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2. An Overview of the First Summit of Arab-South American Countries

(Brazilia 2005)

Arab-South American Countries Summit 29

South America

South America is the southern continent of the Americas, situated entirely in the western hemisphere and mostly in the southern hemisphere with a relatively small portion in the northern hemisphere. It is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the north and east by the Atlantic Ocean; North Americaand the Caribbean Sea lie to the northwest.

South America was named in 1570 by cartographers Martin Waldseemuller and Matthias Ringmann after Amerigo Vespucci who was the first European to suggest that the Americas were not the East Indies but anew world unknown to the Europeans.

South American has an area of 17,840,000 square kilometers (6,890,000 sq miles) or almost 3.5% of the Earth’s surface. As of 2005, its population was estimated at more than 371,090,000. South America ranks fourth in area (after Asia, Africa and North America) and fifth in population (after Asia, Africa, Europeand North America)

South America countries:

Federative Republic of BrazilRepublic of GuyanaRepublic of ArgentineRepublic of ParaguayRepublic of PeruBolivarian Republic of VenezuelaRepublic of ChileRepublic of UruguayRepublic of ColombiaRepublic of SurinamRepublic of EcuadorRepublic of Bolivia

Arab-South American Countries Summit30

1 – THE FIRST SUMMIT OF SOUTH AMERICAN-ARAB COUNTRIES 1.1 - Background information

In the first half of 2003, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva launched in Brasília the idea of a meetingbetween Arab and South American countries. Next, during 2003 and the beginning of 2004, Minister of External Relations Celso Amorim and other high Brazilian envoys visited several countries in the Arab World and South America to convey to their respective Heads of State the formal invitation from the Brazilian Government to take part in the event. President Lula himself reiterated the invitation during his visits to Syria, Lebanon, United Arab Emirates and Libya, in December 2003. The idea was generally well received, with manifestations of support and interest.

1. 2 - Preparations

The preparatory process for the Summit involved activities with a diversity of character and objectives. Starting in 2004, several intergovernmental meetings in different formats and with different aims were held:

- Informative meetings with the Embassies of participating countries in Brasília;

- Coordination meetings with South American countries (Buenos Aires, September 2004, Brasília, November 2004, Rio de Janeiro, March 2005), to search for agreement on the text of the declaration to be adopted at the Summit;

- Meetings of Foreign Ministers (Cairo, May 2004, New York, September 2004 and December 2004; Cairo, October 2004 and February 2005, and Marrakech, March 2005), to negotiate the language of the paragraphs of the Declaration to be adopted by the Heads of State during the Summit.


Three seminars were also organized during the preparations for the Summit:

- The first one, on September 14 and 15 2004, in São Paulo, on “Dialogue South America-ArabCountries”, when characteristic features of Arab culture and identity were discussed. Scholars and intellectuals of both regions participated in it. Information on the subjects and a list of participants in this seminar are available at the site of HYPERLINK “http://www.mre.gov.br/portugues/ministerio/sitios_secretaria/ipri/seminarios.asp” \t “_blank” Instituto de Pesquisas de Relações Internacionais (IPRI);

- The second one, from September 29 to October 1 2004, in Fortaleza (State of Ceará) and Petrolina (State of Pernambuco), dealt with scientific, technical and technological cooperation,during which Arab and South American experts discussed in particular the utilization of semi-arid regions and the management of water resources. Nearly forty high-level specialists, representing seven South American and as many Arab countries, participated in it and defined priority areas for bi-regional co-operation. The conclusions and recommendations ofthe seminar and the list of participants can be found at HYPERLINK “http://www2.mre.gov.br/aspa/semiarido/index_semiarido.htm” \t “_blank” http://www2.mre.gov.br/aspa/semiarido/index_semiarido.htm;

- The third one, on March 23 2005, in Marrakech, on “Cultural Aspects in South America”, organized by Argentina and Morocco. Subjects discussed were “The Formation of National States in South America and the First Attempts at Regional Co-operation”, “Culture, Science and Technology in South America”, “Integration Processes in South America and their Prospects”, and “Migration, Culture and Identity: The Case of Arab Immigration in South America”. The program and the list of participants are available at HYPERLINK “http://www.maec.gov.ma/preparatory/SP/seminario.htm” \t “_blank” http://www.maec.gov.ma/preparatory/SP/seminario.htm.

Throughout the preparatory process all delegations worked earnestly to arrive at a balanced text of a Final Declaration. The process proved a valuable experience inasmuch as it allowed a convergence of positions and a better acquaintance between both negotiating parties. During the talks and meetings a cordial and constructive climate prevailed, a fact which in itself can be considered a political gain in advance of the Summit.


1.3 – The ASPA Summit

The South American-Arab Countries Summit was the first large international meeting in recent history,outside of the regular work program of the United Nations, whose purpose was to bring together two large and important blocks of developing countries.

The objectives of the Summit were:

- First, to promote a reciprocal re-discovery between two regions that have many historic affinities and a wide potential of achievements in the field of bilateral relations. Looking atthe past, the contact point between the two worlds goes back to the Arab presence in the Iberian Peninsula and to the shaping of the cultures which would later be transplanted to South America. These links were resumed and strengthened with the Arab migratory currents toward South America mainly from the 19th century on, which contributed significantly tothe social and cultural formation of South American countries (approximately 10 million Arabs and their descendants live today in Brazil). On the other hand, a large number of South American migrants, particularly from Brazil, have more recently taken the opposite route, toward the Middle East, leaving part of their family in South America and thus building family and culture bridges between the two regions;

- Second, looking at the future, to promote the mutual re-discovery between two regions which, despite the differences in their respective national conditions, face similar challenges in the struggle for development and share common objectives and interests. The countries in both regions support the search for peace and economic development with social justice, the respect for international law and multilateralism and aim at a multipolar and non-exclusive world and at a more just and tolerant international environment, respecting cultural and ethic diversities.

In short, the main purpose of the Summit was to foster the promotion of a growing interaction whose results may benefit both regions.


1.3.1 - The program of the Summit - (May 2005) :

The Conference of Heads of State and Government took place on May 10 and 11 2005. High level officersmet on May 8 and Foreign Ministers on May 9. The program of the Conference included plenary meetings, bilateral meetings and social events in honor of the Heads of State and Government.The program of the Conference of Heads of State and Government was as follows:

MAY 10 9:00 a.m. Opening ceremony of the South American-Arab Countries SummitAuditorium of the Convention Center Ulysses Guimarães- Address by the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, co-president of the Summit;- Address by the President of Algeria, co-president of the Summit and president of the HYPERLINK “http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arab_League” \l “Arab_League_Summits” \t “_blank” Arab Summit;- Address by a representative of South America;- Address by the Secretary-General of the Arab League.

