Prince Turki Al Faisal (Saudi Arabia Former Government Official) – AUCTV (Apr 2016)
Chapters
00:00:47 AUC Centennial Symposium: Celebrating Interdisciplinary Research for Economic Development
University of Texas and AUC: The speaker, a former literature major at the University of Texas and law school graduate, expresses admiration for AUC’s beautiful campus and highlights the significance of the event.
Campus Tour: The speaker plans to showcase various campus facilities, including tennis courts, practice rooms, and sports areas, during a guided tour.
AUC Event and Research Showcase: The speaker commends the impressive research work presented by students and faculty, particularly in social sciences and engineering. The event showcases ongoing research at AUC, emphasizing its potential as a driver for economic development in Egypt and the region. The speaker encourages continued engagement, participation, and interdisciplinary activities to advance research in Egypt.
Invitation and Gratitude: Prince Turki al-Faisal expresses gratitude to Minister Nabeel Fahmy and former AUC president Dr. Lisa Anderson for the invitation, and to interim president Mr. Tom Thomason for receiving him. He mentions his personal connection to AUC through the Kamal Center for Television and Digital Journalism, gifted by his late maternal uncle.
Middle East Address: The speaker intends to address issues causing disorder and looming anarchy in the Middle East, aiming for a peaceful, secure, and stable region.
00:06:35 Arab World: Perilous Past, Uncertain Future
Strategic Vulnerability and Failed States: The Middle East faces strategic vulnerability due to its history of wars, conflicts, and foreign interventions. Poor governance, failed policies, and selfishness of leaders have led to societal collapse and the rise of terrorism, militias, and sectarianism. The Arab Spring was a natural result of these policies, leading to failed states like Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Libya.
Preserving Nation-States and Reforming Governance: Preserving the nation-state is vital for security and stability. Governments must become guardians of all citizens, attending to their ambitions and creating a normal relationship between the state and its people. Reform is necessary to rescue Arab states from collapse and create a new social contract that fulfills citizens’ hopes and ambitions.
Addressing Regional Fragmentation and Iranian Interference: The Arab regional system is weak and fragmented, lacking the vitality to defend Arab countries and achieve their aspirations. Iran’s disruptive interference, sectarian ideology, and quest for nuclear armament pose a real danger to the region. Arab and Gulf Arab countries must collectively strive to rectify the power imbalance vis-a-vis Iran and ensure regional security.
GCC as a Model for Integration and Stability: The GCC, with its Arab allies, particularly Egypt, is a pioneering and successful event in the Arab world. The GCC should be maintained and developed to achieve economic integration and overcome obstacles to its goals. A real Gulf Peninsula Union should be established, including Yemen, due to its strategic and demographic importance. A united GCC can protect its interests, contribute to regional security, and help the Arab world overcome its challenges.
The Strategic Importance of the GCC: The success of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in shaping a unified strategic entity benefits the entire Arab region. It allows the GCC to play a significant role on a global scale and pave the way for a better future in the Arab world.
Internal Weakness and the Need for Reforms: Many Arab states face fragility, stagnation, and internal weakness at various levels, from political to cultural. Drastic remedial measures are necessary to overcome these challenges and meet the needs and aspirations of Arab societies. Reforms are essential to address extremism, terrorism, and safeguard the integrity and stability of Arab states. Embracing globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution can lead to positive outcomes. Fears of losing identity, faith, and values should not hinder progress and modernization. Arab identity, values, and faith are resilient and can adapt to modern challenges.
The Threat of Terrorism: Terrorism, particularly religious extremism, remains a serious threat to Arab states. Confronting terrorism at all levels and eradicating its root causes is crucial for stability. Terrorism extends beyond Daesh and al-Qaeda, encompassing extremist sectarian militias. Cross-border terrorism poses an existential threat to nation-states in the region. Cooperation is necessary to defeat terrorism and address its root causes.
