This section of the article is exactly where the problem lies. Ports and highways will not fix the situation. It will not feed the poor. It will not bring the cost of food down, it will not create new jobs. The Arab people as the rest of peoples of the world are rising against the system that has put them there. And now this system pretends to patch it up?
Moreover, a dedicated financial institution should be set up to aid in this task. One proposal worth considering is to upgrade and strengthen the European Investment Bank’s Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP), which would become an autonomous institution, perhaps headquartered in the Middle East or North Africa, with shares held by the region’s governments (or other institutions) and other willing parties.
The London-based European Bank for Reconstruction and Development could join this effort by extending its activities to the region, which could be coupled with the creation of dedicated services to support the growth of job-creating enterprises. The EBRD made an important contribution to the economic transition process in Eastern Europe; there’s a good case for drawing on its experience and expertise to help the southern Mediterranean. REALLY?
Steven Casman - 13 years ago
I quite agree with Mr. Thorn.
And I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for China and/or the wealthier Mid-Eastern countries to fund any Arabian "Marshall Plan;" they have never done it before nor will they ever.
GEORGE THORN - 13 years ago
A MARSHALL PLAN THAT ONLY HAD MID EAST AND CHINESE MONEY CONTRIBUTING MIGHT BE OKAY BUT REGARDLESS OF WHAT GOOD IT MIGHT DO OUR TROUBLED PLATE IS TOO FULL.
This section of the article is exactly where the problem lies. Ports and highways will not fix the situation. It will not feed the poor. It will not bring the cost of food down, it will not create new jobs. The Arab people as the rest of peoples of the world are rising against the system that has put them there. And now this system pretends to patch it up?
Moreover, a dedicated financial institution should be set up to aid in this task. One proposal worth considering is to upgrade and strengthen the European Investment Bank’s Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP), which would become an autonomous institution, perhaps headquartered in the Middle East or North Africa, with shares held by the region’s governments (or other institutions) and other willing parties.
The London-based European Bank for Reconstruction and Development could join this effort by extending its activities to the region, which could be coupled with the creation of dedicated services to support the growth of job-creating enterprises. The EBRD made an important contribution to the economic transition process in Eastern Europe; there’s a good case for drawing on its experience and expertise to help the southern Mediterranean. REALLY?
I quite agree with Mr. Thorn.
And I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for China and/or the wealthier Mid-Eastern countries to fund any Arabian "Marshall Plan;" they have never done it before nor will they ever.
A MARSHALL PLAN THAT ONLY HAD MID EAST AND CHINESE MONEY CONTRIBUTING MIGHT BE OKAY BUT REGARDLESS OF WHAT GOOD IT MIGHT DO OUR TROUBLED PLATE IS TOO FULL.