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Expecting any new trade deals?
Arab world and Latin America cooperation thread
- Thread starter al-Hasani
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Expecting any new trade deals?
Saif al-Arab
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Nothing groundbreaking. Mostly deals related to agriculture and existing deals such as nuclear cooperation. As far as the private business field the local dairy firm Al-Marai (the largest in the world of its kind) signed deals with local Argentine firms. The trade between KSA and Argentina is nothing to boost about (1-2 billion dollars) so the potential is big and it is about time to improve it. Goes for all Latin American countries and goes for most if not all Arab countries. Actually UAE is at the forefront in this field. I mean to try and enhance ties with Latin America and vice versa.
Anyway I really hope that we will increase our ties with Latin America. I cannot stress this enough. Same story with Horn of Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Saif al-Arab
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RODOLFO C. ESTIMO JR. | Published — Sunday 30 October 2016
“She is also scheduled to meet other top Saudi officials to explain Argentina’s new economic policies,” Argentine Ambassador Jaime Sergio Cerda told Arab News on Saturday.
The Argentine ambassador added that Michetti, who is on a three-day visit to the Kingdom, expressed her appreciation for the Saudi hospitality.
Michetti was welcomed at the King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) by Minister of Water, Environment and Agriculture Abdul Rahman Al-Fadli.
The Argentine envoy added that Michetti expressed admiration for the city’s gleaming tall buildings that deck out the Saudi capital’s skyline.
"Since she arrived on a weekend, the vice president deemed it proper to visit cultural places like the historical Diriyah, which has become a UNESCO World Heritage site,” Cerda said.
Cerda added that the Argentinean vice president expressed her appreciation for the efforts exerted by the Saudi government to restore buildings that include old palaces.
In the afternoon, Michetti visited the Kuwaiti Souq, also called Taiba, which is a popular street bazaar where trinkets, jewelry, antiques, abayas, perfumes, among others, can be found.
“She was also able to meet Haitham Bouzo, president of the Saudi Support Group of the Argentinean Rights over the Malvinas Island, known as the Falkland Islands,” Cerda said.
Earlier, Bouzo said that the Saudi Support Group will continue its efforts for the sovereignty of the Malvinas Island.
Several international and regional bodies such as the Southern Common Market, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States and the Union of South American Nations have declared solidarity with Argentina on the issue.
During her visit, the vice president will also meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naïf as well as Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Argentinian Embassy is also arranging a meeting between Michetti and her country’s senate president, along with Shoura Council members headed by Chairman Abdullah Al-Asheikh.
“A meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir is also being arranged to discuss issues of common interest to the two countries,” Cerda said. He added that Michetti will also meet with top executives of local firms, decision makers and industry captains at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) to increase trade between the private sectors of the two countries. “On Monday, Oct. 31, at 11 a.m. Ms. Michetti is also expected to attend a forum on investment at the RCCI,” Cerda added.
He said that the visit is important and timely since the last time a top Argentinian leader visited the Kingdom was in the 90s, when then President Carlos Menem came for a visit in 1994, adding that the bilateral ties between the two countries were established in 1946.
“That means that this year we’re celebrating the 70th anniversary of Argentinian-Saudi bilateral ties,” he said.
Michetti, who will serve as Argentina’s vice president until 2019, is heading a delegation comprising top officials from the Latin American country’s various ministries. The Argentinian envoy also said that, during the visit, customs issues between the two countries will be discussed.
“We have confirmed agreements on certain areas but not on customs duties to ensure that negotiations on trade between the two countries are appropriately conducted,” he said. “Both countries know that we have to have some kind of a safety net as far as bilateral trade is concerned,” he said.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1004346/saudi-arabia
Up to 10% of all Argentines have Arab ancestry.
Argentine-Arabs:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arab_Argentines
GHAZANFAR ALI KHAN | Published — Monday 31 October 2016
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman holds talks with Argentine Vice President Gabriela Michetti in Riyadh on Sunday. (SPA)
RIYADH: Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman held wide-ranging talks with Argentine Vice President Gabriela Michetti on a range of bilateral, regional and international issues here Sunday.
The two leaders, while discussing ways and means to boost bilateral links, reviewed the relations between the Kingdom and Argentina in different sectors.
“The talks with top Saudi officials focused on several commercial and political issues of common interest, which will go a long way in cementing ties” said Argentine Ambassador Jaime Sergio Cerda, while speaking about the talks of Michetti during her stay in the Saudi capital. Her talks with the king were attended by several members of the royal family, ministers and high-ranking Saudi officials.
Prominent among them were Prince Faisal bin Bandar, governor of Riyadh region; Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, minister of the National Guard; Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban, minister of state and cabinet member; Ibrahim Al-Assaf; finance minister; Abdul Rahman Al-Fadli, minister of water, environment and agriculture; and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Nizar bin Obaid Madani.
Referring to the visit of the Argentine vice president and her meetings with Saudi officials, the diplomat said that Michetti will also hold talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif, minister of interior, and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, minister of defense.
“She is also scheduled to pay a visit to the Riyadh-based King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE),” he added. The visit of Argentine vice president to KACARE is significant in view of the fact that Saudi Arabia signed a nuclear energy cooperation deal with nuclear desalination specialists in Argentina in 2011. Argentina’s Atomic Energy Commission and technology firm INVAP have a simplified pressurized water reactor design for small-scale electricity generation and water desalination, suitable for the Kingdom.
On the other hand, state-owned R&D companies from Argentina and Saudi Arabia have set up a joint venture company, Invania, to develop nuclear technology for the Kingdom’s nuclear power program. Invania has been established under the nuclear cooperation agreement. According to INVAP, the joint venture aims to leverage Argentina’s nuclear experience and capabilities to help Saudi Arabia implement its own nuclear power program.
On trade and investment fronts, the two countries have forged closer ties. A major Saudi company, Al-Marai, has acquired land in Argentina for $87 million for the production of alfalfa to feed dairy cows in the Kingdom.
Two-way trade between the Kingdom and Argentina exceeds $1 billion annually. The South American country exports large quantities of frozen chicken, fruits, vegetables, corn, among others. Its imports include petrochemicals.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1004651/saudi-arabia
Venezuelan Ambassador: Saudi Arabia is a Close Friend, We Aim to Stabilize Oil Market
ABDUL HADI HABTOOR
October 27, 2016
Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz (right) escorts Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro (left) during a welcoming ceremony at the King Khalid International airport.— AFP
Riyadh – Venezuela confirmed that the upcoming OPEC meeting will pave the way for a new step in the oil market.
Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC are expected to agree on freezing or decreasing oil production to rebalance the prices during the coming stage.
Joseba Achutegui, Venezuelan Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that Saudi Arabia is not only a partner OPEC state, but also a close friend to his country.
He added that President Nicolas Maduro visited Saudi Arabia for its status at OPEC and being the world’s first oil exporter. The ambassador added that the President discussed with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdul Aziz means to promote relations, reviewed areas of bilateral cooperation, and the latest developments including cooperation for the stability of oil market.
The ambassador also mentioned that during his meeting with the King, President Madura expressed his ideas about the agreement reached in Algiers, as well as the upcoming meeting of the tech committee of OPEC and non-OPEC countries.
Achutegui confirmed that Saudi-Venezuelan relations are at its best since diplomatic relations has been established between the two countries. He added that during the past months, many ministerial visits have been exchanged and the two countries signed a tax agreement.
The ambassador related the previous visits of President Maduro to Saudi Arabia in 2015, to pay his respects following the death of King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, and to attend the Summit of South America-Arab Countries.
Achutegui explained that Venezuela tried over the past 22 months to achieve a unified opinion about reinstating market stability and joining interests of both OPEC and non-OPEC oil countries.
The Venezuelan ambassador reiterated that his country is optimistic and confident that the initiative will have fruitful agreement which will create a new cycle of market and reasonable prices stability. He also referred to President Maduro’s saying that this will benefit both the countries that produce and export oil, as well as the market and thus lead to the resumption of investments.
Ambassador Achutegui expressed his country’s relief to the statement of Saudi Minister Khalid al-Falih in London last week.
Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources al-Falih said that the current down cycle is nearing an end.
The ambassador concluded that Falih confirmed what Venezuelan government said before about decreasing production. He also added that by freezing or decreasing oil production, OPEC sends a message to the market saying it encourages investments.
http://english.aawsat.com/2016/10/a...-arabia-close-friend-aim-stabilize-oil-market
More Saudis, GCC nationals expected to seek residency in Uruguay over time
RODOLFO C. ESTIMO JR. | Published — Wednesday 9 November 2016
RIYADH: The number of Saudis and other nationals in the GCC countries who want to establish residency in Uruguay has been on the uptrend, according to Ambassador Carlos A. Mora.
“The embassy has been receiving inquiries from the Kingdom and other GCC countries on the standard of living in Uruguay,” Mora told Arab News in an interview.
He said that at present, “there are only 40 Saudis — or thereabouts — who are residing in Uruguay, but the number is expected to increase over time despite the distance.”
In fact, the embassy also receives inquiries from other countries in the Middle East such as Syria, Yemen and Palestine.
Asked regarding the reasons, he said, “Uruguay is a peaceful country. It doesn’t have the turmoil that’s taking place in flash points in the Middle East.”
The Uruguayan envoy was referring to Israel, Yemen and Syria, where people have been suffering due to conflict, adding that many of those leaving Syria had been lost at sea as they sought refuge in other countries like Europe.
“Besides, Uruguay has much to offer. It’s a welcoming country with a population of only 3.5 million. Life is prosperous with a per capita income of $20,000,” he said.
Mora said that Uruguay also has what other countries offer in terms of infrastructure facilities such as tall and beautiful modern buildings that deck out its skyline.
“It also has modern and gleaming malls and infrastructure, tertiary hospitals with state-of-the art facilities, resorts that are ideal for relaxation and scenic and breathtaking tourist attractions,” he said.
Uruguay is also food-sufficient, he added, and capable of producing food for 40 million people.
“Hence, Uruguay can help ensure food security in the GCC countries,” he added.
“Moreover, there’s no impediment regarding money repatriation. One can repatriate money, or capital, to and from Uruguay,” he said.
He added that Uruguay has a GDP of $60 billion.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1008416/saudi-arabia
Arab-Uruguayans "only" number 50.000 people. The smallest Arab community in Latin America and one of the smallest in the world.
Anyway all above is great news. Ties should be increased at least tenfold between KSA/Arab world and Latin America. We should also invite the president of Uruguay soon. Also I have huge respect for the Argentinian vice president. Great woman.
Arabs and Latinos have a special bond (blood ties, cultural ties etc.) and this must be cultivated in every field. I feel very strongly about this.
