, defence and academic experts who will discuss regional and international cases and other countries’ experiences in the defence and maritime sector and make suggestions on military collaboration and communication from a military and non-military perspective, exploring modern mechanisms and different ideas.

DIMDEX 2018 will be held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, and hosted and organised by Qatar Armed Forces.