Faculty_1964-71_188

- 3 - UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES A. U. C. LIBRARY As the year progressed, not only did the dark clouds begin to lift, but there flashed a new hope for a just and peaceful settlement of the tragedies and miseries that have long tormented this part of the world. In this new ray of hope, we can all find cause to be pleased and proud. On the one hand, the American leaders have evinced a new spirit of fair-mindedness and the beginning of a less partisan stand towards the conflict in the Middle East, This change in the official attitude is the aim for which the American members of the Faculty, along with a significant and growing section of the intelligentsia in America itself, have been working for a number of years. On the other hand, the Egyptian leaders have displayed immense courage and realism in declaring that they are desirous of achieving a permanent and just peace*, Both developments came as a fulfilment and materialization of the quiet confidence which has long underlain the work and sustained the solidarity of our University, Indeed, the very survival of this institution throughout the ups and downs of the political situation has been a living testimony to the faith that a fair and equitable solution could, with patience, wisdom and goodwill, eventually be achieved. That is why I said we all have cause for satisfaction and pride. Mind you, it would be wrong to underestimate the difficulties still remaining in the way. The issues are complicated, and the legacy of suspicion and mistrust is heavy. It still remains for the other side of the conflict to show equal sanity and realism, and to prove by action and not mere protestation a sincere desire for a peaceful solution. But I still believe that we have justification for facing the future with continued hope and increased confidence. On the latest events inside Egypt I do not propose to dwell. This is a matter of internal politics into which this Faculty, by reason of its multi-national */• *4 *!ISalam da‘im wa cadil,