“She is also scheduled to meet other top Saudi officials to explain Argentina’s new economic policies,” Argentine Ambassador Jaime Sergio Cerda told Arab News on Saturday.
The Argentine ambassador added that Michetti, who is on a three-day visit to the Kingdom, expressed her appreciation for the Saudi hospitality.
Michetti was welcomed at the King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) by Minister of Water, Environment and Agriculture Abdul Rahman Al-Fadli.
The Argentine envoy added that Michetti expressed admiration for the city’s gleaming tall buildings that deck out the Saudi capital’s skyline.
"Since she arrived on a weekend, the vice president deemed it proper to visit cultural places like the historical Diriyah, which has become a UNESCO World Heritage site,” Cerda said.
Cerda added that the Argentinean vice president expressed her appreciation for the efforts exerted by the Saudi government to restore buildings that include old palaces.
In the afternoon, Michetti visited the Kuwaiti Souq, also called Taiba, which is a popular street bazaar where trinkets, jewelry, antiques, abayas, perfumes, among others, can be found.
“She was also able to meet Haitham Bouzo, president of the Saudi Support Group of the Argentinean Rights over the Malvinas Island, known as the Falkland Islands,” Cerda said.
Earlier, Bouzo said that the Saudi Support Group will continue its efforts for the sovereignty of the Malvinas Island.
Several international and regional bodies such as the Southern Common Market, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States and the Union of South American Nations have declared solidarity with Argentina on the issue.
During her visit, the vice president will also meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naïf as well as Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Argentinian Embassy is also arranging a meeting between Michetti and her country’s senate president, along with Shoura Council members headed by Chairman Abdullah Al-Asheikh.
“A meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir is also being arranged to discuss issues of common interest to the two countries,” Cerda said. He added that Michetti will also meet with top executives of local firms, decision makers and industry captains at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) to increase trade between the private sectors of the two countries. “On Monday, Oct. 31, at 11 a.m. Ms. Michetti is also expected to attend a forum on investment at the RCCI,” Cerda added.
He said that the visit is important and timely since the last time a top Argentinian leader visited the Kingdom was in the 90s, when then President Carlos Menem came for a visit in 1994, adding that the bilateral ties between the two countries were established in 1946.
“That means that this year we’re celebrating the 70th anniversary of Argentinian-Saudi bilateral ties,” he said.
Michetti, who will serve as Argentina’s vice president until 2019, is heading a delegation comprising top officials from the Latin American country’s various ministries. The Argentinian envoy also said that, during the visit, customs issues between the two countries will be discussed.
“We have confirmed agreements on certain areas but not on customs duties to ensure that negotiations on trade between the two countries are appropriately conducted,” he said. “Both countries know that we have to have some kind of a safety net as far as bilateral trade is concerned,” he said.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1004346/saudi-arabia
Up to 10% of all Argentines have Arab ancestry.
Argentine-Arabs:
Reina de la colectividad árabe durante el desfile inaugural de la XXVI Fiesta Nacional del Inmigrante, en Oberá, provincia de Misiones.
Reina de la colectividad árabe durante el desfile inaugural de la XXXIV Fiesta Nacional del Inmigrante, en Oberá.
Reina de la colectividad árabe durante el desfile inaugural de la XXXV Fiesta Nacional del Inmigrante, en Oberá.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arab_Argentines
GHAZANFAR ALI KHAN | Published — Monday 31 October 2016
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman holds talks with Argentine Vice President Gabriela Michetti in Riyadh on Sunday. (SPA)
The two leaders, while discussing ways and means to boost bilateral links, reviewed the relations between the Kingdom and Argentina in different sectors.
“The talks with top Saudi officials focused on several commercial and political issues of common interest, which will go a long way in cementing ties” said Argentine Ambassador Jaime Sergio Cerda, while speaking about the talks of Michetti during her stay in the Saudi capital. Her talks with the king were attended by several members of the royal family, ministers and high-ranking Saudi officials.
Prominent among them were Prince Faisal bin Bandar, governor of Riyadh region; Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, minister of the National Guard; Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban, minister of state and cabinet member; Ibrahim Al-Assaf; finance minister; Abdul Rahman Al-Fadli, minister of water, environment and agriculture; and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Nizar bin Obaid Madani.
Referring to the visit of the Argentine vice president and her meetings with Saudi officials, the diplomat said that Michetti will also hold talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif, minister of interior, and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, minister of defense.
“She is also scheduled to pay a visit to the Riyadh-based King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (KACARE),” he added. The visit of Argentine vice president to KACARE is significant in view of the fact that Saudi Arabia signed a nuclear energy cooperation deal with nuclear desalination specialists in Argentina in 2011. Argentina’s Atomic Energy Commission and technology firm INVAP have a simplified pressurized water reactor design for small-scale electricity generation and water desalination, suitable for the Kingdom.
On the other hand, state-owned R&D companies from Argentina and Saudi Arabia have set up a joint venture company, Invania, to develop nuclear technology for the Kingdom’s nuclear power program. Invania has been established under the nuclear cooperation agreement. According to INVAP, the joint venture aims to leverage Argentina’s nuclear experience and capabilities to help Saudi Arabia implement its own nuclear power program.
On trade and investment fronts, the two countries have forged closer ties. A major Saudi company, Al-Marai, has acquired land in Argentina for $87 million for the production of alfalfa to feed dairy cows in the Kingdom.
Two-way trade between the Kingdom and Argentina exceeds $1 billion annually. The South American country exports large quantities of frozen chicken, fruits, vegetables, corn, among others. Its imports include petrochemicals.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1004651/saudi-arabia
Venezuelan Ambassador: Saudi Arabia is a Close Friend, We Aim to Stabilize Oil Market
October 27, 2016
Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz (right) escorts Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro (left) during a welcoming ceremony at the King Khalid International airport.— AFP
Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC are expected to agree on freezing or decreasing oil production to rebalance the prices during the coming stage.
Joseba Achutegui, Venezuelan Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that Saudi Arabia is not only a partner OPEC state, but also a close friend to his country.
He added that President Nicolas Maduro visited Saudi Arabia for its status at OPEC and being the world’s first oil exporter. The ambassador added that the President discussed with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdul Aziz means to promote relations, reviewed areas of bilateral cooperation, and the latest developments including cooperation for the stability of oil market.
The ambassador also mentioned that during his meeting with the King, President Madura expressed his ideas about the agreement reached in Algiers, as well as the upcoming meeting of the tech committee of OPEC and non-OPEC countries.
Achutegui confirmed that Saudi-Venezuelan relations are at its best since diplomatic relations has been established between the two countries. He added that during the past months, many ministerial visits have been exchanged and the two countries signed a tax agreement.
The ambassador related the previous visits of President Maduro to Saudi Arabia in 2015, to pay his respects following the death of King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, and to attend the Summit of South America-Arab Countries.
Achutegui explained that Venezuela tried over the past 22 months to achieve a unified opinion about reinstating market stability and joining interests of both OPEC and non-OPEC oil countries.
The Venezuelan ambassador reiterated that his country is optimistic and confident that the initiative will have fruitful agreement which will create a new cycle of market and reasonable prices stability. He also referred to President Maduro’s saying that this will benefit both the countries that produce and export oil, as well as the market and thus lead to the resumption of investments.
Ambassador Achutegui expressed his country’s relief to the statement of Saudi Minister Khalid al-Falih in London last week.
Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources al-Falih said that the current down cycle is nearing an end.
The ambassador concluded that Falih confirmed what Venezuelan government said before about decreasing production. He also added that by freezing or decreasing oil production, OPEC sends a message to the market saying it encourages investments.
http://english.aawsat.com/2016/10/a...-arabia-close-friend-aim-stabilize-oil-market
More Saudis, GCC nationals expected to seek residency in Uruguay over time
RODOLFO C. ESTIMO JR. | Published — Wednesday 9 November 2016
RIYADH: The number of Saudis and other nationals in the GCC countries who want to establish residency in Uruguay has been on the uptrend, according to Ambassador Carlos A. Mora.
“The embassy has been receiving inquiries from the Kingdom and other GCC countries on the standard of living in Uruguay,” Mora told Arab News in an interview.
He said that at present, “there are only 40 Saudis — or thereabouts — who are residing in Uruguay, but the number is expected to increase over time despite the distance.”
In fact, the embassy also receives inquiries from other countries in the Middle East such as Syria, Yemen and Palestine.
Asked regarding the reasons, he said, “Uruguay is a peaceful country. It doesn’t have the turmoil that’s taking place in flash points in the Middle East.”
The Uruguayan envoy was referring to Israel, Yemen and Syria, where people have been suffering due to conflict, adding that many of those leaving Syria had been lost at sea as they sought refuge in other countries like Europe.
“Besides, Uruguay has much to offer. It’s a welcoming country with a population of only 3.5 million. Life is prosperous with a per capita income of $20,000,” he said.
Mora said that Uruguay also has what other countries offer in terms of infrastructure facilities such as tall and beautiful modern buildings that deck out its skyline.
“It also has modern and gleaming malls and infrastructure, tertiary hospitals with state-of-the art facilities, resorts that are ideal for relaxation and scenic and breathtaking tourist attractions,” he said.
Uruguay is also food-sufficient, he added, and capable of producing food for 40 million people.
“Hence, Uruguay can help ensure food security in the GCC countries,” he added.
“Moreover, there’s no impediment regarding money repatriation. One can repatriate money, or capital, to and from Uruguay,” he said.
He added that Uruguay has a GDP of $60 billion.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1008416/saudi-arabia
Arab-Uruguayans "only" number 50.000 people. The smallest Arab community in Latin America and one of the smallest in the world.
Anyway all above is great news. Ties should be increased at least tenfold between KSA/Arab world and Latin America. We should also invite the president of Uruguay soon. Also I have huge respect for the Argentinian vice president. Great woman.
Arabs and Latinos have a special bond (blood ties, cultural ties etc.) and this must be cultivated in every field. I feel very strongly about this.
Al-Andalus
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Saudi-Peruvian cooperation accord in the works
Carlos Zapata, Peru's ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Tariq Yousef Dowidar, area general manager of InterContinental Hotels Group, cut ribbon to mark the opening of Peru Culture Festival on Sunday in Riyadh. (AN photo)
Carlos Zapata, Peru's ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Tariq Yousef Dowidar, area general manager of InterContinental Hotels Group, cut ribbon to mark the opening of Peru Culture Festival on Sunday in Riyadh. (AN photo)
GHAZANFAR ALI KHAN | Published — Monday 5 December 2016
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and Peru, a South American nation with a high human development index, are working on a comprehensive framework agreement to boost cooperation in all sectors following the opening of the Saudi Embassy in the Peruvian capital Lima last year.
The proposed accord will cover economy, trade, investment, culture and other areas of cooperation.