MAY 10 11:30 a.m. First Plenary meeting of Heads of State and Government of South America and Arab countriesHotel Blue Tree, Paranoá Hall;Subject of discussion: Bi-regional co-operation through trade, investment and business.

1:30 p.m. Working luncheon offered by the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil to the Heads of State and Government of South America and Arab countriesLuncheon in honor of the foreign delegations, offered by the Secretary-General of External Relations of BrazilHotel Blue Tree

3:30 p.m. Second Plenary Meeting of Heads of State and Government of South America and Arab countriesHotel Blue Tree, Paranoá HallSubject of discussion: Political dialogue, cultural exchange.

3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Reception in honor of the Heads of State and Government of South America and Arab countries offered by the President of the Federative Republic of BrazilItamaraty Palace


MAY 11 Morning Bilateral and intra-regional meetingsHotel Blue Tree

11:00 a.m. Third Plenary Meeting of Heads of State and Government of South America and Arab countries and closing of the SummitHotel Blue Tree, Paranoá Hall

- Presentation to the Heads of State and Government of the Report of the Meeting of Business Executives;- Adoption of the Final Declaration;- Address by the President of Algeria, in his capacity as President of the Arab league;- Address by a representative of South American countries;- Closing of the Summit by the President of the Federative Republic of Brazil.

12:30 p.m. Press Conference by the Heads of State and Government of South America and Arab countriesHotel Blue Tree, Auditorium

1.3.2 - Business Event

Parallel to the Summit a large business event was held, which included a seminar on economic trends, legislation and instruments for attraction of investments and an investment fair, where space was available for government officials, trade and investment promotion agencies and businessmen for the publicity ofprojects and business opportunities.

The program of the business seminar was as follows:

9:30 – 11:00 a.m.: Opening

11:15 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.: Panels I and II


Panel I : Business culture in South America and in the Arab countries. Integration and Cooperation Mechanisms between Economic Blocks

Panel II: Trade Flows between South America and the Arab Countries: Opportunities, Logistics and Financing.

1:15-3:00 p.m.: Lunch

3:15-7:15 p.m.: Panels III, IV and V

Panel III: Investment Opportunities between South America and the Arab countries: Legislation, Preferences, Partnerships and Projects.

Panel IV: Tourism as a Factor of Cultural Exchange and Generation of Business. Destinations, Infrastructure and Investment.

Panel V: Legal Frameworks for Economic and Trade Cooperation between South America and the Arab Countries. Evaluation and Challenges.

8:00 p.m.: Reception

The Brazilian Minister of Development, Industry and Foreign Trade, Mr. Luiz Fernando Furlan, presented on May 11th, at the closing of the Summit, a HYPERLINK “http://www2.mre.gov.br/aspa/textos/Evento%20empresarial%20relato.doc” \t “_blank” report on the results of the business event.

1.4 – Agreement between Mercosul and the Gulf Cooperation Council

During the ASPA Summit, HYPERLINK “http://www.mercosur.int/msweb/” \t “_blank” Mercosul and the HYPERLINK “http://www.gcc-sg.org” \t “_blank” Gulf Cooperaton Council (GCC) signed a HYPERLINK “http://www2.mre.gov.br/aspa/textos/outros/acordo_mercosul_ccg%20ENGL.doc” \t “_blank” Frame Agreement on Economic Cooperation, whose clauses allow for the possibility of both parties signing a Free Trade Agreement.


1.5 - Cultural Program

The cultural program during the Summit encompassed film shows, photographic exhibition, musicalperformances and gastronomic festivals.

a) CINEMA

- Arab Film Show

- Place: Cine Brasília

- Date: May 6 to 12

- Films shown:

La Boîte Magique, by Ridha Behi (Tunisia)

La Passion, by Mohammed Malas (Syria)

Le Moulin de M. Fabre, by Ahmed Rachedi (Algeria)

La Porte du Soleil, by Yousry Nasrallah (Egypt)

Le Cerf-Volant, by Randa Chahal Sabbag (Lebanon, 2003)

Au Neuvième Mois, by Ali Nassar (Palestine, 2003)

- South American Film Show:

- Place: Cine Academia (replayed at CCBB from 10 to 22 May)

- Date: May 6 to 12

- Selected films:

BomBom, el Perro (Carlos Sorín, Argentina) 2004

Doble Juego (Alberto Durant, Peru) 2003

Whisky (Uruguay, 2004)

La Ultima Luna, by Miguel Littin (Chile, 2005)

Quase Dois Irmãos, by Lucia Murat (Brazil)

As Filhas do Vento (Joel Zito Viana, Brazil) 2004

El Rey (José Antonio Dirado Zuniga, Colombia) 2004

Miramenometokei (Enrique Collar, Paraguay)


b) PHOTOGRAPHY

- Exhibition “AMRIK –Arab Presence in South America”;- Place: CCBB- Date: May 2 - June 22, 2006- Participating photographers:ARGENTINA: Guadalupe Miles; Juan Travnik; Julio Pantoja; Pablo Garber; Santiago Porter.BOLIVIA: Dado Galdieri; Eduardo Quintanilla.BRAZIL: Adenor Gondim; Bruno Veiga; Gilvan Barreto; Lalo de Almeida; Leopoldo Plentz , Marcelo Buainain; Orlando Azevedo; Paula Sampaio.CHILE: Rodrigo Gómez-RoviraCOLOMBIA: Jorge Mario Múnera ECUADOR: Judy de Bustamante; Miguel AlvearPARAGUAY: Jorge Saenz PERU: Flavia Gandolfo URUGUAY: Roberto Schettini VENEZUELA: Esso Alvarez

c) MUSIC

- Concert by Duo Assad- Place: CCBB- Date: May 10 (Two concerts at 1:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.)- Concert by musicians from the Brasília Clube do Choro- Place: Itamaraty Palace- Date: May 10

d) GASTRONOMY

- Moroccan and Peruvian gastronomic festivals- Places: Hotel Blue Tree (Morocco) and Hotel Naoum (Peru)- Date: April 28 - May 01

The ASPA Summit was also the largest event celebrated in Brasília since its foundation. It required the co-operation of the Government of the Federal District and brought together a large part of the local society around the objective of ensuring its success.


Declaration of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of ASPA

Buenos Aires, 20-21 February 2008

The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the South American and Arab countries gathered in Buenos Aires on 20 and 21 February 2008, according to what was stipulated in the Brasilia Declaration, after overviewing the progress achieved in various fields of cooperation between the two regions since the convening of theBrasilia Summit in May 2005, agree as follows:

Introduction

They welcome the intensification of the dialogue between both regions, which not only allowed the tworegions to meet the agenda stipulated in the Declaration, but also to increase the potential for bi-regional cooperation.

They are pleased to note that, since the 2005 Summit, twelve meetings have been held: five MinisterialMeetings on economy, culture, environment and social affairs, five Meetings of High Officials and twoTechnical Meetings. Furthermore, they welcome the agreements reached in the various areas contained in the Declaration and the progress made to implement them.

