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2011-01-12T05:10:00.000-08:00

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BOO7A KINGDOM: Live Forex Quotes

2010-03-19T14:19:00.000-07:00

BOO7A KINGDOM: Live Forex Quotes

4 Ways to Get Multiple Auto Insurance Quotes and Obtain the Cheapest Rates

2010-03-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

you are looking for the best car insurance, you've probably realized that it is very important to always get multiple auto insurance quotes. Taking time to obtain and compare multiple auto insurance quotes from different auto insurance companies is definitely a very smart move.Finding the right car insurance that suits your needs a bit of your effort, but you must understand that comparing several auto insurance quotes is the only way to obtain insurance at the cheapest rates. What are the ways to get multiple auto insurance quotes?1. A traditional way to multiple auto insurance quotes is by the help of an auto insurance agent or broker. Such brokers or agents employed by some car insurance companies and they can get multiple auto insurance quotes and recommend the best car insurance for their clients.2. If you want you can also search for various auto insurance companies in your state and contact each of them personally and ask for multiple auto insurance quotes. You can visit websites and get their phone numbers and addresses or you can browse the yellow pages for information. However, contacting them one by one will take much time and effort.3. You can also ask for referrals from other members of your family and some friends who are insured by an insurance company car for years. They are also good sources of information.4. The easiest, most convenient, and even a better way to get multiple auto insurance quotes is to search the Internet for car insurance websites. Because of the Internet, asking multiple auto insurance quotes has never been easier. You just the necessary information and within minutes you are able to get multiple auto insurance quotes. By comparing each quote from different auto insurance companies, you will surely get the cheapest rates on your policy.Get multiple auto insurance quotes only from reliable car insurance companies and not paying too much for auto insurance if you're not really sure it will give you the best coverage that you and your vehicle will need in times of accidents or incidents.Comparing multiple auto insurance quotes may sound difficult, but you can quotes within minutes. By shopping around and compare multiple auto insurance quotes, find cheapest car insurance rates and save an enormous amount of money on your monthly or annual premiums.Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com
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Get Reliable and Cheap Car Insurance Rates Today

2010-03-06T11:49:00.000-08:00

The term "cheap" can mean a lot of things; unfortunately, a lot of modern consumers associate other terms like "junky", "shoddy", and "low quality" with this term. This is highly unfortunate since a lot of cheap car insurance rates exist in today’s day and age that could be worth loads to car owners.Anybody with a budget that is seriously limited yet really needs to keep things legal with their cars on the road will have to look for the cheapest possible car insurance rates that they can find while making sure that the insurance that comes therewith is reliable, as well.Although a lot of people instantly assume that cheap car insurance rates are only available for people with limited coverage, there are actually a lot of consumers that qualify for various types of discounts, which could keep their overall coverage to a minimum.Families who have their renter’s or homeowner's insurance policy at the exact same company that provides their car coverage, for example, would be highly likely to enjoy measurable discounts. Plus, if their children go to school and maintain high academic achievement levels, a lot of insurance companies would offer discounts for that, as well. Several consumers even get to enjoy cheap car insurance rates due to an untainted driving history and will continue to keep such rates if they remain free of crashes for several more years.Discounts also exist for people with low yearly mileage amounts, anti-theft devices, alcohol abstinence, and driver education training. Looking into these options before asking for quotes would be the best way to get the cheapest policies possible.The World Wide Web happens to be a great tool to identify the greatest providers for your personal needs. Keep in mind that some companies that boast remarkably low insurance rates might have all types of requirements and limitations to extend these rates, so it would be smart to find out ball-park figures that you would be willing to pay first and then look for companies that have rates within the same price range.Also keep in mind that a lot of consumers get cheap car insurance rates by getting rid of a lot of unnecessary issues that may increase monthly policy rates. Therefore, you should think about whether you truly need rental coverage or roadside services in case accidents happen. Doing a complete policy assessment would definitely be the ideal way to find sneaky approaches in lowering your overall car insurance rates and keeping policies cheap for a long time to come at the same time.
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Sweaters - A Fashionable Trend

2008-09-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

Sweaters are common in every man’s wardrobe. They are astounding and versatile. You don't have to forget that knit sweaters are the favorite thing to wear. Mens wear them often and throughout the year. Somewhat, mens recommend sweaters because of how comfortable they are and how they add texture and richness to an ensemble. For a recap, let’s tackle what makes sweaters popular and stylish.

Cashmere Sweaters – The Ultimate Choice Cottons and wools have their place, but cashmere is one of the most luxurious things you can have in your wardrobe. Not only is it ultra soft, it can be worn year round. For your first few cashmere sweaters, go with neutral colors such as black, navy, and charcoal. For an instance, if you are having trouble justifying what you have to spend on a cashmere sweater, just remember that women love to touch it. Frequently happens every time wearing it.

V-neck and Crew-neck Sweaters Mens love v-neck and crew-neck sweaters. They are so easily worn over a tee and with jeans for a more casual look. The same sweater can be worn with slacks and over a button up shirt for the office or a date. They are a must in every wardrobe. It is usually a personal preference thing when it comes to v-neck vs. crew-neck.

Cardigans Before you judge cardigans too harshly let me emphasize that I’m not talking about the kind of cardigan your dad or grandpa would wear. More modern versions are made of cotton, merino wool and cashmere. They can be thin enough to wear under a jacket and have a double zipper allowing you to pull it on or off with ease, or to unzip the bottom slightly when you're sitting. They are simply ideal for layering and there are so many ways to wear them—over a tee, over a button down, under a sport jacket, with jeans cords, and slacks.

Polos In the summer you can find polo style sweaters. More often they are made with cotton and have short sleeves. They are a perfect compliment to khakis for those casual Fridays at the office. Mens have many polo knits for the summer months since they are easy to wear and look more dressed up than a typical pique polo.

Turtleneck Sweaters Turtlenecks are obviously reserved for the colder months. Lightweight merino-wool or cashmere turtlenecks look stylish under suit jackets and are casual enough to wear with jeans or cords. A chunky cable-knit also goes great with jeans. The fit of a turtleneck looks best when more fitted to the body and neck. With that said, avoid them if you are even somewhat heavy, it only accentuates your less than perfect physique.

A few tips on caring for your sweaters Generally speaking you should have your sweaters dry-cleaned once a season. This would include cottons, wools and cashmere. However, wool and Cashmere sweaters can be hand washed with a gentle detergent like Woolite. In fact, I personally recommend hand washing your wool and cashmere sweaters since they come out feeling softer than if you dry clean.
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The Brand New Rolex Watch

2008-09-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

THE BRAND NEW ROLEX WATCH

Rolex watches have stood the test of time and come out tops with an unbeatable reputation for the finest quality watches, and have earned themselves the label as one of the world's number one brand of watches. Rolex is also one of the most expensive brand of watches; originals are generally only worn by the absolute upper crust of society.

They say the sincerest form of flattery is imitation. If that is true then Rolex experiences an immense amount of flattery from all over the world, as it is one of the most replicated watches known to man. The replication of Rolex watches has become such a fine art, due to man's quest to attain the closest thing to top quality at a lower price, that some replicas may even fool weathered watch specialists.

The best replicas might be of a similar quality to the real McCoy but let's face it; it just is not the same thing. To those who cannot afford a genuine Rolex, a second hand one or even a replica might do. But nothing at all comes close to beating a brand new, authentic Rolex, fresh out of the box. If you are in search of a new Rolex, be warned that there is many a scam artist out there that will try to pass a fake off to you under the guise of a new Rolex.

There are a few tips for making sure that you attain only the best. Firstly Rolex does not sell their products to anyone that is not authorized. That includes dealers and repair centres as well. If the place where you are looking at new Rolex watches for sale is not authorized to make a genuine Rolex watch for sale then you are being swindled into taking home a fake, probably at a similar price to an original too. How, you may ask, do I know who is authorized and who is not? It is quite as simple as logging on to the Internet. Go to the official Rolex website and check the list of authorized dealers when you see a Rolex watch for sale.

However, if you are purchasing your Rolex watch for sale online through an auction site or through an online watch merchant, it is not as easy to tell a fake from an original. But there are ways. If you cannot physically see the watch then you may request the serial or reference number of the watch and compare it to a list of reference numbers held by Rolex to certify that the watch is indeed an original. If you are able to physically see the watch characteristics, such as the movement of the second hand, it may be observed to tell the difference in originals that the second hand moves completely smoothly across the face and in imitations it jerkily ticks off each and every second.

A few new Rolex watches for sale to look at are the Oyster Collection, the Explorer II, the Lady Pearl Master series as well as the GMT-Master II. These are the top watches to look for when browsing for new Rolex watches for sale.
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Sweet 16 Dresses

2008-09-21T20:08:00.000-07:00

On your 16th birthday you need to find the right dress for your party. There are many different kinds of sweet 16 dresses for you to choose from. Pick the right one for you.

When you have your sweet 16 party, remember that it is the only one you will ever have. You need to be sure your party is one that will last a lifetime. That means you need to pick a sweet 16 dress that will make you stand out in the crowd. It is your birthday and you deserve it.

Some of the sweet 16 dresses you can choose from include prom dresses. There are elegant gowns you can choose if you are going for a classy look. If you want to be fun on your birthday, then you can go for a shorter cocktail style dress. These will show off your legs and they are easy to move around in. If you plan on dancing then that might be the style of dress for you.

If you are a plus size and you want to look your best on your birthday, you don’t have to worry. There are plenty of plus size sweet 16 dresses you can choose from. You can look absolutely fabulous with little effort. Your friends and family will be amazed at how stunning you look when you walk in the door.

Your birthday party on your 16th birthday will only come once in a lifetime, and you need to be sure you have the best time ever. That includes looking absolutely gorgeous. You will be the center of attention with your dress, especially because it’s your birthday. You should be sure to choose the style of dress you want to wear on your birthday based upon the statement you want to make. Every dress makes a statement, and you should think about what you want your dress to say about you.

Sweet 16 dresses are perfect for your 16th birthday party. Even if everyone else is not dressing up, it’s your birthday and you can wear what you want to. You deserve a gorgeous gown or cocktail dress to attend your own birthday party in. You will look the best at the party and you should
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Pearl Necklace

2008-09-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

A Pearl necklace is generally worn and desired by the women all over the world since immemorial time. The necklace can be made from all shades of the pearl stones available with a monocolor pearls or with a Combination of different colors. The pearl necklace is most common among the Rajput kings and queens in Rajasthan and the royal family of Britain It's a tradition in the royal family to endorse the pearl necklaces during important events. The English Queen Elizabeth can be seen often sporting a White pearl necklace too. The Pearl necklace is equally well matched with a traditional dress like a Sari and also looks trendy with the modern dress as well.

Necklaces are generally made according to the requirements of the person and can contain a combination of pearls of different sizes and colors. Depending on the preference and budget, they can be made just single piece with only one round of pearls or with multiple rounds too. The cost of the earrings is determined by the number of pearl stones it contains and the support material required. Pearls can be matched with gold, silver and platinum with equal ease mainly because of the natural color of the pearl stone and the lusture it has. Pearl necklace made with a combination of pearls and platinum are very common and popular and have a good market all across the world. The most common and popular styles of it are:

Bib: It is composed of a variety of pearls which are of varying length.

Collar or Dog Collar: This design is basically formed by multitude of pearl strands which are 12-13 inches long and is worn quite high on the neck. The style had its origin in the Victorian Era and is now gaining popularity again.

Choker: More or less similar to the collar, it is worn quite lower on the neck and is generally 14-16 inches in length.

Princess: This is called the classic style of pearl necklace which lies just a little below the neck and is 17-19 inches in length. It is the most popular one as it can be worn with almost all kinds of neckline.

Matinee: The matinee gives a vintage look to a person and is 20-24 inches long , mostly worn on informal occasions.

Opera: The opera style is mostly worn on the formal occasions with the evening dress where the necklace must fall a little below the bust line and is normally 30-36 inches long.

Rope: As the name suggests, the rope style necklace is the longest and can be doubled as well as knotted to make it easily manageable. Its length may vary anywhere between 36 inches at the lower end and 42 inches at the higher end.
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Filter Tickets- The Best in Industrial Rock!

2008-09-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

One of today’s most popular bands is adding more dates to their summer tour, so check to see if they will be stopping in a city near you and get your own pair of Filter tickets as soon as possible. Filter has captured the attention of fans around the world with their addictive sound, a mix of different kinds of rock music into one brand, more collectively known as industrial rock. The group was first formed in 1993 in Cleveland, Ohio and has made waves in the music industry since then. Their fanbase has grown and still they are gaining new listeners everyday, making them one of today’s most appreciated modern bands on the market.

Filter’s first album released was Short Bus, which hit the stores in 1995. The album turned out to be a commercial success for the band and it turned out the hit single, "Hey Man, Nice Shot." It also featured the song, "Dose," which later became a popular ballad on the radio. In 1999 Filter continued on with their success with the release of Title of Record. With this album the band found their largest success: the song entitled "Take a Picture," which was an instant sensation. After that an album called The Amalgamut was released in 2002 to critical acclaim. The record spawned the singles "Where Do We Go from Here?" and "American Cliché." The release of all of these albums contributed to Filter ticket sales skyrocketing. They were becoming one of the most popular bands in the U.S. and their shows were basically sold out.

The current members of the band include: Richard Patrick, Mitchell Marlow, John Spiker and Mika Fineo. Together these bandmates have created and performed some of the most innovative sounds of their time. Industrial rock has struck a chord with people around the world and Filter has played a big part in bringing it to the spotlight. They are still in the recording studio and you can bet that they will always put on a lively and energetic show when they perform onstage.

If you are ready to see a phenomenal show and you want to rock out to some excellent tunes, make sure to tell your friends to attend the upcoming Filter concert along with you. Of course, you won’t want to delay because Filter tickets will not last long.
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A Satellite TV Installation or Cable TV Installation

2008-09-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

Where ever you live this seems like a question that generates a lot of interest. I’ve done a little research and thought my answers maybe of interest to anyone prepared to read on. Personally I have a cable TV installation at the moment but seriously considering moving to a satellite TV installation.

I live in the UK but many of the responses I have seen have originated in the USA – so don’t stop reading you guys in North America. On balance I would say that more people preferred a Satellite TV to a cable TV installation. If I had been asked 5 or 10 years ago then I may still have answered cable TV but for very different reasons. I really believed that combining TV and other services into a cable would be everyone’s answer but in practice satellite TV providers have moved more quickly to provide what the customer wants. There have been so many advances in technology that we seem to have far more choices than could been foreseen just a few years ago.

Some of the key points I have identified in my research are:-

O - Satellite TV is an uninterrupted digital signal – the only cable used in the connection is from the dish to your set. This, I understand, is why the quality of picture via a satellite transmission is regarded, by many, to be better than cable transmission.

O - Satellite TV is prone to signal loss during heavy storms. This is information I have gathered from US users rather than here in the UK. Equally I read somewhere that to spray PAM on the dish every 3 months or so works wonders (if it is safe to access – of course). The PAM treatment is a non stick coating which prevents rain ‘sticking’ to the dish. [Do we have non stick rain in the UK or maybe the dish specification and manufature is different?]. This obviously can not happen to a cable user but there many other ways in which cable transmission can be interrupted.

O - Cable TV has it’s supporters though. Installation is simple and there is no ‘ugly’ dish attached to your property. This assumes that a cable is already installed in your neighbourhood.

O - Cable providers frequently bundle or package other services which can help reduce your total costs for a computer network connection, telephone service and TV.

North America has had many cable networks for many years so the 2 players in the satellite TV services are providing some great promotions at the moment. Many companies are providing FREE equipment and installation packages in return for an ongoing subscription. Ironically Free SAT has just been launched in the UK which means you get 200+ channels for the one-time purchase price of a Free SAT box and installation of a satellite dish (if you don’t already possess one). There is no on-going subscription with Free SAT. We also have SKY TV a regular subscription service with the premier channels (i.e. top sports events and most recent movies).

The next choice to be confronted with will be IP television – this is television delivered via your computer network. Ironically this is perhaps why I thought cable – meaning a cable into your property rather than cable TV – would have been naturally ahead of satellite TV.

Time and the television watching public will reveal how we receive our visual images in the future. My vote for the moment is for a satellite TV installation.
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Choose Dish Network Satellite TV!

2008-09-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

Some people are still skeptical about switching to satellite TV, but Dish Network is better, more affordable, and clearer than cable or DirecTV. And if you take advantage of the free offers only available through this website then you can order a satellite television package that can’t be beat!

What types of amazing deals does this website have to offer? How about getting equipment for up to four rooms-that's four different rooms in your home having their own unique receiver-at no cost to you? Every receiver is installed by Dish Network professional installers for free. If you’re worried that you’ll have to watch the same channels in different rooms, don’t. Each receiver displays separate channels in superior picture quality, and with high definition ability - cable doesn't stand a chance.

What will I have to pay for Dish Network? Satellite packages are available through this site for as low as $19 per month. The cost is $99 to receive 350 channels, of which 31 are movie channels - (Home Box Office, Starz!, Cinemax, and Showtime) - and around 50 music channels, 60 sirius radio channels, and 25 high definition channels. Call and order from a Dish Provider today and you’ll receive a free DVR dvr You can use this to record in perfect digital clarity, more than a 100 hours of your favourite programs. Check with your local cable company to see if they can give you a lower price.

What sort of customer service is given by Dish Network? Founded in 1996, Dish Network strove to provide a higher level of service than all other satellite companies. Now, it has grown to more than 12. Ten satellites provide service to five million happy customers. Dish wants to keep you as a customer and one of the ways they do that is through unbeatable customer care. Don't just listen to the advice from Dish Network. Dish Network has been rated highest in customer satisfaction by J. D. Power and Associates for many years in a row. If you place your order though our website and opt into an 18-month agreement; you will be qualified to receive the Dish Home Protection Plan from DishNetwork for FREE! With this plan, you will receive at no charge; technical support, equipment replacement, cable and power surge repairs and the mover’s program.

What about local channels? If you order Dish Network through this website you may qualify to receive local networks via your new satellite dish. Of course your favorite stations are also included such as FOX, ABC, NBC and more! If you can't get local channels through Dish, you can still use an off-air antenna.

If you considered satellite TV in the past, and you were in search of good deals, now is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the special offers shown above. With the competition between Dish Network and inferior cable providers, I recommend that you jump on the incredible deals that are currently being offered. You should take advantage of the opportunity for you and your family to save money and enjoy the best Dish Network satellite TV offers.
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Treating Acne With Over-the-Counter Medication

2008-09-20T11:08:00.000-07:00

Most cases of acne are mild and so it is common for people to treat themselves with over-the-counter non-prescription medications. If such medicines are used together with a good regime of skin care, then this form of treatment is often very effective.

So just what sort of over-the-counter medications should you consider?

One of the commonest treatments for mild acne, and one which is used by literally millions of people every day, is benzoyl peroxide which works in part by attacking the bacteria which is a factor in causing acne in the first place. It also works by removing dead skin cells which would otherwise block the pores of the skin and provide the ideal environment for pimples to develop.

Benzoyl peroxide is not a new medicine and has been around for very many years now so that we have excellent evidence of both its strengths and weaknesses. Fortunately, it has few side effects although it can dry out the skin and will also 'bleach' fabric so it does need to be used with care. It also comes in various strengths (typically 2.5%, 5% and 10%) and it is important that it is used in the correct strength. Start at 2.5% and only move up in strength if this does not appear to be effective and you are not suffering any undue side effects. Many people believe that if a 2.5% strength will do the job then a 10% strength will work four times as well, but this is not the case.

Salicylic acid is another commonly used medication and, as this is the active ingredient in aspirin, it is also a very safe treatment. Salicylic acid is often purchased in pad form and can help to break down both blackheads and whiteheads. In addition, it slows down the shedding of dead skin cells within the follicles which makes the build up and compaction of dead skin cells less likely. Finally, it helps to remove dead skin cells preventing a build-up of bacteria within the sebum, or skin oil.

Salicylic acid should not be used alongside other treatments unless your physician or dermatologist recommends additional treatment, as this can cause skin irritation.

A third option is resorcinol which can be useful in some cases, especially when combined with compounds such as sulphur. Resorcinol breaks down hard skin helping to remove dead skin from the follicles to prevent clogging and a build-up of bacteria. Rosorcinol should not be used with any form of astringent like alcohol.

A final and forth option is alcohol and acetone, which many people would describe as an 'old-fashioned' treatment. Alcohol acts as a mild antibacterial and helps to remove oil from the surface of the skin, while acetone also acts as a degreasing agent to clean the surface of the skin.

The problem however with acne is that the excessive skin oil which contributes to the problem of acne lies below the surface of the skin and it is here that, in the presence of dead skin cells, white blood cells and bacteria, that acne forms. As a result alcohol and acetone are of only limited value.

One final point to note is that a treatment which works for one person will not necessarily work for another person and so, with the exception of alcohol and acetone which really should not be recommended these days, it is a question of trying each medication in turn for a reasonable period of time to find the one that works best for you.
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Sciatic Stretches – Treating Sciatica Through Natural Means

2008-09-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

Low back pain and sciatica can cause great distress to people, at times making them unable to carry on routine day to day activities. Treatment methods can vary depending on what exactly is causing the low back pain or sciatica and how severe the symptoms are. Medications can help in immediate relief to patients, especially for those suffering from acute pain. However the course of treatment and also in cases where symptoms are not so severe, exercise and sciatic stretches can help in sciatic relief.

The cause for sciatic pain should be identified. Often it could be caused by some irritation nerve points leading up to the sciatic nerve, pelvic instability could cause sciatic pain so could some kind of tightening in the Piriformis muscle. Whatever the cause, sciatic stretches have been recommended and found to be helpful to address the sciatic pain. Obviously, the stretches have to address these three areas – the Piriformis muscle, lower back and pelvis – as they have to target those muscles that cause pain.