“Negotiations for this framework agreement are about to be completed soon,” said Carlos Zapata, Peruvian ambassador, here on Sunday. “The accord is expected to be signed sometime next year,” said Zapata, adding that the goal is to further strengthen bilateral relations, as well as to ensure more “cultural closeness.”
The Peruvian envoy was speaking after formally opening a cultural festival at the local InterContinental Hotel here.
Referring to the exchange of visits of top Saudi and Peruvian officials, the ambassador said that “the visit of a business delegation from Lima to the Kingdom is in the cards.” He pointed out that Peru opened its embassy in Riyadh in 2012. Peru and Saudi Arabia still face a huge task in building relations, but the two countries seek to work on all avenues for improving and strengthening cooperation, he added.
Zapata cited the case of Saudi entrepreneur Adnan Kayal, who has opened seven Peruvian restaurants in Jeddah, to drive home his point that cultural relations can be promoted by anyone. Kayal, who studied in the United States where he developed a taste and love for Peruvian cuisine, has announced plans to open five more restaurants in Jeddah and Riyadh in the near future.
Peruvian dishes will be served at the hotel’s Bustan Restaurant as part of the week-long festival, which will conclude on Dec 10. Lima was awarded the title of the “World’s Best Gastronomy Capital” for three consecutive years.
The Peru cultural fest at the InterContinental also includes a ladies’ workshop, which will teach female Saudi chefs and entrepreneurs about advantages and wonderful properties of the “quinoa” grains, and how to prepare Peruvian dishes. The hotel manager said that the hotel has lined up several cultural events including food festivals during 2017.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1019611/saudi-arabia
Just found out that the capital of Peru (Lima) receives almost 20 times LESS precipitation than Riyadh. Never would have thought that, lol. Atacama also covers a part of Peru if I am not wrong.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lima
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atacama_Desert
Always found Peru an interesting country since I first watched that Tintin movie about the Incas as an infant almost, lol.
Last edited:
Saif al-Arab
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The Arab World and Latin America: economic and political relations in the 21st century
October 26, 2016 at 11:34 am | Published in: Asia & Americas, Middle East, Palestine, Review - Books, Reviews
Book Editor(s) :
Fehmy Saddy
Published Date :
March 2016
Publisher :
I.B.Tauris
Hardcover :
336 pages
ISBN-13 :
978-1784532352
Ramona Wadi
@walzerscent
October 26, 2016 at 11:34 am
30
SHARES
Complexity and contrasts form the premise of “The Arab World and Latin America: economic and political relations in the 21st century” (I B Tauris, 2016). Both regions have been subjected to forms of colonial domination, yet different trajectories have been pursued, outlining discrepancies particularly in relation to economics as a derivative of power.
The collection of essays in this book illustrates a comprehensive approach to economics which is not limited to the usual perfunctory observations. By expounding upon issues such as education, culture, history and international relations, the reader gains additional insight, allowing for an understanding of the economic process as an inclusion of all political and social aspects, and how these influence the outcomes when it comes to trade agreements, investments and planning.
In the preface, editor Fehmy Saddy points out the primary difference between the regions in terms of economics and power. Latin American countries have pursued relations with Arab countries through autonomous decision-making, something which is much less visible from the other end of the spectrum. Indeed, it is here that the first ramifications of colonialism are rendered visible; colonial domination was a factor that brought both regions together in past decades through the establishment of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). However, Latin America managed to defy US imperialist subjugation in several areas pertaining to international relations. While a consistent approach was not always applied – US influence to strengthen Israel at the expense of Palestinians was initially heeded by the region – as the War on Terror metaphor expanded to include Iraq, Latin America asserted its stance in the international arena with more clarity.
Arab dependence upon the West, meanwhile, particularly in the Gulf countries, has produced a complacent approach to economics which exacerbated the limitations of Arab states’ geographical environment. In fact, food security is one of the topics discussed in intricate detail in the book, showing that a lack of planning and strategy continues to plague these countries, in stark contrast to Brazil, for example, which is considered a country to emulate as regards agriculture.
Focusing first on the economic integration of South America, attention then turned towards alternative trading partners, thus weaning off the previous dependency upon the US. In 2012, the Lima Declaration called for cooperation between both regions, at a time when the political stage was influenced heavily by foreign interference in Arab countries as well as Israel’s increasingly aggressive stance towards Gaza in particular. Latin America was more vociferous than the Arab world in its condemnation of Israel’s atrocities, with Cuba at the helm.
A considerable portion of the book focuses upon Brazil, which is home to the largest Arab community in South America. Celso Amorim’s description of Brazil’s influence in the international arena portrays a country that garnered favour among Arab countries due to its “balanced postures at the UN”. Brazil’s foreign policy was changed by former president Lula da Silva, who sought to alter the prevailing concept of power and control. As quoted by Amorim, Lula had declared: “Developing countries must convince themselves that it is in their power to transform the economic-commercial geography of the world, without confrontation, though very firmly.” The stance, however, was not void of contradictions. Lula also travelled to Israel to assure the colonial entity of “the traditional bonds of friendship between Brazil and Israel.”
A contribution by Cecilia Baeza and Elena Lazarou discusses how “cultural and educational cooperation is at the roots of inter-regionalism.” The chapter, which focuses upon the importance of regional identity-building and reciprocal awareness, particularly in culture and education, shows that initiatives to strengthen common bonds is lacking, thus also hindering reciprocity and stifling many possibilities due to shunning the importance of bridging the gaps between economics, politics and society.
The lack of reciprocity, particularly on behalf of Arab countries, is a trend that is evident throughout the book. Although there has been an increase in trade between both regions, it is still insignificant in comparison to global trading activity. Arezki Daoud highlights two main limitations in this regard when it comes to energy cooperation: the fact that both regions have developed petroleum industries while also having an absence of initiatives when it comes to overcoming cultural and educational barriers.
It is clear from all of the chapters that the Arab world should invest further in sustaining trade with Latin America, given that the latter is, geographically, better equipped to sustain itself. A discussion regarding water scarcity and food security in the Arab world once again brings Brazil into the limelight, due to the country having the largest resource of renewable water in the world per year and also the resilience of the Brazilian economy due to the country’s comprehensive approach to agriculture, not to mention its vast mineral deposits and land area.
Brazil has also incorporated agriculture into its consciousness by altering the perception into a sustainable endeavour supported by the government and state institutions, including universities. On the other hand, the disdain for agriculture embodied by Arab countries has prevailed, making the attempts at agrarian reform in the aftermath of the Second World War a mere political ploy. Saddy contrasts the attitudes of both Brazil and the Arab world in a manner that portrays the latter as isolating itself in its reluctance to change its perception, despite the fact that it is the region that is most likely to face a crisis of food security. The suggestion that Saddy makes in this regard is a structuring of education programmes on food security across the entire social spectrum, from history and sciences to technology and marketing. Such an approach would also eliminate the divide between politics and society, making economics more tangible and inclusive of participation.
While at first glance this book might seem a slightly daunting read, its wealth of information is analysed skilfully to provide not only insights, but also informed, alternative perceptions. Its focus would have benefited from more examples of Latin America’s dealings with Israel and how reliance upon Israeli surveillance technology fits into the wider framework of relations between both regions. In a book replete with political contrasts, the existence of Israel as a non-Arab colonial entity in the Middle East could have served to portray both regions’ interests in upholding relations with Israel and at what cost. This could have led us to another reason as to why the Arab world continues to sabotage its independence and, as far as Latin America is concerned, shed light upon the prevailing political stance of upholding a largely anti-colonial stance, albeit with reservations.
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/2...-and-political-relations-in-the-21st-century/
The Untold Stories of Arabs in the Americas
Wednesday, December 21, 2016 - 08:00
There have long been Muslim and Arab populations in Latin America, but few people are aware of the sheer number of Arab descendants in the region. In fact, Latin America has the largest number of Arabs outside of the Middle East, with anywhere between 17 to 30 million people.1 In order to gain a full picture of this aspect the region’s demographics, one must first look back to the time of Columbus’ first voyage to the new world in 1492. In the same year, the Moors, as the Muslim communities were called, were defeated in Spain and Christianity ruled once again. In 1478 the Inquisition was officially launched with the goal of reestablishing and maintaining Catholic Orthodoxy in Spain. In 1499, Archbishop Francisco Jimenez de Cisneros broke with the policy of gradual conversions and began to violently persecute the Moors by instituting forced conversions and the burning of Arabic manuscripts. When the Muslims revolted against the loss of their freedoms, Cisneros took away their freedom of religion entirely. Though the Moors were forced to convert to Christianity, there was still a movement to retain Islamic and Arabic culture. After several failed attempts by the Spanish to force the Moors to fully assimilate, King Philip III expelled most of them. The majority are believed to have gone to Northern Africa, but some made their way to Spanish colonies in Latin America.2
At the beginning of the 20th century, a new wave of Arab Christians and Jews fled the Ottoman empire from what is now Syria, Lebanon and Palestine. Some left seeking refuge from the conscription laws, others left during and after World War I to escape food shortages. The chaos continued through World War II and more Arabs immigrated to the Americas for their own safety[3]. Latin American governments largely accepted this influx due to the influence of 19th century intellectuals who believed that the immigrants could be used to work in the factories and fields. The exact numbers of immigrants remain unclear, but some say anywhere between 250,000 and 300,000 people came to Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. Other nations such as Chile and Colombia received up to 10,000 Syrian immigrants before World War I[4]. Still other Arab immigrants attempted to go to the United States and were surprised to find that they had been delivered to Latin America[5].
Many Arab immigrants struggled to assimilate into Hispanic culture at first, due to religious and cultural discrimination. Some Latin American governments were either unable or unwilling to provide all of the necessary resources for easy assimilation into a new country and culture. Because of this lack of institutional support, and as a way of assimilating while preserving their cultural traditions, the Arab immigrants formed their own communities to support each other. These collectives assisted each other in every aspect of society from cultural preservation clubs and business organizations to charitable and religious groups. This not only provided a sense of community, but also a way to learn and preserve languages. Originally, Spanish and Portuguese were taught to new immigrants, but as time went on, the communities transitioned to teaching Arabic. Beyond language assistance, these communities also provided resources to newcomers that helped them become successful in their new nation. Even medical care was provided by these local communities, as well as small loans and food to fill in the resource gaps not provided by the state[6].
Many of these communities have stood the test of time and continue to play important roles in the lives of Arab-Latinos in the 21st century. Their goals have transitioned away from integrating new immigrants to preserving Arab history and culture. The members are mostly Latin American-born citizens that trace their ancestry to the Middle East, particularly the Levant[7]. These communities are one reason that Arab culture can be found throughout many Latin American countries. One example of this cultural spread is the Palestinian community in Chile, which is so strong that it has its own soccer team, called Palestino. In Brazil, there is a popular Arab fast-food chain called Habib’s that sells Middle Eastern cuisine[8].
