What’s It About?
Over a scorching August weekend in Baku, Azerbaijan, around 30 young leaders from Israel, the Middle East, and North Africa gathered to envision a peaceful Middle East. Hosted by ROPES (Regional Organization for Peace, Economics, and Security), the summit focused on fostering dialogue and cooperation among regions historically marked by conflict.
Why It Matters
This assembly took place amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, proving that hope and dialogue can prevail even in dire times. The gathering provided a rare platform for Israelis to engage with peers from locations often considered hostile, creating an atmosphere ripe for diplomatic and economic collaboration.
Collaboration Beyond Borders
Highlighting cultural and economic exchanges, one poignant session discussed water management solutions led by the Palestinian director of the Arava Institute in the Negev, emphasizing trust as a crucial and scarce resource in the region. Another notable project was Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM), showcasing Israeli and Palestinian cooperation in developing assistive technologies for disabilities.
Humanizing the Conflict
Participants were deeply moved by the personal stories shared, including those of Gazans who experienced loss and displacement. Such exchanges humanized the conflict, driving home a powerful message of shared humanity and the urgent need for peaceful resolution.
Voices for Peace
Powerful testimonials from participants like Syrian Shadi Martini and Saudi venture capitalist Amina underscored Israel’s technological and entrepreneurial prowess, advocating it as a model for regional development. Amina highlighted that despite ongoing conflicts, the potential for cooperation remains robust.
Changing Dynamics
ROPES CEO Ksenia Svetlova emphasized the need for regional mediators in peace negotiations, noting shifts in Arab-Israel relations since the Abraham Accords. While challenges remain, the summit proved that broader dialogue and inclusivity are possible and beneficial.
A Future-Ready Vision
Ben Birnbaum, founder of ROPES, emphasized the link between regional cooperation and advancements in Israeli-Palestinian peace, promoting a vision of post-conflict cooperation. The event served as a hopeful step towards building a collaborative Middle East involving over 120 leaders from various fields.
Realistic Optimism
Despite optimism stemming from the Abraham Accords, noteworthy voices at the summit, including Saudi researcher Aziz Alghashian, reminded participants of the enduring complexities involving the Palestinian issue. Domestic expectations in Israel must align with these regional realities, he contended.
A Plea for Peace
Culminating in a plea for peace from Gazan engineer Rana, who shared the dire conditions of war-torn Gaza, the summit echoed a powerful message: People across the Middle East are yearning for peace, coexistence, and mutual respect.
In Conclusion
Events like this summit promote Israel as a key player in driving positive change across the region. Facilitating dialogue and building bridges are vital steps towards achieving lasting peace and cooperation in the Middle East.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.