First, let us turn our attention to the lower back muscles and joints. The sciatic nerve starts in this area and it is important that these areas be corrected first. The best way of tackling problems in the lower back areas would be to combine both lower back stretched and lower back exercises with some joint mobility workouts.

Next, we turn to what relief from pelvis instability. Obviously, the pelvis now needs to be balanced which is achieved with the help of exercises that not only relax the tightened muscles that cause pain but also strengthen the supporting muscles.

Finally, these exercises will aid in the realignment of the pelvis. Relief from pain caused by tightening in the Piriformis muscle can be achieved by stretches that include flexing the lower spine as also stretching the muscles at the back near the spine and consequently, stretching the Piriformis muscle.

One simple exercise to stretch the piriformis and get some relief from the pain can be mentioned here. Lie flat on your back on the floor. Now hold your right knee and pull it towards your left shoulder. You have to pull the knee and the foot across your body. Hold still for about 30 seconds. Repeat the same with the left knee. In addition to these exercises, hamstring stretches are also recommended for relief from sciatica pain. This is because any tightness in the hamstring can put more stress on the lower back and generally leads to a worsening of the situation.

Care should however be taken to see that hamstring stretches are done smoothly, that there is no bouncing and muscle spasms are avoided. Further, Yoga stretches are also found to be fairly effective in sciatica pain relief when it is caused by problems with Piriformis muscle. Again, certain yoga stretches do not help sciatica pain relief and in fact can cause more irritation.

It has been found that stretches for sciatica pain relief help a great deal in preventing future pain. However, always keep in mind that sciatica stretches must be done regularly and correctly to be effective.
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Drivers in the South East shelve plans to buy cars

2008-09-08T15:21:00.000-07:00

Car owners in the South East plan to avoid hitting the skids during the current downturn by holding on to their vehicles for longer than they first planned, according to a new national survey.

Tesco Personal Finance commissioned polling organisation YouGov to interview a representative sample of almost 2,500 drivers across Britain, to mark the launch of Tesco Car Warranty Plans.

The plans help motorists keep costs down by paying for most major mechanical and electrical repairs, which tend to increase the older cars become.

Over half (58 per cent) of the drivers questioned in the South East said they now intended to keep their vehicles for longer than first planned. Forty-one per cent indicated they would hang on for more than two years longer; 10 per cent for one to two years more; and seven per cent for up to an additional year.

Only a third (33 per cent) in the region said the economic climate would have no effect on the length of time they would keep their cars and a mere three per cent that they planned to dispense with their current vehicles earlier than originally intended.

Allan Burns, head of insurance at Tesco Personal Finance, said: "Our survey clearly indicates most motorists in the South East plan to make holding on to their vehicles part of their overall belt-tightening during the economic slowdown.

"Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders suggest the average age of the 24 million licensed cars on UK roads is already 6.8 years and if, as our survey suggests, that's likely to increase, the number of repairs needed is also set to rise.

"We can therefore foresee great demand for our car warranty plans, which cover part and labour costs, and take effect after a motor manufacturer or dealer's warranty, usually covering the first three years of a car's life, has ended."

Three Tesco Car Warranty Plans are available, offering different levels of protection - Value, Standard and Finest. These cost from just £99 a year, and customers can pay in 10 monthly, interest fee instalments or a lump sum.

The plans can be taken out for almost any car up to 10 years old with less than 100,000 miles on the clock, even if it has been out of warranty for years, as long as it has been serviced in accordance with manufacturer's guidelines.

Protection starts from day one and, after that, there are no limits on the mileage a car can do or number of claims a driver can make. Customers can choose where to have cars repaired, including main dealers, and Tesco then settles the bills directly for them.

The plans provide peace of mind during the current holiday season too, as they apply throughout the EU at no extra cost. A Tesco Car Warranty Plan's cost depends on the one selected and the vehicle. The table shows the annual cost of cover.

Cover level Value Standard Finest Prestige Maximum vehicle age / mileage
Up to 1400cc £99 £149 £199 £259 10 years / 100,000
1401 - 1800cc £149 £199 £259 £339 8 years / 80,000
Over 1801cc £199 £259 £339 £419 6 years / 60,000
Tesco Car Warranty Plans are available online, via http://www.tesco.com/carwarranty and over the telephone, on 0800 997 8248, which customers can also call for assistance in selecting the right policy. They are administered by Car Care Plan, the UK-based market leader in warranty programmes.

For further information, please contact:
Vanessa Matthews
Tesco Personal Finance
0131 523 5533

Ra Fletcher
Haggie Hepburn
020 7334 7777

Notes To Editors

* Warranty cover from just £99 a year.
* Great choice of car warranty levels - choose from: Value, Standard and Finest cover.
* You choose the repairer you want to fix your vehicle, including franchised dealers. All we ask is that the garage is VAT registered.
* The cost of labour is covered, as well as the parts.
* Tesco Car Warranty Plans are administered by Car Care Plan, the UK market leader in warranty programmes.
* All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,453 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 7 and 9 July 2008. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+)

Tesco Personal Finance
Tesco Personal Finance Limited is a joint venture between The Royal Bank of Scotland plc and Tesco PLC. Tesco Personal Finance Limited. Registered in Scotland No. 173199. Registered Office: 24 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 1AF.

Tesco Compare
Tesco Personal Finance Compare Limited is a part of the Tesco Personal Finance Group, a joint venture between The Royal Bank of Scotland plc and Tesco PLC. Tesco Personal Finance Compare Limited. Registered in Scotland No.SC318925. Registered Office: 24 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 1AF.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
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Dublin car hire insurance - What are my options?

2008-09-08T15:19:00.000-07:00

Do I need rental car insurance? Probably this is the most important question when you want to book your rental car in Dublin. It always depends on how much risk you want to take. It is your choice. Do you want to save money or do you want peace of mind?
Let's see what are your car hire insurance options in Dublin, in Ireland.

Option 1: Drive the rental car with your basic CDW insurance
You can pick up the rental car at Dublin Airport or other locations in Dublin and drive away with basic CDW insurance, car rental quotes usually include CDW. It is also known as loss damage waiver (LDW), this is not technically an insurance product, but instead shifts liability for collision damage from the person renting the car to the car rental company. If the vehicle is damaged, you will be covered for the cost of repairing the rental car. You will, however, have to pay an excess charge towards the cost of repair.
For example, let's say you want to hire a car at Dublin Airport in Ireland. Depends on the size of the rental car the liability (excess) would be €800-2000 in Ireland.
Advantages: you can save money by not buying additional insurance.
Disadvantages: in the event of accident you could pay up to €2000 toward the repair costs.

Option 2: Buy additional insurance at the car rental desk
Car hire users can buy additional insurance at the car rental desk which is €10-€20/day in Dublin. There are two different products which are offered by rental companies. The first is "Damage excess reduction": it reduces your car hire excess to €100-€195. The second one is the "Complete cover package" which reduces the car rental excess to 0.
Advantages: if anything happens with your rental car, your liability shifts to the rental company and you deal with them directly in case of an accident.
Disadvantages: the additional insurance can cost you more than the original rental price and sometimes it doesn't cover the damage of the rental car's glass and tyres.

Option 3: Purchase car hire excess insurance online
You can also purchase car hire excess insurance online from €5.39/day. Customers, who rent cars more often, have the possibility to buy annual excess policy for only €66.15/year.
There are many online insurance companies on the market whose core business is the provision of car rental excess insurance. It covers you not only for the total amount of excess for which you are liable if the rental car is damaged or stolen, but also for damage to the roof and undercarriage of the car, windows and tyres.
The policy can be used with all car rental companies. It covers both the policy holder and all additional drivers, offers full protection against the excess charges and the start date can be selected up to six months in advance.
Advantages: it offers you convenience, peace of mind and significant savings when you rent a car in Dublin.
Disadvantages: In case of an accident you deal with a third party. The car rental company will charge your credit card by the amount of excess which will be paid back by the online insurance company. It takes time.

Option 4: Credit card rental car insurance coverage
Certain credit cards may cover car loss and damage in Dublin, in Ireland and others may not. You always have to confirm with your credit card company before picking up your rental car at Dublin Airport or in Dublin City Centre. It is also advisable to confirm it for security when you arrive to collect your rental car.
Advantages: you don't have to purchase additonal rental car insurance because your credit card covers you.
Disadvantages: it may not cover every damage.

Consider these options when you rent a car in Dublin, at Dublin Airport or anywhere in Ireland. It can save you time and headache, so you can enjoy your Irish driving holiday to the full.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Buying the Best Car for You

2008-09-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

You may be having some difficulties in buying a car of your own. It requires a lot of thinking and analysis. It can be hard to decide which is the best car for you, but never fear.

A lot of automobile companies will aid you with this area of concern. Most people know what suits them best. In order to choose a car that's a good match, you'll need to observe some guidelines.

Before buying the best car of your dream, you need to assess yourself. Analyze your lifestyle. Be honest and write down exactly what you want.

Even if it feels a little depressing, the important thing is discovering your true status.

Be aware of what your needs are. Are you single? However, do you have a family or children? Decide how much you want to spend each month on a used car. You need to answer these questions to get to the next step.

If you need an automobile, its alright to purchase one. If your finances permit it, you can purchase a vehicle that you merely want but that is not a necessity. Buy one if you consider it a necessity; as long as you have everything required for its maintenance.

Since driver's have different driving styles, it is imperative to choose a car that will fits your style.

Also check to see how much, if any, money you can save on maintenance. You might consider selecting a car which not only performs well on the road, but is also economical.

You also need to choose between manual or automatic. If you are the type who wants a precision driving experience that involves operating your own clutch and gears, a manually driven car will be right for you. However efficient a standard may be, if operating a clutch will bother you over time, you should go for an automatic transmission.

Only dedicated car lovers understand Manual cars, which can help you save on gas. In today's market the majority of vehicles sold are automatics. Automatic cars are popular with consumers because they are so much easier.

When choosing a vehicle design is also an important factor. Cars are designed to attract the most potential buyers.

Vehicle designs are always being retooled. You need to choose a safe design that can be in style after several years.

If you can buy a new car every three years, go ahead and buy a car that's in style. Never choose cars with exaggerated designs like lines and funny shapes.

Check into the features also. The latest technology can be seen in some of the newer vehicles. In truth, these are luxury automobiles.

It is okay to have luxury cars if you can afford them.

The downside is that you can't use it for regular driving.

Prior to buying these types of automobiles, take a trip to your local dealer's to find out if you really like that kind of thing. Salespeople are eager to answer any questions about the vehicle you want to buy.

Here are some tips for buying a car that best suits you. You should also ask advices from your friends, relatives and other experts. If you are positive it is what you want, then stick to it, it represents you and you will be the one living with it.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Drive Your Dream

2008-09-08T15:15:00.000-07:00

Haven't you imagined what it would feel like to pull up to your favorite club in a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder? Or to drive down an all too familiar road in a Ferrari 360 Modena? Heads would turn and cameras would flash. At Xotic Dream Cars, that possibility becomes a reality. With over 8 exotic cars in the fleet, there is a car for everyone. Xotic Dream Cars specializes in making your exotic car rental experience an amazing one. Listed below are the most popular cars in the fleet including the daily rental prices:

" Ferrari F430 ($2150) " Ferrari 360 Modena ($950) " Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder ($1850) " Lamborghini Gallardo ($1350) " Bentley GT Continental ($995) " Lotus Elise ($375) " Hummer H2-7seater ($239)

With prices as low as these, why purchase an exotic car when you can just rent one? Xotic Dream Cars strives to provide the most amazing cars to you at industry low prices. If you do happen to come across a better deal, Xotic Dream Cars will match any competitor's price and provide an additional 5% discount on top of that! Also, if you fancy more than one of these cars, try them all. Xotic Dream Cars has a Xotic Xchange program which allows clients renting a week or more to switch out their cars of choice during their rental period. This allows clients the opportunity to drive not just one exotic, but several.

Xotic Dream Cars is headquartered in West Palm Beach, FL. They service the entire state of Florida and are more frequently servicing Palm Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Boca Raton, Orlando, Naples, & Tampa. Recently, Xotic Dream Cars started servicing the North Eastern States of New Jersey, New York City, Philadelphia, Atlantic City, Delaware, Connecticut, Boston, The Hamptons, & Rhode Island.

Xotic Dream Cars sets themselves apart from those other exotic car rental companies in the industry. With their VIP service, they arrive onsite and detail your car, fill it with gas, & ensure car is in immaculate condition. All of these services come at no cost to you when renting a car for 3 or more days.

Whether an exotic car is needed in Tampa, Jacksonville, or even Key West, Xotic Dream Cars will deliver the car directly to their clients, making the rental process a breeze. No need to worry about having adequate time to pick up or drop off the car, Xotic Dream Cars does the work for you. Have a last minute rental request? No problem, Xotic Dream Cars specializes in last minute rentals and can have a car delivered to you in no time!
Article Source: http://www.ArticleBiz.com

Shakira & Amr Diab, Ojos Asi

2008-05-27T03:23:00.001-07:00

Shakira & Amr Diab, Ojos Asi

Nancy Ajram

2008-05-27T03:05:00.001-07:00

Nancy Ajram-Enta Eih

Amr Diab - Ne2ol Eeh (Ana Leek)

2008-05-27T02:45:00.000-07:00

Tahani Tosson - videos

2008-05-27T02:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmZiGMtAvUw

Tamer Hosny - videos

2008-05-27T02:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome To A2Z EGY GROUP

2008-05-25T04:30:00.000-07:00

A2Z EGY GROUP
A2Z EGY FOREX

WWW.A2ZEGY.COM

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This service is designed to show live market quotes LIVE FOREX QUOTES

will be able to read the most significant announcements and reports from the world’s leading financial and news agencies. Market News & Reports

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Amr Diab

2008-05-21T02:59:00.000-07:00

Kammel Kalamak
Agheeb
Aiam We Ben3eshha
Aywa Ana 3aref
Betkhaby Leh
Kammel Kalamak
Ma3ak Begad
Oddam Eyounak
We Hikaytek Aih
We Maloh
Allah La Yehremny Minnak

Tamer Hosny, Omar & Salma

2008-05-21T02:50:00.000-07:00

CAST
Tamer Hosny
Mai Ezz El Din
Ezzat Abu Ouf
Mais Ham
Mohamed Salman
Ramy Waheed

Production Year: 2007

Release date: 05/06/2007

Written by: Tamer Hosny

Directed by: Akram Fared

Tamer Hosny ( Hob)

2008-05-21T02:47:00.000-07:00

NAME
( Authors / Composers / Arrangers )
1- Arrab Habibi Moustafa Moursi / Waleed Saad / Yahya Al Mouji & Amir Mahrous
2- Hob Nasr Mahrous / Waleed Saad / Yahya Al Mouji & Amir Mahrous
3- Lamma Bitkoun Ba'eed Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Mohamed Moustafa
4- Inti Nseeti Nafsik Hasan Ateeyyah / Waleed Saad / Mohamed Moustafa
5- Il Wihdah Biti'tilni Ayman Azmi / Tamer Hosny / Waleed Sharaqi
6- Har'it Dam Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Ahmed Adel
7- Foursah Akheerah Majdi Al Najjar / Khaled Izz / Ahmed Adel
8- Inta Hayati Nasr Mahrous / Waleed Saad / Mohamed Moustafa
9- Aousiflak Nasr Mahrous / Riyadh Al Hamshari / Hatem Daoud
10- Lissah Bahebbak Nasr Mahrous / Tamer Hosny / Yahya Al Mouji & Amir Mahrous
11- Mehtaglek Yamma ??? / ??? / ???
12- Olly Bahebbak ??? / ??? / ???
13- Yana Yana Nabeel Ma'tooq / ??? / ???

Tamer Hosny ( Enayyah Bethebbak)

2008-05-21T02:45:00.000-07:00

NAME
( Authors / Composers / Arrangers )
1- Rayah Balak Abeer El Razaz / Tamer Ali / Tameem
2- Fatet Alena Abdulmen'eem Taha / Mohamed Raheem / Amir Mahrous
3- Ba'eesh Mohamed Hamed / Tamer Ali / Ahmed Adel
4- El Waheeda Ashraf El Alfi & Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Magdy Dawood
5- Ma Yehremneesh Mennak Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Tameem
6- Enti Elli Amalti Bahaa ElDin Mohamed / Mohamed Yehya / Mohamed Moustafa
7- Rabbena Yewaffa'ek Amir Te'emah / Mohamed Yehya / Medhat Khamees
8- Ya'ni Khalas Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Tareq Haseeb
9- Atla'a Men Dol Abdulaziz Amar / Husam El Bujairami / Ahmed Adel
10- Enayyah Bethebbak Nasr Mahrous / Mohamed Yehya / Amir Mahrous & Tareq Haseeb
11- Koll Marra Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
12- Nour Eini Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Husam El Bujairami
13- Hawsallek Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy

Tamer Hosny (ya bent el eih)

2008-05-21T02:43:00.000-07:00

- NAME
( Authors / Composers / Arrangers )
1- Ya Bent El Aih Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Amir Mahrous
2- Makontesh Mebayeen Hany Ali / Tamer Ali / Mohamed Moustafa
3- 'Ereft Elly Feha Nader Abdallah / Tamer Ali / Tameem
4- Inta Waheshny Khaled Amin / Mohamed Raheem / Amir Mahrous & Tareq Haseeb
5- E'tezry Tamer Hosny / Haytham Shaker / Tameem
6- Seeb El Hob Amir Te'emah / Khaled Izz / Toma
7- Erga'ly Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Tameem
8- Hasses Bekhoof Mohamed Hamed / Tamer Ali / Ahmed Ibrahim
9- Mahadesh Hasses Beyya Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Tameem
10- Kol Sana Wenta Tayeb Nasr Mahrous / Waleed Saad / Amir Mahrous
11- Sotek Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Ahmed Adel
12- Allah Yebarekly Feek Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Ahmed Adel
13- Ana Wala A'ref Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Tameem

Tamer Hosny (el gana fe byotna)

2008-05-21T02:35:00.000-07:00

	- NAME
	( Authors / Composers / Arrangers )
1- Shahr Ramadan Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
2- Sahbny Ya Aboya Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
3- Tegi Nenssa Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
4- Law 'Ayez El Kheer Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
5- El Ganhkh a Fe Byotna Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
6- Ya Arham El Rahmeen Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
7- Wenghna El Sana Di Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
8- Yarab Ana Ta'ban Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
9- We 'Eniha Dama'aet Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy
10- Ana Mesh 'Aref Atghyar Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Tameem
11- Sobhan Allah -------------------- / Tamer Hosny / Tameem
12- Asm'a Allah El Hosna -------------------- / Sayed Makkawy / Galal Fahmy
13- Diny We Dinak
14- Yarab Ana Ta'ban - ( Bonus Track ) Tamer Hosny / Tamer Hosny / Galal Fahmy http://www.tamerhosny.ws/site/album.html

Tamer Hosny

2008-05-21T02:32:00.000-07:00

History of women in Egyptian life

2008-05-20T22:17:00.000-07:00

History of women in Egyptian life

"Egyptian women were leading a happy life in a country where gender equality seemed to be normal"

Christien de Rouse Nobelcouer

French Egyptologist

Women have played a significant role in Egyptian society. The earliest appearance of woman in public life in Egypt goes back to the Pharaonic era, where she enjoyed an equal status with man and engaged in politics and government. Queen Hatshepsut reigned from 1479 to 1457 B.C. She played an effective historical role in enhancing State structure in the realms of religion, trade and domestic and foreign policy. The same course was pursued by Nefertiti, Cleopatra and Shajaret ad-Dorr in later eras.

With the rise of the modern State under Mohammed Ali's reign a magnificent role for women emerged. In 1982, nursing school was established forming a nucleus for Egyptian women to take off household jobs.

However, this did not take place overnight but was rather stimulated by calls marked by enlightened scholars such as Rifa'a al-Tahtawi, Qassem Ameen, for emancipation of women and their right to education and employment.

In the early 1900s, a number of Egyptian women formed the first services NGO, i.e. Mohammed Ali's Charity - the Intellectual League of Egyptian Women. These embryonic formations paved the way for wider participation by Egyptian women in public action.

The ensuing years witness efforts by women to establish and participate in charities, voluntary and literary societies. Women showed an increasing important role in national issues, with women taking to the streets in mass demonstrations protesting against British occupation and participating in the 1919 Revolution. However, the 1923 Constitution was issued without giving women their political rights; thus leading to escalated calls for women's access to much rights.

The first women's political party was established under the name of the Egyptian Feminist Party in 1942. The Egyptian Women's Associate called in 1947 for the need to amend the electoral law to grant women the right to vote on equal footing with men, right of access to local and representative councils. During a women conference held on February 19, 1951, a women's demonstration chanted slogans calling for equal rights for women.

Following the July 1952 Revolution, the 1956 Constitution granted full political rights to women. At that time, there was a dominant recognition that denial of women's rights was in conflict with the rules of democracy. Accordingly, woman made her default as a member of the parliament in the vote of the 1957 elections.

The access that women were granted to their political rights was the starting-point for the engagement of other rights with as that of access to public and top positions, recognition of her as a productive force on equal footing with man. This has lead to the appointment of the first woman minister in Egypt in 1962.

Since then, the practice of assigning women to ministerial posts in the Egyptian cabinets has been pursued and her representation in other legislative, judicial and political institutions entrenched.

