*  *  *  Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen: It is a pleasure to participate in the Opening Ceremony of this Conference and in the Graduation Ceremony for the “Certified Shari’a Adviser and Auditor”, and “Certified Islamic Professional Accountant’ programmes.
In addition to congratulating the graduating students, I should like to thank the many distinguished speakers who will be appearing during the Conference, as well as the event organisers. Particular thanks are due to the World Bank for their support for this event.