These communities have given modern day Latinos of Arab descent valuable connections and networking opportunities. Some of the largest communities have become very influential in their prospective cities such as the Centro Libanés in Mexico City which had President Felipe Calderón as a guest speaker. Argentina has one of the largest cohesive network of Arabs due to the “Confederación de Entidades Argentino Arabes” which connects over 160 different Arab community groups in the country. These groups and connections have been said to be one reason that so many Latin American-Arabs have had so much success. Many presidents have been of Arab descent throughout Latin America, such as Julio Cesar Turbay Ayallah (Colombia), Carlos Menem (Argentina), Antonio Saca (El Salvador), Jacobo Majluta Azar (Dominican Republic), and Abdala Bucaram and Jamil Mahuad (both of Ecuador)[9]. There have been a number of successful Latin American- Arabs in other fields as well, such as Carlos Slim Helu, reportedly the fourth wealthiest man in the world[10] and Carlos Ghosn, the CEO of Nissan and Renault. Even international superstars Salma Hayek and Shakira are of Arab descent.
Arabs in Latin America are a perfect example of a large group of immigrants that has successfully integrated into a new culture. This does not mean that anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sentiment has completely faded or that Arab immigrants do not still struggle in defining their identity in Latin America. Nevertheless, over a hundred years after the first major wave of Arab immigrants, those of Arab descent are living peacefully throughout Latin America. One of the clearest signs of integration is that they typically do not refer to themselves as Syrian or Lebanese, but rather as Mexican or Argentine. Through their communities, they have been able to retain their history and culture while also becoming a part of a new national identity. The long history of Arab immigration to the Americas has not always been smooth, but it may be a good example for the rest of the world.
References:
[1] Saliba, J. (2016, February 16). The Arabs to Our South: The Arab Diaspora in Latin America ... Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.aaiusa.org/the_arab_diaspora_in_latin_america
[2] Konrad, M. (2013, May 18). The Expulsion of the Moors. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2013/05/the_expulsion_of_the_moo...
[3] Viva Los Turcos: Latin America and the Arab connection ... (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.latinolife.co.uk/node/207
[4] Muglia, C. (2015, September 30). Latin America & the Arab World: One Hundred Years of Migration. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from https://lebanesestudies.news.chass.ncsu.edu/2015/09/30/latin-america-the...
[5] Saliba, J. (2016, February 16). The Arabs to Our South: The Arab Diaspora in Latin America ... Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.aaiusa.org/the_arab_diaspora_in_latin_america
[6] Muglia, C. (2015, September 30). Latin America & the Arab World: One Hundred Years of Migration. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from https://lebanesestudies.news.chass.ncsu.edu/2015/09/30/latin-america-the...
[7] Muglia, C. (2015, September 30). Latin America & the Arab World: One Hundred Years of Migration. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from https://lebanesestudies.news.chass.ncsu.edu/2015/09/30/latin-america-the...
[8] Viva Los Turcos: Latin America and the Arab connection ... (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.latinolife.co.uk/node/207
[9] Viva Los Turcos: Latin America and the Arab connection ... (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.latinolife.co.uk/node/207
[10] Carlos Slim Helu & Family. (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.forbes.com/profile/carlos-slim-helu/
http://www.panoramas.pitt.edu/economy-and-development/untold-stories-arabs-americas
How Latin America Met the Arab World: Toward a Political Economy of Arab–Latin American Relations
Recent years have borne witness to an unprecedented expansion of political and economic ties between Latin America and the Arab world. Concurrently, a growing number of mostly Latin American scholars has sought to analyze the history, present state, and future prospects of these relations. This chapter systematically reviews this literature and delineates its contributions to our understanding of this emerging research area. Based on this analysis and several friendly critiques of this body of literature, this chapter argues that to advance our understanding of Arab–Latin American relations, scholars should adopt a political–economy approach that is able to shed light on the mix of political and economic interests that will continue to serve as the impetus for this rising axis of relations.
http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1057/978-1-137-59939-1_2
Event: Lessons from MENA and Latin America Regions
Low Carbon Renewable Energy: Lessons from MENA and Latin America Regions
Event Description
November 10th, 2016
The success of the Paris Agreement is dependent on both the effective implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions, and the increasing ambition of contributions in line with the need for decarbonization of the global economy. Toward this end, countries of the Latin American and the Middle East and North African regions have achieved significant deployment of renewable energy, and have ambitious goals for additional deployment. Such achievements have provided these countries with experience in the large-scale deployment of renewable energy. This experience can inform the pathways forward and implementation approaches being adopted as these countries pursue their ambitious goals for additional deployment. Sharing this experience is of great importance as countries continue to look to renewable energy as a means of achieving the necessary decarbonisation of energy systems.
This session will bring together government officials, deployment experts, and non-governmental organization partners, to discuss:
Renewable energy deployment as a viable, high-impact mitigation measures in pursuit of the goals of the Paris Agreement
Pathways forward for increasing mitigation deployment for countries in Latin America and the Middle East and North Africa regions, and how such pathways can be applied in different development contexts
How international collaborations can scale-up their current efforts to support accelerated implementation that responds to the need for increased ambition and international cooperation
Agenda
15:00 – 16:30
Session 1 (60 minutes)
-Renewable energy deployment as a viable, high-impact mitigation measures in pursuit of the goals of the Paris Agreement
-Pathways forward for increasing mitigation deployment for countries in Latin America and the Middle East and North Africa regions, and how such pathways can be applied in different development contexts
-How international collaborations can scale-up their current efforts to support accelerated implementation that responds to the need for increased ambition and international cooperation
Discussion/Q&A Session (30 minutes)
Chair:
Ambassador Hasan Rahman, Executive Director, CARLAC
Speakers
Dr. Nathan Hultman, Director, Center for Global Sustainability at the University of Maryland
Dr. Karim El Aynaoui, Managing Director, OCP Policy Center
H.E. Dr. Hakima El Haite, Minister of Environment, Government of Morocco (TBC)
HE Mr. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Metab Al-Rumaihi, Minister of Municipality and Environment, Qatar
Mr. Adnan Amin, Director-General, IRENA (TBC)
Mrs. Tatiana Bruce da Silva, Researcher at the Center for Energy Studies, FGV Energia, Brazil
Mr. Felipe Gonçalves, Education and R&D Coordinator at the Center for Energy Studies, FGV Energia, Brazil
Dr. Andrea Lovato, Executive Director – Business Development, ACWA POWER
Simone Tagliapietra, Research Fellow, Bruegel – Senior Researcher Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei
http://carlac.net/event-lessons-from-mena-and-latin-america-regions.html
October 26, 2016 at 11:34 am | Published in: Asia & Americas, Middle East, Palestine, Review - Books, Reviews
Book Editor(s) :
Fehmy Saddy
Published Date :
March 2016
Publisher :
I.B.Tauris
Hardcover :
336 pages
ISBN-13 :
978-1784532352
Ramona Wadi
@walzerscent
October 26, 2016 at 11:34 am
30
SHARES
Complexity and contrasts form the premise of “The Arab World and Latin America: economic and political relations in the 21st century” (I B Tauris, 2016). Both regions have been subjected to forms of colonial domination, yet different trajectories have been pursued, outlining discrepancies particularly in relation to economics as a derivative of power.
The collection of essays in this book illustrates a comprehensive approach to economics which is not limited to the usual perfunctory observations. By expounding upon issues such as education, culture, history and international relations, the reader gains additional insight, allowing for an understanding of the economic process as an inclusion of all political and social aspects, and how these influence the outcomes when it comes to trade agreements, investments and planning.
In the preface, editor Fehmy Saddy points out the primary difference between the regions in terms of economics and power. Latin American countries have pursued relations with Arab countries through autonomous decision-making, something which is much less visible from the other end of the spectrum. Indeed, it is here that the first ramifications of colonialism are rendered visible; colonial domination was a factor that brought both regions together in past decades through the establishment of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). However, Latin America managed to defy US imperialist subjugation in several areas pertaining to international relations. While a consistent approach was not always applied – US influence to strengthen Israel at the expense of Palestinians was initially heeded by the region – as the War on Terror metaphor expanded to include Iraq, Latin America asserted its stance in the international arena with more clarity.
Arab dependence upon the West, meanwhile, particularly in the Gulf countries, has produced a complacent approach to economics which exacerbated the limitations of Arab states’ geographical environment. In fact, food security is one of the topics discussed in intricate detail in the book, showing that a lack of planning and strategy continues to plague these countries, in stark contrast to Brazil, for example, which is considered a country to emulate as regards agriculture.
Focusing first on the economic integration of South America, attention then turned towards alternative trading partners, thus weaning off the previous dependency upon the US. In 2012, the Lima Declaration called for cooperation between both regions, at a time when the political stage was influenced heavily by foreign interference in Arab countries as well as Israel’s increasingly aggressive stance towards Gaza in particular. Latin America was more vociferous than the Arab world in its condemnation of Israel’s atrocities, with Cuba at the helm.
A considerable portion of the book focuses upon Brazil, which is home to the largest Arab community in South America. Celso Amorim’s description of Brazil’s influence in the international arena portrays a country that garnered favour among Arab countries due to its “balanced postures at the UN”. Brazil’s foreign policy was changed by former president Lula da Silva, who sought to alter the prevailing concept of power and control. As quoted by Amorim, Lula had declared: “Developing countries must convince themselves that it is in their power to transform the economic-commercial geography of the world, without confrontation, though very firmly.” The stance, however, was not void of contradictions. Lula also travelled to Israel to assure the colonial entity of “the traditional bonds of friendship between Brazil and Israel.”
A contribution by Cecilia Baeza and Elena Lazarou discusses how “cultural and educational cooperation is at the roots of inter-regionalism.” The chapter, which focuses upon the importance of regional identity-building and reciprocal awareness, particularly in culture and education, shows that initiatives to strengthen common bonds is lacking, thus also hindering reciprocity and stifling many possibilities due to shunning the importance of bridging the gaps between economics, politics and society.
The lack of reciprocity, particularly on behalf of Arab countries, is a trend that is evident throughout the book. Although there has been an increase in trade between both regions, it is still insignificant in comparison to global trading activity. Arezki Daoud highlights two main limitations in this regard when it comes to energy cooperation: the fact that both regions have developed petroleum industries while also having an absence of initiatives when it comes to overcoming cultural and educational barriers.
It is clear from all of the chapters that the Arab world should invest further in sustaining trade with Latin America, given that the latter is, geographically, better equipped to sustain itself. A discussion regarding water scarcity and food security in the Arab world once again brings Brazil into the limelight, due to the country having the largest resource of renewable water in the world per year and also the resilience of the Brazilian economy due to the country’s comprehensive approach to agriculture, not to mention its vast mineral deposits and land area.