Women in the Pharaonic age

The historical importance of the ancient Egyptian civilization lies in its human message and values encompassing all aspects of life. Over seven millennia, the Egyptian civilization provided the roots from which mankind derived its human heritage. Most important was the recognition of women's role in society. This recognition was translated by forging out a lofty status for the Egyptian women. Women in Egypt have always played an important role; they were men's only partners in life as well as in afterlife and were ensured total equality. They also enjoyed equal legal rights and responsibilities as their husbands when first bound in holy matrimony. The goddess of wisdom was symbolized by a woman and the goddess Isis was the symbol of loyalty and fidelity. They believed that the tears she shed over her murdered husband caused the Nile flooding.

Egyptian women in the pharaonic history had access to various jobs. In practice they were so highly appreciated that they were elevated to the throne throughout ancient history, including Queen Heutop Cheops' mother, Queen Khunt, Mykerinus' daughter, Queen Abah Hoteb of Thebes, Queen Hatshepsut, Amon's daughter, Queen Ti, Akhnatun's wife (Nefertiti), and Cleopatra, whose famous love story with Marc Anthony has inspired many literary and dramatic writings all over the world.

Women also had access to public positions, including judges. For example, Nepet, mother-in-law of King Bibi I from the 6th Dynasty served as judge. Women held similar positions under the 26th Dynasty. Moreover, they practiced medicine, such as Psechet, who served as chief physician under the 4th Dynasty. These facts reflect their independence as well as legal and social competence with their rights of possession and signature of contracts and legal conventions. Moreover, there was not any kind of that trusteeship from which Roman women were suffering for a long time.

Social Rights

Ancient Egyptians were the first to introduce laws on marriage, they issued legislations and laws regulating marriage and holy matrimony and protecting women's rights. These legislations and laws stressed on issues regarding the rights and obligations based on mutual respect between the husband and his wife, taking into consideration that the wife was queen of her house, entitled to her own inheritance and to a third of her husband's fortune after his death. Moreover, the ancient Egyptian was keen on burying his wife beside him in the grave, being his partner in life and after resurrection.

Concerning the right to education she had the right since the age of four to good schooling at strictly disciplined educational institutions where she would be taught basics of mathematics, geometry and the fundamentals of hieroglyphic and colloquial hieratic. Ultimately, she would obtain a diploma (title of ink-put holder) – on equal footing with boys – and would be licensed for full practice in any of the branches of knowledge she chose.

It is shown obviously that the Egyptian woman in the pharaonic age enjoyed a special status as well as unique treatment and caring. This is reflected through some sayings of Egyptian wise men on the importance of caring about woman, such as:

"If you seek wisdom, love your partner, care about her and she will care about your home".

"Care about her as long as you live as she is the gift of God who answered your prayers. Enjoy this blessing as the sanctification of blessing is to satisfy the God".

"Feel her pain before she feels it. She is your children's mother. If you make her happy, you make them happy. By caring about her, you care about them. She is a trust in your heart and hand, as you are responsible for her before the Greatest God you pledged before His shrine to be her brother, father and life partner".

Such were the concepts of the Egyptian, while man was suffering under the power of Barbarism in the forests dealing with the principles of strength and weakness.

Women in Islam

Islam emerged in Egypt years ago, it regulated, through its tolerant law, the status and independence of women. Islam had given Moslem Egyptian women rights that were unknown to their European counterparts until the 20th century when women in most countries of the world were suffering firm prosecution and slavery.

Women's rights in Islam

The Qur'an and the Traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) are the sources from which every Muslim woman derives her rights and duties. Women are addressed in the Holy Qur'an as equally as men. Both sexes are equal before God; the fact being that Islam makes no distinction in judging a person's character on account of gender. This is illustrated in the Holy Qur'an, in the first verse of the chapter entitled "Women," reading, "O mankind! Be careful of your duty to your Lord who created you from a single soul and from it its mate and from them both have spread abroad a multitude of men and women. Be careful of your duty toward Allah in whom you claim (your rights) of one another, and towards the wombs (that bore you). Lo! Allah has been a Watcher over you." (4:1)

Islam gives equal treatment to both men and women in civil criminal laws. Men's and women's lives, honor and property are equally safe guarded. None of them may be deprived of their freedom without substantial indictment and both have full freedom of expression.

Since men and women both came from the same essence, they are equal in their humanity. Women cannot be by nature evil (as some people believe) or then men would be evil also. Similarly, neither gender can be superior because it would be a contradiction of equality. In terms of their hold on faith and their good deeds Islam makes no distinction between men and women as also with respect to reward and punishment. In addition, traditions harmful and unfair to women have also been totally and ultimately proscribed.

The Prophet (pbuh) said "Seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim" as reported by Ibn Maajah. Hence, Islam recognizes a woman's right to education. Women must acquire the appropriate education to perform this duty in accordance with their own natural talents and interests. In addition to the primary and highly regarded functions of providing support to her husband, child bearing, raising and upbringing her children, she may work outside home for the good of the community as long as she fulfils her family obligations and she has the skills to do so.

Women in Islam are allowed to work; a good example of this is Prophet Muhammad's first wife Khadija, who was engaged in trade and Ayisha who used to teach the Prophet's companions (Sahabbah) from behind the hijab (veil). After immigrating to Medina, Prophet Mohamed (PBUH) called upon men and women to work, asking for alleviating women's burden due to their physical nature. So, they provided medication to the injured, prepared food for soldiers and supplied drinking water.

Also, they took part in al-Yarmuke battle led by the Arab commander Khaled Ibn al-Walid. Muslim women have also assumed the most crucial of all tasks; that of providing fatwa (official Islamic opinion), and sitting as a judge. This came after the Imam Abu Hanifa gave legal opinion that access to the position of judges is permissible for women.

Muslim men are ordered to be respectful, amicable and fair to their wives.

A dowry is a husband's gift to his wife, to do with as she pleases.

Women have the right, under Islamic Sharia, to choose their prospective husbands. Consent is a precondition to marriage.

In the case of divorce, women are entitled to alimony and child support.

Women in Modern Egypt

The progress of women in modern Egypt over half a century has been associated with a number of societal issues, such as the need to modernize Egypt.

As Mohammed Ali started to lay the foundations for a modern State, there emerged calls for modernizing the society to serve this end, including the need for women's education.

As early as 1832, a midwifery school was established.

In 1872, social reformist Rifa'ah Tahtawi strongly advocated the cause of educating women. One year later, in 1873, the first government school "as-Siofiyya" for girls was established, with 286 students enrolled.

In response to escalating advocacy for women's education, Princess Fatima, Khedive Ismail's daughter, donated 6 feddans of her property whereon to develop a private university (now Cairo university); in addition to her precious jewelry to spend on construction works and endowing 674 feddans to cover the project costs.

In 1928, a number of pioneer women enrolled in the Egyptian university.

Hoda Sha'rawi led the first Arab woman delegation to an international conference in Rome, Italy, in 1923.

The Arab Women's Association was established in 1924.

The first woman magazine, based in Alexandria, serving as a mouthpiece for women's rights was established under the name of Al-Fatah in 1892.

In 1925, a feminist party, the Egyptian Woman's Party was formed.

1942 saw the birth of the Women's National Party, which fought to have women employed in all state positions.

In 1949, the Bint en-Nil (Daughter of the Nile) Party was formed, with support from the British Embassy.

The 1919 Revolution represents a landmark in Egypt's modern history. Egyptians from all walks of life, both men and women, Muslims and Christians, stood united in the struggle for national independence. For the first time in the history of modern Egypt, women staged their own demonstrations. Two were shot dead by British occupation forces. In 1920, Hoda Sha'rawi was elected head of Al-Wafd Central Women's Committee under the leadership of Saad Zaghloul.

With the outbreak of the July 1952 Revolution the concept of women's participation in all fields of activities was further embedded. In 1956, woman was given access to the rights of vote and candidature. Then, she became a member of parliament and the cabinet engaged in partisan, trade-union, professional syndicate and NGOs' activities, assumed top management positions and finally sat at the bench as a judge.

Nefertiti

2008-05-20T22:15:00.000-07:00

Nefertiti

"Ruler of the Nile," "Daughter of Gods," and "Empress of the Mediterranean" or let us say Nefertiti; she was the female pharaoh who followed Hatshepsut and remained more controversial than her precedent. Nefertiti was the Queen of Egypt and co-ruled Egypt between 1379 and 1358 BC. She was the daughter of Ay (who would become Pharaoh after Tutankhamun's death) and the beloved wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten. Nefertiti and Akhenaten had six daughters but no sons. Her name literally means 'a beautiful woman has arrived'.

As a woman, Queen Nefertiti followed the tradition of being her husband's partner in life, and as much she supported Akhenaton in his religious mission. Akhenaton made a unique impression on Egypt's history, when he began to promote the worship of one god above all others - the 'sun-god' Re or Ra. The queen actively involved in her husband's restructuring policies, she is shown wearing kingly regalia, executing foreign prisoners. Both – Nefertiti and Akhenaton – were said to be very much in love and at times inseparable. Many pictures show the whole family in domestic scenes. She seemed to be a beloved wife and mother. King Akhenaton's love was noted as legendary - the following is a love letter/poem to his Queen Nefertiti:

"...The Heiress, Great in Favour, Lady of Grace, Sweet of Love, Mistress of the South and North, Fair of Face, Gay with two Plumes, Beloved of the Living Aten (the king), the Chief Wife of the King whom he Loves, Lady of the two Lands, Great of love, Nefertiti, Living Forever and Ever…"

Throughout the Eighteenth Dynasty royal women played a significant and visible role in state and religious affairs. Nefertiti continued this tradition by actively assisting her husband in his attempt to convert Egypt to monotheism; she was an enthusiastic supporter and a full partner in the process of spreading the new religion. No look at the life of Nefertiti would be complete without a review of this religious revolution. She was influential in establishing one of the world's first monotheistic religions. Moreover, Nefertiti was pictured killing the enemies of Egypt in a scene normally reserved for pharaohs and she was shown with her husband awarding gold to royal favorites at the Window of Appearance.

By Year 14 of Akhenaten's reign Nefertiti had disappeared from view yet there is no record of her death nor has her mummy or place of burial been found. This has led to considerable speculation as to what happened. Some have suggested that the royal couple had a falling out and Nefertiti was banished in disgrace to her palace, Aten's Castle. Others are quite convinced that Nefertiti changed her name to Smenkhkare, adopted the guise of a man and ruled as co-regent with her husband. The majority view is that Nefertiti died of natural causes (possibly the plague) as a great and honored queen.

Recreational tourism

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Recreational tourism

Egypt has a wide range of beaches situated on the Mediterreanean and the Red Sea that extend to over 3,000 km.The Red sea has serene waters,colored coral reefs,rare fish and beautiful mountain.

The Akba Gulf beaches also provide facilities for practicing sea sports .

Safaga tops the Red Sea zone with its beautiful location on the Suez Gulf .

Last but not least,Sharm el-Sheikh,Hurghada,Dahab,Ras Sidr,Mars Alam,Safaga and the northern coast of the Mediterranean are major tourist's destinations of the recreational tourism.

El-Ain El-Sukhna

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El-Ain El-Sukhna

Cairo's nearest beach ...just an hour away

EL-Ain EL-Sukhna: the Arabic for “ hot spring” was named after the nearby sulphur springs .It is also an ideal site for fishing and water sports.

Ain El Sukhna is about 140 km east of Cairo, just an houraway by car. It offers Cairenes and welcome, handy respite from the city's fast paced life .

The area is 40 km south of the port of Suez and is administratively part of the Suez Governorate. Its territory extends along the Red Sea shoreline for about 60 km from the southern borders of Ras El Adebbya in the north to Ras El Zaafarana in the south.

Close enough to Cairo for a day-trip; this popular weekend resort has fine beaches and coves, coral reefs, fishing and water sports.

This is not just a destination for people wanting a suntan and a week at the beach. It is also a place where you can indulge in history. There is ample evidence that the area had its place in history. It includes a famous group of the world's oldest monasteries west of Zafarana on the road to Kuraymat.

The most celebrated ones are those of St. Anthony (c. 251 -356), the founding father of monasticism, and St. Paul, which were built more than 16 centuries ago.

Rituals followed inside the monasteries today have hardly changed in hundreds of years.

A group of historians also believe the northern part of the Mount of Galala El Bahareya was the point from which Moses and the Israelites crossed in their exodus from Egypt's mainland into the Sinai Peninsula. They cite in their claims the fact that the bottom of the Gulf of Suez at this point is elevated.

As the main route to the Indies for Ancient Egyptians and Phoenicians, the Red Sea and its shores and ports also have a rich maritime history.

The area is known for its mild climate all year round. Temperatures range between a high of 32 degrees celsius and a low of 9 degrees in January and show a variation of between 36 degrees and 30 degrees in July .

The average rate of humidity is 50 percent. It ranges between a maximum of 72 percent and a minimum 48 percent in December and shows a variation between 58 percent in May .

Rainfall occurs largely in winter months.
The average number of days having rainfall is 11 days a year, with the rain season spanning the November- May period.
The average amount of rainfall stands at about 24 mm . Winds mainly blow from the north and the northwest gusting at an average.

Flora and Fauna paragon of wildlife.
In spite of the low amounts and frequencies of rainfall, the usual desert growth of perennials and grasses is found.

The Eastern Desert receives spares rainfall, which supports a varied vegetation that includes tamariskaccacia and markh ( a leafless, thorn less tree with bare branches and slendertwigs ) as well as great variety of thorny shrub, small succulent , and romantic herbs .

Date and doum palms,both cultivated and sub spontaneous are found in the Oasis.Desert animals include dorcas gazelle , the miniature desert fox , the mountain goat ibex , the Egyptian hare and two kinds of jerboa( a mouse- like rodent with long hind legs for jumping)the Egyptian jackal and still exists.

There are two carnivorous mammals: a spices of wildcats and the striped Egyptian mongoose.

Several varieties of lizards are found, including the large monitor. Because Egypt is rich in its bird life and many birds pass through in large numbers
On their spring and autumn migrations, the area has its good share of more than 200 migrating types as well a more than 150 resident birds.

Lammergeir and golden eagles are residents of the Eastern desert and Sinai. Resident desert birds are a distinct category, numbering about 24 kinds.

That exquisite corridor of tinted mountain and radiant water ...here and nowhere else is the vestibule between the Levant and the Topics ..." E.M.Forster describing the Gulf of Suez, 1923.

The area's topography bestows on it a special lure and charm. It lies in one of the three tires of the eastern desert -the Red Sea Hills and Red Sea Coastal plane.This tier runs from near Suez to the Sudanese border.

The Hills are not a continuous range but consist of sets of interlocking systems more or less alignment. They are geographical complex, with igneous and metamorphic rocks .
As such, it is regarded by Encyclopaedia Britannica as " a sub-region in itself . Ain El Sukhna is famed for two mountins that have religious significance: Attaqa, which rises more than 800 above sea leveland hems in the valleys (wadis ) of Hogouland Chuwaiba.

Galala El Bahareya , the southern periphery of the area , which rises to more than 1,200 m and embarces the valleys of Kuthaib ( 75sq,km), Abul-dorg (68.5sq,km)and smaller ones such as ElMalha and Gar El Malha.

These mountains and valleys constitute a main component in the area's attractiveness for tourists and local holiday-makers.

There are marks and signs showing that this area had its niche in the annals of history.The 4th century monasteries of St. Anthony the Great and St. Paul in the Eastern Desert, not far from Zafarana, are celebrated as the world's oldest.
A group of historians believe it was around this area on the Red Sea that Moses and Israelites crossed into the Sinai in their exodus from Egypt.
As the main route to the Indies for ancient Egyptians and Phoenicians, the Red Sea and its shores and ports have a rich maritime history.

The area could be reached by land through one of the following highways & roads:
- The Cairo - Suez Highway 110 km
- The Qattameya - Ein El Sukhna Highway 95 km
- The Kuramat - Zafaran Road 120 km
- The Hurgada - Zafarana Road 320 km
- The Suez - Ain El Sukhna Road 40 km

Dahab

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Dahab

Dahab means gold in Arabic. It is said that this name was given by the Bedouins, who likened the shimmering sands to gold dust.

Dahab, located approximately 100km northwest of Sharm El-Sheikh, is still considered to be one of South Sinai's most treasured diving destinations swarmed by tourists.

It is famous for its golden beaches and deceptively deep diving sites, such as the Blue Hole, the Canyon and the Lighthouse.

International Cooperation

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International Cooperation

The state's policy, in the field of international cooperation, mainly aims to develop and enhance the Egyptian economic relations with other countries of the world, as well as invest Egypt's international relations so as to serve development targets and merge them with world economy. This is achieved through signing several agreements that provide necessary finance for the various benefiting governmental bodies in order to implement their projects.

The year 2006/07 has witnessed the signature of several agreements:

- Total agreements that were concluded with our development partners during 2006/07 reached a number of (44) agreements through which a total amount of grants provided reached $ 740,033 million at a ratio of 28.5% of the total finance volume.

- The total technical aid volume reached $ 9.239 million at a ratio of 2.3% of the total finance volume.

- The total loans volume reached $ 1.8 billion at a ratio of 69.2% of the total finance volume.
Description of Total Finance Volume "Grants –Loans -Technical Aid" that were signed with our Development Partners over the Period 1-7-2006 to 30-6-2007. The Most Important Implemented Projects during the Year 2006/07: 1- The Regional and International Finance Bodies A number of (18) agreements were signed with total finance $ 1.4 billion at a ratio of 53.8% of the total finance volume ($ 2.6 billion), of which $ 2.602 million as grants, $ 9.189 million as technical aid and about $ 1.350 billion as loans. African Development Bank contributions ranked first at a ratio of 43.2%, while the International Bank for Construction and Development contributions ranked second at a ratio of 39.9%, Kuwaiti Fund for Arab Economic Development contributions came at a ratio of 13.7%, Saudi Fund contributions came at a ratio of 1.8%, International Fund For Agricultural Development came at a ratio of 1.8% and lately Arab Fund for Economic Development Contributions came at a ratio of 0.2%. All these are to finance several projects and agreements salient of which are the projects of establishing Sohag/Red Sea road, supporting small enterprises, combating the industrial pollution, extending the natural gas net, studying the development of the national net for transferring electricity, eliminating poverty and enhancing legal rights for the Egyptian women and teenagers. Description of Finance Volume During the Period (2006/07) from the (Regional and International Finance Bodies and Organizations)

The year 2005/06 has witnessed the signature of several agreements:

- Some 37 agreements were signed with development partners that contributed to $ 1.762 billion; $ 307.922 million were allocated for grants with a percent of 17.5% of the total finance and $ 1,454,171 million a percent of 82.5% of the total finance.
- The finances projects that support small and medium size enterprises; as well as graft workshops and women through several agreements that were signed in 1988,1991,1998. These projects are now gradually implemented in several governorates by a group of civil society organization registered in the Ministry of Social Affairs. These agreements are as follows:

* A $ 44 million credit agreement of for small size enterprises and craft workshops.
* A $ 35 million credit agreement of for small size enterprises.
* An agreement supporting small enterprises with a budget of $ 86.6 million. In 2005/06,9 agreement were signed with the United States of America, the total finance amount of these agreement reached almost $ 124.109 million (grants).

- Enhancing communication channels with Asian, African and Latin American Countries through their diplomatic figures present in Egypt t activate economic cooperation with such continents. The countries which have political and economic weight are given a special priority.
- On the European level, two agreements were signed with the European Union and one agreement with Finland, with total finance amount reaching $ 123.823 million (grants).
- A conference was held in Egypt about (the Challenges of Technical and Professional Training in the Middle East and North Africa). The World Bank and the European Comission Training Organization have participated in organizing it so as to implement a comprehensive strategy for reforming employment system to cope with the future developments such as activating partnership between Egypt and the European Union and preparing for the Euromediteranean free trade zone.
- Activating the joint higher committee role with several Arab and African countries and giving a push to the strategic cooperation relations with various countries; such as Sudan and Ethiopia.
- On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relation between Egypt and China, 10 agreements were signed in different fields such as plant health, mineral resources, education, tourism, strategic cooperation and investment.
Throughout Egypt's international cooperation, Egypt has been able to provide the finance necessary for implementing the emergency plan of the Ministry of Electricity, besides establishing the great Egyptian Museum and developing Hurghada Airport plus a number of projects serving low-income brackets the majority of the state's ministries have benefited from that finance in number of social and economic development projects during 2005/06.
The most significant programs and projects implemented in 1006:
United States of America:
The most significant projects financed by the united states are upgrading the educational sector, improving the health sector, implementing a successful family planning awareness campaign, as well as protecting the environment and increasing agricultural exports; in addition to completing water and sanitary drainage projects located in several Egyptian governorates.

China:
Within the framework of maintaining economic, technical, commercial, and investment cooperation relationship between Egypt and China seeking the distinguished political relations levels, China has participated with 85% financing the project of alimunium (Almagd Complex) in Ismailia desert whose cost hits about $ 800 million. All its products will be exported to foreign markets. It will provide about 3000 direct job opportunities and about 2000 indirect ones.

The project will help to establish new urban community in Ismailia desert besides reviving the process of transferring production materials and the final products by means of the Egyptian harbours. The volume of the Chinese grants has reached about $ 38.8 million after signing the agreement on establishing a building to render services to investors.

The grants aim to finance number of projects; namely, preparing a technical training centre in Beni Sewif, sharing in financing Mubarak's project for scientific research, as well as the project of remote education system development (1st stage) besides establishing a model school for teaching the Chinese language and history in Kafr mesilha in Menoufiya, in addition to a grant estimated by Swiss Franc worth 159 million so as to finance the project of Cairo International Conference Centre besides signing 10 agreements on different fields: plant health, mineral resources, education, tourism, strategic cooperation and investment.

