The Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic) has announced its participation in the Fourth International Chemistry Conference in Riyadh from November 19 to 21 as the Diamond sponsor. The Saudi Chemical Society and the Department of Chemistry, King Saud University, are organizing the event to mark the UN-proclaimed International Year of Chemistry 2011 being observed worldwide to highlight the achievements of chemistry and its contributions to the well-being of humankind.

The conference will discuss several important topics, including analytical chemistry, environment chemistry, green chemistry, physical chemistry, electrochemistry, organic chemistry, chemistry of natural products, nanotechnology, renewable energy, water research, and industrial chemistry. 

Mohamed Al-Mady, Sabic Vice Chairman and CEO, said, "Sabic's sponsorship of this significant conference reflects the company's commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and its strong support to scientific societies, universities and research centers in Saudi Arabia." 

Al-Mady noted that investment in research and development is an essential element for the success of the petrochemical industry, and is key to it remaining innovative and competitive. Sabic, as an important driver of the economic development in Saudi Arabia and as one of the world's largest petrochemical companies, has sought to build a strong technology and innovation network throughout its illustrious history. 

Sabic has keen interest in chemistry due to the nature of its business. Al-Mady said that Sabic appreciates the international efforts to observe 2011 as the International Year of Chemistry. Sabic has vast experience in technology and innovation dating back to the eighties when Sabic began building its research and development network. Such conferences are important as they provide a platform for exchanging ideas in the field of chemistry and highlighting its correlation to the petrochemical industry. 

The UN has entrusted UNESCO, in cooperation with the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, to set off the International Year of Chemistry celebrations around the world.