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Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A26193-2003Aug6.html
Transforming the Middle East
(Washington Post) Condoleezza Rice - •Soon after the conclusion of World War II, America committed itself to the long-term transformation of Europe. Today America and our friends and allies must commit ourselves to a long-term transformation in another part of the world: the Middle East. •A region of 22 countries with a combined population of 300 million, the Middle East has a combined GDP less than that of Spain, population 40 million. It is held back by what leading Arab intellectuals call a political and economic "freedom deficit." • In many quarters a sense of hopelessness provides a fertile ground for ideologies of hatred that persuade people to forsake university educations, careers and families and aspire instead to blow themselves up - taking as many innocent lives with them as possible. •These ingredients are a recipe for regional instability - and pose a continuing threat to America's security. • Our task is to work with those in the Middle East who seek progress toward greater democracy, tolerance, prosperity, and freedom.