Brazil has also incorporated agriculture into its consciousness by altering the perception into a sustainable endeavour supported by the government and state institutions, including universities. On the other hand, the disdain for agriculture embodied by Arab countries has prevailed, making the attempts at agrarian reform in the aftermath of the Second World War a mere political ploy. Saddy contrasts the attitudes of both Brazil and the Arab world in a manner that portrays the latter as isolating itself in its reluctance to change its perception, despite the fact that it is the region that is most likely to face a crisis of food security. The suggestion that Saddy makes in this regard is a structuring of education programmes on food security across the entire social spectrum, from history and sciences to technology and marketing. Such an approach would also eliminate the divide between politics and society, making economics more tangible and inclusive of participation.
While at first glance this book might seem a slightly daunting read, its wealth of information is analysed skilfully to provide not only insights, but also informed, alternative perceptions. Its focus would have benefited from more examples of Latin America’s dealings with Israel and how reliance upon Israeli surveillance technology fits into the wider framework of relations between both regions. In a book replete with political contrasts, the existence of Israel as a non-Arab colonial entity in the Middle East could have served to portray both regions’ interests in upholding relations with Israel and at what cost. This could have led us to another reason as to why the Arab world continues to sabotage its independence and, as far as Latin America is concerned, shed light upon the prevailing political stance of upholding a largely anti-colonial stance, albeit with reservations.
https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/2...-and-political-relations-in-the-21st-century/
The Untold Stories of Arabs in the Americas
Wednesday, December 21, 2016 - 08:00
There have long been Muslim and Arab populations in Latin America, but few people are aware of the sheer number of Arab descendants in the region. In fact, Latin America has the largest number of Arabs outside of the Middle East, with anywhere between 17 to 30 million people.1 In order to gain a full picture of this aspect the region’s demographics, one must first look back to the time of Columbus’ first voyage to the new world in 1492. In the same year, the Moors, as the Muslim communities were called, were defeated in Spain and Christianity ruled once again. In 1478 the Inquisition was officially launched with the goal of reestablishing and maintaining Catholic Orthodoxy in Spain. In 1499, Archbishop Francisco Jimenez de Cisneros broke with the policy of gradual conversions and began to violently persecute the Moors by instituting forced conversions and the burning of Arabic manuscripts. When the Muslims revolted against the loss of their freedoms, Cisneros took away their freedom of religion entirely. Though the Moors were forced to convert to Christianity, there was still a movement to retain Islamic and Arabic culture. After several failed attempts by the Spanish to force the Moors to fully assimilate, King Philip III expelled most of them. The majority are believed to have gone to Northern Africa, but some made their way to Spanish colonies in Latin America.2
At the beginning of the 20th century, a new wave of Arab Christians and Jews fled the Ottoman empire from what is now Syria, Lebanon and Palestine. Some left seeking refuge from the conscription laws, others left during and after World War I to escape food shortages. The chaos continued through World War II and more Arabs immigrated to the Americas for their own safety[3]. Latin American governments largely accepted this influx due to the influence of 19th century intellectuals who believed that the immigrants could be used to work in the factories and fields. The exact numbers of immigrants remain unclear, but some say anywhere between 250,000 and 300,000 people came to Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. Other nations such as Chile and Colombia received up to 10,000 Syrian immigrants before World War I[4]. Still other Arab immigrants attempted to go to the United States and were surprised to find that they had been delivered to Latin America[5].
Many Arab immigrants struggled to assimilate into Hispanic culture at first, due to religious and cultural discrimination. Some Latin American governments were either unable or unwilling to provide all of the necessary resources for easy assimilation into a new country and culture. Because of this lack of institutional support, and as a way of assimilating while preserving their cultural traditions, the Arab immigrants formed their own communities to support each other. These collectives assisted each other in every aspect of society from cultural preservation clubs and business organizations to charitable and religious groups. This not only provided a sense of community, but also a way to learn and preserve languages. Originally, Spanish and Portuguese were taught to new immigrants, but as time went on, the communities transitioned to teaching Arabic. Beyond language assistance, these communities also provided resources to newcomers that helped them become successful in their new nation. Even medical care was provided by these local communities, as well as small loans and food to fill in the resource gaps not provided by the state[6].
Many of these communities have stood the test of time and continue to play important roles in the lives of Arab-Latinos in the 21st century. Their goals have transitioned away from integrating new immigrants to preserving Arab history and culture. The members are mostly Latin American-born citizens that trace their ancestry to the Middle East, particularly the Levant[7]. These communities are one reason that Arab culture can be found throughout many Latin American countries. One example of this cultural spread is the Palestinian community in Chile, which is so strong that it has its own soccer team, called Palestino. In Brazil, there is a popular Arab fast-food chain called Habib’s that sells Middle Eastern cuisine[8].
These communities have given modern day Latinos of Arab descent valuable connections and networking opportunities. Some of the largest communities have become very influential in their prospective cities such as the Centro Libanés in Mexico City which had President Felipe Calderón as a guest speaker. Argentina has one of the largest cohesive network of Arabs due to the “Confederación de Entidades Argentino Arabes” which connects over 160 different Arab community groups in the country. These groups and connections have been said to be one reason that so many Latin American-Arabs have had so much success. Many presidents have been of Arab descent throughout Latin America, such as Julio Cesar Turbay Ayallah (Colombia), Carlos Menem (Argentina), Antonio Saca (El Salvador), Jacobo Majluta Azar (Dominican Republic), and Abdala Bucaram and Jamil Mahuad (both of Ecuador)[9]. There have been a number of successful Latin American- Arabs in other fields as well, such as Carlos Slim Helu, reportedly the fourth wealthiest man in the world[10] and Carlos Ghosn, the CEO of Nissan and Renault. Even international superstars Salma Hayek and Shakira are of Arab descent.
Arabs in Latin America are a perfect example of a large group of immigrants that has successfully integrated into a new culture. This does not mean that anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sentiment has completely faded or that Arab immigrants do not still struggle in defining their identity in Latin America. Nevertheless, over a hundred years after the first major wave of Arab immigrants, those of Arab descent are living peacefully throughout Latin America. One of the clearest signs of integration is that they typically do not refer to themselves as Syrian or Lebanese, but rather as Mexican or Argentine. Through their communities, they have been able to retain their history and culture while also becoming a part of a new national identity. The long history of Arab immigration to the Americas has not always been smooth, but it may be a good example for the rest of the world.
References:
[1] Saliba, J. (2016, February 16). The Arabs to Our South: The Arab Diaspora in Latin America ... Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.aaiusa.org/the_arab_diaspora_in_latin_america
[2] Konrad, M. (2013, May 18). The Expulsion of the Moors. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2013/05/the_expulsion_of_the_moo...
[3] Viva Los Turcos: Latin America and the Arab connection ... (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.latinolife.co.uk/node/207
[4] Muglia, C. (2015, September 30). Latin America & the Arab World: One Hundred Years of Migration. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from https://lebanesestudies.news.chass.ncsu.edu/2015/09/30/latin-america-the...
[5] Saliba, J. (2016, February 16). The Arabs to Our South: The Arab Diaspora in Latin America ... Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.aaiusa.org/the_arab_diaspora_in_latin_america
[6] Muglia, C. (2015, September 30). Latin America & the Arab World: One Hundred Years of Migration. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from https://lebanesestudies.news.chass.ncsu.edu/2015/09/30/latin-america-the...
[7] Muglia, C. (2015, September 30). Latin America & the Arab World: One Hundred Years of Migration. Retrieved October 21, 2016, from https://lebanesestudies.news.chass.ncsu.edu/2015/09/30/latin-america-the...
[8] Viva Los Turcos: Latin America and the Arab connection ... (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.latinolife.co.uk/node/207
[9] Viva Los Turcos: Latin America and the Arab connection ... (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.latinolife.co.uk/node/207
[10] Carlos Slim Helu & Family. (n.d.). Retrieved October 21, 2016, from http://www.forbes.com/profile/carlos-slim-helu/
http://www.panoramas.pitt.edu/economy-and-development/untold-stories-arabs-americas
How Latin America Met the Arab World: Toward a Political Economy of Arab–Latin American Relations
- Kevin Funk
Recent years have borne witness to an unprecedented expansion of political and economic ties between Latin America and the Arab world. Concurrently, a growing number of mostly Latin American scholars has sought to analyze the history, present state, and future prospects of these relations. This chapter systematically reviews this literature and delineates its contributions to our understanding of this emerging research area. Based on this analysis and several friendly critiques of this body of literature, this chapter argues that to advance our understanding of Arab–Latin American relations, scholars should adopt a political–economy approach that is able to shed light on the mix of political and economic interests that will continue to serve as the impetus for this rising axis of relations.
http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1057/978-1-137-59939-1_2
Event: Lessons from MENA and Latin America Regions
Low Carbon Renewable Energy: Lessons from MENA and Latin America Regions
Event Description
November 10th, 2016
The success of the Paris Agreement is dependent on both the effective implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions, and the increasing ambition of contributions in line with the need for decarbonization of the global economy. Toward this end, countries of the Latin American and the Middle East and North African regions have achieved significant deployment of renewable energy, and have ambitious goals for additional deployment. Such achievements have provided these countries with experience in the large-scale deployment of renewable energy. This experience can inform the pathways forward and implementation approaches being adopted as these countries pursue their ambitious goals for additional deployment. Sharing this experience is of great importance as countries continue to look to renewable energy as a means of achieving the necessary decarbonisation of energy systems.
