Saudi Arabia and Egypt, twin pillars of almost any viable unified Arab security and political front, have recently been moving to consolidate closer relations. Harmonious relations between Egypt and Saudi Arabia symbolize, in the minds of many, the bringing together and cooperative utilization of the human and natural resources that are available to the contemporary Arab world. Strong Egyptian-Saudi ties, therefore, have symbolic as well as practical significance for the Arab world. Read more
When Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi confidently addressed Arab Gulf heads of state and foreign ministers and delegates of the Manama Dialogue on Friday, he made no mention of a continued need of Gulf aid and loans to Egypt, instead his remarks focused on regional security cooperation and the preference for Arab state-led intervention in Middle East conflicts. Nevertheless, the stability of Egypt may depend on regional financial cooperation and intervention. Read more
The Arab Gulf States Institute, in cooperation with the Middle East Institute, co-hosted a talk about the growing visual arts sector in the United Arab Emirates featuring H.E. Hoda Al Khamis Kanoo, founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), a leading non-profit organization that nurtures the arts and culture of the Emirates through education, professional development, and community programs. Ms. Kanoo was joined by Mr. Mohamed Abdul Latif Kanoo, artist and advisor to ADMAF, and Ms. Lisa Ball-Lechgar, advisor to the founder.
In an article discussing the ongoing conflict in Yemen, The Huffington Post referenced AGSIW’s Executive Vice President Stephen Seche’s October 6 testimony before the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Addressing Iranian involvement in the embattled country, Seche stated, “I don’t think the Iranians are there in any decisive way. The Houthis were able to do what they’ve done because they were speaking to the population." Read More
In late October, two women from the Gulf were honored for their significant contributions to the arts and culture of the region.
H.E Shaikha Mai bin Mohammed Al Khalifa of Bahrain received the prestigious Watch Award at the World Monuments Fund’s Hadrian Gala on October 21 for her work in preserving Bahraini architectural and cultural heritage. Shaikha Mai is the first Arab to receive the Watch Award. She was recognized alongside H.M. Queen Sofia of Spain.
America Abroad Media recognized Noura Al Kaabi of the United Arab Emirates at the 2015 Awards Dinner on October 28 for her work in expanding and sustaining the film and media industry of the UAE and the greater Middle East. She was honored alongside Turkish journalist Mithat Bereket and the films Argo and Difret.
