Middle East: Distinction between prospering nations and those stagnating, asserts prominent figure from UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Presidential Diplomatic Advisor, Dr. Anwar Gargash, has advocated for countries to prioritize improving living conditions, education, and safety rather than focusing on normalization. Addressing the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, Gargash described normalization as a "scarecrow," designed to impede positive societal change and economic progress in the Arab world.
During his speech, Gargash highlighted that using normalization as a tool to obstruct change stemming from failed policies is counterproductive. He asserted that this approach creates internal tensions and territorial divisions in several Arab nations, with some countries confronting difficulties like never before since their independence.
The Arab world is currently divided, according to Gargash, with successful experiences in Gulf countries contrasting with struggling nations trapped in a "bottleneck." He cited Syria and Lebanon as examples of nations grappling with changing political landscapes. Although some regional forces recognize the importance of these nations emerging from their predicament, others aim to revert them to previous conditions.
Gargash also spoke about the collapse of ideology in Arab politics, noting that this has become more apparent over the course of the Gaza conflict. He urged a shift toward pragmatism, emphasizing the need to focus on improving people's living conditions, educational levels, and addressing youth migration to Europe and the Gulf.
Regarding the UAE's approach to regional challenges, Gargash explained that the country balances addressing existing issues with creating opportunities. During the peak crises of countries like Lebanon and Syria, the UAE served as a significant outlet for productive Arab communities. The Emirates offers opportunities for innovation and work, which he believes can help stimulate similar progress in their home countries.
Gargash also touched on international partnerships, such as the strategic dialogue between the UAE and France. This relationship has evolved from energy and security collaborations in the 1970s to contemporary cultural landmarks and economic projects, such as the $50 billion AI complex in France. He highlighted that recent UAE-France relations have been largely focused on the future and technological advancements.
Lastly, Gargash reassured that the UAE's commitment to the Palestinian cause remains alive, despite their pragmatic approach. He emphasized the significant role the UAE has played in providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, amounting to 42% of all aid since October 8. Gargash encouraged a move away from the conflicts of the past, focusing instead on addressing the challenges facing the region at present, such as improving people's living conditions and providing employment opportunities.
Dr. Gargash's stance on normalization seeks to navigate the intricate geopolitical landscape in the Arab world, fostering stability and spurring economic growth through strategic relationships, while acknowledging and addressing internal tensions and resistance.
- In his speech, Dr. Anwar Gargash, the UAE Presidential Diplomatic Advisor, advocated for countries to prioritize improving living conditions, education, and safety, instead of focusing on normalization.
- Gargash described normalization as a "scarecrow," designed to impede positive societal change and economic progress in the Arab world.
- Gargash spoke about the importance of addressing challenges like youth migration to Europe and the Gulf, emphasizing the need to focus on improving people's living conditions and educational levels.
- Gargash also highlighted the UAE's strategic relationships with countries like France, mentioning their collaboration on technology advancements and economic projects.
- Despite the UAE's pragmatic approach, Gargash reassured that the UAE's commitment to the Palestinian cause remains alive, with the UAE providing humanitarian aid amounting to 42% of all aid since October 8.
