The WRC, which takes place every four years, is the largest road transport event on Earth. Grant Shapps said the event was a chance: “to showcase Global Britain” and “what we can offer the rest of the world, through excellence, cutting edge technology and innovation.”

This year’s theme is “Connecting Cultures, Enabling Economies”. The congress will bring together globally renowned experts on road infrastructure, transport and technology and provide a forum for delegates to discuss the technical, social and economic challenges facing the sector. In addition, ministers from across the world will come together to share their views.

Grant Shapps thanked colleagues for their support to the UK’s presence, many of whom were attending. These include: Transport Scotland, the Department for International Trade, the Department for International Development, Highways England, CIHT and the World Road Association UK National Committee.

His Excellency Mansoor Abulhoul, the UAE Ambassador to the UK, gave a speech following the Secretary of State.

Baroness Vere of Norbiton, who also spoke at the reception, will be heading out to the congress to champion the UK along with senior representatives from Transport Scotland.

At the event Baroness Vere thanked businesses for their support to the UK presence; including Gold supporters: Atkins and Arup; Silver supporters: Amey, Gaist, and Mott MacDonald; and Bronze supporters: Grid Smarter Cities, Highway Care, and GRAMM Barrier Systems.

The UK has secured the largest visiting stand at the WRC, centred around a core theme of innovation. There will be more than 30 speakers from UK organisations.

The UK has also sponsored the global PIARC maintenance and operations prize at the congress. These prizes are awarded to the best papers submitted to the congress itself. At the Parliamentary Reception, Baroness Vere awarded certificates to the authors of the best UK papers for the congress (as judged by the National Committee).

CIHT Chief Executive Sue Percy CBE said: “We are delighted to be a partner for the UK presence at the World Road Congress. We want to share our story of the benefits of becoming professionally qualified.”

From left to right; Marwan Al Naqbi, Head of Economic Affairs at the Embassy; Mansoor Abulhoul, the UAE Ambassador to the UK; Captain Aysha Al Hamili, UAE Permanent Representative and Baroness Vere of Norbiton, Road Minister at DfT.

If you would like find out how to join the World Road Association – through the UK National Committee - please email technical@ciht.org.uk  Membership of the Association provides you with the opportunity to nominate yourself as the UK representative to work on technical committees and task forces that are comprised of international experts for the next Strategic Plan cycle from 2020-2024.