They are convinced that it is essential to establish dynamic and intense relations in order to turn both regions into privileged partners for each other.

They undertake to promote their convergence on international affairs and to develop their affinitiesresulting from a dialogue that is the best foundation to establish a closer, strengthened and diversifiedrelation.

They recognize the importance of social inclusion and the efforts to achieve cohesion for sustainable development and the strengthening of the government institutions of the countries and improvement of the quality of life of their inhabitants and the respect for diversity of peoples.


Political Coordination and Multilateral Relations

They affirm their commitment to achieve, preserve and enhance international peace and security inaccordance with the Charter of the United Nations and they consider it necessary to build a common space based upon equality, justice, equity and respect for the principles and rules governing coexistence between nations.

They reaffirm the importance of coordination within the multilateral disarmament fora in order to advancecommon positions regarding the progress of the international community towards achieving full nuclear disarmament.

They condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and reject any linkage between terrorism and a specific people or religion, ethnicity or culture.

They decide to strengthen cooperation between the two regions in the prevention and fight againstterrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, through the exchange of information between the competent authorities and agencies of each country.

They express their strong support to multilateralism and the principles set forth in the Charter of the United Nations, emphasizing the observance of International Law as a means to ensure international peace and security, as well as the social and economic development of their countries.

They highlight the importance of a comprehensive reform of the United Nations, including the General Assembly, the Security Council and the Economic and Social Council, in order to make them more efficient,democratic, representative and transparent. In this respect, they voice their support to a prompt negotiating process in the United Nations with respect to the Security Council reform.

They recognize the importance of the “Universal Declaration of Human Rights”, the sixtieth anniversary of which will take place in 2008, and within this context, they recognize the need to undertake actions in order to ensure the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental liberties. Convinced that the universal system for the promotion and protection of human rights requires the support of the international community, they deem that international cooperation will be fundamental for securing the observance of human rights, the maintenance of democracy and the promotion of sustainable development, pursuant to the Charter of the United Nations and the related resolutions.


They commend the ongoing institutionalization process of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) which will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening the integration process between the two regions.

They call on the Argentine Republic and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to resume negotiations in order to find, as soon as possible, a fair, peaceful and lasting solution to thesovereignty dispute referred to as “Question of the Malvinas Islands”, in accordance with the many relevant UN Resolutions. They further state that the inclusion of the Malvinas, South Georgias and South Sandwich Islands as territories associated to Europe in Annex II to Title IV, “Association of Overseas Countries and Territories”, of Part III of the Treaty amending the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty Establishing the European Community is not in accordance with the fact that a sovereignty dispute over such islands exists.

They call upon the Islamic Republic of Iran for a positive response to the United Arab Emirates initiative to reach a peaceful settlement in the issue involving the three UAE islands (Tunb Al-Kubra, Tunb Alsughra and Abou Moussa) through dialogue and direct negotiations, in accordance with the United Nations Charter and International Law.

They reaffirm their refusal of illegal foreign occupation and recognize the right of states and the peoples toresist it in accordance with the principles of international legitimacy and in compliance with international humanitarian law.

They reaffirm the need to intensify existing efforts to resume the peace process in order to reach fair, lastingand comprehensive peace in the Arab-Israeli conflict on all tracks on the basis of relevant resolutions of theSecurity Council and of the General Assembly of the United Nations, as well as the Madrid Framework, in particular the “Land for Peace Principle”, the Road Map, and the “Arab Peace Initiative” adopted at the Beirut Summit (2002), and reactivated at the Riyadh Summit (2007) and the Annapolis Conference (2007), leading to the withdrawal of Israel from all occupied Arab territories up to the lines of 4 June 1967, including the occupied Syrian Golan, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State peacefully coexisting side by side with the State of Israel; and the dismantling of the separation Wall and all settlements including those in East Jerusalem; and they call upon the international community to resume their assistance to the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian people and to lift all kinds of sanctions. They call for an immediate cessation of all acts of violence.


They express deep concern about the situation in Gaza and call for the immediate reopening of the crossings between Gaza and Israel so that essential goods and services, including fuel, can be supplied on a continuous basis, so as to avoid and prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Palestinian territories. They also reaffirm their support for the full implementation of the Fourth GenevaConvention in the occupied territories, including Gaza.

They express deep concern with regard to unilateral sanctions imposed on Syria by the government of the United States of America and consider that the so-called Syria Accountability Act violates principles of International Law and constitutes a violation of the objectives and principles of the United Nations Charter thereby setting a serious precedent as regards dealing with independent states.

They call upon all Lebanese political parties to unite and resume dialogue and ensure peace and stability in Lebanon through national dialogue and the implementation of international legitimacy and democracy with a view to preserving the unity, sovereignty and independent identity of Lebanon, and their commitment to the Arab Initiative; they support the efforts made by the Secretary-General of the League of Arab States to implement this initiative.

They call for the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006) and reaffirm the need toprovide political and economic support for the Lebanese government and people with a view to preserving its independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity as well as security and national unity in all its territories. They also condemn the terrorist attacks against UNIFIL and Lebanese targets and they express their firmdenunciation of all attempts to undermine security, stability and national unity in Lebanon.

They reaffirm the need for the unity, freedom, sovereignty and independence of Iraq and the right of non-interference in its internal affairs; they respect the will of the Iraqi people to freely decide their future, and strongly condemn all acts of terrorism and violence perpetrated against the Iraqi people. They also reaffirmthe need to achieve national reconciliation in Iraq. They support the efforts of the Iraqi government to achieve security and stability; they also support the efforts of the various national Iraqi political factions in this respect. They also express their support for the efforts made by the League of Arab States for that purpose, and they call upon the international community to cancel Iraq ́s debts and to offer the assistance needed to undergo the process of reconstructing its institutions and infrastructure.


They welcome the efforts made by the League of Arab States in cooperation with the African Union and the United Nations to solve the Darfur crisis, and the resumption of their efforts to establish peace and stability in Darfur and the region, and the support for political mediation to achieve a comprehensive political settlement as soon as possible. Within this context, they welcome Sudan government’s acceptance of the United Nations Security Council resolution 1769, and its effort in cooperating with the UN/AU Hybrid operation. They welcome the measures taken to implement the comprehensive peace treaty between the government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) signed in Nairobi, and they urge both parties to continue their efforts to implement this agreement.

They stress the need to urgently launch a comprehensive national reconciliation dialogue among all the Somali parties and reaffirm that peace emerging from such a dialogue is the only way to avoid furtherinternal strife and to help the transitional Somali government to fulfill its mandate effectively and,furthermore, they affirm the importance of assisting the African Union forces in Somalia so as to enablethem to undertake their mission in achieving peace and security.