The Arab-Israeli Conflict: The Arab-Israeli conflict remains a significant challenge for the Arab future. It has hindered Arab projects and international initiatives for decades. Stability in the region requires a just solution that considers Palestinian legitimate demands. The solution to the conflict is an international responsibility, not just in the hands of Arab states. Ignoring the conflict will hamper initiatives in the Arab region. Arab countries welcomed the peace process in Madrid, seeking a resolution based on international norms and UN decisions. Arab states participated in negotiations and efforts to create a conducive environment for peace. The Arab Peace Initiative of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia remains a viable solution to the conflict. The perpetuation of the conflict threatens regional security and stability. The suffering of the Palestinian people is exploited by terrorists for recruitment.
The Relationship between Arab Governments and Citizens: When Arab citizens do not feel a sense of ownership in their governments, it contributes to instability. Arab governments need to establish a strong relationship with their citizens, based on trust and shared goals. Engaging citizens in decision-making processes and addressing their concerns is essential for stability. Active citizenship and participation are crucial for the progress and prosperity of Arab states.
00:23:57 Addressing Strategic Challenges in Arab Societies
Challenges Facing Arab Societies: Marginalization, sectarianism, and nihilistic convictions threaten the stability of Arab societies. Education, the rule of law, and personal empowerment are key to fostering stability and harmony.
Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Stability: Despite numerous challenges, Saudi Arabia has maintained its stability and security. The country has remained committed to development across various fields. Saudi Arabia is confident in its ability to overcome present and future threats and achieve its aspirations.
Preserving Social Fabric and Unity: Maintaining the unity of the social fabric is crucial for security and stability. There must be a continuous positive response to citizens’ hopes, dreams, and aspirations. The state must address defects in economic, social, educational, cultural, and security policies.
Citizenship and National Identity: All citizens are trustees of the country and the state. Saudi Arabia, in cooperation with its allies, is committed to facing common challenges and perils. The leadership is working to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on a single source of income.
Saudi Arabia’s Progress and Development: Saudi Arabia is a work in progress, and mistakes are inevitable. The country is open to advice from friends, but its policies are shaped internally. The Kingdom is attentive to its sense of responsibility and noble intentions.
Cooperation and Collaboration: Saudi Arabia is willing to cooperate with those who mean well to address challenges facing the Arab and Islamic world. The aim is to bring security, stability, and peace to the region and its people.
00:28:26 Award Ceremony for the EUC Research Day Competition
Winners of the Faculty Pitch Competition: Academy of Liberal Arts: Dr. Ghada El-Shimi for her talk on transformational learning identity insights. Graduate School of Education: Dr. Heba El-Dagheedi for her talk on education for sustainability in Egypt, participants’ perspectives. Libraries and Learning Technologies: Mark Mulhausler for his talk on defense spending and ethnic inequality. School of Global Affairs and Public Policy: Dr. Hamid Ali for his talk on defense spending and ethnic inequality. School of Sciences and Engineering: Dr. Hany Suwailan for his talk on desalinated water for food production in the Arab region. Research Center: Dr. Hania Shulkami for her talk on Conditional Cash Transfers for Egypt, How an Idea Becomes a National Program. School of Business: Dr. Alya Bassioni for her talk on Corporate Finance Policy in Egypt, Evidence from the Field.
Winners of the Student Poster Competition: Academy of Liberal Arts: Omar Gaballa (undergraduate). Graduate School of Education: Maryam Makramallah and Nashwa Mohildin (tie, graduate). Libraries and Learning Technologies: Lauren Clark (graduate). Office of the Dean of Graduate Studies: Hiba Alaa Karamani and Soumya Albadry (tie, graduate). School of Business: Karim Fanoos and Randa Aamer (undergraduate), Maram Khattab (graduate). School of Global Affairs and Public Policies: N.G. Hegazi (undergraduate), Manar Muhammad Hafiz (graduate). School of Humanities and Social Sciences: Hadeer Al-Ashhab (undergraduate). School of Sciences and Engineering: Yaser Khaldi and Mark Sidrak (undergraduate), Hiba Shower (graduate).
00:41:29 Conclusion and Call for Collaboration in Scientific Research
Closing Remarks: The Speaker expressed gratitude to the students and faculty for their intellectual contributions and the positive feedback received from the jury. Hope was expressed for fruitful interactions, collaboration, and recognition in the future.
