quote:
Democracy, economy, education, key elements for change
By Mourad Aziz 03/12/2004 | 14:31 GMT
HRH Prince Moulay Rachid presided last Wednesday the opening of the proceedings of the third conference of the “Arab Thought Foundation” under the patronage of HM King Mohammed in Marrakech.
The theme of this year’s conference was “Arabs between the Culture of Change and Changing the Culture”.
On behalf of HM King Mohammed VI of Morocco, HRH Prince Moulay Rachid read the Royal message to the participants of the conference. He considered that “democracy, economy and education are key elements for cultural change in the Arab World.”
“The democracy we are trying to build is not so much a question of institutions and mechanisms; rather, it is about a culture based on freedom, rationality, responsible citizenship and compliance with the law,” the Prince said.
HM King Mohammed VI highlighted the importance of cultural change to carry out economic, political and social reforms in any country that seeks to develop itself and integrate in the world economy.
“The relationship you are establishing between change and culture shows how keenly aware you are of the inevitability of change, and of the key role culture plays in that change. Systems of government and development models which ignored this fact ended up being isolated or alienated,” he said.
Economic growth hinges on the cultural values and principles those are widespread in a country. Free enterprise, merit, transparency, productivity, competitiveness and sound management are necessary to establish the basis for a solid and permanent sustainable development.
“For thought to contribute effectively to achieving democracy and development, it must help mobilize people, rekindle hope and enhance solidarity concerning social projects designed to liberate minds and release energies, in order to create wealth, stimulate cultural and artistic expression, and preserve our identity,” he said.
HRH Prince Moulay Rachid praised the role undertaken by the “Arab Thought Foundation” in fostering intellectual debates in which eminent politicians, scientists, thinkers and experts from the Arab World participate.