Japan:
The economic relationship between Egypt and Japan has witnessed a great leap throughout a number of important projects during the recent few years; salient of which is the project of Mubarak As-Salam Bridge (Peace), Children hospital in Aby er-Reesh, and the Opera House besides the project of the great Egyptian Museum (under construction); besides the projects of improving potable water in Giza, Sharqyya and Mahala al-Kobra governorates and projects of improving wheat production plus a number of projects related to the environment reaching34 ones.

The Japanese side is interested in financing projects of clean and renewable energies such as wind energy in Za'afarana with a finance reaching about 13.497 billion Yen (a loan) and generating electricity in Kuraymat with a finance reaching about Yen 10.665 billion (a loan).
Preparations have begun for establishing the Egyptian-Japanese University for Sciences and Technology. The year 2005/06 has witnessed the biggest budget for official aid from the Japanese government to Egypt as US Dollar 41 million allocated for the project of combating environment pollution (stage 2) in number of districts with high pollution rates located between Greater Cairo and Alexandria.

The European Investment Bank
The Bank contributed to a number of vital projects. Arround 250 million euros will go to finance the project of establishing power stations in al-'Atef and Sidi Krir. It also participated in financing the power station in North Cairo with about 150 million euros.

Canada
Within the framework of encouraging Canadian investments in Egypt, number of joint investment projects between both countries have increased from 28 in 1998 to 112 in 2005. Volume of Canadian shares in direct internal investment companies reaches about LE 442 million, representing 17% in the fields of contracting, infrastructure, financial and touristic services, spinning and texture, nutrition substances, land reclamation and chemicals.

There are also ten projects in the free-zone areas exceeding $ 4 billion; besides the Canadian investments in the field of petroleum reaching about 300 million canadian dollar. Within the field of petrochemicals, a contract was signed for granting about $ 2 billion and this is considered the biggest Canadian project in Egypt.

During the last 2 years, the trade exchange between both countries have been increasing mounting to 452.8 million canadian dollar in 2005. In 2006, an agreement was signed so as to allocate $ 100 million to finance education program in early childhood.

Italy:
Italian investments in Egypt have excelled $ 1.8 billion in various sector. On the European level, Italy is considered the first commercial partner to Egypt. In 2005, Egypt's exports to Italy reached about 1.265 billion euros and Italy's exports to Egypt about 1.384 billion euros. In 2006, volume of trade exchange has mounted to 886.5 million euros resulting a surplus for Egypt estimated at 251.3 million euros.
The Italian aid to Egypt reached about 355 million euros (grants), and 855 million euros (soft loans); as well as trade facilities mounting to about 140 million euros.

Kuwait:
A loan agreement was signed by Egypt and the Kuwaiti Fund for Arab Economic development reaching about 30 million dinar so as to share in financing the project of West Cairo power station.

Saudi Arabia:
An agreement was signed between Egypt and the Saudi development Fund so as to finance the project of constructing grains silos in order to develop storage methods and decrease losses amounts. The grant is estimated to reach about Saudi riyal 90 million. About 55% of the finance is a grant from Saudi Arabia while the rest is paid on 25 years with only 5 years grace period.

Bahrain:
As regards volume of investments in Egypt, Bahrain ranks third after Kuwait and Saudi Arabia with total amount of investments in the Egyptian market reaching about $ 500 million. Three projects were signed in natural gas, ready-made clothes and tourism, costing about $ 100 million. Some 21 agreements between both countries were signed so as to cover all bilateral fields of cooperation. Volume of trade exchange between both countries has reached about $ 25 million.

France:
In 2006, the percentage of French exports to Egypt has reached about 70% and that of the Egyptian exports rose to 82%. An agreement was signed between Egypt and France so as to renew the program of Emoteb that strengthens cooperation between both countries in science field as well as activating cooperation in the field of human sciences. Moreover, a specialized French institute was inaugurated so as to qualify Egyptian professors.

Egypt and the European Partnership

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Egypt and the European Partnership

The Egyptian Government allotted special attention to the economic tools in the framework of activating the implementation of foreign policy tools and employing them in attaining strategic benefits on the political, economic and social levels and ensuring luxurious life for the Egyptian people. Among these tools lies the partnership between Egypt and the European Community which started in the mid seventies by concluding the Co-operation Agreement.

The Agreement included provisions on the liberalization of services, the free movement of capital, competition rules, strengthening economic co-operation on the widest possible basis, co-operation on social matters, as well as cultural co-operation. In addition, the Agreement confirms the existence of free trade in manufactured goods and reinforces arrangements for free trade in industrial products. The Agreement has come in the context of the Egyptian implementation of an economic reform program.

The Co-operation Agreement has governed the bilateral relations between Egypt and the EU and contributed in defining the economic cooperation between the two parties. In accordance with this Agreement, Egyptian imports enjoyed free access to EU; as for the EU industrial exports to Egypt had obtained the special treatment of the most-favored-nation. After signing the Protocol in 1987, the Egyptian agricultural products gained a preferential treatment in their access to the EU markets; this special treatment is represented in customs tariffs and exports schedules.

Objectives of Egyptian-European Partnership

Article one in the Agreement stipulated the following objectives:

1. Providing appropriate atmosphere to open a political dialogue allows for developing strong relations between the two parties.

2. Preparing the conditions for liberalization of goods, services and capital trade.

3. Providing support for promoting balanced economic and social relations between the two parties through maintaining dialogue and cooperation.

4. Contribution in economic and social development in Egypt.

5. Encouraging regional cooperation for establishing peaceful coexistence as well as economic and political stability.

6. Developing cooperation in the fields enjoying of common interest. e relations between the involved parties.presented in the

Validity of the Agreement

Egypt – Europe Cooperation Agreement is considered to be valid until one of the parties terminates it. The terminator has to notify the other party and the Agreement becomes invalid after 12 months off the notification date.

Political and security File

This file is considered part of the political and security framework which is stipulated by Barcelona Declaration in 1995. This Declaration is an ambitious and far-reaching document which will remain in modern history as the first attempt to create durable and strong bonds between the shores of the Mediterranean. It is based upon the mechanism of the political dialogue mentioned in Article 2 of the Agreement to attain the following:

1. Strengthening traditional ties as well as common values, UN principles, democracy, and human rights in accordance with the international declaration.

2. Promoting regional security and stability, encouraging common initiatives and supporting the ME Peace Process.

3. Opening a political dialogue between the Egyptian People's Assembly and the European Parliament.

4. Enabling each party to consider the other's stances and interests.

5. Maintaining a political dialogue around issues of common interests.

6. Taking into consideration the variance in levels of development between Egypt and the EU.

Egypt and the Euro – Mediterranean Dialogue

Mediterranean Forum (Barcelona)

The Egyptian Political Thought within the Mediterranean Approach

The Mediterranean, through which the European culture is transferred to the Arabian land, has played a significant role in the Egyptian history. That is why Egypt looks forward to take a crucial part in the region. This could be attributed to some facts which state that the Egyptian and the Mediterranean cultures are almost the same, hence their ties are inevitable. In addition, Egypt's stability leads to trade refreshment and prosperity in the Mediterranean harbors. These so-called facts necessitate the presence of the Mediterranean dimension to help in establishing Egypt's regional role as well as its international cultural message. On the other hand, the Mediterranean area is the heart of the world, the witness of the nascence of divine religions, and the cradle of ancient cultures. Thus, Egypt's concern to adopt the Mediterranean dimension in its Foreign Policy is considered a push forward for a better future to the Egyptian people.

The Mediterranean Approach in the Egyptian National Security:

Despite the fact that the Mediterranean dimension, according to Egypt, comes next to other dimensions, the most important is the Arab dimension, it enables Egypt to establish a network of economical, political and cultural relations with Europe as well as promoting Egypt's role in the Arab region to form Euro-Arab alliance through the Mediterranean to achieve unification (on the European level).

This approach is considered as a contributor in promoting Egypt National Security which faces threats after Egypt's unique status has been altered in the field of international communication – as Egypt is considered a conjunction especially after the opening of Suez Canal. According to the fact that his change may affect the National Security of the country, Egypt adopted this Mediterranean approach by giving an intense heed to sea and not restricting it to land only to attain the National Security which in return will establish Arab National Security.

Egypt's Mediterranean Foreign Policy:

The Egyptian foreign policy relies upon many basics:

1. Egypt's position in the heart of the Arab world has given it the priority of leadership.

2. The leading role played by Egypt in the Islamic world.

3. Its unique position in the African continent that made Egypt exceeds the concept of just belonging to Africa.

Egypt has good relations with the Maghreb countries (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania) and this is attributed to the fact that Egypt is the most closest to Europe and being in good coordination with the European economic committee.

Egyptian Efforts towards convening the Mediterranean Forum:

The idea of convening this forum goes back to the date 20 November 1994 in Strasbourg when President Mubarak suggested establishing an assembly gathers the Mediterranean countries on the condition that it includes all the European countries as well as those of the Mediterranean. This forum is intended to serve as an assembly provides concepts of dialogue, cooperation and integration in all social sectors in Europe, Mediterranean and ME region to solve conflicts of common interest.

Egypt's initiative to establish this forum had the following objectives:

Achieving a comprehensive as well as objective cooperation between the countries in the region. This cooperation has to include all the political, scientific, cultural, and social fields and to be on official and non-official levels.

Gaining benefits from previous cooperation activities which resulted in good relations to contribute in making better common future. So, Egypt's well-defined discourse contributed highly in the establishment of this forum and the discussions resulted in agreeing upon convening a meeting gathers the French, Italian, Spanish, Moroccan, Greek, Portuguese, Algerian, Turkish, and Tunisian foreign ministers, in addition to Malta that joined them afterwards. This group is referred to as “nucleus group” and it's concluded that the meeting would be convened in Alexandria.

Alexandria meeting and its results:

What gives importance to this meeting is that it is considered the first ministerial meeting in which the basics of establishing the Mediterranean forum are discussed.

Alexandria meeting resulted in several issues such as:

a) Agreeing upon the necessity of convening such forum in a kind of a framework that guarantees continuous cooperation in the Mediterranean.

b) Agreeing upon convening a series of consultations and discussions in different fields in order to deepen communications and create appropriate conditions for periodic meetings.

c) Agreeing upon convening ministerial meeting at the beginning of the year 1995 in France to discuss consultations' results.

d) Inviting the closer countries to participate in the “nucleus group” to reach the concept of inclusive regionalism.

As for the second meeting, it was concluded that it would take place on November 1995 in Barcelona, Spain.

The Egyptian participation in Barcelona Conference and other Conferences:

Barcelona Conference:

Despite the differences occurred between the European and Non-European parties concerning each ones' priorities, the key purpose of this conference was to create general economical and cultural partnership in a new context of relations between the countries of the union. This difference represented in the different issues the two parties focused upon; in the time the Arab countries focused on issues as development, upgrading economy, opening the chance for foreign investments, establishing Euro-Mediterranean free trade area and improving the trade sector, the European countries focused on other issues such as terrorism, migration, human rights, and democracy.

The conference wrapped up its proceedings on November 28^th 1995 and concluded that the necessity of an inclusive cooperation between Mediterranean countries to face the common challenges that require comprehensive and coordinated solutions is essential.

The participants agreed upon:

a) Strengthening cooperation to fight terrorism in every possible way.

b) Fighting against organized crime and combating drugs with all its biological forms; in addition to the prohibition of owning large military capabilities represented in traditional weapons and sticking to international and regional systems as well as disarmament agreements.

c) Showing respect to human rights and freedom, working in accordance with UN charter, confessing each party's freedom in choosing and setting its political, economical, social, and justice apparatus, combating racism and hatred towards foreigners

Foreign Trade

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Foreign Trade

Cooperating with Arab countries
Egypt seeks to promote cooperation with the countries of the Arab world by developing economic ties at both the bilateral and multi-lateral levels. In 1997 Egypt signed the Agreement to Facilitate and Develop Inter-Arab Trade with a view to establishing a pan-Arab Free Trade Area and creating a customs union by 2007. While committed to implementing all articles of the above agreement, Egypt also signed the Agadir Agreement for the Establishment of a Free Trade Zone between the Arab Mediterranean Nations with Morocco, Tunisia and Jordan.

Cooperating with African countries
Egypt strives to deepen cooperation with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) along with establishing trade preferential ties with other African groups. In addition, Egypt is keen on implementing the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) as a new umbrella for united African action.

Cooperating with Asian countries
Egypt seeks to deepen ties of cooperation with Asian countries in all fields, especially that of promoting economic development.

Cooperating with the EU
Egypt has capitalized on its good relations with EU countries in order to achieve gains in the area of economic growth and development; an example of this the Egypt-EU Partnership Agreement.

Cooperating with the USA
The USA is one of Egypt's major trade partners, second in place to the EU. On December 14, 2004, Egypt signed the Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZ) Protocol with the US and Israel. The protocol secures new openings in the US market for Egyptian textile and clothing exports.

The Central Bank of Egypt ( CBE )

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The Central Bank of Egypt ( CBE )

The CBE

Established in 1960, the CBE is an autonomous public legal person, assuming the authorities and powers vested therein by Law No. 88 for 2003, and the Presidential Decree No. 64 for 2001961.4, Issuing the Statute of the Central Bank .

The Paid-up Capital is 1000 million Egyptian pounds ( LE). The funds of the Central Bank are considered private funds.

The CBE is committed to achieving, over the medium term, low rates of inflation which it believes are essential for maintaining confidence and for sustaining high rates of investment and economic with price stability being the primary and growth. The Government's endorsement of the objective of price stability and its commitment to fiscal consolidation is quite important for achieving this objective.

The Banking Sector in Egypt

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The Banking Sector in Egypt

Banking Reform and Liberalization

The banking sector plays a crucial role in the development process of Egypt. The banking sector consists of commercial banks, which are local banks and non-local banks. It also includes specialized banks and financial institutions operating in the fields of investment and credit for industry, agriculture, housing and rural development. In addition, there are branches affiliated to these banks and institutions. Deepening this sector and its reform would lead to higher rates of economic growth. This mechanism is achieved mainly through the role of the banking sector in mobilizing more savings and channelling them to better investment allocation. This, in turn, would lead to higher productivity and more capital accumulation. To achieve these results, an efficient banking system, prudential controls and a friendly, non-distorted macroeconomic framework are required.

The Banking industry in Egypt is amongst the oldest and largest in the region.

Banking reform started as part of the open door policies in the mid seventies when foreign banks were allowed to operate in Egypt. Later in the nineties, as part of Egypt's economic and financial reform program, the banking sector was completely liberalized, while banking supervision was further strengthened in accordance to international standards .

The Government of Egypt has been currently undertaking a comprehensive reform strategy for the financial sector as a whole and the banking system in specific. The goal of banking reform was creating an efficient banking sector which offers better quality services .The financial reform measures taken in the early 1990s emphasised reform of the monetary and fiscal policies, not the revamping of financial institutions.

Egypt is currently moving steadily towards becoming the biggest financial center in the region. Owing to the flourishing privatization program and the prospering domestic bond market, banks have encountered new investment fields which helped them diversify their portfolios and lower their financial risks. Meanwhile, most banks expanded on providing non traditional services such as brokerage, investment consultations, asset valuation and sales, and mutual fund operations which also helped improving capital market services.

Banking reform was primarily based on promoting transparency and use of adequate accounting and supervision standards. According to the Law, banks are required to publish their financial statements on quarterly basis in compliance with the Accounting Standards (IAS). In addition, the Law requires all banks to be audited by two different independenl auditors, with auditors changing every two years
In addition, Laws are periodically reviewed with the aim of refining legislation to foster competitiveness in the sector. To this effect, the new income tax law No. 5/1998 closed a chronic loophole which provided banks and financial institutions with a double tax exemption through deducting interest income from the tax base and use the proceeds in purchasing tax free securities. The provisions of the new law aim to spur innovation and healthy competition among banks to engage in productive activities and extend loans to customers and smaller businesses.

In June 1998, major amendments to the Banking Law which permitted private ownership in public banks were ratified by the Parliament. Individual banks invited international financial houses for internal valuations and ratings. Later in mid 1999, the Central Bank of Egypt and the General Assembly of the two real estate banks approved the first bank mergering in Egypt by merging the "Credit Foncier Egyptien" and the "Arab Land Bank" into one financial entity.

With a view to strengthening the Central bank role and independence, the Ministry of Economy in cooperation with CBE drafted a new Central Bank Law which aims towards institutionalizing the Central Bank independence and defining its role in determining the monetary policy.

Government efforts to reform monetary and fiscal policies have gained momentum in 2001 when the cabinet agreed to prioritise the modification of laws governing the performance of the banking sector. In addition, drafts of two key banking laws -- the Central Bank and National Investment Bank laws -- were endorsed.

The first of these was an amendment to the law governing the performance of the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE). Under the amendment, the CBE would have full independence in drawing up monetary policies and greater supervisory powers over the banking system in Egypt.

The second bill aimed to alter the role of the state- owned National Investment Bank (NIB) in boosting development and fighting recession.

The cabinet's decision to amend the CBE law has been widely hailed as a progressive step in Egypt's economic history.

The year 2007 witnessed the operation of the first credit information company by the participation of more than 32 banks. Besides, the first release of stocks presented by the Egyptian Pound succeeded, as the coverage volume reached 250% in the world money markets which reflects their confidence in the Egyptian economy.
http://www.sis.gov.eg

Human rights

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Human rights

Introduction:

The issue of human rights is one of the main issues currently raised on the political arena with a top priority on both local and global agenda. By the end of World War II, there arose a dire need to achieve world peace and global balance on the world arena.

As many peoples were seeking their independence and establishing their states, there emerged many international institutions and bodies concerned with human rights and the basic freedoms; resulting in the conclusion of a host of international agreements and declarations in various aspects of human rights.

On the local level, Egypt has keenly sought to participate in all international efforts on issues pertaining to human rights, woman and human development as part of an overall modernization process, which began since the early 20^th century.

As a sign of its civiilized commitment to and respect for human rights issues, Egypt has set up the National Council for Motherhood and Childhood (NCMC) in 1989, followed by the National Committee for Women in 1993, the National Council for Women (NCW) in 2000 and the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR) in 2003.

Egypt was also among the first countries to sign the international agreement on child rights in December 1989. It further declared its first decade for the child protection (1989-1999).

The issue of human rights in Egypt has also drawn a remarkable attention over the past few years as part of an increasing international interest in human rights and a rise in the number of the Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and civil society organizations operating in the same field.

The human rights situation in Egypt calls for examining the human rights issues politically and legally by handling the following issues:

• Human rights in Egyptian history

• International agreements and covenants acceded by Egypt.

• Human rights in the Egyptian Constitution.

• Major bodies and institutions operating in the field of human rights in Egypt.

I: Human rights in Egyptian history

The Egyptian Pharaonic civilization had earliest of all civilizations showing respect for human rights through ages. Ancient Egyptians were the first to acknowledge man's right to life. As a case in point, they used to defer execution of a convicted pregnant woman till she had given birth to her baby.

Ancient Egyptians also applied the principle of equality among all citizens as all Egyptians were equal before the law, without distinction between rich and poor, the free people and the slavemen or between the nationals and the foreigners.

As to education, Pharaonic Egypt encouraged both males and females to get proper education.

When Christianity came to Egypt, the Egyptians found in its tolerant teachings salvation from the injustice practiced by the Romans.

The Islamic religion has called for equality among all people and liberation of all human beings from all economic, political and social burdens.

II: Egypt's accession to international agreements and covenants on human rights:

1- International agreements on human rights acceded by Egypt:

A- The anti-slavery agreement of 1926 and its amendment protocol of 1953 as well as the complementary agreement of 1956.

B- The international anti-genocide treaty, signed in 1948.

C- Both agreements on Corvee of 1930, 1957 (International Labor Organizations agreements No. 29, 105)

D- The International Agreement on the Prevention of Women and Children Trafficking of 1950.

E- The International Agreement on the Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination of 1966.

F- The International Agreements on th eProhibition and Punishment for Racial Discrimination (United Nations, 1973).

G- The Convention on Refugees' Status (United Nations, 1951).

H- The Protocol amending the International Convention Refugees' Status (United Nations, 1967).

I- The International Covenant on Political and Civil Rights (United Nations, 1966).

- The International Covenant on Cultural, Social and Economic Rights (United Nations, 1966).

K- The International Convention on the Prevention of all Forms of Discrimination against Women (United Nations, 1967).

L- The international Convention on Women's Political Rights (United Nations, 1953).

M- The International Convention on combating torture and other Forms of Cruel, Inhuman or Humiliating Treatment (United Nations, 1984).

N- The International Convention on Child Rights (United Nations, 1990).

O- The International Convention on combating Racial Segregation in Sports (United Nations, 1985).

P- The International Convention on the Rights of Immigrant workers and Family members.

Q- The Optional Protocol to the Convention on Child Rights with regard to Trafficking and Exploiting Children in Prostitution and Pornography (Geneva, 2000).

R- The Optional Protocol to the Convention on Child Rights with regard to child participation in armed conflict (Geneva, 2004).

2- Regional human rights agreements acceded by Egypt:

A- The African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, 1980.

B- The Arab Charter on Child Rights, 1983.

C- The African Charter on Child Rights and Welfare, Addis Ababa, 2001.

III: Human rights in the Egyptian Constitution:

1- Human rights principles as included in the First Chapter of the Constitution:

The First Chapter of the Constitution handled all matters related to the State including the following human rights principles:

A- People are the source of powers:

This principle is enshrined in Article 3 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Sovereignty is for the people alone and they are the source of authority.

The people shall exercise and protect this sovereignty, and safeguard national unity in the manner specified in the Constitution.

B- The principle of political freedom:

This principle is enshrined in Article 4 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: "The political system of the Arab Republic of Egypt is a multiparty one, within the framework of the basic elements and principles of the Egyptian society as stipulated in the Constitution. Political parties are regulated by law.

