The UAE Minister of Economy Shaikha Lubna Al Qasimi recently became only the second woman ever to win the 'Stella Re' prize.

The prize is awarded by the Italian foundation 'Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo'.

The minister received the award from one of the world's most well known centres for contemporary art and culture during her recent visit to Italy.

The prize is awarded to only one woman every year who strives to make a difference to contemporary society and culture through her innovative work, dedication and ideas, said an official spokesman.

A special selection committee, headed by Patrizia Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, the president of Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, and comprising prominent Italian business professionals, chose this year's winner.

The UAE's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) was one of the sponsors of the event, which was attended by Ambassador Paolo Dionisi, the Ambassador of Italy to the UAE, Ambassador Abdul Hameed Al Kazem, the UAE Ambassador to Italy; Sandretto Re Rebaudengo and an audience of around 150 prominent people from the Italian business and art communities.

'I do not see this prize as recognition of my individual accomplishments - but rather as recognition of women's growing contribution to society all around the world. I am extremely honoured to receive this award, and I would like to dedicate it to all women who are achieving their personal and career goals, however large or small,' said Shaikha Lubna.- TradeArabia News Service