They reaffirm that regional security and stability in the Middle East require that the whole region be free ofnuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. Within this context, they call upon all parties concerned as well as the international community to take practical and urgent measures for the establishment of a nuclear weapon-free zone in the Middle East. They reaffirm the importance of the accession of all countries of theregion without exception to the NPT and the placement of all their nuclear facilities under comprehensive IAEA safeguards, in realizing the goal of universal adherence to the Treaty in the Middle East. They also express their support to the Arab Initiative calling for the establishment of a Weapons of Mass Destruction Free Zone in the Middle East.

They welcome the strengthening of cooperation between the Arab Parliaments such as the Arab Parliamentary Union and the Provisional Arab Parliament, and the Parliaments and Parliamentary Unions of South American countries, and encourage them to hold joint meetings which would lead to expanding non-governmental participation in promoting the various aspects of cooperation and contributing to the economic, social and political development, as well as the respect for the rule of law and the advancement of human rights, with a view to achieving the interests of the two regions.

They emphasize their willingness to join efforts and exchange information on the necessary tools for humanitarian assistance, both in situations of hunger and poverty and to relieve the effects of natural disasters.


Economic Cooperation

They reaffirm the importance of trade and investment in the development of the respective regions,and they highlight the various initiatives proposed at the Quito and Rabat Ministerial Meetings, for the purpose of facilitating trade flows, strengthening economic and commercial relations, and consolidatingan institutional framework for the promotion of the latter.

They welcome the resolution adopted by the Arab Summit in Riyadh, which aims at strengthening cooperation between Arab countries and other regional groups including South America; they also take note of the convening of an Arab economic and social development Summit, which would lead to the increase of cooperation between both regions.

They invite the countries of the two regions to study the possibility of reducing their trade barriers in order to promote and increase trade and achieve greater integration, reflective of their regional and multilateralcomponents.

They note with satisfaction the substantial growth in overall trade between both regions.

They voice their decision to continue identifying and developing all possibilities for their growth and diversification, and they take into consideration the adoption of preferential treatment trade measures, inview of the differences in economic development or other specific conditions of the parties.

They urge WTO members to intensify negotiations in order to conclude the Doha Round of multilateral trade negotiations, in accordance with a balanced and ambitious set of results, considering the development goals as a point of reference.

They express their support to the efforts by the countries of the regions aiming at accession to WTO.

They highlight the importance of both the public and private sector’s active participation in increasing trade and investment between the two regions. In this regard, they express appreciation for the progress achieved in trade and investment areas since the first Summit of Arab and South American countries, andsupport the continuation of such actions.

They highlight the importance of encouraging joint investments in areas such as infrastructure, mining and energy, among others.


They agree on the need for further advancement in those areas where the potential for cooperation and trade existing between both regions can be materialized. Thus, they urge all the parties involved in the ASPA Summit follow-up process to intensify their efforts for the purpose of encouraging closer bi-regional relations.

They highlight the importance of tourism in the countries of both regions and call upon pertinent agencies to work together to this end. In this sense, they appreciate the initiative of Brazil to organize seminars in UAE, Qatar and Kuwait, in December 2007.

They consider it is necessary for the promotion of trade between the two regions to carry out initiatives in order to incorporate added value and technological components into their relationship, for the benefit oftheir respective populations.

They recall that, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and the principles of International Law, States have the sovereign right to exploit their resources, pursuant to their own laws and development policies. Within this context, they condemn any intimidatory actions against the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela or any other country, which may affect its economic and social development and its cooperation with the countries of the South.

They ratify their commitment to achieve the ultimate objective of the Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Kyoto Protocol, guided by their principles, particularly, that developed country Parties should take the lead in combating climate change and the adverse effects thereof, the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and their respective capabilities, the specific needs and specialcircumstances of developing country Parties, especially those that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, and that would have to bear a disproportionate or abnormal burden under the Convention; and that measures taken to combat climate change, including unilateral ones, should not turn into a means of arbitrary or unjustifiable discrimination or a disguised restriction on international trade.

They highlight the importance of promoting measures and policies on energy efficiency that may contributeto the preservation and rational and sustainable use of energy sources.

They recognize the importance and the potential of environmentally- sustainable renewable energy, including biofuel, for the economic, social and environmental development of their nations, as well as its contribution to the diversification of their countries’ energy matrixes.


They ratify the importance of energy for sustainable development. Within this context, they welcome the proposal to establish a bi-regional dialogue mechanism on energy, for the exchange of experiences and the promotion of new cooperation options that may benefit our societies. They also take note of theimportance of the International Forum on Energy, whose Permanent Secretariat is based in Riyadh, as a mechanism of dialogue and cooperation.

They appreciate the initiative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, announced during the third OPEC Summit held in Riyadh in November 2007, to set up a special research fund on energy, to which the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait have made contributions, and welcome its offer to all member countries to make use of its resources and participate therein.

They note with great satisfaction the initiatives aiming at the conclusion of trade agreements between South American and Arab countries. In this regard, they take note of progress achieved in MERCOSUR-GCC negotiations on an FTA between both blocs. They also take note of ongoing contacts between MERCOSUR and Morocco with a view to launching trade negotiations in forthcoming months, building on the Framework Agreement signed in 2004, as well as on the MERCOSUR-Egypt Framework Agreement signed in 2004. These initiatives contribute to significantly enhancing South American-Arab countryrelations.

Social Cooperation

They welcome progress resulting from the First Meeting of Ministers of Development and Social Affairs, held in Cairo on 2-3 May 2007, as recorded in their Final Statement, and urge the competent sectors to implement the cooperation mechanisms therein established.

They express the need to incorporate issues on indigenous and Afro descendents, gender policies and programmes on disability, into the ASPA dialogue.

They recognize the global problem of drugs and their related crimes, and they highlight the essential role of international cooperation to fight this scourge. They voice their strong determination to face this problemin a balanced, comprehensive and multilateral fashion, based upon the principle of shared responsibility and respect for national legislations.

They support the role of civil society to contribute to comprehensive development.


Cultural Cooperation and Dialogue between Civilizations

They reaffirm that the important contribution of Arab immigration to South American countries is aninvaluable input to fostering cultural relations between the two regions in all aspects.

They express their willingness to continue debating cultural policies and actions to promote mutual knowledge of the Arab and South American cultures. Furthermore, they recognize that this forum provides a unique opportunity to build bridges between the peoples of both regions and create a common space for dialogue, exchange and interaction.

They take note of the decision to adopt the institutional, financial and administrative structure of theArab-South American Library; they commend the Algerian provision of a five-hectare plot of land for thispurpose, and its full commitment to undertake all establishment costs and the authors’ lodgings annexed to the Library. They call for an urgent meeting in Algiers of the Committee on Cultural Cooperation no later than 30 April 2008, for the adoption of its institutional structure. In case of non-attendance at the meeting called by Algeria, the countries must take note that the Draft Bylaws will be approved ad referendum and will be submitted to the Summit in Qatar.

