A Changing Middle East
Ventura Star, January 24, 2005
By Terry Paulson, PhD

As we move into a new year, we look for seeds of hope. Could that hope come from the Middle East? Perfect peace no; progress yes!

As the first election in Iraq moves closer and the violence designed to disrupt it increases, many questions remain: Are the Iraqi people better off? Has the prospect for peace in the Middle East improved since the removal of Saddam? Are freedom and opportunity really on the move in the Arab world?

In Iraq itself, many seem preoccupied with selling America's failure. There are challenges and losses; they cannot be ignored. There are some who do not want us there; there are many who do not yet want us to leave. With that in mind, it is wise to keep a more balanced perspective that acknowledges progress.

The December USAID update indicates that there is much progress: Electrical power is 22% higher than pre-war levels; the efficiency and reliability of the water and wastewater treatment facilities are improving; over 2,405 schools countrywide have been rehabilitated with newer equipment and revised math and science books; over 1.9 million barrels of oil are exported daily; the Umm Qasr Seaport is fully operational; and the fiber optic backbone of Iraq's telecommunication network has been repaired connecting 70% of the population. Iraqi soldiers and police forces are not where they want to be, but they are taking more responsibility for security.

The good news is not limited to Iraq; freedom and opportunity are on the move in many Arab countries. For the first time in years, with elections pending in Palestine and promise of renewed negotiations with Israel, there is a realistic hope for peace.

Economic strength is evident elsewhere. The Gulf Cooperation Council has become the biggest economic bloc in West Asia. The six GCC countries, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have a combined GDP of $330 billion. All share a commitment to leverage their combined economic and political strengths. With a single currency by 2010, they hope to create a trade bloc similar to the EU. Although any discussion of Iraq joining the GCC is premature, their Gulf neighbors are supportive.

Arab News has reported the comments of GCC Secretary-General, Abdul Rahman Al-Attiya: "The Gulf countries want stability in Iraq, and we respect the choices of the Iraqi people." They have called on all Iraqis to take part in the upcoming elections and have warned others against interfering in the electoral process. They have condemned terror in all its forms, regardless of the reasons and motives behind it, and are working to deny terrorists access to Arab resources.

Frank Maguire, internationally known professional speaker and consultant based in Westlake Village, recently returned from presenting to the Leadership in Dubai Conference. Almost 2,500 leaders from across all six Gulf Cooperation Council states gathered in Dubai to move forward their vision for economic vitality for the region. As Frank shared his entrepreneurial and leadership experiences with Kentucky Fried Chicken and Federal Express his optimism was contagious. As he challenged those in attendance to come together to make a difference, the attendees rose to their feet and clasped hands. Not wanting Frank to be alone on the stage, one attendee raced onto the platform to grasp his hand. Frank confided, "There was a presence there in that room I rarely experience."

"I've spoken to leaders in China and now in the Middle East, the human drive to achieve is a powerful force in every land," Frank asserted. "It was moving to see leaders eager to create a positive vision for opportunity in this troubled region. I came to encourage them. As we held hands, it was they who gave me hope that something very positive is happening." Visit www.maguirecommunications.com for more on Frank's experience in Dubai.

Strategic Solutions, based in the United Arab Emirates, and MCS/Action teamed to handle public relations for the event. Susan Furness, Managing Director of Strategic Solutions, put it well: "As globalization becomes a force to be reckoned with, corporate Arabia is being exposed to international standards - and is responding well to the challenge. Needless to say, it is visionary leadership at the helm of companies in this region that are driving the way forward for the rest of us. As Rudy Giuliani said at the event: 'There's nothing like doing business for mutual profit to see cultures learn to understand each other!' The strong participation at the event shows just how vibrant the Arabian marketplace is, and how leadership principles are being listened to - and used."

For those fearful that American "nation building" will stifle that Arab hopes, look to the past for perspective. After the first Gulf War, General Norman Schwarzkopf shared the heartfelt comments of a Saudi officer who confided in him: "I thank God every day that America is the only super-power left, because you are the only one who would leave." As with Germany and Japan, I believe history will show that his trust will again be supported. America will leave when its work is done, and it will leave the Middle East better for having intervened.

Terry Paulson, Ph.D., from Agoura Hills, CA, is a professional speaker on making change work and author of The Dinner: The Political Conversation Your Mother Told You Never to Have