The World Economic Forum (WEF) on the Middle East wrapped up Sunday with an announcement to establish the King Abdullah II Award for Youth Achievements in the Arab world.

“The award embodies His Majesty's vision to enhance the potentials of the Arab youth and support their innovations, excellence and creativity,” a Royal Court statement said.

King Abdullah will present the award to winners at the 2009 WEF in Jordan, according to Deputy Director of the King Abdullah II Fund for Development and Director of the King's Office Bassem Awadallah. “After that, the award will be offered on an annual basis,” he said.

A board of trustees will be formed for the award, comprising Minister of Education, Higher Education and Scientific Research Khalid Touqan, Vice Chairman and CEO of Abraaj Capital Arif Naqvi, CEO of Tatweer Saeed Muntafiq, WEF Executive Director Klaus Schwab and Chairman of Fiorina Foundation Carly Fiorina, Awadallah added.

The Jordan Times