They welcome the construction of an internet website on cultural bi-regional cooperation, HYPERLINK “http://www.bibliaspa.com.bre/” www.bibliaspa.com.br, and they also welcome the initiative by Algeria to enrich the Virtual Library website with ten book titles; furthermore, they urge the participating countries in the meeting to effectively contribute to these websites and the construction of additional ones with a view to create a special virtual network in cooperation between both regions which would contribute, together with the Library, to implement the Arab-South American common efforts.

They emphasize that the translation of books, and the knowledge and dissemination of languages and the promotion of historical-cultural research are key points both of the aforesaid project and of the future creation of the South America Research Institute in Morocco, insofar as they will contribute to encouraging access to literary and academic works by researchers and the public at large.

They welcome the approval of the “Statutes of the South American Research Institute” submitted by the Kingdom of Morocco (annexed to this Declaration), which have been evaluated, analyzed and approved by the Cultural Cooperation Committee.


They affirm that the establishment of the South American Research Institute in Tangiers, Morocco, willfoster research in all humanitarian and social science fields and will play a vital role in building bridgesbetween the academics from both regions. This Institute will represent a source of high-level scientificresearch that will contribute to the enrichment of the national and international cultural heritage and become a reference centre for all scholars and researchers.

They are especially satisfied with the publication of the first book of the ASPA Library, a trilingual co-edition, published by the national libraries of Algeria, Brazil and the Ayacucho de Venezuela Library of “El deleite del extranjero en todo lo que es asombroso y maravilloso”, by Imam Al Baghdadi. They encourage further publications of books of interest for both regions.

They point out the importance of debate on cultural diversity. For the purpose of encouraging intercultural dialogue, they deem it positive to share cultural experiences and policies aimed at renewing and discussing ideas, theories and concepts on the matter.

In this respect, they consider that this path contributes to incorporating content and action into the “Alliance of Civilizations”, established by the 60th United Nations General Assembly in 2005. Furthermore, they emphasise the progress made in their commitment to bring the West and the Arab World closer together, strengthening a link whose cultural components have a special preponderance, and express their satisfaction with the appointment of the former President of Portugal, Mr. Jorge Sampaio, as the United Nations High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations.

They welcome the outcome of the first Forum of the UN Alliance of Civilizations held in Madrid on 15-16January 2008 which witnessed a high level Arab and South American participation in the political, cultural and non-governmental fields; they also welcome the signing of the Memorandum of Understandingbetween the League of Arab States and the UN High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations. Furthermore, they welcome Argentina’s proposal to be the venue of a Regional Seminar in April 2008 for the purpose of analyzing the issue of gender.

They express the need to respect the diversity of cultures, religions and civilizations, which is a part of common human heritage. They stress that freedom of worship is one of the basic rights that should be respected and should not be the object of segregation, discrimination or racism.


They call for an enhancement of scientific and technical cooperation between both regions; and expresstheir willingness to establish bi-regional cooperation programmes in priority areas that could serve as examples for future joint actions in South-South cooperation.

They welcome the web portals on bi-regional cooperation in the areas of Science and Technology and encourage the countries participating in the Summit to actively contribute to enriching them and to create additional sites capable of setting up a good quality virtual network for cooperation between both regions.

They welcome the Joint Communiqué on Environmental Cooperation adopted at the First Meeting of Environment Ministers of Arab and South American countries, in Nairobi, on 6 February 2007, taking into account that cooperation between both regions for sustainable development is mutually beneficial andwill consolidate their friendly relations.

They undertake to ensure the follow-up and implementation of the Joint Communiqué, promoting the use of the instruments therein provided for, in particular, the development of a Biennial Executive Programme during the year 2008, as well as the promotion of ministerial or technical meetings.

They welcome the initiative by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to convene the Arab and South American Ministerial meeting on Water Resources and the Combating of Desertification on 16-17 November 2008in Riyadh, as part of the efforts by both regions to achieve their development goals within a sustainable environmental framework.

Cooperation and Follow-up Mechanisms

They appreciate the initiative by the State of Qatar for hosting the Second ASPA Summit in Doha on the last quarter 2008, which will be preceded by a preparatory meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs.

They express their appreciation and lend their support to the decision of the State of Qatar to host, in parallel with the Second ASPA Summit, the second bi-regional conference of South American and Arab businesspersons, in line with the Rabat action plan.

They decide to set up an open-ended working group composed of the Troika countries, the two Secretariats and other interested countries, to prepare a plan of action to be submitted to the Summit in Qatar.

Issued in Buenos Aires on 21 February 2008


FIFTH MEETING OF HIGH OFFICIALS IN THE MINISTRIES OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF ARAB AND SOUTH AMERICAN COUNTRIES

Doha, Qatar October 20-23, 2008

Final Report

As a follow up to the Summit of Arab and South American countries, held in Brasilia in May 2005, High Level Officials from Ministries of Foreign Affairs and other Ministries held their Fifth Meeting in the cityof Doha, Qatar on October 20-23, 2008.

The meeting was co-chaired by Ambassador Saif Bin Moqadam Alboainain, Assistant Foreign Minister of the State of Qatar ; Ambassador Pablo Romero Munoz , (Chile) as Presidency of UNASUR ; Ambassador Milad Atieh, (Syria) as President of the Arab Summit; Ambassador Ahmed Benhelli, Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs at the Arab League and Ambassador Arnaldo Carrilho, Special Representative of Brazil for ASPA Affairs.

The High Level Officials reviewed the progress made since their fourth Meeting held in Santa Cruz de laSierra, Bolivia, on July 19-20, 2007 and the meeting of ASPA Ministers of Foreign Affairs, in Buenos Aires, on 20-21 February 2008, and exchanged views on the steps to meet the commitments that have been made, taking into consideration the need to focus their activities on the areas contained in this Report.

They noted with satisfaction the progress made regarding the bi-regional dialogue during 2008, and highlighted the results of the last meetings held at experts level which took place this year, in Algiers and Recife.

Likewise, they reiterated the need to continue efforts to meet the commitments contained in the Brasilia Declaration and the decisions and recommendations approved in subsequent meetings.

They noted with appreciation the broad participation of Delegations in the Fifth Meeting held in Doha, which denotes the importance attached to the process of growing understanding among the parties.


They agreed on the following;

First: Political Coordination

1, Commend the ongoing institutionalization process of the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) which will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening the integration process between the two regions.