Speech by Prince Turki al-Faisal: He thanked AUC for the invitation, expressed pleasant surprise at the architecture, landscaping, and student activity, and found the experience inspiring. He acknowledged the importance of science and technology in today’s world and his reliance on his grandchildren for guidance in these areas. The Prince emphasized the value of research and encouraged engagement between AUC and other universities, both in Egypt and across the Arab world, through the internet, scholarships, and other means. He highlighted the importance of collaboration and commonality in research and scientific discovery.
Abstract
“Vision for a Stable Future: Insights from AUC Research Day and Prince Turki al-Faisal’s Address on Middle Eastern Challenges and Opportunities”
The American University in Cairo (AUC) Research Day recently concluded, highlighted by the presence of Prince Turki al-Faisal and a series of insightful addresses and presentations. Central themes emerged, focusing on the challenges facing the Middle East, the role of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in regional stability, and the need for reforms and modernization in Arab states. Prince Turki al-Faisal, alongside other speakers, emphasized the significance of research and collaboration in driving economic development and stability in Egypt and the broader region. This article delves into the key points from the event, underlining the importance of addressing Middle Eastern vulnerabilities, combating terrorism, resolving the Arab-Israeli conflict, and fostering government-citizen relationships for a prosperous future.
Speaker 04’s Welcome Address and Prince Turki al-Faisal’s Introduction
Speaker 04 lauded the impressive research work at AUC, highlighting its role in economic development and intellectual exchange in Egypt and the region. Prince Turki al-Faisal, expressing his connection to AUC and gratitude to the organizers, set the stage for a discussion on the Middle East’s future, underscoring the region’s challenges and aspirations for peace and stability. A former literature major at the University of Texas and law school graduate, the speaker also took time to admire AUC’s beautiful campus and highlighted the significance of the event.
Prince Turki al-Faisal’s Assessment of the Middle East
Prince Turki al-Faisal presented a comprehensive analysis of the Middle East’s vulnerabilities, from the strategic challenges post-World War I to the repercussions of failed policies, as evidenced by the Arab Spring uprisings and conflicts in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. He stressed the importance of preserving nation-states, reforming the Arab regional system, and countering external threats like Iranian interference. He advocated for a stronger GCC and the inclusion of Egypt and Yemen for greater regional security and cooperation.
Reforms and Modernization
Emphasizing the need for drastic reforms, Prince Turki pointed out the fragility and stagnation in many Arab states. He called for embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution and globalization in a way that preserves cultural identity and values. This approach is vital for addressing societal needs and aspirations. Many Arab states face fragility, stagnation, and internal weakness at various levels, from political to cultural. Drastic remedial measures are necessary to overcome these challenges and meet the needs and aspirations of Arab societies. Reforms are essential to address extremism, terrorism, and safeguard the integrity and stability of Arab states. Embracing globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution can lead to positive outcomes. Fears of losing identity, faith, and values should not hinder progress and modernization. Arab identity, values, and faith are resilient and can adapt to modern challenges.
Combating Terrorism and the Arab-Israeli Conflict
Prince Turki highlighted the threat of terrorism, extending beyond groups like Daesh and al-Qaeda, to include sectarian militias. He also addressed the unresolved Arab-Israeli conflict, advocating for a just solution based on the Arab Peace Initiative and international cooperation. Terrorism, particularly religious extremism, remains a serious threat to Arab states. Confronting terrorism at all levels and eradicating its root causes is crucial for stability. Terrorism extends beyond Daesh and al-Qaeda, encompassing extremist sectarian militias. Cross-border terrorism poses an existential threat to nation-states in the region. Cooperation is necessary to defeat terrorism and address its root causes. The Arab-Israeli conflict remains a significant challenge for the Arab future. It has hindered Arab projects and international initiatives for decades. Stability in the region requires a just solution that considers Palestinian legitimate demands. The solution to the conflict is an international responsibility, not just in the hands of Arab states. Ignoring the conflict will hamper initiatives in the Arab region. Arab countries welcomed the peace process in Madrid, seeking a resolution based on international norms and UN decisions. Arab states participated in negotiations and efforts to create a conducive environment for peace. The Arab Peace Initiative of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia remains a viable solution to the conflict. The perpetuation of the conflict threatens regional security and stability. The suffering of the Palestinian people is exploited by terrorists for recruitment.
