Apr 27, 2008 9:58 pm US/Central
U.S., Arab Mayors In Chicago For First-Time Summit
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
An unprecedented exercise in global cooperation begins Monday in Chicago.
Mayors and other local officials from 50 cities, in North America and the Arab world, have been invited by Mayor Daley for what's being billed as a U.S. - Arab cities Forum. CBS 2's Chief Correspondent Jay Levine says the event is all about breaking down stereotypes and defusing tension.
A brand new student center on the West side will host the ambitious event.
"Never before have Arab mayors connected with American mayors and I think its time," said Mayor Omar Maani of Amman, Jordan.
CBS 2 covered Daley's visit to Amman, Jordan two years ago. That's when he and Maani first discussed bringing Arab and American mayors together.
"The same concerns they have, we have, in different proportions," Daley said.
Last year, Chicago hosted mayors from Central and South America, also talking about issues like jobs, education, crime, and the environment. Exchanging information and strategies is crucial. But this year, there's an added element.
"We let the people know the values of the other country and make more comprehension between people," said Mayor Mohamed Sajid of Casablanca, Morocco. "Which would ease tensions and contribute to our common goal, which is peace."
With its ongoing, aggressive campaign for the 2016 Olympics, Chicago has made a concerted effort to raise its international profile. The mayors visiting this week are well aware of that bid.
"I know that this city is very capable, it's a very cosmopolitan city, the people are very friendly, it's a very safe city, so I wish you the best," Maani said.
But as Mayor Daley told CBS 2 this weekend, his vision for the conference goes beyond Chicago 2016.
"It not only helps our bid, but it really helps, understanding America," Daley said.
Whether or not Chicago gets the 2016 games, efforts like this one can only enhance our image as a truly global city, which will have a much greater economic impact than a single summer's athletic event. wbb
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