C- The nationality right principle:

This principle is enshrined in Article 6 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: "Egyptian nationality is defined by the law."

2- The human rights principles as included in the Second Chapter of the Constitution:

The Second Chapter of the Constitution, entitled " BASIC CONSTITUENTS OF THE SOCIETY”, handles some of the human rights principles as follows:

1- The principle of equal opportunities and just distribution of public burdens:

This principle is mentioned in Article 8 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The State shall guarantee equality of opportunity to all citizens.

2- The principle of family, motherhood and childhood protection as well as youth welfare:

This principle is enshrined in Articles No. 9&10 of the Constitution. Article No. 9 stipulates that:" The family is the basis of the society founded on religion, morality and patriotism."

"The State is keen to preserve the genuine character of the Egyptian family-with what it embodies of values and traditions-while affirming and developing this character in the relations within the Egyptian society."

Article No. 10 stipulates that:" The State shall guarantee the protection of motherhood and childhood, take care of children and youth and provide the suitable conditions for the development of their talents."

C- The principle of equality between man and woman:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 11 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The State shall guarantee the proper coordination between the duties of woman towards the family and her work in the society, considering her equal with man in the fields of political, social, cultural and economic life without violation of the rules of Islamic jurisprudence."

D- The principle of right to work and prevention of forced labour:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 13 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Work is right, a duty and an honour ensured by the State.

Workers who excel in their field of work shall receive the appreciation of the State and the society.

No work shall be imposed on the citizens, except by virtue of the law, for the performance of a public service and in return for a fair remuneration."

E- The right to assume public jobs:
This principle is enshrined in Article No. 14 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Public offices are the right of all citizens and an assignment for their occupants in the service of the people.

The State guarantees their (the occupants) protection and the performance of their duties in safeguarding the interests of the people.

They may not be dismissed by other than the disciplinary way, except in the cases specified by the law."

F- The principle of providing health, social and cultural services as well as social insurance:

This principle is enshrined in Articles No. 16 &17 of the Constitution. Article No. 16 stipulates that: “The State shall guarantee cultural, social and health services, and work to ensure them for the villages in particular in an easy and regular manner in order to raise their standard."

Article No. 17 stipulates that “The State- shall guarantee social and health insurance services and all the citizens have the right to pensions in cases of incapacity, unemployment and old-age, in accordance with the law."

G- The principle of free education in the different grades as well as making it obligatory in the primary grade:

This principle is enshrined in Articles No. 18&20 of the Constitution. Article No. 18 stipulates that:" Education is a right guaranteed by the State."

"It is obligatory in the primary stage and the State shall work to extend obligation to other stages."

"The State shall supervise all branches of education and guarantee the independence of universities and scientific research centres, with a view to linking all this with the requirements of society and production."

Article No. 20 stipulates that: " Education in the State educational institutions shall be free of charge in its various stages.”

H- The principle of equitable distribution of national income, guaranteeing a minimum level of wages, solving the unemployment problem and improving living standards:

This principle is mentioned in Articles No. 23&25 of the Constitution. Article No. 23 stipulates that: “The national economy shall be organised in accordance with a comprehensive development plan which ensures raising the national income, fair distribution, raising the standard of living, eliminating unemployment, increasing work opportunities, connecting wages with production, fixing a minimum and a maximum limit for wages in a manner which guarantees lessening the disparities between incomes."

Article No. 25 stipulates that: “Every citizen shall have a share in the national revenue to be defined by the law in accordance with his work or his unexploiting ownership."

I- The right of safeguarding the private property:

This principle is enshrined in Articles No. 34&35 of the Constitution. Article No. 34 stipulates that: “Private ownership shall be safeguarded and may not be put under sequestration except in the cases specified in the law and with a judicial decision. It may not be expropriated except for the general good and against a fair compensation in accordance with the law. The right of inheritance is guaranteed in it."

Article No. 36 stipulates that: “General sequestration of funds shall be prohibited."

"Private sequestration shall not be allowed except with a judicial decision."

3- The human rights principles as included in the Third Chapter of the Constitution:

The Third Chapter, entitled “PUBLIC FREEDOMS, RIGHTS AND DUTIES”, tackles many principles established in the international covenants on human rights as follows:

A- Achieving equality in terms of rights and duties and making no segregation or racial discrimination:

This principle is enshrined in Article 40 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “All citizens are equal before the law. They have equal public rights and duties without discrimination between them due to race, ethnic origin, language, religion or creed."

B- The principle of right and protection of freedom:

This principle is endorsed in Article No. 41 of the Constitution, stipulating that: “Individual freedom is a natural right and shall not be touched.”

C- The principle of treating those undergoing restricted freedoms in a way that safeguards their honor and prevention of their physical or moral torture or jail in places of detention beyond prison laws. In addition, evidence taken by force or under threat shall not be considered valid:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 42 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Any person arrested, detained or his freedom restricted shall be treated in the manner concomitant with the preservation of his dignity."

"No physical or moral harm is to be inflicted upon him."

"He may not be detained or imprisoned except in places defined by laws organising prisons."

"If a confession is proved to have been made by a person under any of the aforementioned forms of duress or coercion, it shall be considered invalid and futile."

D- The principle of the inadmissibility of performing scientific or medical experiments on man against his free will:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 43 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Any medical or scientific experiment may not be undergone on any person without his free consent.”

E- The principle of the sanctity of home and respect of the citizen's privacy:

This principle is enshrined in Articles No. 44&45. Article No. 44 stipulates that: “Homes shall have their sanctity and they may not be entered or inspected except by a causal judicial warrant prescribed by the law.”

Article No. 45 stipulates that: “The law shall protect the inviolability of the private life of citizens."

"Correspondence, wires, telephone calls an other means of communication shall have their own sanctity and secrecy and may not be confiscated or monitored except by a causal judicial warrant and for a definite period according to the provisions of the law."

F- The principle of the freedom of belief and free practice of religious rituals:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 46 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The State shall guarantee the freedom of belief and the freedom of practice of religious rites.”

G- The principle of freedom of opinion, expression, mass media and publication:

This principle is enshrined in Articles No. 47&48 of the Constitution. Article No. 47 stipulates that: “Freedom of opinion is guaranteed."

"Every individual has the right to express his opinion and to publicise it verbally or in writing or by photography or by other means within the limits of the law."

"Self-criticism and constructive criticism is the guarantee for the safety of the national structure."

Article No. 48 stipulates that: “Freedom of the press, printing, publication and mass media shall be guaranteed."

"Censorship on newspapers is forbidden as well as notifying, suspending or cancelling them by administrative methods."

"In a state of emergency or in time of war a limited censorship may be imposed on the newspapers, publications and mass media in matters related to public safety or purposes of national security in accordance with the law."

H- The principle of freedom of scientific research and cultural, artistic and literary innovation:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 49 of the Constitution. It stipulates that: “The State shall guarantee the freedom of scientific research and literary, artistic and cultural invention and provide the necessary means for its realization."

I- The principle of free movement and inadmissibility of citizen's deportation:

This principle is mentioned in Articles No. 50&51 of the Constitution. Article No. 50 stipulates that: “No citizen may be prohibited from residing in any place and no citizen may be forced to reside in a particular place, except in the cases defined by the law.”

Article No. 51 stipulates that: “No citizen may be deported from the country or prevented from returning to it.”

J- The principle of granting the right of political asylum to foreign refugees, who are suppressed due to defending the peoples' interest, human rights, peace and justice and banning the extradition of any political refugee:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 53 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The right to political asylum shall be guaranteed by the State for every foreigner persecuted for defending the peoples' interests, human rights, peace or justice."

"The extradition of political refugees is prohibited."

K- The principle of right to private assembly:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 54 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Citizens shall have the right to peaceable and unarmed private assembly, without the need for prior notice."

"Security men should not attend these private meetings."

"Public meetings, processions and gatherings are allowed within the limits of the law."

L- The principle of right to participate in and form societies:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 55 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Citizens shall have the right to form societies as defined in the law."

"The establishment of societies whose activities are hostile to the social system, clandestine or have a military character is prohibited."

M- The principle of right to establish unions and syndicates:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 56 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The creation of syndicates and unions on a democratic basis is a right guaranteed by law, and should have a moral entity."

"The law regulates the participation of syndicates and unions in carrying out the social programmes and plans, raising the standard of efficiency, consolidating the socialist behavior among their members, and safeguarding their funds."

"They are responsible for questioning their members about their behavior in exercising their activities according to certain codes of morals, and for defending the rights and liberties of their members as defined in the law."

N- The principle of right to run for elections:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 62 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Citizens shall have the right to vote, nominate and express their opinions in referendums according to the provisions of the law."

"Their participation in public life is a national duty."

4- The human rights principles as included in the Fourth Chapter of the Constitution:

The Fourth Chapter of the Constitution, entitled “SOVEREIGNTY OF THE LAW”, contains many important aspects pertaining to human rights and freedoms as follows:

A- The principle of the judiciary independence and immunity:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 65 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The State shall be subject to law."

"The independence and immunity of the judiciary are two basic guarantees to safeguard rights and liberties."

B- The principle of individuality of the penalty and that no crime or penalty is to be applied unless under a law. In addition, no penalty is to take effect unless under a judiciary ruling:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 66 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Penalty shall be personal."

"There shall be no crime or penalty except by virtue of the law."

"No penalty shall be inflicted except by a judicial sentence."

"Penalty shall be inflicted only for acts committed subsequent to the promulgation of the law prescribing them."

C- The principle of the innocence of the accused until proven guilty under legal prosecution that guarantees his right to defend himself:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 67 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Any defendant is innocent until he is proved guilty before a legal court, in which he is granted the right to defend himself."

"Every person accused of a crime must be provided with counsel for his defense."

D- The principle of right of litigation to all people, resorting to court, guaranteeing speedy rulings in legal cases and banning the exclusion of actions from the censorship of the judiciary:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 68 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The right to litigation is inalienable for all, and every citizen has the right to refer to his competent judge."

"The State shall guarantee the accessibility of the judicature organs to litigants, and the rapidity of statuting on cases."

"Any provision in the law stipulating the immunity of any act or administrative decision from the control of the judicature is prohibited."

E- The principle of the right to self-defense and affording it to those financially unable to do so:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 69 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “The right of defense in person or by mandate is guaranteed."

"The Law shall grant the financially incapable citizens the means to resort to justice and defend their rights."

G- The right to take immediate action due to arrest or to communicate with those who can do an action and the right to complain to the concerned parties:

This principle is enshrined in Article No. 71 of the Constitution, which stipulates that: “Any person arrested or detained should be informed, forthwith with the reasons for his arrest or detention."

"He has the right to communicate, inform, and ask the help of anyone as prescribed in the law."

"He must be faced, as soon as possible, with the charges directed against him."

"Any person may lodge a complaint to the courts against any measure taken to restrict his individual freedom."

"The law regulates the right of complaint in a manner ensuring a ruling regarding it within a definite period, or else release is imperative."

Fourth: Major human rights organizations and institutions operating in Egypt

1- Governmental organizations: -

"The National Council for Human Rights"

It was set up on June 12, 2003 under law No. 94 of 2003. Affiliated to the Shura Council, it aims at the promotion and protection of the human rights values, promoting awareness of human rights values and guaranteeing their freedom.
The Council is chaired by Dr. Boutrus Ghali with Dr. Ahmed Kamal Abul-Magd as Deputy-Chief and 25 public figures as members.

Goals:
The Council is seen as a new step to enhance democracy and ensure freedom of citizens from the standpoint of human rights, party pluralism, public freedoms and political reform. It aims at:-

- Protecting the Egyptian rights at home and promoting Egypt's image abroad by seeking to abolish all freedom-restricting legislations.
- Cooperating with human rights non-governmental organizations in Egypt which shoulder heavy burdens in this domain.

Its importance:
Egypt has always been keen on respecting human rights and strictly confronting any related individual violations that may occur. The need to establish a national institution to play a key role in this regard had been raised. The establishment of the National Council for Human Rights to tackle the practical, academic and legal sides of the human rights came as a forwardable response.

I: On practical terms
The Council monitors any violations in human rights and receives complaints regarding violations anywhere in Egypt.

II: On academic terms
The Council organizes seminars to raise awareness on human rights and individuals' rights and duties.

III: On legal terms
Under the new world order and globalization era, the international community is working to ensure respect to the rules of human rights and guarantee their application by all countries. The National Council for Human Rights is able to follow up and catch up with international development in the field of human rights.

Functions:-
- To lay down a national action plan to reinforce and develop the protection of human rights and propose useful means to achieve this plan.
- To receive complaints from citizens and organizations and channel them to concerned authorities.
- To follow up the ratification of international conventions and agreements related to human rights.
- To join Egyptian delegations to the national and international fora concerned with human rights. In addition, the council takes part in preparing country reports that required to be periodically submitted to UN human rights' commissions and other agencies in application of the international accords.
- To coordinate with state institutions concerned with human rights.
- To participate in disseminating the human rights cultures and raising citizens' awareness of the human rights values.

2- Non-governmental Societies:-
Acknowledging the civil society role in the field of human rights and other social and political fields, the state gave the opportunity for individuals and groups to establish NGOs to work in the field of human rights with full freedom.

A case in point of these societies are:

A- The Egyptian Organization for Human Rights (EOHR):

EOHR was established in 1985 by a group of journalists and public figures interested in the field of human rights.

Goals:-

It aims at enhancing respect to the human rights and basic freedoms in a way to goes in line with tenets of divine religions and the basic principles of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and other International Conventions. It also works for defending individuals' rights against violations and abuses of these covenants and deepening citizens' awareness of their lawful rights, regardless of their creed or political affiliation.

Since 1990, the organization has issued annual reports on human rights in Egypt. It also issues a bulletin and statements reporting an forms of human rights violations.

B- Arab Organization for Human Rights

It was established in 1983. The first meeting of the AOHR founding committee was held on Dec. 1, 1983 in Cyprus. Its first plenary session met in Khartoum on January 30-31, 1987.

Goals:-

It aims at promoting respect to human and peoples' rights and the political freedoms in the Arab home for all citizens in accordance with the principles of the World Declaration of Human Rights and other related international charters. It also works for defending rights of individuals and groups against any violations.

C- The Arab Program for Human Rights Activists:

The Arab program for human rights activists was established in March 1997.

Goals:

- Protecting human rights activists against violations.
- Working with human rights activists to exchange experiences and skills and provide mutual protection against human rights violations.

D- Cairo Center for Human Rights Studies:

The Cairo Center for Human Rights Studies is a scientific, research and intellectual institution.

Goals:

- Bolstering human rights in the Arab world.
- Analyzing difficulties that block the application of international human rights law and disseminating human rights culture in the Arab societies.
- Promoting human rights culture.
- Drawing up scientific and educational programs and holding conferences, seminars and workshops on human rights.
http://www.sis.gov.eg

Victory ... Peace …Development

2008-05-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Victory ... Peace …Development
On the sixth of October 1973, our Egyptian Armed Forces engaged in a battle for honour; liberating the Egyptian land. By virtue of the leadership wisdom, accurate planning and the soldiers' courage, a military miracle took place. Our Egyptian Air Force flew over the enemy's fortifications launching, successfully, the first air strike that opened the gate of triumph, confused the enemy ranks and severed the alleged long arm of Israel.

That was when our troops crossed the Suez Canal and destroyed the Barlev line by which Israel had terrified the whole world, in turn they themselves believed the lie of the myth.

And that was when the Egyptian soldier managed to face the enemy's heavy artillery; it was courage that put an end to the war and made a coup in the military and strategic concepts.

Breaking the myth of the invincible Israel, was the incident that paved the way before the political and psychological balance and opened the gate for peace; the matter for which a battle of another kind was a prerequisite. Egypt had another battle seeking for a comprehensive peace and Arab-Israeli coexistence; the result was the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty.

The October victory unleashed energies for construction and modernization. A third battle was waged; establishing a modern country. The Egyptian revival, under the sponsorship of President Mubarak, swept. The whole world has testified to our economic reform program that works successfully. They hailed our management in achieving the infrastructure, production and high-level standards and growth rates, besides the economic boom.

Egypt looks to the past only to remember its martyrs and the great sacrifices of its men. As to the future, Egypt is planning on solid bases and sound foundations, equipped with the faith and determination of people to continue the victorious march started in October 1973.

Of all Arab countries, Egypt bore the brunt of three decades of military hostilities with Israel. Seeking peace, Egypt was sincere out of unshakable conviction that peace should prevail if the long-volatile Middle East area is to start catching up with the economic locomotive vigorously chugging ahead everywhere else.

This may explain why Cairo has been in the fore of the world countries striving to make peace a reality in this region. And in doing so, Egypt takes no sides, rather siding with a durable and lasting peace, which could brighten up the prospects in the region and consign animosity to history.

Without establishing this peace, any talk about economic boom and cooperation in the Middle East would be day-dreaming, if not political self-deception.

Egypt's Military Museums

2008-05-20T21:32:00.000-07:00

Egypt's Military Museums

The Military Museum
The Military Museum in Cairo is famous for its rich collection and historical building which was originally a palace during the reign of Mohamed Ali, the founder of the royal family that ruled Egypt from 1805 till 1952. It was established in 1937 in the old building of the Ministry of Defense based on the idea of Abdel Raham Zaki, one of the most famous military historians in Egypt. It was recently modernized in cooperation with North Korea and President Mubarak reopened it on 29 November, 1993. It records the history of the Egyptian army since the Pharaonic times till now. It is divided into three wings and three storeys, each having several halls. It exhibits the development in weaponry and military equipment and uniforms, besides 220 paintings of famous battles, as well as the most important military decorations, orders and medals.

Al-Magd Hall:
Al Magd Hall exhibits the flags used since the Ottoman era up till now including the flags of the Republic, the main branches of the Armed Forces and the historical flags of the military zones, leaderships and the units which participated in October War.

Clothes Hall:
It exhibits the development of the soldiers' uniform since the start of the Islamic ear up till now.

Arms Hall
Knives, swords and guns are on display in this hall which includes Artillery Hall which shows the guns' development throughout all eras.

Historical Display Halls

It includes a number of Pharaonic era halls and displays the events of the ancient Egyptian state as regards arms' types, soldiers wrestling trainings, the victory of King Narmar and dioramas for King Tuhutmos III, Ramses II who signed the first ever treaty in the world in 1270 BC.

Islamic Era
It exhibits the events seen in Egypt since Amr Ibn el-As conquered it till the battle of Hitten led by Saladin against the Crusaders as well as dioramas showing the capture of King Louis IX and another diorama for Ain Galot battle and the Islamic battle of Badr.

Mohamed Ali Pasha Hall
It exhibits the family tree of Mohamed Ali Pasha and paintings for the Citadel's Massacre, Ship Building House as well as diorama for the Suez Canal from opening to nationalization.

War Hall
It includes many intersected halls showing every war which Egypt engaged in since 1948 up till 1973 as well as dioramas for Ras el-Esh Battle, Port Said War and Elat's destroyer.

October Victory Hall
It exhibits the achievements of 1973 October War in addition to the weaponry which participated in the war. It includes air forces hall, air defense hall, infantry hall, naval forces hall, paratroops hall and coastal guards' hall.

Martyrs Hall
It exhibits the names of the martyrs of October War and other wars who sacrificed their lives to realize a great historical victory.

Military Museum in Northern Sinai
It was established in 1993 in an appreciation for the efforts exerted by Sinai citizens to defend their territories against the foreign invasion from the Pharaonic era till the modern era. It comprises one wing which includes four sections: The first section contains artistic paintings from Sinai citizens which record the popular heroic acts. The second section is a documentary one which records all information about the history and the battles of the popular resistance. The third section highlights Sinai history and the fourth section highlights the achievements and Sinai economic and tourist spots.

Al-Alamein War Museum

Al-Alamein War Museum is located 105 kilometers west of Alexandria. It is placed within the military areas of El Alumni. It was opened in 1956, during the tenure of late President Gamal Abdel Nasser.

Built as a memorial of the Battle of Al Alamein, between the British and the Germans in 1942, and the battles that took place in South Africa in World War II, Al-Alamein Museum was renewed and reopened in 1992 under President Hosni Mubarak. The museum is one of the best places to visit in order to understand the story of World War II in Egypt.

The museum contains records of all the events. Even before entering the Museum area, there stand huge army tanks and other weapons in the courtyard. Visitors can view the heavy equipment, go inside a tank or an army vehicle, or even jump up and sit on the top of a tank.

The museum consists of five halls, each of which is dedicated to one of the four countries involved in the war, Great Britain, Italy, Germany, and Egypt. There is also a mixed hall that contains a number of war items.

The Egyptian hall:
It shows how Egypt helped the Allies during the war. There are statues of Egyptian soldiers who helped British troops.

The British hall:
Focus is on how the British were able to defeat the Italians and the Germans in North Africa.

The Italian hall:
Like the other halls, it contains statues of Italian soldiers wearing their uniform.

The German hall:
It highlights the part played by the German army in the battle of Alamein and in the other battles fought in North Africa in World War ll.

The most interesting of all the museum's halls is the mixed hall which showcases items belonging to the warring parties. The small models at the center demonstrate the important battles between the British and Italians in the beginning, and the British and the Germans later. The hall has one part that tells the history of each country and why they were involved in the war. Photographs are hung showing real battles walls; the history of the three countries and the reasons they had for going to war is also presented together with information about them.

The October 1973 War Panorama

The October 1973 War Panorama is a museum, which relates the battles of Egypt's greatest victory of modern times. The idea of the panorama was first introduced during President Hosni Mubarak's visit to North Korea in 1983.

The project was opened by the President on October 5, 1989. The building and grounds stand on some 31 thousand square meters; a 6-square meter parking area is attached.