This session will bring together government officials, deployment experts, and non-governmental organization partners, to discuss:
Renewable energy deployment as a viable, high-impact mitigation measures in pursuit of the goals of the Paris Agreement
Pathways forward for increasing mitigation deployment for countries in Latin America and the Middle East and North Africa regions, and how such pathways can be applied in different development contexts
How international collaborations can scale-up their current efforts to support accelerated implementation that responds to the need for increased ambition and international cooperation
Agenda
15:00 – 16:30
Session 1 (60 minutes)
-Renewable energy deployment as a viable, high-impact mitigation measures in pursuit of the goals of the Paris Agreement
-Pathways forward for increasing mitigation deployment for countries in Latin America and the Middle East and North Africa regions, and how such pathways can be applied in different development contexts
-How international collaborations can scale-up their current efforts to support accelerated implementation that responds to the need for increased ambition and international cooperation
Discussion/Q&A Session (30 minutes)
Chair:
Ambassador Hasan Rahman, Executive Director, CARLAC
Speakers
Dr. Nathan Hultman, Director, Center for Global Sustainability at the University of Maryland
Dr. Karim El Aynaoui, Managing Director, OCP Policy Center
H.E. Dr. Hakima El Haite, Minister of Environment, Government of Morocco (TBC)
HE Mr. Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Metab Al-Rumaihi, Minister of Municipality and Environment, Qatar
Mr. Adnan Amin, Director-General, IRENA (TBC)
Mrs. Tatiana Bruce da Silva, Researcher at the Center for Energy Studies, FGV Energia, Brazil
Mr. Felipe Gonçalves, Education and R&D Coordinator at the Center for Energy Studies, FGV Energia, Brazil
Dr. Andrea Lovato, Executive Director – Business Development, ACWA POWER
Simone Tagliapietra, Research Fellow, Bruegel – Senior Researcher Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei
http://carlac.net/event-lessons-from-mena-and-latin-america-regions.html
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Argentina grants 1,000 scholarships to Syria refugees, urges others to follow
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres reads a book with Syrian children during his visit to Al Zaatari refugee camp in the Jordanian city of Mafraq, near the border with Syria on March 28, 2017. (Reuters)
Buenos Aires, Thomson Reuters Foundation
Friday, 7 April 2017
Argentina unveiled plans on Friday to grant 1,000 university scholarships to Syrian refugees over the next five years after facing criticism from human rights groups for stalling on a commitment last year to take in 3,000 refugees.
President Mauricio Macri said last year that he intended to allow more than 3,000 Syrian refugees to resettle in the country but so far only hundreds have arrived.
But at the World Economic Forum for Latin America in Buenos Aires on Friday, Argentina’s Minister of Education Esteban Bullrich said the government was now opening its doors to 1,000 students for their benefit and the benefit of Argentina.
This is on top of the commitment to take in 3,000 Syrians.
“We want to be open to the world. We need to help solving problems that the world is facing. Syria is a world problem today,” Bullrich told a news conference.
“This program will help Argentina to become a better country and our society to become a better society.”
He said Argentina would also introduce a new humanitarian visa to provide refugees with a pathway to permanent residency.
The scholarships stem from a collaboration between the Argentine government and Blue Rose Compass, a US non-government organization that works with gifted refugees to find them education and jobs.
Lorna Solis, founder and CEO of Blue Rose Compass, said the apparent nerve gas attack on Syria this week showed that the world more than ever needed to help refugees with schemes like scholarships.
Five million Syrians have fled into Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq and the European Union to escape the conflict among rebels, Islamist militants, government troops and foreign backers.
“I hope other countries follow suit,” Solis told the news conference.
“It is a catastrophe and lack of humanity that we are seeing this seven years in. These scholarships come at a very poignant time ... This is an incredible gift and true leadership from Argentina.”
The United Nations has appealed for $8 billion this year to deal with one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with millions of people displaced inside Syria and in neighboring countries.
Unversity placements
Solis said the scholarships will be awarded to Syrian refugees living in Lebanon and Jordan with the first placements at universities in Buenos Aires before being extended to other cities in Argentina.
Over the next four months a group of 20 students will be selected and vetted by Blue Rose Compass and the Argentine government, with further groups of 196 students over the next five years.
The refugees, aged between 17 and 32, will be offered intensive courses in Spanish and the opportunity to live with fellow university students to help them assimilate. Girls traveling alone will be able to live with host families.
The scholarships are part of the wider program in Argentina to take in 3,000 Syrian refugees and provide them with the means to get jobs and homes.
“We want them to come here and feel that they can stay. We want them to live here and make us more complete,” Bullrich said.
Last Update: Friday, 7 April 2017 KSA 21:58 - GMT 18:58
https://english.alarabiya.net/en/va...to-Syria-refugees-urges-others-to-follow.html
Arabs form up to 10% of Argentina's population. Arab-Argentines are very successful so Syrians should be able to integrate in Argentina if welcomed.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arab_Argentines
Keep dreaming troll. There are 30 million + Latin Americans of Arab ancestry and Arabs and Latin Americans share many things in common and Arabic language and culture influenced Spanish and Portuguese culture a lot and hence Latin American culture. We even share blood pre-Arab migration to Latin America due to 800 + years of Arab rule/presence in Iberia (Spain and Portugal) and intermarriages. Modern-day DNA having confirmed this connection. Later the very large Arab migration (largest of its kind and mostly composed of Christian Arabs but not only) to Latin American further strengthened this relationship on all levels. The largest Arab diaspora is not found in the West, Sub-Saharan Africa, South East Asia or elsewhere but in Latin America! This relationship is one of the biggest untold secrets but this thread tells this interesting story.
Personally I respect/like Latin American people very much and hardly any Arab has anything negative to say. Mostly only positives.
Brazil the country with the by far largest Arab-Latin American community:
Beautiful.
16 million Arab-Brazilians!
Report in Brazilian television:
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres reads a book with Syrian children during his visit to Al Zaatari refugee camp in the Jordanian city of Mafraq, near the border with Syria on March 28, 2017. (Reuters)
Buenos Aires, Thomson Reuters Foundation
Friday, 7 April 2017
Argentina unveiled plans on Friday to grant 1,000 university scholarships to Syrian refugees over the next five years after facing criticism from human rights groups for stalling on a commitment last year to take in 3,000 refugees.
President Mauricio Macri said last year that he intended to allow more than 3,000 Syrian refugees to resettle in the country but so far only hundreds have arrived.
But at the World Economic Forum for Latin America in Buenos Aires on Friday, Argentina’s Minister of Education Esteban Bullrich said the government was now opening its doors to 1,000 students for their benefit and the benefit of Argentina.
This is on top of the commitment to take in 3,000 Syrians.
“We want to be open to the world. We need to help solving problems that the world is facing. Syria is a world problem today,” Bullrich told a news conference.
“This program will help Argentina to become a better country and our society to become a better society.”
He said Argentina would also introduce a new humanitarian visa to provide refugees with a pathway to permanent residency.
The scholarships stem from a collaboration between the Argentine government and Blue Rose Compass, a US non-government organization that works with gifted refugees to find them education and jobs.
Lorna Solis, founder and CEO of Blue Rose Compass, said the apparent nerve gas attack on Syria this week showed that the world more than ever needed to help refugees with schemes like scholarships.
Five million Syrians have fled into Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq and the European Union to escape the conflict among rebels, Islamist militants, government troops and foreign backers.
“I hope other countries follow suit,” Solis told the news conference.
“It is a catastrophe and lack of humanity that we are seeing this seven years in. These scholarships come at a very poignant time ... This is an incredible gift and true leadership from Argentina.”
The United Nations has appealed for $8 billion this year to deal with one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with millions of people displaced inside Syria and in neighboring countries.
Unversity placements
Solis said the scholarships will be awarded to Syrian refugees living in Lebanon and Jordan with the first placements at universities in Buenos Aires before being extended to other cities in Argentina.
Over the next four months a group of 20 students will be selected and vetted by Blue Rose Compass and the Argentine government, with further groups of 196 students over the next five years.
The refugees, aged between 17 and 32, will be offered intensive courses in Spanish and the opportunity to live with fellow university students to help them assimilate. Girls traveling alone will be able to live with host families.
The scholarships are part of the wider program in Argentina to take in 3,000 Syrian refugees and provide them with the means to get jobs and homes.
“We want them to come here and feel that they can stay. We want them to live here and make us more complete,” Bullrich said.
Last Update: Friday, 7 April 2017 KSA 21:58 - GMT 18:58
https://english.alarabiya.net/en/va...to-Syria-refugees-urges-others-to-follow.html
Arabs form up to 10% of Argentina's population. Arab-Argentines are very successful so Syrians should be able to integrate in Argentina if welcomed.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arab_Argentines
Keep dreaming troll. There are 30 million + Latin Americans of Arab ancestry and Arabs and Latin Americans share many things in common and Arabic language and culture influenced Spanish and Portuguese culture a lot and hence Latin American culture. We even share blood pre-Arab migration to Latin America due to 800 + years of Arab rule/presence in Iberia (Spain and Portugal) and intermarriages. Modern-day DNA having confirmed this connection. Later the very large Arab migration (largest of its kind and mostly composed of Christian Arabs but not only) to Latin American further strengthened this relationship on all levels. The largest Arab diaspora is not found in the West, Sub-Saharan Africa, South East Asia or elsewhere but in Latin America! This relationship is one of the biggest untold secrets but this thread tells this interesting story.
Personally I respect/like Latin American people very much and hardly any Arab has anything negative to say. Mostly only positives.
Brazil the country with the by far largest Arab-Latin American community:
Beautiful.
16 million Arab-Brazilians!
Report in Brazilian television:
Last edited by a moderator:
Saif al-Arab
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AQ Feature
How Syrian Refugees Are Succeeding in Latin America
BY SARAH BONS AND STEPHEN KURCZY
An AQ special section looks at the success stories, the challenges, and the ways all of us could do more to help.
Syrian refugee Nada Alshebli jokes with a Uruguayan companion (Matilde Compodonico/AP)
first issue of 2016, AQ looks at the success stories, the challenges, and the ways all of us could do more to help.
We begin with a reminder that movement between Latin America and the Middle East is nothing new. Ever tried tacos al pastor or sipped on yerba mate? The influence that MIddle Eastern migration has had on these and other iconic Latin American traditions might surprise you, as our piece on the centuries-old ties between the two regions shows.
We also take a closer look at some more recent arrivals. Some share stories of triumph, as with Ali Jeratli, who arrived in São Paulo speaking just one word of Portuguese and ended up as an on-the-pitch translator at the World Cup in 2014. Or Essa Hassan, the first Syrian student to arrive in Mexico as part of a non-profit educational program.
For others, the journey has been more difficult. The Alshebli family arrived in Uruguay looking for a place to rebuild, but found that life away from Syria was not quite what they had imagined.
Finally, we asked some of the region's most incisive thinkers to consider what Latin American policymakers can do to make sure the region is accomplishing all it can to help ease the plight of those affected by the war in Syria.
See the links below for more on the Syrian refugee crisis and Latin America.
How a Syrian Refugee Fled to Brazil And Wound Up Translating at the World Cup
When Ali Jeratli arrived in São Paulo in February 2014, the Syrian refugee understood just one word of Portuguese: bem-vindo (welcome). He had no contacts, no guidebook, and no more than $700 to make a new start after fleeing the war in his homeland. But he had determination.
Syrian Refugees in Uruguay Face an Uncertain Future
Uruguay's invitation in late 2014 sounded like a dream to the Alshebli family, who had been living in a cramped Lebanon apartment for more than a year since they fled Syria. But it didn’t take long for a series of cultural and financial shocks to leave them feeling defeated.
