Tumult in the Middle East North Africa region is a 'recipe for instability', says Obama

US President Barack Obama said on Monday that tumult in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is the result of governments’ negligence of their people’s needs. He noted that this is a “recipe for instability and strife.”

In a televised speech addressing the World Government Summit currently being held in Dubai, Obama said that government exists for one reason, which is to serve the people and help to improve their lives. “When governments truly invest in their citizens, their education, skills and health, and when universal human rights are upheld, countries are more peaceful, more prosperous and more successful.” This is demonstrated by the current tumult in the region, he suggested.

Hailing the UAE e-governance system, the US president said that he discussed security requirements with officials from the Gulf State a year ago. “When I hosted our Gulf Cooperation Council partners at Camp David last year, we discussed how true and lasting security requires inclusive governance that includes all citizens,” he explained. “Here in the UAE, your commitment to e-Government and innovation is improving how you deliver services like health care, empower entrepreneurs and advance clean energy.”

Obama revealed that he is proud to be partner of the UAE because it is “a model of the collaboration we need” in all our countries. “Together we can ensure that more of our children get the education that prepares them for the global economy,” he insisted “With a commitment to justice and human rights, we can uphold the dignity of all people of all backgrounds, men and women.”

He used his speech to praise the American Constitution and its backing for human rights. “In the United States, our Constitution begins with three simple words, ‘We the people.’ More than 200 years on, we are still working to perfect our own union.” Cooperation in matters of governance is important, he said. “Our countries can learn from each other, we can make our governments even more responsive and accountable to our citizens.”

Concluding his speech, Obama announced that the nations which commit to reforms and investment in the lives of people, could be partners with his country. “Know that across this region and around the world, those of you who embrace reform and truly invest in the lives of your people will continue to have a friend and partner in the United States.”