Weaponry used by the Egyptian troops and Israeli weapons seized in the war is showcased in the open display area. The cylinder-shaped main building is 44m x 27m intersected by a 10.5m-iron and copper tower. It consists of four halls:

The circular hall:
which highlights the achievements of the Egyptian Armed Forces in the period from 1967 to 1973.

Hall 2:
in which the crossing of the Suez Canal is graphically shown.

Hall 3:
which showcases the achievements of the various branches of the Army during the October War.

Hall 3 is a library with a reading hall attached.

Panorama shows are presented in Arabic, English, German, Italian, French and Japanese.

The 6th of October Victory

2008-05-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

The 6th of October Victory

While so many are Egypt's great events and so fraught is its deep-rooted history with memorable days, of all days and events, the 6th of October rises out so lofty as Egypt's most unforgettable, most valuable and most influential. Thus, Egypt will continue to celebrate the anniversary of the 1973 glorious victory, through which the 1967 setback was rectified, the honor and dignity of the nation regained, and the Egyptian armed forces were crowned with laurel.

On that glorious day, Egypt's armed forces regained their pride and self-confidence, as they had successfully completed a stupendous military feat, consummated mission impossible, thus deterring forces of aggression.

Putting an end to the state of no-war, no-peace, the Egyptian Army had obviously managed to change the whole situation in the Middle East. It had proved to the whole world that the Egyptians were able to achieve a daring military action, based on courageous decision, careful planning and preparation, and valiant performance.

This, as a matter of fact, involved a strategic, preemptive strike, crowning the sacrifices of the Egyptian people and their Armed Forces with an eye-catching victory that will ever remain a source of pride for the coming generations. On that great day, the will for challenge triumphed and the Egyptian people engaged most successfully in a battle of life or death.

Having refused to give up to fait accompli, they stood fast against numerous attempts geared to instill despair and discourage them. The people also obstinately staved off scheming by a world-wide collusion that attempted to undermine their ability to liberate their land, therefore, all Egyptians decided to rush onto the battle of destiny, armed with trust in Allah and confidence in their Armed Forces.

They were all confident that the bravery of men would offset shortage of weaponry and equipment, as they were inevitably fighting a fair war, in defense of honor, survival and in retaliation for dignity.

On October 6, 1973, the Egyptian Armed Forces mounted a surprise attack against the Israeli army stationed in Sinai and the Golan Heights. As a result, Egypt regained full sovereignty over the Suez Canal and was able to recover part of Sinai. The October victory led to destroying the myth of Israel's invincible army. Most important, however, is that it paved the way to the Camp David Treaty in September 1978.

The 1973 war is the fourth round in the Arab-Israeli armed struggle since 1948. In 1967, Israel occupied Syria's Golan Heights, the West Bank and Jerusalem, Sinai and the Suez Canal and for six years, it spent a lot on fortifying its positions on the East Bank, in what later came to be known as the Barlev Line.

Preparations for the October victory began very early in 1968 with the war of attrition. After President Anwar al-Sadat assumed power in 1970 and Israel having rejected the Rogers Initiative, war was the only option to recover Sinai and Suez Canal. A surprise attack was carried on both the Egyptian and Syrian fronts. Intelligence Authorities in both countries relied on a plan to confuse the enemy.

At exactly 14:00 hours on October 6, 1973, 222 Egyptian fighters crossed the Suez Canal, undetected. Their target: radar stations, air defense batteries, fortified points on the Barlev line, oil refineries and ammunition depots. Meanwhile, Egyptian artillery across the Canal turned the front line into an inferno in what was a show of force not soon to be forgotten. 10,500 rockets were fired in the first 60 seconds at an average of 175 rockets/seconds. 1000 rubber boats crossed the Canal carrying 8000 soldiers who climbed the Barlev Line and stormed into enemy defenses. The Egyptian Engineer Corps built the first bridge 6 hours after the war began. 8 hours later they cut a path into the Barlev Line, set up another 12 bridges and operated 30 ferries.

The success of the air strike, at the beginning of the war, made it possible for Egyptian soldiers to penetrate the Barlev Line in no more than six hours causing heavy losses among Israeli troops. But had it not been for the air bridge of military equipment and supplies launched by the US on October 10, the Israeli Army would have been heavily defeated.

On October 22, 1973, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 338 calling on all parties to stop fighting, to cease all firing and terminate all military activity and begin negotiations aimed at establishing a just and durable peace in the Middle East.

The war demonstrated that:
• The Egyptians could mount a military attack, based on a brave decision, well-planned and properly-prepared.

• The myth of the invincible Israeli Army could be destroyed.

• The policy of imposing a status quo was invalid.

• Arab national security was threatened, a feeling which brought all Arabs together.

• Sinai should be reconstructed, linked to the Nile Valley and turned into a strategic region shielding Egypt from the east.

The Egyptian people, however, were not entrapped into domestic conflicts rather they joined hands with the army sharing up their capabilities and placing the liberation of land on top of all priorities. Thus, the armed forces had managed to shatter down the myth of invincible power as well as the security doctrines based on that power. They further dismantled all barriers, blockade and lines earlier set up to prevent the people from liberating their land.

This gave proof to every one that military supremacy was not an exclusive monopoly of a specific party. It also proved that good Egyptian military planning, indomitable courage of Egyptian warriors, and their belief in the nobility of their goals, were stronger and bigger than any gaps in capability and sophistication in equipment and military plant.

The October War proved that the aggression of force could never protect security, nor could it guarantee stability and that racial supremacy was just an illusion and fantasy. It also proved that the international conditions no matter how over powering could never keep any people away from their legitimate hopes or force them to accept injustice and aggression or a status quo that might encroach upon their legitimate rights. The will of peoples is much stronger than forces of oppression and suppression no matter how great. The October war had a crucial impact on the prospects of the Middle East.

This war proved that it was impossible to impose status quo, to maintain a state of no-peace-no-war, to hold monopoly of military supremacy or to force peoples of the region to accept occupation. This war also proved that real security could not be guaranteed by geographical expansion at the expense of others, by claims and practices of power no matter how arrogant nor by attempts to break up peoples, will so as to give up to status quo. A war for peace

The glorious October war further crystallized the will for peace in the Middle East region and opened the door wide before a historic reconciliation between the Arabs and Israel. In addition, it gave a beam of hope for putting an end to the vertigo of war and devastation that had drained off the region's resources for more than half a century.

October Victory .. the road To peace

2008-05-20T21:29:00.000-07:00

October Victory .. the road To peace

The battle of October victory... The Road to Peace

The Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff, Major General Dr Taha Al-Magdoub, wrote:

The victory of the Egyptian will power in the October 1973 war was the main factor to a possible Arab-Israeli peace.

Before peace, the victorious and the defeated party formed an imbalanced equation of power that could not render balanced peace. Hence, the option for war was indispensable to the Egyptians and Arabs.

There was no other alternative to fix this equation and bring the supercilious foe back on the grounds of reality which entails peace built on justice, logic and the respect of the rights of all parties, rather than peace based on the rights of the arrogant force, occupation of lands and indifference to the rights of others.

The following article by strategist Dr Taha Al-Magdoub elaborates on this issue based on his book: "The War of October... The Road to a Comprehensive Settlement".

Over more than two decades of the revolution era and the contemporary history of Egypt, specifically from 1952 to 1973, Egypt underwent three unique war experiences taking the form of fierce battles.

These battles waged in 1956, 1967, and 1973 had various dimensions and repercussions. They forced the four-year revolution to go into armed struggle and international conflicts.

But the revolution managed to overcome these crises in a bid to achieve freedom, independence, security and peace, for the sake of the unity and stability of the Arab nation.

In 1956, Egypt was stormed by a major conspiracy schemed by two major powers, namely Britain and France, as well as Israel.

The latter seized the opportunity to wage a ferocious aggressive war against Egypt under the pretext that Egypt exercised its legitimate right, declaring the nationalization of the Suez Canal. The nationalization was launched by Egypt in order to build herself and erect her High Dam in Aswan in a bid to realise growth and prosperity.

The three belligerent States wanted to reach one agreed-upon end; to oust the new regime in Egypt, to impede the wheel of progress and deprive the Egyptian people of the right to development and life.

Egypt succeeded to overcome that experience, defying the aggressors, and her foes were incapable of realizing their target. They, consequently, had to make Egypt undergo a bigger and harsher experience, storming another two Arab States; Jordan and Syria.

Their end that time had been more decisive and ambitious. They did not strike Egypt alone, but the whole Arab nation, represented in the three States, giving the greenlight to Israel for the establishment of the Greater Hebrew State. In 1967, Israel attacked Egypt, Syria and Jordan, with the support of a superpower, the US, under a similar pretext as claimed in the previous experience.

The third experience had been different in comparison with the two earlier experiences. Egypt had to restore the occupied lands after the assimilation of the bitter experience, believing, on one hand, that her land cannot be restored and peace gained while in the position of defeat. On the other hand, the military action, amid the contemporary world developments, cannot play as the sole factor in the settlement of any struggle.

Egypt had a conviction that a host of approaches can lead to full success, provided that they are backed by the will, high morale, and insistence on reaching the end in the course of the so-called "comprehensive strategy," that applies various tools executed over a long term..

The Egyptian experience achieved resounding success. Egypt won and had a say, brushing aside the stigma of defeat and making one of the most glorious military achievements in October 1973. Egypt vanquished the myth that Israel is undefeatable, cutting her long arm policy and infiltrating her safe lines.

Egypt opted for genuine peace to crown the Egyptian victory when Late President Anwar Sadat stood under the dome of the People's Assembly on October 16, 1973, calling for a ceasefire and the convocation of a conference on peace to probe all-out settlement. The late President said global change entail defusing disputes and opting for peace as a common end of humanity. Peace cannot be reached through good offices only, but through a solid political will adherent to and insistent on the goal.

The essence of struggle, whatever its level is, is the struggle of will power based on objective and rational considerations. The willpower for achieving settlement should be available in the parties of a struggle through showing readiness to resolve contradictions and accept compromises. In the meantime, they should search for mutual interests and common values to give further momentum to the peace march. The Arab-Israeli struggle entered the orbit of peace 25 years ago, in the wake of the October victory.

After the June 1967 war the Security Council issued resolution number242 in November 1967, considered as an axis to the peace process until now. The resolution stipulates the non-legitimacy of capturing lands by force and admitted that the parties to the struggle are entitled to exist within safe borders. It also stipulates the withdrawal from the lands occupied by Israel in 1967.

Neverthless, the parties to the struggle have never reached an acceptable solution due to the lack of power and the incapability of the approaches used by the international community to impose its will on the parties involved. The Egyptian choice for peace highlighted a deep vision for the future and crystalized a new strategy, featuring high both comprehensiveness and flexibility, whether on the level of setting the goals or selecting the tools of movement.

The October victory set the primary will for movement which was the first organised effort, standing on the scientific method in the management of conflicts, in a bid to forge it ahead to the circle of peaceful settlement and launch not only normalisation, but the cooperation of neighbouring countries. The Arab-Israeli struggle due to the victory of October entertained understandings that stemmed from a clear Egyptian point of view different in core and crux from the stagnant methods that had driven the Arab causes to the caves of negligence.

The US, on its part, out of keenness on the security of Israel and conviction that the Israeli dream vanished by the new Arab facts, exerted strenuous efforts to open an immediate dialogue with Egypt through the tours of the then Secretary of State Henry kissinger. The dialogue kicked off with the six-item agreement in November 1973. The first disengagement of forces agreement then followed in January 1974. Finally, the second disengagement of forces agreement was concluded with Egypt in September 1975, leading to the Egyptian peace initiative in 1977 when late President Sadat visited Jerusalem.

The visit represented a climax in the peace march leading to all-out settlement.

The Memorial of the Unknown Soldier

2008-05-20T21:26:00.000-07:00

The Memorial of the Unknown Soldier

The Memorial of the Unknown Soldier is located in Nasr City and it was made in the wake of October War in 1973 to memorize the sacrifices of the brave Egyptian soldiers. In the first anniversary of October War, late President Sadat issued directives to make a memorial to the martyrs of the war and to memorize the Unknown Soldier. An artistic competition was held for the purpose in which artist Sami Rafi, a professor in the Faculty of Fine Arts in Cairo who obtained his PhD from the Faculty of Fine Arts in Vienna, won the best design.

The memorial was made on 25/5/1975 and finished on 15/9/1975; it is four walls intersected at the peak in a pyramidal shape, referring to Egypt's Pyramids, the symbol of eternity. The height of the wall is 31, 6 meters and its thickness is 1, 9 meter and the width hit 14, 3 meters at the base.

Written on the memorial are the common names used by the Egyptians such as Mohamed, Adel, Gerges, Amer, Taher, Makram, Zaki, el-Qenawi, Abdellah, Abdel Samad, Ibrahim etc.

On October 6, 1975, President Sadat and then vice-president Hosni Mubarak opened the memorial and laid wreaths at the Unknown Soldier Memorial.

In 1981, the funeral of late President Sadat was mourned and he was buried in the same location where his sepulcher is next to that of the Unknown Soldier. Egypt's guests and visitors are keen to visit this memorial and lay wreaths at the Unknown Soldier Memorial and Sadat's sepulcher as well.

http://www.sis.gov.eg/VR/october/english/6.htm

At Noon The Myth Was Shattered

2008-05-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

At Noon The Myth Was Shattered

Ahmed Bah'a Eldeen

This book is just an attempt to put the stage of the Arab-Israeli conflict within its proper historical frame by seeking for the facts and witnesses in western and Israeli sources. It is the book "At Noon the Myth Was Shattered" by Ahmad Bahauldin, issued in February 1974. What is it all about ?!

The book consists of nine chapters; every chapter has a topic that reflects its content of facts. There is also analysis for some incidents in order to make reader understand and appreciate the comprehensiveness of the situation.

On the war of June 1967, the author writes, "you cannot talk about October war and appreciate it as it should without hinting at the war of 1967 and its effects. Both wars, actually, are two battles in one war.

The war of June 1967 has deeply affected the style of political and military work and even the spirit of peoples.

"The war of June 1967 was just a trap for Arabs. Israel put a plan in 11 years; their interests in the Middle East are the interests of super-power countries. But we cannot deny our responsibility for the defeat".

The author says, "honestly, if we are trying to analyze the reasons of defeat, we have to categorize all and every negative act in our contemporary life. Anyway, we should admit that the defeat was the sperm of the Israeli fable".

Elements of the fable
"Israel tried to make itself a myth or a legend; a fabulous story and a mysterious figure that could be loved or hated, but anyway it should be frightening for the whole globe as its being unconquerable." Such option was not strange for such people who think themselves to be God's chosen people.

"Israel advertised for a complicated legend consisting of political, economic and military elements; Zionism is a legend that managed, in 50 years, to turn dreams into facts. And Jew is another category of mankind who can turn dust into gold, ruins into cities and swamps into green zone, once they touch them.

"Though such legend could be easily denied, that historical era helped Zionists to achieve their goals in Palestine. But we have to assert that the progress they made is not that fabulous; there are other countries that managed to make such progress in a shorter time.

"The military element of the fable was the most dangerous on the spirits of Arabs, despite its not being the only decisive in the race track. We can understand that the Israeli propaganda, firstly, was sharper than their artillery; they described the war of June 1967 as the real gap between Arabs and Israel, and the world should completely believe in such saying.

"Every Israeli General became a fable and a mysterious character, every soldier is a hero, every citizen is James Bond. The Israeli man is the new superman, however, Arabs are the most fool and degrading and even the most stupid men who cannot understand the radical changes in the world.

"Within the frame of such concept, books, movies, novels and articles spread out violently everywhere; the massive propaganda succeeded in convincing the international public opinion that their legend is a fact. Such poison sneaked, in maximum dose, into the spirits of Arabs which was the actual goal.

"The psychological obstacle was superior to the dusty one of Barlev. Now that Arabs believe that the enemy is unconquerable, they cannot compare themselves to the lofty Israeli people who are competent in all fields, especially the military field.

"The Israeli front line had the feeling of upset-possessed Arabs, and they could not imagine that their legend will turn into an overdose wine that made them lose their minds and soon they became the victims of their lie."

The war of Attrition
Israel expected Arab's surrender after the war of June 1967. Moshe Dayan; the then Israeli Minister of War said that he was at his home, waiting the reactions of Arabs. But Arabs rejected the stepping down of the late leader, Gamal Abdel-Naser; went out in the middle of the night denying and condemning the surrender and asking for a firm standing against the enemy.

Such firm standing should be asserted practically; on the first of July 1967, the Israeli artillery and air force failed to capture the position "Ras El-Ash" at the eastern bank of the Suez Canal. Heroes of the famous battle "Ras El-Ash", were only 30 soldiers and a limited popular resistance at the west bank.

Battles of resistance came frequently; on July 14,1967, a small Egyptian torpedo boat managed to scuttle the famous destroyer; Ilat, in a battle that made a radical change in the history of the naval thought. Such battle was followed by the aching decision of declaring the cities of the Suez Canal evacuated.

Such period of strife gave the opportunity of restructuring the armed forces. The Egyptian citizens participated, with all their potentialities in the process of restructuring without giving heed for the Israeli mockery.

Now that the stage of confrontation ended, the stage of deterrence has been started in September1968, to reaffirm the determination of the Egyptian will.

In such stage soldiers have practiced good experience that made them competent. They made many successful attempts in the way and technique of crossing.

The author of our book gives scores of examples of the courageous battles through which the Egyptians have scored their desired goals.

His facts are based on the Israeli official statements that assert the violence of such Egyptian military operations.

Israel fortified its positions on the west bank of the Suez Canal; by building the fortified stronghold Barlev Line; a chain of fortifications along its front with the Egyptian side. Once again, Israel tried to categorically affect the psychological state of the Egyptians by skirmishes of their air force.

Another stage

They were all determined to establish such net, sacrificing whatever losses or casualties. At the end our will triumphed and the anti-aircraft missiles net started to operater on June 30,1970, in a most gloomy day in the history of the Israeli Air Force.

Our net had downed 4 aircrafts, in one day, and captured three pilots. Surprise

Surprise is the first and foremost issue that October War arise; the author asserts, " There was an element of surprise for the enemy in that lofty war which helped determine it".

http://www.sis.gov.eg/VR/october/english/12.htm

Ottoman Era

2008-05-20T21:20:00.000-07:00

Ottoman Era

In 1517, Sultan Selim I entered Egypt and he regulated rule in Egypt via dividing power among three bodies. The Wali, the governor, is the deputy of the Sultan in Egypt and he was appointed for 3 years only. His mission was to carry out the orders of the sultan, send Jezia and lead the armies.

The Divan consisted of the major officers in the Ottoman army, major employees, scholars (Ulama) and landowners. The Divan's mission was to help the Wali in ruling the country and it had the veto right to the Wali's decisions besides calling for dismissing him.

The Mamlukes led the local departments, as the Ottomans wanted to make use of their experience in running the affairs of the country.

When Ali Bey Al-Kabir assumed the office of Skeikh Al-Balad, ruler of the country, he allied with Sheikh Daher Al-Omar in Palestine against the Ottoman sultan and expelled the Ottoman Wali and announced Egypt's independence.

Ali Bey Al-Kabir managed to extend his influence to Al-Hejaz and Yemen and sent an army under the leadership of Muhammad Bey Abuda Dahab. Yet, the Ottomans managed to convince Abuda Dahab of allying with them against Ali Bey Al-Kabir, hence Egypt returned an Ottoman state.

2008-05-20T21:19:00.000-07:00

The Mamluke Era

At the last days of the Ayyubid State, the Mamlukes controlled most of the important posts in Egypt. After the murdering of Turan Shah, the last of the Ayyubid Sultans, Shajarat El-Dur, wife of King Al-Salih Ayyoub, married Aybak one of the Bahari Mamlukes chiefs.

After the death of Aybak, a number of Bahari Mamlukes ruled over Egypt the most famous of them was Sultan Qutuz who defeated the Tartars in `Ein Jalut. Sultan Baybars succeeded Qutuz and managed to achieve a religious sovereignty over the Muslim world.

The Ayyubid Era

2008-05-20T21:18:00.000-07:00

The Ayyubid Era

Salah al-Din Al-Ayyubi (Saladin) assumed control of Egypt upon the death of the last Fatimid Caliph Al-Adid in 1171. Salah al-Din played a great role in establishing a Sunni state in Egypt by building a lot of Sunni schools (madrasas). Before his death, Salah al-Din divided his kingdom among his sons and brothers where Egypt was the share of his son Al-Aziz Othman

The Fatimid Era

2008-05-20T21:16:00.000-07:00

The Fatimid Era

After the death of Abu el-Misk Kafour Al-Ikhshid, the commander of the Fatimids' armies Jawhar Al-Siqilli managed to capture Alexandria in 969 A.D. Hence, the Fatimid Caliphate began in Egypt and continued for two centuries (969: 1171).

Al-Siqilli established a new capital for Egypt, namely Cairo and built Al-Azhar Mosque to teach Islamic sciences.

Ikhshidi Era

2008-05-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

Ikhshidi Era

After the death of Mohamed bin Tughj Al-Ikhshid, his minister Abu el-Misk Kafour had the guardianship over Al-Ikhshid's two sons. Under the name of Al-Ikhshid's sons, Kafour ruled over Egypt for 23 years.

On his death, the eleven-year old boy Abu Al-Fawaris Ahmed, Al-Ikhshid's grandson, succeeded him. Therefore, chaos prevailed in Egypt, a matter that paved the way before the Fatimids to seize Egypt.

