WJC pres. Lauder addresses Global Investment Forum: Arabs, Jews want peace

         Original Publisher: Jerusalem Post

 

“The Abraham Accords changed our language and the entire terrain of the Middle East for the better.” In a pre-recorded video address, Ronald Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, hailed the significance of the landmark agreement and the Jerusalem Post-Khaleej Times event in Dubai, suggesting that just a short time ago, the very idea of a joint conference of this type being held in Dubai would have been considered an impossibility. “This was something that Arabs and Jews could only dream of in the past, but now it is a reality,” said Lauder.

Additionally, Lauder noted that the Global Investment Forum was a timely event. This, of course, was in light of the recent violence in the Middle East. This included “the trauma that both Israelis and Palestinians have suffered over the past few weeks.” 

Lauder said that the vast majority of Arabs and Jews in the Middle East want to live in peace, noting that their priorities are in providing a safer world, better education, and improved economic opportunities for their children. 

Retaliation and conflict will not aid in achieving these goals, he said. “It can only come from peace and harmony between nations.”

Two-State Solution:

In his travels throughout the Middle East, he has learned that most people have the same concerns, hopes, and fears. “The greatest investment that we can make is in education and technology,” he said, stating that education should be a joint venture between Israel and the Arab countries. Lauder suggested that Jews and Arabs should learn about the history and culture of both peoples. Then, they could sit together in classrooms and universities to discuss. “Let the Middle East be known not for conflict but for technology and creativity,” he added. “This will only happen with partnerships with Israel.”

Later, Lauder lauded Forum attendees, calling them “bridge builders” and people “who understand that salaam and shalom have the same meaning and carry the same message – one of hope, and not fear. He encouraged people throughout the region to maintain an honest and open dialogue with each other. Subsequently, through those efforts, they can gain a greater understanding of each other.  He added that the building of a Jewish school in Dubai furthers the bold and inclusive steps that the UAE is taking as a leader in the cause of peace. 

“After everything,” said Lauder, “I continue to hope and work for a two-state solution for the Palestinians and Israelis so that future generations will no longer live in fear and mistrust. I know one simple fact – neighbors living productively together in dignity, peace, and prosperity is better than any alternative.”

Finally, Lauder concluded his remarks. He stated that Israelis and Emiratis can accomplish a great deal together in times of friendship and peace. “All of us involved in this conference have to work against the agents of pessimism. I am an optimist.”

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