The Ministry of Economy and Labour is pleased to announce that the Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, is representing Bermuda at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2026, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from February 3–5, 2026.

The World Governments Summit is an annual global landmark event held in Dubai under the theme "Shaping Future Governments". It serves as a premier knowledge-exchange platform for government officials, thought leaders, and private sector experts. The 2026 Summit focuses on five main themes: Global Governance and Effective Leadership, Societal Wellbeing and Capacity Building, Economic Prosperity and Emerging Opportunities, Urban Futures and Evolving Demographics, and Future Realities.

As part of his high-level ministerial engagements, Minister Hayward participated in two panels during the Summit, including the Government Experience Exchange Forum centered on the theme “Future of Trade and Economy.” 

During the forum, he participated in a keynote session titled “Investing Smart for Resilient Economies,” which offered a strong platform for exploring smart investment, innovation, and long‑term economic resilience. Minister Hayward joined a panel of international peers, including H.E. Sakari Puisto, Minister of Economic Affairs of the Republic of Finland, and H.E. Bilal Kayani, Minister of State for Finance and Railways of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, to share perspectives on strengthening economic stability. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Rawa Harfoushi, Economic Advisor to the President of the Lebanese Republic.

Additionally, Minister Hayward participated in the Future of Economy Forum centered on the theme “Future of Trade and Economy”, joining a session entitled “Recalibrating Economic Priorities for 2026”. The discussion focused on how governments are strategically recalibrating their economic priorities for 2026 and beyond and explored the new priorities that economic policymakers and ministers in selected advanced emerging economies are considering, and how new partnerships across regional blocs can support new economic directions.  During this session, Minister Hayward joined a panel alongside H.E. Anacláudia Marinheiro Centeno Rossbach, UN Under‑Secretary‑General and Executive Director of UN‑Habitat, and H.E. Amer Bisat, Minister of Economy and Trade of the Lebanese Republic. The discussion was moderated by Jean Fares, Senior Advisor to the Minister of Economy of Canada.

Minister Hayward’s participation highlights Bermuda's active engagement in the global dialogue on sustainable economic development and the future of work. With over 6,000 participants and 150 government delegations expected, the event provides a critical opportunity for Bermuda to showcase its economic resilience and innovative regulatory environment on a world stage.

Minister Jason Hayward stated, “It is a privilege to participate in the World Governments Summit 2026, a vital platform for navigating the complexities of the modern global economy. Contributing to both the Government, I was honored to take part in the Experience Exchange and the Future of Economy Forums. Engaging with my international peers in these sessions offered invaluable insights into how we can collectively drive smart investment and foster a culture of sustainable innovation.

“I value the opportunity to engage with fellow leaders and experts on shaping resilient economies for the future. Our goal remains to build strategic partnerships that will strengthen Bermuda’s economic growth and ensure we remain at the forefront of global governance.”