Al-Arabiya, Saudi Arabia, Originally posted in Arabic on August 16
Several political pundits, who wrote about the opening of the new Suez Canal last week, were quick to decide that the inauguration ceremony symbolized the final end of Egypt’s influence in the region. The event, they claimed, was completely ignored by other countries in the region – in sharp contrast to the inauguration of the first canal in the late 1800’s.
I agree with these commentators on one thing only: soft power – comprised of diplomacy, leadership, and regional influence – matters, especially for Egypt. Unlike them, however, I find no reason to believe that this decline is a done deal.
To claim that Egypt has no influence on the Arab world is an exaggeration. While the breadth and scope of this impact might be on the decline, one must keep in mind that the weakening of the Egyptian economy, the tumultuous political upheavals in the country (and in the region), and the growth of religious extremism all had a significant impact on Egypt’s impact on its neighbors.
“Decline”, nonetheless, is not synonymous with “demise”, and Egypt will forever remain the mother of the Arab world. What Egypt needs today is to rehabilitate its economy by allowing in foreign investments while nurturing its local industries. Just look at the music industry: Egypt opened its doors to artists from across the Arab world who, after being influenced by Egyptian music, proceeded to become superstars in their countries.
Why not do so in more fields? Why not open the flood gates and allow Egypt to re-assume its regional role in music, cinema, technology, and politics.
The decline of Egyptian influence might be true, but it is certainly not eternal. The events in our region prove, again and again, that change is always around the corner. – Daoud al-Shiryan