The Diplomatic Society's Weekly Event - recent movements in Egypt
07/02/2011
On February 3rd, The Richmond Diplomatic Society (RDS), with the cooperation from the Richmond International Society (RIS), hosted its weekly event on the Richmond Hill Campus which covered the recent political movements in Egypt.
“This event is one of a series of weekly events planned for both the Hill and Kensington campuses that will engage students with diplomacy, politics and international relations by hosting senior diplomats, politicians and economists,” said RDS spokesperson Josh Nedeljkovic.
A panel of six students and one professor answered questions from a venue full of students who were curious and fully engaged with the topic. Professor Heba Nassar, the Vice President of Cairo University, and a member of the Economic Committee of the Egyptian Parliament, joined the event which was televised onto a screen in the classroom.
Dr Michael Keating, Associate Professor of International Political Economy, talked about the Mubarak regime and Egyptian policy that has ruled for the past three decades. Keating explained the historical background of Egypt and the reasons for it being such a strong player in the Middle East and the events that have pushed the Egyptians to protest against their President after thirty years in power. It was also explained that the economy can be the main player in transforming Egypt, reasons for the recent movements in the Arab world and possible future events that could occur.
Mr. Omar Ramy, a Richmond senior student of Finance and a member of RDS who was born in Egypt, explained how the revolution started in Egypt and why the people are protesting. He also provided figures in regard to the Mubarak administration and explained how Egypt can move forward towards a better future.
Mr. Saed Sarsur, the President of RDS, talked about the new players in Egyptian politics and explained why the international community should assist Egypt on both levels as far as leadership and citizens, in order to provide a mechanism to rebuild the country and start economic, social and educational growth which can bring enormous added value to both Egypt and the international community in the short and long term.
Mr. Byron Fisher, a former Captain of the US army and a director of RDS, talked about the military cooperation between Egypt and the US, and explained how relations can continue to be effective for both countries.
Mr. David Alan Hunter, the President of RIS, discussed the relationship between the Obama administration and Egypt, and how the President of the US can assist Egypt effectively on the national level.
Ms. Kendyll Pickard, the Public Relations officer of RDS, spoke of how the Egyptian economy can grow in the shadow of the recent movements.
Mr Marwan Ayad, a Richmond senior student of International Relations and a member of RDS, explained why President Mubarak should leave power with immediate effect, and how the Egyptian people can create a better future for themselves. He also explained the main causes of the uprising, saying that the lack of economic resources is the main reason for it.
A thank-you goes out to Mr Josh Nedelkvic, RDS spokesperson, who managed the event along with the International Society who provided the wine and food.
Link to this page: http://www.richmond.ac.uk/n/1039.aspx
