Stephane Garelli’s message for ‘a land of the future’

STEPHANE Garelli, one of the world’s top economists, will urge governments and businesses to work more closely together when he addresses 300 delegates at the Scottish Council for Development and Industry’s annual forum next month.

Garelli, who lectures on economic and business issues, is a former managing director of both the Davos Symposium and World Economic Forum.

As keynote speaker at the 41st annual forum, he will share a platform with Scottish Secretary Michael Moore and First Minister Alex Salmond.

Garelli said: “Scotland is a land of the future. But the future is not what it used to be. New markets, new consumer behaviours, new brands and new business models are emerging beyond Europe and the US.

“The world is full of opportunities, but to succeed, governments and business leaders will need to get better at working together to ensure an economic environment which is more resilient and more success driven. In the end, we also compete through developing the right mindset.”

Lesley Sawers, chief executive of SCDI, said: “Stéphane Garelli is one of the world’s most respected economic commentators, his knowledge and skills will make a significant contribution to this key event. With the 2012 Davos World Economic Forum just behind us we want to replicate this unique gathering of thought leaders, businesses, government and civic Scotland to work together and learn from the best.

“SCDI is ambitious for Scotland and never has it been more vital to bring Scotland’s leaders together to identify and agree the steps we need to take to achieve our ambitions and ensure a sustainable economy in the coming years and for future generations.”

The conference takes place at the Fairmont Hotel, St Andrews, on 15 and 16 March. Other speakers include Donald MacRae, chief economist at Lloyds Banking Group.