2. They call on the Argentine Republic and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to resume negotiations in order to find, as soon as possible, a fair, peaceful and lasting solution tothe sovereignty dispute referred to as “Question of the Malvinas Islands”, in accordance with the many relevant UN Resolutions. They further state that the inclusion of the Malvinas, South Georgias and South Sandwich Islands as territories associated to Europe in Annex II to Title IV, “Association of Overseas Countries and Territories”, of Part III of the Treaty amending the Treaty on European Union and the Treaty Establishing the European Community is not in accordance with the fact that a sovereignty dispute over such islands exists.

3. Support the Government of Bolivia in the development of initiatives of dialogue currently in process, and urge all the members of Bolivian society to attain a sustainable solution within the framework of the full respect for the state of legality and the legal order force. In this respect they recognize the efforts being excerpted by UNASUR to achieve these purposes.

4. Call upon the Islamic Republic of Iran for a positive response to the United Arab Emirates’ initiative to reach a peaceful settlement in the issue involving the three UAE islands (Tunb Al-Kubra, Tunb Alsughra and Abou Moussa) through dialogue and direct negotiations, in accordance with the United Nations Charter and International Law.

5. Reaffirm the need to intensify existing efforts to resume the Arab – Israeli peace process in orderto reach a just, lasting and comprehensive peace on all tracks on the basis of relevant resolutions


of the Security Council and of the General Assembly of the United Nations, as well as the Madrid Framework, in particular the “Land for Peace Principle”, “the Road Map”, and the “Arab Peace Initiative” adopted at the Beirut Summit (2002), and reaffirmed at the Riyadh Summit (2007) andDamascus Summit (2008) and the Annapolis Conference (2007), leading to the withdrawal of Israel from all occupied Arab territories up to the lines of 4 June 1967, including the occupied Syrian Golan, and what remained from Lebanese territory and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State peacefully coexisting side by side with the State of Israel; and the dismantling of the separation Wall and all settlements including those in East Jerusalem; and they call upon the international community to resume their assistance to the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian people and to lift all kinds of sanctions.

6. Reaffirm that regional security and stability in the Middle East require that the whole region be freeof nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. Within this context, they call upon all parties concerned as well as the international community to take practical and urgent measures for the establishment of a nuclear weapon-free zone in the Middle East. They reaffirm the importance of theaccession of all countries of the region without exception to the NPT and the placement of all their nuclear facilities under comprehensive IAEA safeguards, in realizing the goal of universal adherence to the Treaty in the Middle East. They also express their support to the Arab Initiative calling for the establishment of a nuclear Weapons Free Zone in the Middle East.

7. Reaffirm that the use of nuclear energy for peaceful use is an alienable right for the states parties tothe “Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty”, and applying this right in a discriminatory or selective way, especially to the states parties, will affect the credibility of the treaty. And reaffirm the importanceof cooperation in this field and support economic and technical research, and intensify exchange ofexperts between the research centers in the Arab and South American countries.

8. Affirm the importance of cooperation between both regions in international fora on issues related todisarmament.


9. Express deep concern with regard to unilateral sanctions imposed on Syria by the government of the United States of America and consider that the so-called “Syria Accountability Act” violates principles of International Law and constitutes a violation of the objectives and principles of the United Nations Charter thereby setting a serious precedent as regards dealing with independent states.

10. Welcome the Doha Agreement with respect to Lebanon under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al- Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, which has successfully led to the election of Lebanese President, General Michel Soliman, as well as the formation of the national unity government, and reaffirm their solidarity with Lebanon according to the resolutions adopted by theArab Foreign Ministers Council in Cairo, September 2008.

11. Reaf firm the need for the unity, freedom, sovereignty and independence of Iraq and the right ofnon-interference in its internal affairs; they respect the will of the Iraqi people to freely decide their future, and strongly condemn all acts of terrorism and violence perpetrated against the Iraqi people. They also reaffirm the need to achieve national reconciliation in Iraq, and they support the efforts ofthe Iraqi government in this regard and to achieve security and stability; they also support the efforts of the various national Iraqi political factions in this respect. They also express their support for the efforts made by the League of Arab States for that purpose, and they call upon the international community to cancel Iraq ́ s debts and to offer the assistance needed to undergo the process of reconstructing its institutions and infrastructure.

12. Welcome the initiative led by the Arab League and the African Union to resolve the Darfur crisis, and express support for the Darfur Committee headed by H.E Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabr Al-Thani Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, H.E Amr Moussa Secretary General of the League of Arab States and the President of the African Union Commission, in this respect, express appreciation for the regional and international support rendered to the initiative, calling upon all the Sudanese factions to respond positively to the initiative to ensure its success. And call


for an urgent solution to the Darfur crisis, stressing the priority of peace building. Also, highlight the importance of supporting the respect for human rights in Darfur. And reject any attempt to politicize the crisis in the name of international justice, and to use it to jeopardise peace and stability in Darfur.

13. Reaffirm the unity, sovereignty and stability of Somalia, renew support for the Somali NationalReconciliation and help it to overcome the crisis.

14. Reiterate the need to make structures of global governance more democratic, representative and legitimate by increasing participation of developing countries in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions.

15. Reaffirm the support of their Governments for the reform of the United Nations -- including theSecurity Council’ s expansion in order to make it more democratic and responsive to the priorities of the Member States, particularly those of the developing countries that constitute the vast majority of its membership.

16. Took note of the postponement of the Second African-South American Countries Summit, with participation by the Arab countries of Africa, which was due to take place in Venezuela at the end of November 2008, at the request of the Government of the State of Qatar, as it would coincide with the UN Conference on Financing for Development, to be held in Doha, on 29 November 2008, so as to allow a broader participation of African Heads of State in the latter. The Venezuelan Government is carrying out consultations to set a new date for holding the Second ASA Summit within the firstfour months of 2009.


Second: Economic cooperation

17. Decide to establish an open-ended committee to prepare for the businessmen conference to be held in Qatar in 2009 on the sidelines of the Second ASPA Summit. The core of this committee will be composed of representatives of the Troika of Arab Summit (Saudi Arabia, Syria, Qatar) and Chile (as pro tempore presidency of UNASUR), Brazil, the General Union of the Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in the Arab Countries, the Arab Businessmen Union and Arab Investors Union and their counterparts in South American Countries, in coordination with the Arab League. The meeting of the committee will be held before the end of the year and the date will be decided in due consultation with the State of Qatar.

18. Call on the Secretariat of LAS in coordination with UNASUR to undertake actions agreed upon mentioned in the Second Item of Rabat Declaration.

19. Decide to increase the cooperation and coordination between General Secretariat of LAS and General Secretariat of UNASUR.

20. Welcome the proposal to sign a memorandum of understanding between the League of Arab States and the Union of South American Nations to promote tourism between the two regions.

21. Welcome the convening of the international follow up conference for financing development whichwill be held in (Qatar; 29/11-2/12/2008).

