[monkeyshine]

It is absurd. When the Egypt-Israel accords were signed, many Israelis had visions of a great co-operation between the two countries, trading resources and technology and starting an economic boom on the south side of the Med. At the time, Israel could have contributed immense agricultural technologies and many in the agriculture industry had hoped to be able to work with the Egyptians to improve their farmland.

The Egyptians would have none of it. The economic success of Israel can be duplicated by any nation that values education, cooperation, understanding. The only Islamic state I can think of that comes close to these values is Turkey. Any nation that subjucates women, places little value on education, is not responsive to the economic desires of their citizens, and encourages war is going to be a wasteland. Unfortunately, this describes almost all of the Arab states. Only the Oil states have been able to avert it to some degree (Saudi Arabia has over 20% unemployment despite all the riches) but that is obviously due to oil money. Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt could be as successful as Israel but they are going to have to overthrow their leaders, open their societies, and value the things we in the west value. Until then they will remain far behind.

[timestax]

Yeah, and they want to kill the "GOLDEN GOOSE", USA while at the same time getting aid and "checkbook diplomacy" from the "great satan".

[Republic of Texas]

You are somewhat correct. Turkey has Islamic people, but is fundementally secular. That's why they have a decent economy and standard of living, they keep the Islamic nuts out of the government.