Why a Mexican Education Program for Syrian Refugees Only Has One Student
Essa Hassan landed in Mexico City in the middle of a media storm. Days after the body of three-year-old Aylan Kurdi washed ashore on the coast of Turkey, Hassan became the unwitting symbol of Mexico’s efforts — or lack of them — to assist Syrian refugees
The Surprisingly Deep Centuries-Old Ties Between the Middle East and Latin America
Arabs have been migrating to Latin America, establishing cultural connections, and contributing to Latin America’s development since the 19th century. Today’s influx of Syrian refugees — while a new source of debate — is only the latest chapter in a long history.
5 Ideas to Boost Latin American Refugee Policy
Many Latin American countries deserve the world’s gratitude for opening their doors to Syrian refugees. Their generosity and humanity stand out at a time when many other countries are turning people away. But what happens after the refugees arrive?
Any opinions expressed in this piece do not necessarily reflect those of Americas Quarterly or its publishers.
http://www.americasquarterly.org/content/how-syrian-refugees-are-succeeding-latin-america
Arab refugees or Arabs wanting to settle abroad should look towards Latin America as integration will be fairly easy.
How Syrian Refugees Are Succeeding in Latin America
BY SARAH BONS AND STEPHEN KURCZY
An AQ special section looks at the success stories, the challenges, and the ways all of us could do more to help.
Syrian refugee Nada Alshebli jokes with a Uruguayan companion (Matilde Compodonico/AP)
first issue of 2016, AQ looks at the success stories, the challenges, and the ways all of us could do more to help.
We begin with a reminder that movement between Latin America and the Middle East is nothing new. Ever tried tacos al pastor or sipped on yerba mate? The influence that MIddle Eastern migration has had on these and other iconic Latin American traditions might surprise you, as our piece on the centuries-old ties between the two regions shows.
We also take a closer look at some more recent arrivals. Some share stories of triumph, as with Ali Jeratli, who arrived in São Paulo speaking just one word of Portuguese and ended up as an on-the-pitch translator at the World Cup in 2014. Or Essa Hassan, the first Syrian student to arrive in Mexico as part of a non-profit educational program.
For others, the journey has been more difficult. The Alshebli family arrived in Uruguay looking for a place to rebuild, but found that life away from Syria was not quite what they had imagined.
Finally, we asked some of the region's most incisive thinkers to consider what Latin American policymakers can do to make sure the region is accomplishing all it can to help ease the plight of those affected by the war in Syria.
See the links below for more on the Syrian refugee crisis and Latin America.
How a Syrian Refugee Fled to Brazil And Wound Up Translating at the World Cup
When Ali Jeratli arrived in São Paulo in February 2014, the Syrian refugee understood just one word of Portuguese: bem-vindo (welcome). He had no contacts, no guidebook, and no more than $700 to make a new start after fleeing the war in his homeland. But he had determination.
Syrian Refugees in Uruguay Face an Uncertain Future
Uruguay's invitation in late 2014 sounded like a dream to the Alshebli family, who had been living in a cramped Lebanon apartment for more than a year since they fled Syria. But it didn’t take long for a series of cultural and financial shocks to leave them feeling defeated.
Why a Mexican Education Program for Syrian Refugees Only Has One Student
Essa Hassan landed in Mexico City in the middle of a media storm. Days after the body of three-year-old Aylan Kurdi washed ashore on the coast of Turkey, Hassan became the unwitting symbol of Mexico’s efforts — or lack of them — to assist Syrian refugees
The Surprisingly Deep Centuries-Old Ties Between the Middle East and Latin America
Arabs have been migrating to Latin America, establishing cultural connections, and contributing to Latin America’s development since the 19th century. Today’s influx of Syrian refugees — while a new source of debate — is only the latest chapter in a long history.
5 Ideas to Boost Latin American Refugee Policy
Many Latin American countries deserve the world’s gratitude for opening their doors to Syrian refugees. Their generosity and humanity stand out at a time when many other countries are turning people away. But what happens after the refugees arrive?
Any opinions expressed in this piece do not necessarily reflect those of Americas Quarterly or its publishers.
http://www.americasquarterly.org/content/how-syrian-refugees-are-succeeding-latin-america
Arab refugees or Arabs wanting to settle abroad should look towards Latin America as integration will be fairly easy.
Saif al-Arab
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Saudis receiving nuclear training in Argentina: Envoy
MOHAMMED RASOOLDEEN | Published — Sunday 28 May 2017
Argentinian Ambassador Jaime Sergio Cerda holds talks with Nasser Al-Daoud, undersecretary of Riyadh Region Governorate, at the National Day celebrations in Riyadh on Thursday. (AN photo)
RIYADH: Saudis are being trained in Argentina under a new nuclear cooperation agreement with the Kingdom, Argentinian Ambassador Jaime Sergio Cerda told Arab News Thursday at his country’s national day reception at Tuwaiq Palace in Riyadh.
The agreement is aimed at developing the use of nuclear energy to produce electricity, he said, adding that Saudis are exchanging expertise with experts in Buenos Aires.
The Kingdom is developing its human resources to be ready for when it sets up its own nuclear power plants, Cerda said, adding that Saudi Arabia is the third-largest trade partner of Argentina.
The acquisition of land by Saudi dairy company Al-Marai for the production of alfalfa to feed dairy cows in the Kingdom has created job opportunities in Argentina, he said.
“Our exports to the Kingdom include frozen chicken, fruits, vegetables, corn, among others. Imports from the Kingdom include petrochemicals,” he added, invited Saudi private sector firms to invest in Argentina.
He recalled that during the historic visit of the Argentinian vice president to Riyadh last November, the two countries decided to expand cooperation in line with Vision 2030.
Cerda said last week an important delegation from Al-Imam Muhammed bin Saud Islamic University traveled to Buenos Aires to promote cultural cooperation and get better knowledge of Argentinian people and traditions.
The recent summits in Riyadh during US President Donald Trump’s visit show that the Kingdom is on the right path in combating extremism and terrorism, to the benefit not just of Muslim countries but the rest of the world, he added.
Cerda thanked King Salman for his continuous support to Argentina.
http://www.arabnews.com/node/1106281/saudi-arabia
KSA the third largest trade partner of Argentina? Good news. We must expand our ties with Latin America on all fronts.
EgyptianAmerican
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I definitely don't agree, Latin America is a violent black hole of drugs and poverty. With little spaces of good things.
We may share some things but I would vastly prefer if they went to nice and peaceful Canada over Mexico with drug cartels that murder,human trafficking(aka Modern Slavery), and behead people.
Saif al-Arab
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See posts 67 and 68 brother.
The largest Arab diaspora (25-30 million) are based in Latin America and Arabs have been extremely successful in Latin America. This thread is a testament of this. Today Arab war refugees, in particular Syrians, are arriving to Latin America again and succeeding. Sure there are areas of Latin America where violence is rampant and crime but we can say the same about our part of the world yet we would object to people saying that this was the norm or that such violence/instability/conflict was present everywhere when that is far from being the case.
If I was a Syrian refugee I would prefer to go to Brazil (a economically booming country with a wonderful climate, a HUGE Arab-Brazilian population, many similarities in terms of culture, cuisine, open and warm people) rather than some small, cold and increasingly xenophobic/Islamophobic Northern/Western European country. Some benefits or not. That's just me.
I don't know much about Canada. Never visited it, unlike nearby US. But I hear that they are doing good in terms of welcoming refugees (although using a very selective process similar to Australia if I am not wrong) and Saudi Arabian students are very much present in Canada nowadays.
EgyptianAmerican
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But in places like Mexico you have more civilian deaths then combat casualties in Afghanistan or Iraq.
https://video.vice.com/en_us/video/cocaine-narcos-sicarios-and-peru-part-1/56019b06b4e7abe15ebcc3f8
vs Canada
What the duck? Ontario paid $121K to festival bringing world's largest rubber duckie to Canada
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/duck-toronto-queen-s-legislature-1.4136222
Ontario becomes 2nd province to go ahead with $15 an hour minimum wage
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-minimum-wage-announcement-1.4137339
Syria refugees in Canada name their baby Justin Trudeau
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-39830440
Canada's head of Immigration was a Somalia refugee!
Ahmed Hussen: From Somali refugee to Canada's parliament
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-38573558
I wouldn't go to either, I would go to Canada.
Saif al-Arab
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But in places like Mexico you have more civilian deaths then combat casualties in Afghanistan or Iraq.
https://video.vice.com/en_us/video/cocaine-narcos-sicarios-and-peru-part-1/56019b06b4e7abe15ebcc3f8
vs Canada
What the duck? Ontario paid $121K to festival bringing world's largest rubber duckie to Canada
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/duck-toronto-queen-s-legislature-1.4136222
Ontario becomes 2nd province to go ahead with $15 an hour minimum wage
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-minimum-wage-announcement-1.4137339
Syria refugees in Canada name their baby Justin Trudeau
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-39830440
Canada's head of Immigration was a Somalia refugee!
Ahmed Hussen: From Somali refugee to Canada's parliament
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-38573558
I wouldn't go to either, I would go to Canada.
Well my friend, Mexico is 1 out of numerous Latin American countries and even in Mexico many Arab-Mexicans have done really well. Carlos Slim Helu (one of the richest persons in the world and a few years ago the richest in the world), Salma Hayek and many others.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arab_Mexicans
Also if I am not wrong the situation in Mexico has improved and there are many provinces in Mexico where there is little violence. I would love to visit Mexico for instance and when I studied in the US for some time I had many American-Mexican friends and they were great people. Even online Arabs and Latinos have good relations man.
Canada is too cold for my taste.
I would rather prefer the US if the option was to stay in the neighborhood!
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Zibago
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Combined :-(
Some regions have murder rates above 80
Saif al-Arab
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Exhibition explores Arab architectural influence in Latin America
Titled “Alhambras: Neo-Arabic Architecture in Latin America,” the show was at the Jordan Museum in Amman.
Sunday 24/06/2018
Andalusian influence. A view of La Glorieta Castle in Sucre in Bolivia. (Alhambras exhibition)
AMMAN - Aunique exhibition focused on the influence of the Arab world in Latin America and the special bond between Arab and Latin American cultures through the art of architecture was presented through 37 beautiful photographs.
Titled “Alhambras: Neo-Arabic Architecture in Latin America,” the show at the Jordan Museum highlighted a period in architecture’s history marked by the construction of Alhambra, the famous palace and fortress complex in Granada, Spain. The palace was built in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid Emir Mohammed ben al-Ahmar of Granada.
Rafael Lopez Guzman, professor of art history at the University of Granada and scientific coordinator of the exhibition, described the show as a unique experience.
“It is an initial approach to the wealth of Latin American architecture that was inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada and other significant Andalusian heritage in buildings erected for the main part in between the latter half of the 19th century to the first third of the 20th century,” Guzman said.