22. Express their mutual concern at the International Financial Crisis, and its ramifications on theeconomies of the ASPA countries, with a view to safeguarding their interests within the efforts deployed by the International Community. They emphasize the need to establish an international financial system, which prevents financial speculation and takes into account adequate regulations.In this context, the construction of this new international finance architecture must be congruentwith socioeconomic development. Financial cooperation instruments, in addition to the international efforts, should be implemented. Cooperation mechanisms among the countries of the South must be reinforced to prevent crisis and poverty.


23. Look forward to holding bi-regional Seminars on Energy and Mining, as well as Financial and Capital Market laid out in the Rabat Plan of Action.

24. Welcome the convening of the Arab Economic and Social Development Summit in Kuwait 19-20 January 2009, which would lead to enhance cooperation between the two regions.

25. Noted with satisfaction that the dynamism of the South is thriving today, with a substantial part of the global GDP growth and trade being due to the trade promoted by and between countries in the South. They pledged to promote these mutually beneficial trends through enhanced linkages such astrade, investment and technology transfer, including the negotiation of trade agreements of bilateral or multilateral nature, such as the Global System of Trade Preferences (GSTP).

26. Welcome the Brazilian delegation announcement that Brazil will host in the city of Sao Paulo, from 17-21 November 2008, an International Conference entitled “Bio fuels as a Driving Force for Sustainable Development”, and distributed written information on the subject. Invitations have been sent to countries by the embassies of Brazil abroad . The Brazilian delegation stressed the importance of Arab and South American countries to participate in the event, in order to go for a deeper analysis and to separate facts and myths on the matter.

Third: Social Cooperation

27. The South American side will provide the League of Arab States General Secretariat with focal points on social affairs to enable it to coordinate and follow up matters in this regard.

28. Welcome the Meeting of Social Development Ministers in a South American country. The date and venue of the meeting will be determined through focal points to be decided later by the South American side.

29. Stress the importance of exchanging expertise and successful national initiatives to combat poverty and achieve social development.


Forth : Cultural Cooperation

Decide to adopt the recommendations of the cultural committee as follows;

30. The preparation of a budget for the operation of the Library, to be shared according to the financialpossibilities of each participating country, and overseen by a technical committee formed by members of the current Committee for Cultural Cooperation, for the coordination and follow-up of this issue.

31. The acceptance of the project presented by the Moroccan kingdom on the building of the Research Institute on South America in Tangier, presented in details and concerning the surface, the internal distribution of rooms, the administrative offices and different departments, and also the preparationof a budget for the operation of the institute to be shared according to the financial possibilitiesof each participating country, and overseen by a technical committee formed by members of the current Committee for Cultural Cooperation, for the coordination and follow-up of this issue.

32. The welcoming of the publication of the third and fourth editions of the book “The foreigner’s delight in everything that is astounding and marvelous”, issued by BIBLIASPA. These editions will be published by Brazil and Venezuela before the II Summit of Arab and South American Countries, aiming at its distribution in colleges, universities, libraries, schools, cultural and research centers.

33. The welcoming of the presentation of the update on the exhibition project “A Story of Two Rivers: the Amazon and the Nile”, including technical, geographical and social factors, inviting the concerned parties, Egypt and Sudan, to present their own propositions and studies for the development and the support of this project.

34. The welcoming the announcement made by Peru on the incoming presentation of two books, one related to the proximity Peruvian and Arab cultures entitled “L’ Andalous au Perou” by Ambassador Jaime Caceres, and the other entitled “The Origins of the Amazon” by Czech researcher Vohumir Jansky, within the framework of the Exhibition Project “A Story of Two Rivers: The Amazon and the Nile”, the latter published under the auspices of Peruvian institutions and the Czech Republic.


35. The consideration and acceptance of the newly added information presented by Brazil concerning the enlarged website of the Arab and South American Library (such as Calligraphy, Maps, Poetry, Articles, Videos and the Agenda of the activities of the Library, e.g. the “Conference on Arab Contributions to South America”, to be held in Rio de Janeiro, 12-14 November 2008), calling upon the countries of both regions to submit their contributions for the development of the site. In addition to supporting the site, the Committee also called upon the sending of contributions for the Review of Arab and South American Studies, which will be distributed during the forthcoming II Summit of Arab and South American Countries.

36. The acceptance, in principle, of the organization of the II Meeting of Arab and South American Ministers of Culture, to be held in Brazil, before the forthcoming II Summit of Arab and South American Countries, by the end of March 2009.

37. The welcoming of the proposal by the delegate of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of supporting cultural cooperation in different fields, especially the cultural cooperation betweenArab and South American Countries, under the aegis of the Declaration of Brasília. The Committee also welcomed the proposal of the delegate of the State of Kuwait concerning the activities of joint external festivals.

38. Call on Venezuela to set the date of the joint Meeting of Education Ministers in Arab and South American Countries and provide the agenda of the Meeting.

39. The Arab Countries confirm their support to the nomination by the Arab Republic of Egypt of Mr.Farouk Hosni, the Egyptian Minister of Culture, for the post of Director General of UNESCO, as the only Arab candidate for the post. He has extensive artistic and cultural experiences and has made Arab and international contributions in this respect. The South American Countries took note of this candidature, and the Arab Countries seek the support of the South American Countries for this nomination.


Fifth: Scientific, Technological and Environmental Cooperation

Decide to adopt the recommendations of the Science, Technology and Environment committee as follows;

40. Draft Riyadh Ministerial Communiqué

Cooperation on water resources, semi-arid lands and desertification has always been a major topic in theASPA dialogue. It was initially addressed prior to the I ASPA Summit, in the “Seminar on Semi-Arid Lands and Water Resources” (Fortaleza/Petrolina, 29/8–1/10/2004), and included in the Brasília Declaration under chapter 9. In the follow-up process, the topic has been taken up in all High Officials Meetings, andwas incorporated into the Arab-South American Joint Comminiqué on Environment, approved in Nairobi on 6/2/2007, by the Arab and South American Ministers of Environment.

The initiative of the Ministerial Meeting on Water Resources was suggested by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the 3rd High Officials Meeting (Cairo, 30-31/1/2007). In the 4th High Officials Meeting(Santa Cruz de la Sierra, 18-20/7/2007), the Brazilian delegation offered to host a preparatory meeting in Recife.

In the Recife Meeting (20-22 August 2008), experts and delegates engaged in discussing proposals and priority areas for cooperation on water resources and combating desertification. Accordingly, the draftcommunique of the Ministerial Meeting of Riyadh, to be held on 16-17 November, 2008, has been prepared (as presented in Annex 1).

During the Joint Meeting of the Committees on Science and Technology and Environment, the delegations agreed on reviewing the draft communique and sending their remmarks to LAS to HYPERLINK “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected] before 7th of November 2008.