Abbasid Caliphate

2008-05-20T21:12:00.000-07:00

Abbasid Caliphate

Faris witnessed the birth of the Abbasid Caliphate when the leader of the Abbasid armies Abu Muslim Al-Khurasani revolted against the Umayyads where the battle first took place near the Euphrates before it moved to Egypt when the armies of the Abbasids, under the leadership of Salih bin Ali, achieved victory over the Umayyads and the Umayyad Caliph Marwan II was killed in 750 A.D.

Then, after entering Egypt, the leader of the Abbasids Salih bin Ali established the capital of the Abbasids in Egypt called Al-Askar.

Despite the capture of Egypt, the Abbasid influence was not stable, a matter that encouraged one of the Turk leaders in the Abbasid army in Egypt Mohamed bin Tughj Al-Ikhshid to seize power.

Islamic Conquest of Egypt

2008-05-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

Islamic Conquest of Egypt

In 640 A.D., Amr bin Al-As conquered Egypt and he besieged the Fortress of Babylon till the surrender of the Byzantine forces there in 641 A.D.

Then, he proceeded to Alexandria and by virtue of Babylon Agreement, Alexandria surrendered too and he continued his conquest of Egypt.

The Egyptian Civilization during the Islamic Era

2008-05-20T21:09:00.000-07:00

The Egyptian Civilization during the Islamic Era

The Islamic era in Egypt was generally the golden age for arts and architecture. Examples of such revival can be seen in the building of several mosques, fortresses and city walls, in addition to the flourishing of decorative arts. These were most evident in the construction of al-Fustat, the first capital of Egypt, where Amr Ibn el-Aas built the first mosque in the country. The Nile meter on the island of Rodha in modern Cairo, built by Abbasid Caliph al-Mutawakel Billah in 245 AH, is known to be the oldest Islamic monument in Egypt.

Islamic architecture also flourished mainly in al-Qatay' city and Ahmed Ibn Touloon mosque which was built in the same style of Amr Ibn el-Aas mosque, with the addition of a fountain, minaret, props and the foundation sign board. The minaret of Ahmed Ibn Touloon mosque is known for its unique shape in Egypt derived from the Persian temples known as “Zigurat”.

The Fatimid period also witnessed the development of local Islamic architecture. Al-Azhar, al-Anwar and Al-Aqmar mosques are famous examples of Fatimid architecture in Egypt.

Al-Geoshi Mausoleum is a model for dome structures and mosques built around the tombs of eminent men of religion.

During the Ayyubid period, further advances were made in the field of architecture. Salah ed-Din's (Saladin's) Citadel still stands out as a lofty, striking example of Islamic architecture. The Mamelukes were no less advanced in this field. They also left behind a great wealth of finely designed and decorated mosques, domes, mystics' houses, palaces, schools, khans (inns), fortresses and public drinking fountains.

Egyptians under Islamic rule adopted the same techniques and styles of art and ornamentation prevailing in the preceding periods. Most notable arts of this period were wood engraving and ornamentation, assembled dove tailed and lathed wood work. Islamic style textiles, porcelain and stained glass were also widely known during this period.

The Egyptian Civilization under the Romans

2008-05-20T21:08:00.000-07:00

The Egyptian Civilization under the Romans

In 30 BC, Egypt was conquered by the Romans and was therefore rendered merely a province in their empire. However, due to its unique geographical position, the fertility of her land and cultural and urban development, Egypt was regarded as the most precious property of the Roman Empire.

During this period, agriculture and industry, particularly, glass manufacturing, flourished in Egypt. Egypt was especially known for the creation of the art of glass blowing and monopoly of paper manufacturing as well as perfume, cosmetics and fine linen fabrics.

The Egyptian capital, Alexandria, was particularly the largest trading and industrial centre in the east Mediterranean and the second city of the Roman Empire.

Alexandria University maintained its position as a centre of scientific research and a seat of learning for scholars from all parts of the world, during the Roman era in Egypt.

Egypt in the Greek Era

2008-05-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

Egypt in the Greek Era

Having beaten the Persians in Asia, Alexander the Great conquered Egypt in the year 332 BC and expelled them out of Egypt. Then, he crowned himself as a king in the Pharaonic style and founded a new capital for Egypt named after him as “Alexandria”. Then, he made pilgrimage to Amun's Temple in Siwa Oasis, which was world renowned at that time.

Egypt under the Ptolemies (323 BC-30 BC)

After Alexander's death, Egypt was ruled by his general, Ptolemy who founded the Ptolemic Dynasty that reigned from 323 BC to 30 BC. The Ptolemic rule remained strong only during the reign of the early kings. However, due to the weakness of the ensuing kings and the continuous revolts by the Egyptians, the Ptolemic Dynasty degenerated. Rome soon stepped in, putting an end to the Ptolemic rule during the reign of Cleopatra in 30 BC.

The Egyptian Civilization under the Ptolemies

Alexandria became the capital of the Ptolemic rule in Egypt, where stately palaces and gardens were built. Alexandria was well-known not only as a centre of outstanding achievements in arts, science, industry and trade but also as the prime sea harbor on the Mediterranean Sea, thanks to its well-known Lighthouse, considered by the Greeks as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Alexandria was further well-known for its University, which symbolized a great Hellenistic- Egyptian civilization.

Alexandria University

At Alexandria University, founded by the Ptolemies, scientists arrived at scientific facts concerning the earth's rotation around the sun and approximate circumference of the planet. The university was also famous for the study of medicine particularly anatomy and surgery. Most famous of the university scientists were the geometrician Euclides, the geographer Ptolemy and the Egyptian historian Maniton.

Library of Alexandria (Bibliotheca Alexandrina) and its Cultural Influence

The Ptolemies established in Alexandria a large library, which was considered the greatest in the world at that time. The Library contained more than 500,000 papyrus rolls. The Ptolemies ordered that each visiting scientist should donate to the city a copy of his works, thus bringing the number of books at Alexandria Library to more than 700,000. The Ptolemies showed respect for the Egyptian religion, offered sacrifices to Egyptian deities and built temples such as those of Edfu, Dandara and Philae in Aswan. The Ptolemies used to appear in official ceremonies in Pharaohs' apparel.

Egypt in the Pharaonic Era

2008-05-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Egypt in the Pharaonic Era

The Pharaonic Era dates back to 3000 years B.C. till Alexander the Great conquered Egypt in 323 B.C. During the Pharaonic Era, Egypt witnessed many aspects of progress and renaissance in all fields.

Historians divide the Pharaonic Era into three successive divisions: Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom and Modern Kingdom. The Pharaonic Era is thus divided into three dynasties as follows:

Ancient Age (Dynasties I & II)

In 3200 B.C. Menes managed to unify north and south of Egypt and he established the first ruling dynasty. To secure the unity of Egypt, Menes established the city of Memphis near Delta.

Old Kingdom (Dynasties from III to VI)

During the Old Kingdom, Egypt enjoyed stability, security and peace, a matter that achieved its economic, cultural and artistic progress in this time. The kings of the Old Kingdom ruled till 2800 B.C. after the throne of Egypt moved to Manf by Zoser, whose pyramid is the oldest known one at Saqqara. The Egyptian civilization flourished in this period, a matter represented in the building of the Giza Pyramids: Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren) and Menkaura (Mycerinus).

The First Middle Age (Dynasties from VII to X)

This age began in 2200 B.C. when Menthotpe II (Mentuhotep) managed to reunify the country.

The Middle Kingdom (Dynasties XI& XII)

After Menthotpe II, the Prince of Thebes, managed to reunify the country and founded a strong government, Egypt flourished economically. In 2000 B.C. Amenemhet I played a great role in the renaissance of the Middle Kingdom.

The kings and queens of Dynasty XII acquired fame all over the world in the fields of policy, war, culture civilization and religion such as Ahmos, hero of liberation, Amenhotep I who laid down fair standards for wages and incentives, Tuhutmos I, the warrior who expanded the Egyptian borders north and south, and spread out education everywhere, Tuhutmos III who possessed a unique military genius, Tuhutmos IV, the diplomat who was the first to record international agreements.

This is in addition to Akhenaton who was the first to call for the oneness of the Creator and Tut Ankh Amun, who gained fame in the modern time. The most famous queens of this time were Ahmos Nefertari, wife of Ahmos I, Tee, mother of Akhenaton, Nefertiti, wife of Akhenaton and Hatchepsut who ruled Egypt for 20 years.

The Second Middle Age (Dynasties XIII, XVII)

In 1725 B.C. the Hyksos attacked Egypt and occupied the Egyptian lands. Yet, the princes of Thebes, led by Ahmos I, managed to expel them out of Egypt.

The Modern Kingdom (Dynasties XVIII, XX)

After Ahmos expelled the Hyksos, he worked on establishing a well-equipped army. Ramsis II, one of the most famous kings of the Modern Kingdom, signed the first peace treaty in history with the Hittites.

The Late Age (Dynasties XXI to XXX)

From Dynasty XXI till Dynasty XVIII, the Assyrians and the Persians occupied Egypt, till the rule of the Pharaohs ended during the reign of Dynasty XXX when Alexander the Great conqured Egypt.

Arts of the Pharaonic Civilization
Architecture

Ancient Egyptians made outstanding achievements in architecture, as can be clearly seen from the everlasting monuments they have left behind. The first pyramid ever built in Egypt was Zoser's, then Midum's pyramid. However, the Giza pyramids together with the Sphinx, built during the 4th Dynasty, are the most famous of the 97 pyramids built to be tombs for Pharaohs.

During the period of the Middle Kingdom, many funerary temples were built. The 12th Dynasty kings were also interested in el-Fayyoum area where they attended to irrigation works.
The most famous of those temples was the Labyrinth Temple or the “Maze Palace” as called by the Greeks. The temple was built in Hawwara by King Amenemehet III, who also built castles, fortresses and walls along Egypt's eastern borders.

The period of the Middle Kingdom was the heyday of architectural arts, where exquisite inscriptions and fine artworks were engraved on the walls of colossal temples, the most prominent ones were Karnak, Luxor and Abu Simbel.

The era of Thutmose I was a turning point in using pyramids as tombs. On the west bank of the Nile at Luxor, there were carved-into-mountains tombs with rich and luxurious funerary furniture. This can be clearly seen in the tomb of Tutankhamun.

In order to keep wall inscriptions intact, the artists of the Modern kingdom deliberately used deep slightly embossed engravings, thus, avoiding distortion or erosion.

The most recently discovered tomb of the Valley of Kings was that of the sons of King Ramsis II; a vast tomb containing 15 mummies. Pharaonic obelisks were cut out of granite and erected in two-somes at the entrance of temples. Some of the most beautiful examples of architectural art in the ancient Egyptian empire are the temples of Amun, Cheops in Karnak and Luxor, Ramsium and Hetshep-sut at ad-Deir al-Bahari as well as the rock-embedded temples such as the major and minor temples of Abu Simbel.

New trends in the architectural, plastic and applied arts emerged as can be clearly seen in the sculptured colossal and minor statues and ornamented temple columns and mural inscriptions. This elevated style is evident in thousands of small statues made from alabaster, wood or ivory and pieces of antiquities made of glass and earthenware and jewelry inlaid with precious stones.

Literature

Ancient Egyptian monuments still bear witness to their excellent talent in writing and literature. Humanity is indebted to ancient Egyptians for inventing writing, later called by the Greeks the “hieroglyphic alphabet”; composed of 24 letters. Writings were made in black or red ink on papyrus. Egyptians excelled in religious writing which tackled their religious creeds and theories of the after life, secrets of the universe, various myths of gods, prayers and songs. The oldest examples of which were “The Pyramids Texts” and “The Book of the Dead”.

Ancient Egyptian writers were excellent story writers. They used words as a tool to convey wisdom and rules of good conduct. Ancient Egyptians were bent on narrating their heritage of wise sayings and proverbs, chanting them in their feasts and ceremonies. They pursued the tradition of documenting current events of their times. This rich cultural climate was instrumental in generating several Egyptian men of letters and philosophers who left masterpieces indicative of a high level of culture and thought in Egypt.

Music

Music and songs were a favorite object for all Egyptians. Music was used for educating young people as well as in public and private ceremonies, particularly in the army. It was equally used in prayers and the burial of the dead.

Egyptians from the Old Kingdom knew wind and stringed instruments such as the “harp” known at that time as “Tipoti”. They also invented many new types of percussion instruments which were further improved across their history.

Ornamentation

Ornaments, characterized by high artistic precision and beautiful form, were also known to ancient Egyptians. Decorative elements were derived from natural surroundings including papyrus, palm trees, lotus flowers and precious stones. Amulets, believed to protect them against evil spirits, were used. Women, in particular, paid special attention to their own make-up and toilet. They were accustomed to use Kohl (as eye-liner), bracelets, necklaces, rings and henna. Costumes in Pharaonic Egypt varied from one class to another. Clothes were made of soft linen or silk fabrics imported from ancient Syria (Phoenicia). Clothes differed according to the occasion.

http://www.sis.gov.eg

Hangman

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The Giza

2008-05-20T14:14:00.001-07:00

The Giza area contains Egypt's most illustrious monuments: the Pyramids and great Sphinx. Only 12km from Cairo, it's a community where many employees in Cairo reside. At dusk, from the main roadway, the colossal structures jut out into the sky, appearing to tower over the village homes and shops. A reminder of the past, they are dark purple shadows of another distant era.

From Giza, you can choose to travel across the desert to see several rarely visited pyramids as well as the pyramids at Sakkara even further to the south.

Coptic Cairo

2008-05-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

Coptic Cairo is only its modern name. "Coptic" is the name for the Christian's who reside almost solely in this area of town. To most, this is also known as Old Cairo. Islamic Cairo is home of the very oldest section of Cairo. It's near to Islamic Cairo in vicinity, but it has an entirely different atmosphere and sites. Inside its walled exterior, nestled within the 1st century AD Roman fortress of Babylon, is still standing as a barrier for intruders. The wall lined streets do, even more than those of Islamic Cairo, resemble an inescapable labyrinth. The compound and serene, so much so that many visitors tend to speak in soft whispers without knowing why. The main entrance first leads you to the petite Coptic Museum with tells of Coptic Cairo's history and the significance of the region's main attraction: the Hanging Church. Resting between two round Roman towers, against which the waters of the Nile once lapped before the river shifted westward centuries ago. Also within Coptic Cairo's walls are old monasteries, churches, and the famous synagogue Ben Ezra.

Islamic Cairo

2008-05-20T14:07:00.000-07:00

Following the conquest of Egypt in 641 AD, the Muslims erected a city and named it Al-Fustat, after the ruling Dynasty at that time. Located on what is now the southern border of modern Cairo. Successive dynasties established their unique capitals expanding further and further to the Northeast, until present-day Cairo was finally
established. At that time, however, Cairo occupied very little land. It was a mere square with outer laying residences and large structures that attested to the successive rulers' wealth. Salah El-Din's colossal citadel called "Al-Qalaa", for example, was built on a rocky spur, now central to Islamic Cairo and a reminder of how powerful the early Dynasties had been. During the Mamluk era which lasted from 1250 to 1517, a wealth of Mosques, mausoleums and Islamic buildings were added to the city, making a walk through it, today, an enriching experience for history lovers, photographers, and sightseers. Islamic Cairo, in its current form is still home to the early buildings such as the city's oldest Mosque and University. While strolling through the maze of narrow and highly trafficked streets you will find yourself transported to an earlier time, a time when the city was still new. Old coffee shops still house men in traditional dress. They sip peppermint tea from clear glasses and blow smoke from their nostrils – seasoned smokers. They are from another area, and within Khan Al-Kalili market, the biggest in Cairo, El-Fishwai's and other coffee shops still echo revolutionary spirit of the early 1950's. Islamic Cairo is incomparable to any quarter in any other city. The history it holds and the mud-packed roads with vendors still selling nuts from push carts and spices in burlap bags is what many come to Egypt to see.

Memphis 1

2008-05-20T14:04:00.001-07:00

Standing near present day Cairo, the ancient city of Memphis was the first capital of Egypt during the era of the Old Kingdom and most of the Pharaonic period. There are conflicting reports about who founded the city, officially, but the most popular version says that King Menes built the city during his rein in 3100 BC. King Menes, responsible for unifying Upper and Lower Egypt, chose this particular location in order to best control overland and river routes heading out in all possible directions, making it, as 5^th century historian, Herodotus, describes as a "prosperous city and cosmopolitan centre."

Memphis is best visited from Sakkara, which was once at the city's center. Today the city is in ruins, almost completely vanished from history. Just traveling to where its strong walls once stood reminds us of the toils the city's population had to endure. Foreign invaders, from the Romans onwards, ravaged the city in attempt to overthrow it. The pillaging combined with the Nile's frequent floods, buried the torn town under mud and debris. Today, little of a semblance of the city is visible. It is buried under luscious palm groves and cultivated fields. All was not lost, however. Remnants of Memphis and some of its many artifacts can be seen in an open-air museum in the neighboring village of Mit Rahina. The most significant of pieces here is the limestone statue of Ramses II and the 80 ton sphinx of the 18^th Dynasty.

What little has been discovered at Memphis is gathered together in a small open-air Museum in the village of Mit Rahina . The showpiece is a colossal limestone statue of Ramses II found in Memphis and replicated in Midan Ramses. In the garden there are more statues of Ramses II and an 18th Dynasty sphinx, at 80 tons the largest calcite statue ever found. The garden also contains several calcite slabs on which the sacred Apis bulls were mummified before being buried in nearby Saqqara.

Memphis

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Khan el-Khalili

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Sakkara

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Sakkara houses the Step Pyramid that is very different from the ones at Giza in that it was build with step-like points. Four-thousand five-hundred years ago, Imhotep, an Egyptian architect, built this tomb to give shelter to King Djoser after he died. He began the pyramid as a single story and then gradually, over much time, added five more levels to complete it. He then covered it with fine limestone. In front of the pyramid, he built a stone structure containing a wooden box which reveals a painting of King Djoser. By placing the King there, Imhotep, made sure that the King could still communicate with the outside world even though buried deep within the massive tomb.

Mostafa Bakir

2008-05-15T20:41:00.001-07:00

Mostafa Bakir

The artist is a prominent figure in the plastic art realm. The environment is unique; spacious desert, crude sun and breezy air. The outcome, thus, is wonderful; vivid pieces of work that toured the world from coast to coast. No surprise, it is Sinai, the oasis of peace.

Born on February 15, 1941, in Sinai peninsula, the little boy Mostafa Bakir, was utterly fascinated with this matchless spot, which he described as the gift of the nature.

Throughout his tour of giving, Mostafa Bakir has managed to hold 26 exhibitions where an array of terrific pieces of work have been displayed. In his eyes, Sinai is the hope, joy, and future. This was clearly reflected in the masterpieces he produced over years of complete devotion to the art.

Bedouin life, for sure, has contributed much to unshackle Bakir’s potentials, and his works are a piece of history telling how much traditions of Bedouins are peculiar.

The Bedouin-rooted artist went to Cairo to pursue his study, as he graduated from Faculty of Fine Arts, Cairo University, in 1966. He designed the logo of North Sinai governorate. "Sinai, Land of Peace" is the portrait he gave, as a gift, to the United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

Environment question comes at the very forefront of the artist’s priorities and along years of interacting with nature, he figured out that preserving environment is of sacred missions that should be given a great heed. Near 1500 world reportages were made on the talented-artist’s works, and they are all decorating his atelier in Al-Arish, which is deemed to be one of Sinai’s sightseeings.

In recognition of the role he played in accentuating this peculiar art, Bakir was awarded several domestic and international prizes. For six years straight, he managed to keep occupying first place at the local exhibitions held under the sponsorship of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports.

Undoubtedly, this artist will remain a landmark in Egypt’s plastic art history, as he is the best to depict Bedouin life in Sinai.

Aisha Taymur

2008-05-15T20:38:00.002-07:00

Aisha Taymur
(b. 1840 – d. May 2, 1902)

Aisha E'ismat Taymur was one of Egypt's most distinguished social activists, and also a poet/novelist.

Born into to a literary family, Aisha was sister to researcher/novelist Ahmad Pasha Taymur and aunt to playwright Mohammad Taymur and novelist Mahmoud Taymur.

Her father, of Kurdish origin, was member of the royal entourage and was keen on providing her with adequate education. She was well-versed in the sciences of the Holy Quran and Islamic Jurisprudence. She wrote poetry in Arabic, Turkish and Persian.

She put herself in charge of her brother Ahmad's education after their father died.

Aisha was married at age 14 and left with her to Istanbul. After he died, she returned to Egypt. Her daughter's death left her so distraught that it reflected in her poetry. Her poems mourning her daughter are the best there is in that genre in modern times.

Dr. Aisha Abdel Rahman Bint El-Shatei

2008-05-15T20:38:00.001-07:00

Dr. Aisha Abdel Rahman Bint El-Shatei
(1913 – 1998)

December 1st, 1998 marks the death of Dr. Aisha Abdel Rahman was a prominent figure in Egyptian and Arab culture. In a male-dominated society, or harem-epoch, she rose from the common ranks to the university campus and later to the wider vistas of cultural life. She left behind a wide spectrum of students and scholars all over the Arab world.

She was born on Novemeber 6th, 1913 in Damietta. Her father was a graduate of Al-Azhar and later a teacher at a religious institute in the same town. He used to take her to religious sessions where she received the basics of reading and writing at the age of five. She started her regular education in 1918 at the pre-school Kuttab of the village. Both her grandfather and her mother exercised pressure on her father to allow her go to school.

She excelled in her study till she obtained her academic certificate. Later, she worked as a clerk at the girl's college of Quija, where she could command English and French.

When she was living in the town of Mansoura, Aisha used to publish a series of poems and articles in the Feminine Revival Magazine. When she finally settled in Cairo, the owner of the magazine asked her to undertake the linguistic revision and later she wrote the editorial. She also published some of her stories in the daily newspapers, besides Al-Helal, Al-Balagh and Kawkeb El-Sharq magazine.

