Pugwash has consistently been able to provide a forum that can respond flexibly and effectively when changes in the international and domestic political situations in the Middle East region cry out for new thinking and creative approaches. Given the historic changes that the region has experienced in the past years, Pugwash has had to remain engaged at the highest levels and respond to the rapidly developing environment when planning and organising its meetings. We have contributed to an environment that promotes dialogue over armed confrontation by engaging high-level officials from all regional states.

Our work in the Middle East has been credited with injecting thoughtful suggestions into often very tense regional environments. Our work in helping policymakers in the West to better appreciate the perspectives of people in the regions has, we are told, been effective. In particular, our focus on maintaining relations and fostering dialogue between the West and Iran in respect of its nuclear programme has been widely appreciated in that country and the region more widely. As the Middle East has undergone ground-breaking political and social upheaval, we have continued to promote cooperation and communication through our Track-two meetings.

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