The final version of Riyadh Ministerial Communiqué will be approved in the Meeting of the High Officialsof the Ministries in Charge of Water Resources to be held in Riyadh on the 16th of November 2008, before submitting it to the joint Ministerial Meeting, to be held on 17th of November, 2008, and look forward for the participation of the Ministers in charge of water resources in both regions to attend the Riyadh Ministerial meeting.


41. Joint Executive Biannual Program for environmental cooperation (2009–2010).

The committee reviewed and approved the program proposed by the Council of Arab Ministers responsible for the Environment (CAMRE/LAS), which includes the following areas for cooperation:

Integrated waste management.

New technologies in water desalinization.

Techniques and technologies to limit and adapt to climate change.

Modern techniques and technologies to mitigate the effects of droughts and combat desertification.

Cleaner production technologies and clean development mechanism (CDM).

Integrated coastal zone management.

Convening coordination meetings during the international conferences related to the environment.

Activation of the information network established in Brazil.

The LAS and the ACSAD suggested to host a trainning workshop that deals with regional climate system modeling to reduce uncertainties in climate change scenarios.

42. Follow up on the outcome of the Santa Cruz and Recife meetings.

42.1. Recommended structure:

The LAS (Department of Environment, Housing and Sustainable Development and ACSAD) will act as the regional Nodal Point to the Committee on Science and Technology as well as the Committee of Environmental Cooperation. Brazil (Ministry of External Relations) will be the regional Nodal Point for South America until the Secretariat of the UNASUR is formed and can assume this responsability.

Each country shall designate a national Nodal Point to act as coordinator between the committees and relevant national entities.


42.2. ASPA-Science website:

The ASPA-Science website (www.aspa-science.org) shall be a platform for the follow-up on the activities on Science and Technology, as well as a means of interchanging projects, proposals and experiences and of encouraging contact between the scientific communities of both regions.

The Committee welcomes the positive response of some countries in the two regions in nominating their nodal points to the Brazilian Ministry of External Relations, which is responsible for the website data management, and requests other countries to follow suit before the forthcoming High Officials Meeting.

42.3. Creation of the Arab-South American Technological University:

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and the Palestinian Government agreed to prepare a preliminary proposal for the creation of the “Simón Bolívar” Technological University, to be submitted before the forthcoming High Officials Meeting.

42.4. Cooperation program in the areas of research, management capacity, exchange of experiences and experts on science and technology:

The Committee requests feedback on the proposals submitted in the Santa Cruz de la Sierra High Officials Meeting by the Delegations of Bolivia, Chile, Venezuela and the Arab League/ACSAD concerning cooperation activities.

42.5. Encourage the bi-lateral cooperation between Palestine and South American countries in providing the Palestinians with under and postgraduate fellowships:

The Committee encourages Palestine to inform the South American countries the areas of specialization and the number of fellowships it needs in order to allow the effective implementation of cooperation programs.

42.6. Peaceful applications of atomic energy

The Committee welcomes the proposal of the Peruvian Institute of Nuclear Energy (IPEN) to participate in cooperation and research programs in the field of atomic energy with peacefulapplications. These programs will include capacity building, research and pilot project implementation in the fields of agriculture, medicine and electricity generation. Such programsshould be carried out within the IAEA framework of cooperation. The Committee encourages Arab Countries to benefit from the Peruvian offer.


Other matters.

43.1 Project proposal “Land Degradation Monitoring and Assessment in Arab Region and South America” (LAMAARSA):

LAS/ACSAD presented the project proposal “Land Degradation Monitoring and Assessment in Arab Region and South America” (LAMAARSA), to be considered by South American and Arab countries. The committee requests interested South American countries to analyze and give their remarks on the project. Brazil, as regional nodal point, will work in coordination with the LAS/ACSAD on this matter.

43.2 Brazilian proposal of cooperation between ASPA countries to implement the National Action Programs (NAPs), which will be similar to the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) Platform for Cooperation in the Area of Environment.

The Committee welcomes the “Proposal of Cooperation Among the Member Countries of the South American-Arab Countries Summit (ASPA) in the Field of National Programs to Combat Desertification” (Annex 2), presented by the Brazilian delegation, and requests the memberstates and LAS/ACSAD to review it for discussion during the next High Officials Meeting.

43.3 Areas of Cooperation proposed by The Delegation of Brazil

The Committee highly appreciates the proposals made by the Brazilian Delegation which covers the following areas:

Space-based satellite environmental monitoring.

Global and regional climate system modeling (early warning drought forecasting systems) to reduce uncertainties in climate changing scenarios.

Impact adaptation and vulnerability research in arid and semi-arid regions.

Development of desalinization technology.


Sixth : Follow-up Mechanisms

44. ASPA STRUCTURE

44.1 Propose to establish an organizational structure for ASPA in order to make it more dynamic, to be submitted to the up coming ASPA Foreign Affairs Ministerial meeting, in March 2009, as follows;

(Highest level) The Summit, formed by Heads of States and Governments, to meet every three years;

(Second level) The Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs, to meet every two years;

(Third level) The Council of High Officials from Ministries of Foreign Affairs, formed by theNational Coordinators (Focal Points), to meet every six months;

(Fourth level – 1) The Sectorial Committees, formed by experts in each area (Nodal Points), to meet at least twice a year;

(Fourth level – 2) The Executive Coordination Group, formed by the Chair of the Arab Summit, the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, representing the Arab Countries, and the Presidency of the UNASUR, Brazil (Brazil will temporarily join this Group until UNASUR becomes fully structured) representing the South American countries. This Group should meet twice a year.

44.2 Decide that the currently existing Committees for Cultural Cooperation, Science and Technology, and Economic Cooperation will be joined by two new Committees, those for Environmental Cooperation and Social Cooperation.

44.3 Decide the above-mentioned meetings should convene in rotation between Arab and South American Countries if possible.


45. DRAFT DECLARATION OF SECOND ASPA SUMMIT

Decide to set up an open ended ad hoc group to draft the declaration to be issued at the closure of the Second ASPA Summit. This drafting group will be integrated by the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States, Syria, Qatar, Egypt, Brazil, Venezuela and Chile. This declaration will include the following sections:

1. Introduction

2. Political Coordination

3. Economic & Financial Coordination

4. Bi-regional Cooperation (Culture & Education, Environment, Science & Technology, Business & Trade, Social Affairs)

5. Follow-up Mechanism

All countries are invited to send their contributions (paragraphs) to be included in the sections above.

Decide to hold the preparatory meeting of High Officials for the Doha Summit in Egypt during the firsthalf of the month of February 2009.

Suggest to hold the preparatory meeting of Ministers of Forging Affairs in the Arab League Head Quarters in Cairo during the month of March before the Doha Summit to be held during 31/3 – 1/4/ 2009.

The High Officials delegates thank the government of Qatar for its hospitality and for the excellentorganization of the meeting.

Doha, Qatar, October 23, 2008

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