She wrote under the pseudonym Bint El-Shatei so that her father would not know that she was writing in the press -- for traditions at that time were prohibiting Sheiks' daughters writing in the press. Since 1933, she was known by this pen name that gained due respect of readers and world universities.

Aisha, then, obtained the Baccalaureate and was promoted to a higher job as Secretary of the Girls' College, the then top governmental institute for the high-class girls. Al-Ahram daily published her articles on the Egyptian countryside and farmer's issues, which paved the way for her to join its editing staff.

She obtained her BA in 1939 to be nominated assistant in the Faculty of Arts. Then, she obtained the MA degree in 1941. The theme of her thesis was the Life of Abul-Alaa Al-Maari. In 1944, she obtained her PhD for her thesis Critical Research on Resalat Al-Ghofran (a Treatise on Forgiveness) of Al-Maari. In 1944, she married to her professor Amin El-Kholy, who died in 1969.

Dr. Aisha's Academic Positions

• Professional Chair of Arab Language and Literature, Ain Shams University.

• Member of the Arab Language Permanent Committee of the Supreme Council of Universities.

• Member of the Supreme Council for Arts and Literature, Cairo.

• Delegate Professor to the Institute of Arab Researches and Studies operating under the Arab League.

• Visiting Professor to the Islamic Umm-Durman University, Khartoum, Cairo University (Khartoum Branch), the Qarawyeen in Fez Morocco and the University of Algiers.

Her Publications

Dr. Aisha contributed much to the Arab library with valuable publications and researches, the best of which were her masterpieces in Quranic and Islamic studies; The Prophet's Mother, The Prophet's Wives, The Prophet's Daughters, Al-Sayeda Zeinab, Sukaina Bint Al-Hussein. These works were translated to the Persian, Urdu and Indonesian among others.

Dr. Aisha likewise published numerous researches such as The Islamic Concept for the liberation of Women, the Glorious Qur'an and Human Rights, the Qur'an and Geography, Woman in Islam, the Qur'an and the Problem of Synonymity, Divorce and its Impact on the Arab Society. She also published Al-Mohkam Dictionary of Ibn Sida, Resalat Al-Ghofran, The Values of our Old and Contemporary Literature, Our Legacy Between the Past and the Present, Our Language and Life, Contemporary Arab Poetess, Abu Alaa Al-Maari, The Peaceful City on the Life of Abu Al-Alaa Al-Maari and The Zionists; The Enemies of Humanity (issued one year after the defeat of June 5, 1967).

Dr. Abdul Qader al-Qot

2008-05-15T20:37:00.001-07:00

Dr. Abdul Qader al-Qot

Within days of being awarded the Mubarak Prize for literature, Dr Abdul Qader Al-Qot died.

He was 86. But his work, the product of a versatile and open mind, has left an indelible mark on Egyptian culture. His advanced years in no way hindered him from taking an active part in various culture activities.

Al-Qot was the last of the old school of critics, characterised by their reasoned debating style, thorough study, and ground-breaking ideas.

As a university professor, he was keen to pass on his knowledge and ideas to his avid students.

His legacy includes the only anthology of his poetry, Memories of Youth, which bears the stamp of neo-romanticism. Poetry was one of his special interests.

Among his works on Arabic literature in general are The Arab Poetic Concept, Emotional Tendencies in Modern Arabic Poetry, Word and Image, The Art of Drama, and The Art of Translation. As an academic, he produced several research papers and examined MA and PhD theses.

Dr Gaber Asfour, Secretary-General of the Supreme Cultural Council (SCC) said that Egyptian culture suffered a great loss of one who personified the Enlightenment.

"Al-Qot was educated in the ways of debate and respect for the opinions of others.

He combined modesty and academic boldness," Asfour said, adding that Al-Qot allowed himself to go with the flow of innovative trends in Egyptian literature, and was flexible and open-minded enough to encourage new modes of expression, provided that they conformed to accepted taste.

Dr Salah Fadl, chairman of Darul Kotob, wrote an article about professor Al-Qot, entitled The Presence of a Luminary because Al-Qot impressed those who knew him with his profound, yet calm spirit of a true scholar.

He was not so much a mentor, more a father-figure in the way he gave advice and guidance, Dr Fadl said.

Even in his eighties, Al-Qot's intellectual powers were sharp, and he was ever tolerant and understood the true meaning of freedom of expression.

"Al-Qot was constantly in the pursuit of knowledge, he refused to stand still," Dr Fadl said.

Dr Mohamed Abdul Moteleb, head of the Arabic language Department at Ain Shams University, said that Al-Qot represented an age of chivalry, following in the footsteps of pioneering thinkers and writers such as Mohamed Abduh, Qassem Amin and Taha Hussein.

He was not just an academic. He took an active part in cultural activities. At different times, he was chief editor of several esteemed magazines - The Magazine, Poetry, Creativity and Theatre.

He was chairman of the SCC Poetry Committee and was a regular contributor to Al Ahram daily newspaper.

Above all, he took it upon himself to encourage new trends in literature and criticism and wrote critical analyses on the works of young authors.

A private audience with Al-Qot was rich in spontaneity and extempore speeches on literature, politics, art, sports and religion. He sponsored a weekly cultural seminar.

His retentive memory could stretch back to the 1940s with glittering and witty anecdotes.

"To his students he was the paragon of relentless researcher, of which his ilk are rare these days.

Many debate whether as a scholar, he was the product of a balanced humours, or whether he was the product of profound knowledge," Professor Mona Tolba of Ain Shams University said, adding that he was honest and devoted to his career that,unlike many professors these days, he read every word of post-graduate theses and offered his students all manner of guidance and references.

Abdel-Rahman al-Sharqawi

2008-05-15T20:36:00.002-07:00

Abdel-Rahman al-Sharqawi

Abdel-Rahman AL-Sharqawi was a leading multi-talented intellectual. During the late forties, he was one of the leading pioneers of the innovative movement in Arabic poetry, as well as a major exponent of the social realistic trend in literary criticism. In poetry, he was a pioneer of a new trend of Arabic poetry. He also introduced a totally new social moral, ideological and critical approach to biographies of major Islamic figures.

Above all, Al-Sharqawi was a prominent press writer and political activist, mainly involved in the defence of democracy, social justice, religious tolerance and true faith. Born in a village in Menoufia governorate, he graduated in the Faculty of Law in 1943.

An Innovative Poet

When AL-Sharqawi published his long poem "Message of an Egyptian Father to President Truman" in 1951, leaders of poetry had not realised that a total revolution in Arabic poetry had been in the making. This epic poem with its political and emotional content had a far-reaching impact on the modern Arabic poetry, not only in terms of its vibrating and fluctuating rhythm, but also its structure and texture and the poet's concerns.

An Innovative Novelist

AL-Sharqawi's first novel "The Earth", published in book form in 1954 (after being serialized in 'AL Masri" daily during 1953), had a similar resounding impact. The novel was the first embodiment of literary "Realism" and a departure from Al-Hakeem's symbolism reflected in "Restoration of the Soul" and "Journals of a Prosecutor in the Countryside". The novel expressed the social struggle between feudalism and Egyptian peasants prior to the 1952 Revolution.

<A Dramatist

AL-Sharqawi's pioneering role further extended to poetic drama, when he first published his premiere poetic play "Tragedy of Jamila" in 1962, highlighting the struggle of the Algerian nationalist heroine against French occupation. The artistic merit of the play rested not only on its being the first drama in modern poetry, but also on its epic-like semi-narrative style. However, AL-Sharqawi's epic style tended towards popular folkloric biographies of ancient Arab heroes such as Antara , the most renown Arab knight-poet. The play had a strong stimulating effect on the dramatic movement in Egypt and Arab countries, looking forward for a special nationalist dramatic (norm).

An Innovative Interpreter of Islamic Biographies

His outstanding book "Muhammad: the Messenger of Freedom", published in 1962, was also a real breakthrough in writing biographies of Muslim leaders. In this book as well his other published works on the lives of the well-guided Caliphs (Abu Bakr, Omar, Othman and Ali) and major leaders of jurisprudence and Sunna, he was not concerned with detailed account of their biographies. He was, rather, interested in those incidents and works that expressed the values of freedom, justice, reasoning, tolerance and indivisible association between faith and knowledge rather than ignorance.

Positions

AL-Sharqawi often contributed to leftist publications, although he has never joined any leftist organisations. His tendencies were rather nationalist and purely democratic. In the press he was once Chairman of the Board of Directors and Editor-in Chief of the famous Egyptian Rose El Youssef magazine.

He also occupied important positions at the Secretariat of the Afro-Union Solidarity Organization and the Supreme Council of Arts and Letters (now: the Supreme Council of Culture)

Awards

* State Merit Prize for Literature (1974)
* The Order of Letters and Arts of the First Class

Major Works

"AL- Hussein, a Revolutionary and Martyr", "Red Eagle, Orabi, Leader of Peasants," "Muhammad: the Messenger of Freedom", "AL- Farouq Omar", "Ali, Leader of Pious", "AL- Saddeeq, the First Caliph", among others.

Abdel-Rahman al-Raf'ee

2008-05-15T20:36:00.001-07:00

Abdel-Rahman al-Raf'ee
(1905-1992)

Abdel Rahman al-Raf'ee is known as the historian of modern Egypt. His writings have been highly influential on modern Egyptian historical thought. Although he was also a prominent lawyer, member of the Parliament and minister, al-Raf'ee was best known as a historian.

Birth and Education :

Born in Cairo on February 8, 1889, he received his primary and secondary education mostly in Alexandria. In 1908, he graduated from the Faculty of Law. As a student of law, he used to call frequently at al-Liwaa newspaper, where he came in contact with the nationalist leader Mustafa Kamel.

Career:

Al-Raf'ee worked as a lawyer for a short time, but soon abandoned the profession for journalism. He joined al-Liwaa newspaper as an editor, associating with the nationalist leader Mohammad Fareed who succeeded Mustafa Kamel as Editor-in-Chief.

He cooperated with the National Party's young members in establishing night schools, and providing free education to the poor and working class.

• In 1911, he accompanied Muhammad Fareed in a European tour.

• In 1915, he was detained for one year on account of his political memoirs, which were found by the police.

• In 1919, he joined a number of nationalists in a campaign to popularise agricultural trade unions. He was also involved in the 1919 Revolution activities.

• In 1924, he was elected a member of the Parliament representing the opposition National Party, and lost his parliamentary seat in 1926.

• In 1932, he was appointed Secretary to the National party.

• In 1949, he was appointed Minister of Supply.

• He warmly welcomed and supported the July 23,1952 Revolution.

• He was appointed Head of the Egyptian Bar Association in 1954.

• In 1958, he was re-elected member of the Supreme Council of Arts, Letters and Social Sciences.

• He was awarded State Merit Prize for Social Sciences in 1961.

Writings:

Al-Raf'ee's writings covered almost all stages of Egypt's modern history as follows:

• History of the National Movement and Evolution of the Governmental system in Egypt (two volumes).

• The Age of Mohammad Ali.

• The Age of Ismail (two volumes).

• Orabi Revolution and British Occupation.

• Egypt and Sudan during the Early Years of Occupation.

• Mustafa Kamel: Motive Force of National Movement.

• Mohammad Fareed: A Symbol of Sacrifice.

• The 1919 Revolution (two volumes).

• In the Wake of the Egyptian Revolution (three volumes).

• Preludes to the July 23, 1952 Revolution.

• The July 23, 1952 Revolution: Egypt's National History in Seven Years.

• Revolutionary Leader: Ahmad Orabi.

• Gamal Eddin al-Afghani.

• Egypt's Struggle in Modern Times.

• My Diary (1889 - 1951).

• Fourteen Years in Parliament.

• Poets of Patriotism in Egypt.

• Analysis of the 1936 Treaty.

Kamel Keilany

2008-05-15T20:35:00.002-07:00

Kamel Keilany

Kamel Keilany is an eminent figure of modern Arabic Literature whose marvellous works, recorded by the literary history genuinely qualities him as "the pioneer of children's literature and the chairman of a writ-ers .

Childhood and Education

Kamel Keilany was born on Oct. 20,1897, in a popular quarter of Cairo, near Muqu'tam Mountain; and growing up in such ambience redolent of legends and songs, he was accustomed to an early solitude, which gave him the opportunity to read, assimilate and memorize more than 20 thousands of elite verses of Arabic poetry. Keilany also memorized the Holy Qu'ran at the Kuttab (the pre elementary religious schools which existed in Egypt and the Orient on the late 19th and early 20th to teach Children the Holy Qu'ran.

Keilany later joined the primary and secondary education to finally obtain the Baccalaureate Certificate. He immersed himself in studying English literature and memorizing English poetry; he likewise studied Fre-nch.

Keilany then joined the old Egyptian University where he distin-guished himself. There, he planned to study Arabic, English and French literatures, and decided at the same time to join the school of Dante Alighioni to study Italian literature; He was the schoolmate of prominent Egyptian men of letters such as Drs. Zaki Mubarak, Abdel-Wahab Azzam, Hassan Ibrahim and others.

Professional Career:

Dominant of English and French languages, and being acquainted with Italian language, he was qualified to work as teacher of English and translation in a preparatory school. Keilany then worked in the Ministry of waqfs (Islamic endowme-nts), to finally assume the post of "Secretary of the Higher waqfs Coun-cil in 1954.

Concurrently, he worked in the domains of Journalism and Art. He assumed the post of "President of Modern Actors' Club in 1918, then Edi-tor-in-chief of El-Ragaa (The Hope) found in 1922, to later become Secre-tary of Arabic Literature Society from 1922, to 1932.

Keilany: the Man of letters:

Keilany's literary talent sprouted and flowered nourished by: - The influence of his uncle who fostered him while young. He was a rich source of tales and a good narrator. He used to tell kam-el, the child, an abundance of bedtime stories, where by the child came to love reading stories. The influence of a friend semi-illiterate and semi-philosopher who used to tell Keilany the story of Seif-Ibn-thi Yazan which had an impact on his writings. The influence of his highly well-educated Greek governors who used to tell him the legendary Greek stories.

Keilany also used to listen to the popular poets chanting poems of heroism on their rebukes.

that was due to the glamour and splendour he found in foreign children's sto-ries hence his specific trend towards children's literature, he wrote his first story of the kind, "Sindibad, the Sailor" in 1927, to be followed by more than 200 titles, legendary, historic, geographic and universal.

He was a coeval of the intellectual renaissance on Egypt to which he contributed from the beginning, suffering very much consequently.

By the outbreak of the Egyptian Revolution, Keilany composed new enthusiastic poetry, giving proof of his sincere patriotism.

Keilany's Literary Works

He made his first attempt in writing during his primary education in 1908. But later he translated Andolusian literature and verified "Resalat El-Ghofran" or (Treatise on Forgiveness, written by the blind Arab poet Abu-al-Alaa AI-Maari). Some scholars assert that the Treatise on Forgive-ness influenced Dante in his composition of the Divine Comedy, and that many of its quatrains had a strong influence upon the poetry of Omar Khayyam. Keilany also explicated Ibn El-Roumi's poetical works, Regards in the Islamic History, masterpieces of western stories, criticism. He wrote on trips title "Memories of Brethren Countries". He published numerous books on different topics such as literature, Religion, morals, grammar, criticism, comedy, the Prophet Mohammed (God's blessing and peace upon him) and his companions. Keilany also composed poetry. But he focused more on the pedagogics of children, he established a school for the literature of children's tales.

State Honours

Keilany faced all sorts of handicaps, but he could pave the way for the establishment of children's literature; consequently he was honoured by the State and appreciated by writers and prominent figures of letters from Arab and Oriental Countries-honours and appreciation which he was very keen to spotlight on the first pages of his publications. A primary School on Old Cairo now bears the name of Kamel Keilany. Also there is the Kamel Kei-lany Prize sponsored by the supreme Council for Arts and Literature, is de-dicated for children's literature.

Keilany's Works and the "Reading for all Festival"

Keilany's literary works for children constituted an important part of the comprehensive National Program of "Reading for all Festival" under the auspices of Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak, side by side with the works of a wide group of outstanding writers and men of letters.

Inaugurated in 1991, by the first lady, this festival joins the efforts of all organs in the country, official and non-official, especially those of In-formation and Culture Ministries; millions of different-aged children par-ticipated in these festivals.

It is worth mentioning in this respect that Mrs. Mubarak is very much concerned with the establishment of numerous Public and School Libraries under the auspices of Integrated Care Society to simplify books written by eminent authors and make them available, gratis or at low prices to people unable to afford them.

The innovated Festival, now, in its seventh year, tends to make for the foundation of open reading clubs on the shores and everywhere, including sectors for talented children, experimental workshops built on the idea of video-copied spontaneous creativeness of children without interference from the part of their Tutors. A film library for children is also planned for. Fifteen new palaces of culture were opened, renovated and restored in different Egyptian governrates.

Kamel Keilany died on Jan. 10, 1959, leaving behind a valuable heri-tage of publications on Arabic Literature in general and children's literature in particular.

Louis Awadh

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Louis Awadh

Dr. Louis Awadh is a prominent scholar, intellectual and literary critic. His far-reaching influence as a literary critic and dedicated scholar extended to the entire canvas of Egyptian and Arab cultural, literary and artistic scenes.

He was a genuine and exemplar intellectual who combined a firm belief in the freedom of man and the spirit of civilization and culture. He was deeply involved in the concerns of his own time, untiringly advocating new values, always associating education to the liberation of the intellect from the domination of superstitions and of man from oppression. His career was a series of literary debates, which always attracted lengthy literary controversies throughout his lifetime.

His writings were highly controversial and oftentimes going to extremes exceeding, in some cases red tape. During his career, he raised many controversial issues. As an example, he advocated, during the forties the writing of poetry in colloquial Arabic and the discarding of traditional poetic rhythm.

During the Fifties, he called for the principle of "literature for life". In association of his generation of critics and poets, such as Salah Abdel Sabour, he successfully established the "legitimacy of modern poetry".

Dr. Awadh was influenced by such interactive cultural elements that combined to give him a revolutionary inclination, manifesting itself into a constant pursuit of everything new and dissatisfaction with traditional and prevailing intellectual, cultural and creative values.

He had a firm belief in the "Unity of Culture in the World" According to him, it is easy to acquire a vocation, but it is difficult to adopt literature as a profession.

He also believed that applied criticism is the real criticism, thus making literary criticism available and integrating the cultural climate into the texture of the community. Dr. Awadh was highly concerned with meticulous linguistic structure of his literary works. It should be noted that he was strictly committed to expressing himself in genuine classical Arabic in his own highly structured, elaborate style, although once he was an advocate of writing in colloquial. In all his writings he was interested in issues related to the people's life. His life span of 75 years was continuous series of independent intellectual work.

Dr. Louis Awadh was born in an Upper Egyptian village in Al Minya Governorate on December 21,1914, to a middle class family.

He spent the first five years of his life in the Sudan, where his father was employed. He was greatly influenced by his father, when as a child, he started to use his father's large library, which mostly contained English books, dealing with Western thought in general.

When his family moved back to the city of Al Minya, he joined "Les Freres" School, then the primary school, where he completed his primary education in 1926.

In 1931, he completed his secondary education. He decided to join Cairo University English Department, but his father refused. In view of his insistence, he could join the Department of his choice, two years later. In 1937, he graduated and started his initial steps in the world of the press. He contributed several articles on literary criticism in newspapers like Kawkab Al Sharq, Al Jihad, Al Wadi among others. He also co- edited Al Nahdha Al Fekria Magazine.

In 1940, Dr. Awadh obtained his Ph.D at Cambridge University, England. When he was appointed lecture at the Cairo University English Department, he posed not merely as a university professor, but actually as an intellectual of a calibre, that is usually common during periods of transition where barriers between pure knowledge and real life virtually vanish.

His extremely liberal views caused many troubles to him; in 1954 he was discharged from the university and as imprisoned during the Fifties on account of his political views. His political debates were more famous than his literary involvement. Of his most famous literary debates was that where he engaged with the great Arabic linguist Mohmoud Shaker who, himself had been engaged in many literary battles, could defeat Awadh, giving him a hard lesson on how to deal with literary text. The defeat was so severe that Awadh resigned his post as cultural advisor to Al Ahram Daily.

The resignation was, however rejeted by the then Editor-in-Chief of Al-Ahram: Mohammad Hasanien Haikal.

His pungent critiques led to many literary feuds with Arab Nationalists, communists and socialists In spite of his declared adoption of his writings, he always instigated freedom of thought. His successive literary debates were meant to open new prospects of thought and research. Although Awadh's areas of difference with this contemporaries were for wider than areas of agreement, undoubtedly nobody can deny his outstanding status as a scholar, intellectual and thinker.

Dr. Louis Awadh made wide contributions in all aspects of litertary life. As a scholar, he was equally well-versed in both Arabic and Western literatures, with a deep insight into the relationship between the East and the West. He enriched the Arabic library with 50 books. Dr. Awadh will be always be remembered as an untiring militant intellectual and a source of construtive controversies.

Abdel-Fattah al-Kussary

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Abdel-Fattah al-Kussary

Born on April 15, 1905, Abdel-Fattah al-Qossari is considered one of Egypt's most distinguished comedians. He was almost always cast as an illiterate, who thinks that he knows everything when turns out that he does not.
He graced Egyptian cinema in over 60 films which include:
Sokkar hanem
Ismail Yassin in the madhouse
Ibn Hamido
Ismail Yassin meets Rya and Sakina
Miss Hanafi
As you wish
Shamshoun and Libleb
House of ghosts
He wants to get married
Friday night
The black market
If you were rich
The accused
Si Omar

Al-Qossari died in 1965.