Challenges Facing Arab Societies and Saudi Arabia’s Resilience
The prince discussed the societal challenges in Arab states, including marginalization and sectarianism. He noted Saudi Arabia’s resilience in maintaining stability and security, emphasizing the need for social justice, equality, and economic diversification. Marginalization, sectarianism, and nihilistic convictions threaten the stability of Arab societies. Education, the rule of law, and personal empowerment are key to fostering stability and harmony. Saudi Arabia, despite numerous challenges, has maintained its stability and security. The country has remained committed to development across various fields. Saudi Arabia is confident in its ability to overcome present and future threats and achieve its aspirations. Maintaining the unity of the social fabric is crucial for security and stability. There must be a continuous positive response to citizens’ hopes, dreams, and aspirations. The state must address defects in economic, social, educational, cultural, and security policies. All citizens are trustees of the country and the state. Saudi Arabia, in cooperation with its allies, is committed to facing common challenges and perils. The leadership is working to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on a single source of income.
GCC’s Role and Winners of EUC Research Day Competitions
The success of the GCC as a strategic entity was highlighted, along with the achievements of faculty and students in various disciplines at the AUC Research Day, showcasing the intellectual prowess within the university. The success of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in shaping a unified strategic entity benefits the entire Arab region. It allows the GCC to play a significant role on a global scale and pave the way for a better future in the Arab world.
Closing Remarks and Importance of Collaboration
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of intellectual contributions and the potential for future collaborations. Prince Turki al-Faisal praised AUC and emphasized the need for university collaborations across the Arab world, leveraging technology and shared knowledge to advance scientific discovery. Prince Turki al-Faisal praised AUC and emphasized the need for university collaborations across the Arab world, leveraging technology and shared knowledge to advance scientific discovery.
The AUC Research Day, graced by Prince Turki al-Faisal, brought to light the critical issues facing the Middle East and the Arab world. From the challenges of nation-state preservation, regional instability, and terrorism to the potential of research, education, and collaboration, the event underscored a multifaceted approach towards a stable and prosperous future. The insights from this gathering serve as a beacon for policymakers, academics, and citizens alike, striving for a harmonious and forward-looking Middle East.
Saudi Arabia actively participates in the United Nations, promoting peace initiatives and combating extremism, while facing challenges in its relationship with Iran and addressing accusations of supporting extremism. Saudi Arabia seeks to balance traditional values with modern geopolitics, promoting peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond....
Saudi Arabia has evolved from diverse Bedouin tribes to a unified nation-state, playing a significant regional role while countering extremism and fostering global dialogue. Saudi Arabia's commitment to countering terrorism and fostering dialogue forms a crucial part of its international engagement....
Saudi Arabia balances complex regional conflicts, seeking internal solutions while navigating Iran's and Turkey's influence, with domestic challenges like youth unemployment and governance reforms shaping its foreign policy....
The Palestinian struggle for statehood and the need for international recognition are crucial for regional peace and stability. Iran's influence in the Middle East is expanding through unofficial entities, and Saudi Arabia seeks official cooperation with Iran to address regional challenges....
Saudi Arabia and the United States have a long-standing relationship with mutual benefits, cooperation, and shared interests, while Saudi Arabia is committed to regional stability and progressive internal reforms. Saudi Arabia is actively involved in regional diplomatic efforts, such as fostering political reconciliation in Iraq and engaging with various factions...
Prince Turki al Faisal's diplomatic journey exemplifies the complexities of modern international relations, underscoring the need for cultural understanding and nuanced strategies to address global challenges....
Saudi-US relations have evolved through complex challenges since 1928, including the Cold War and the 1973 oil embargo, while Saudi Arabia seeks gradual democratization within its cultural traditions....