“The interest lies in the fact that the Jordanian citizens can visualise the influence that the Arab culture, in this case the one of Al-Andalus, had in distant places like Latin America.”
The 37 beautifully made images of architectural landmarks throughout Latin America, where the Arab influence on institutional, private and leisure buildings can be appreciated, were a feast to the eyes, Guzman said.
“History tells us a little about the relations between Arabs and Latinos. It is reduced to the arrival and presence of (Arab) emigrants,” he said. “The important thing is that when we put together apparently diverse elements we can observe an influence that we had not evaluated correctly.”
Ana Ramos, a native of Andalusia, pointed out there are connections in many fields.
“Absolutely, there are cultural linkages in the traditions, social relations and gastronomy that can be felt on a wider scale,” Ramos said. “We need to remember that, in addition to culture, there is closeness in language as we inherited words from the Arabic language. Several cities, such as Seville, Grenada and Cordoba, show much cultural closeness.”
The Arabic influence on the Spanish language can be best seen in words spoken every day such as “azucar,” which originates with the Arabic word “as-sukkar” — “sugar” in English. “Alberca” comes from the Arabic “Al Berka,” which means “pool” in English.
The exhibition was preceded by a seminar on “Arab and Latin American Culture,” which covered the influence of the Arab world in Latin America in relation to the inspiring power of Al-Andalus experience and offered a detailed view of Arab cultural influence in the Americas since its colonisation by Spain to modern times.
Lecturers said the Mudejar style, which is centred in the Aragon region of north-eastern Spain, has been recognised with representative buildings as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, in addition to “neo-Arab” art.
Mudejar style is a technique of creating architecture influenced by Muslim and Christian cultures that emerged as an architectural style in the 12th century on the Iberian Peninsula.
Manal Shamot, a fan of history of architecture, said the exhibition depicts the special relation bonded by history between the two cultures.
“I have always been a great fan of architecture especially when it is related to the history of our Arab culture,” she said, adding that the exhibition, the result of years of research and financed by the Council of the Alhambra and the Generalife, offered a unique approach to the wealth of the Latin American heritage inspired by Alhambra Palace.
“There are so many cultures that took inspiration from the great Alhambra. I believe there are many interesting issues linking the two cultures which can be revealed through exhibitions like this one,” she said.
“Alhambras: Neo-Arabic Architecture in Latin America” came in the framework of the Arab-Iberian-American Divan for Thought, a platform dedicated to promoting dialogue between the Arab and the Ibero-American world in cooperation with the Royal Institute for Inter-Faith Studies, the Cervantes Institute, the Spanish Embassy and the Arab Thought Forum.
“We are definitely joined by culture more than we could expect,” Guzman said.
Written ByRoufan Nahhas
Roufan Nahhas, based in Jordan, has been covering cultural issues in Jordan for more than two decades.
https://thearabweekly.com/exhibition-explores-arab-architectural-influence-latin-america
The Latin East: New Perspectives on Latin America-Middle East Ties
April 27, 2018 to April 28, 2018
April 27 - 28, 2018 at New York University
The Latin East: New Perspectives on Latin America-Middle East Ties
An International Conference
Please RSVP Here! and Join us on Facebook
At the height of Latin America’s “pink tide” in the mid-2000s, left wing governments throughout the region developed unprecedented economic, political, and cultural ties with the Arab world as part of a larger effort to disrupt U.S. hegemony globally. Meanwhile in the Middle East, entrenched power regimes seemed to teeter against a wave of social and political movements broadly identified as the Arab Spring. Today, as the Pink Tide recedes and renewed conflict and authoritarianism grips the Middle East, the time is ripe to consider the origins, contours, and legacies of a relationship forged in a moment of deep regional and global flux, between parts of the world infrequently considered side by side.
On April 27 - 28, 2018, NACLA, MERIP (Middle East Research and Information Project), and Jadaliyya will convene scholars, artists, and activists for a two-day international conference at New York University to explore new and longstanding links between Latin America and the Middle East. Contributors will consider social movements, cultural exchanges, political and economic institutions, and transnational solidarity and diaspora politics in light of the Arab spring and winter, and against the backdrop of nearly two decades of left wing governance in Latin America.
Download the full conference schedule here!
The event will be free and open to the public. We will also be livestreaming the event, stay tuned for more information!
Subscribe to the NACLA Report today to receive our Spring Issue on the Latin East—the first of our 50th year of publishing!—which features a special publishing collaboration between NACLA, MERIP, and Jadaliyya, with essays from the conference participants.
This event is sponsored by:
https://nacla.org/event/latin-east-new-perspectives-latin-america-middle-east-ties
Tahia Abdel Nasser
Between Latin America and the Arab world: Rodrigo Rey Rosa and Alberto Ruy Sánchez in Morocco
https://www.degruyter.com/downloadpdf/books/9783110549577/9783110549577-004/9783110549577-004.pdf
Titled “Alhambras: Neo-Arabic Architecture in Latin America,” the show was at the Jordan Museum in Amman.
Sunday 24/06/2018
Andalusian influence. A view of La Glorieta Castle in Sucre in Bolivia. (Alhambras exhibition)
AMMAN - Aunique exhibition focused on the influence of the Arab world in Latin America and the special bond between Arab and Latin American cultures through the art of architecture was presented through 37 beautiful photographs.
Titled “Alhambras: Neo-Arabic Architecture in Latin America,” the show at the Jordan Museum highlighted a period in architecture’s history marked by the construction of Alhambra, the famous palace and fortress complex in Granada, Spain. The palace was built in the mid-13th century by the Nasrid Emir Mohammed ben al-Ahmar of Granada.
Rafael Lopez Guzman, professor of art history at the University of Granada and scientific coordinator of the exhibition, described the show as a unique experience.
“It is an initial approach to the wealth of Latin American architecture that was inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada and other significant Andalusian heritage in buildings erected for the main part in between the latter half of the 19th century to the first third of the 20th century,” Guzman said.
“The interest lies in the fact that the Jordanian citizens can visualise the influence that the Arab culture, in this case the one of Al-Andalus, had in distant places like Latin America.”
The 37 beautifully made images of architectural landmarks throughout Latin America, where the Arab influence on institutional, private and leisure buildings can be appreciated, were a feast to the eyes, Guzman said.
“History tells us a little about the relations between Arabs and Latinos. It is reduced to the arrival and presence of (Arab) emigrants,” he said. “The important thing is that when we put together apparently diverse elements we can observe an influence that we had not evaluated correctly.”
Ana Ramos, a native of Andalusia, pointed out there are connections in many fields.
“Absolutely, there are cultural linkages in the traditions, social relations and gastronomy that can be felt on a wider scale,” Ramos said. “We need to remember that, in addition to culture, there is closeness in language as we inherited words from the Arabic language. Several cities, such as Seville, Grenada and Cordoba, show much cultural closeness.”
The Arabic influence on the Spanish language can be best seen in words spoken every day such as “azucar,” which originates with the Arabic word “as-sukkar” — “sugar” in English. “Alberca” comes from the Arabic “Al Berka,” which means “pool” in English.
The exhibition was preceded by a seminar on “Arab and Latin American Culture,” which covered the influence of the Arab world in Latin America in relation to the inspiring power of Al-Andalus experience and offered a detailed view of Arab cultural influence in the Americas since its colonisation by Spain to modern times.
Lecturers said the Mudejar style, which is centred in the Aragon region of north-eastern Spain, has been recognised with representative buildings as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, in addition to “neo-Arab” art.
Mudejar style is a technique of creating architecture influenced by Muslim and Christian cultures that emerged as an architectural style in the 12th century on the Iberian Peninsula.
Manal Shamot, a fan of history of architecture, said the exhibition depicts the special relation bonded by history between the two cultures.
“I have always been a great fan of architecture especially when it is related to the history of our Arab culture,” she said, adding that the exhibition, the result of years of research and financed by the Council of the Alhambra and the Generalife, offered a unique approach to the wealth of the Latin American heritage inspired by Alhambra Palace.
“There are so many cultures that took inspiration from the great Alhambra. I believe there are many interesting issues linking the two cultures which can be revealed through exhibitions like this one,” she said.
“Alhambras: Neo-Arabic Architecture in Latin America” came in the framework of the Arab-Iberian-American Divan for Thought, a platform dedicated to promoting dialogue between the Arab and the Ibero-American world in cooperation with the Royal Institute for Inter-Faith Studies, the Cervantes Institute, the Spanish Embassy and the Arab Thought Forum.
“We are definitely joined by culture more than we could expect,” Guzman said.
Written ByRoufan Nahhas
Roufan Nahhas, based in Jordan, has been covering cultural issues in Jordan for more than two decades.
https://thearabweekly.com/exhibition-explores-arab-architectural-influence-latin-america
The Latin East: New Perspectives on Latin America-Middle East Ties
April 27, 2018 to April 28, 2018
April 27 - 28, 2018 at New York University
The Latin East: New Perspectives on Latin America-Middle East Ties
An International Conference
Please RSVP Here! and Join us on Facebook
At the height of Latin America’s “pink tide” in the mid-2000s, left wing governments throughout the region developed unprecedented economic, political, and cultural ties with the Arab world as part of a larger effort to disrupt U.S. hegemony globally. Meanwhile in the Middle East, entrenched power regimes seemed to teeter against a wave of social and political movements broadly identified as the Arab Spring. Today, as the Pink Tide recedes and renewed conflict and authoritarianism grips the Middle East, the time is ripe to consider the origins, contours, and legacies of a relationship forged in a moment of deep regional and global flux, between parts of the world infrequently considered side by side.
On April 27 - 28, 2018, NACLA, MERIP (Middle East Research and Information Project), and Jadaliyya will convene scholars, artists, and activists for a two-day international conference at New York University to explore new and longstanding links between Latin America and the Middle East. Contributors will consider social movements, cultural exchanges, political and economic institutions, and transnational solidarity and diaspora politics in light of the Arab spring and winter, and against the backdrop of nearly two decades of left wing governance in Latin America.
Download the full conference schedule here!
The event will be free and open to the public. We will also be livestreaming the event, stay tuned for more information!
Subscribe to the NACLA Report today to receive our Spring Issue on the Latin East—the first of our 50th year of publishing!—which features a special publishing collaboration between NACLA, MERIP, and Jadaliyya, with essays from the conference participants.
This event is sponsored by:
https://nacla.org/event/latin-east-new-perspectives-latin-america-middle-east-ties
Tahia Abdel Nasser
Between Latin America and the Arab world: Rodrigo Rey Rosa and Alberto Ruy Sánchez in Morocco
https://www.degruyter.com/downloadpdf/books/9783110549577/9783110549577-004/9783110549577-004.pdf
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