The Coronado Library’s Winn Room was the site for an informative discussion on Friday 25 March of ongoing events in Libya and the Middle East. An audience of 152 members and guests gathered to hear Roundtable board members Mike Dabbar and Bill Green give their evaluations and predictions as to these areas. Mike born and raised in Alexandria, Egypt of GreekLebanese parentage had a business career with Philips Petroleum Company during which he spent considerable time in the Middle East.
Mike discussed the background and history of Egypt pointing out how it has shaped current events in that country. In particular he reviewed the conditions which led to the founding and growth of the Muslim Brotherhood and its continued influence on the Egyptian political landscape. He also discussed the corrosive effects of under-employment and widespread governmental graft has on the Egyptian population, especially the educated class. His long -range evaluation is that Egypt will develop a regime that is not Western-oriented and is opposed to the existence of the State of Israel. The best hope for the U.S. is to stay close to the Egyptian military and hope it will be a continued force for moderation.
Bill Green first gave a few remarks concerning the political-military situation in Libya and the dire political consequences facing the United States and Europe. He then went on to point out the importance of the Persian Gulf states and the necessity of keeping the Gulf open to the transport of oil, which makes up 40% of the world’s supply. At the present time he believes Bahrain, where the U.S. 5th Fleet is based is a flash point. While the world’s attention is still on Libya because of the fighting, the situation the Persian Gulf is erupting. While this should be central to the U.S. national interest, our policy makers are diverted to the Libyan side-game.
Additionally Bill remarked that the “Arab Spring” series of revolts and unrest is founded on the fact that the population in these countries has increased with the under 25 cohort making up a significant percentage. This age group, which is experiencing rampant unemployment, is taking their grievances out on their political leaders throughout the Arab world.
At its’ Friday, April 22rd meeting the Roundtable will feature Dr. Alan Gin, a well-known economist from the University of San Diego, who will address “The San Diego Economy and How it May Be Impacted By The California Budget Crisis”.
Pictured in above photo are from left:
Captain Bill Green Coronado Roundtable President
Dr. Jerry Easton Coronado Roundtable Founder
Mr. Michele Dabbar Coronado Roundtable Executive Director
