Addressing an audience at the 9th NDP General Congress yesterday, Policy Secretary of the National Democratic Party Mr. Gamal Mubarak asserted that people's interests and preoccupations, problems and aspirations and their right to a dignified life were the primary concern of both the party and the government.

The issues of unemployment and means of providing villages with services such as potable water, roads for pedestrians and vehicles, and health care, among other things stood high on the agenda of the meeting.

Also topping the list of priorities is achieving social justice and protecting the poor, an issue with direct bearing on the country's national security.

Looking in hindsight, we trace the party's achievements especially over the past three years. Then, a state of depression dominated the economy accompanied by sluggish growth rates and distrust from both within and without, which turned Egypt into an investment-repelling country. The number of new projects was few and far in-between. Unemployment was also rising.

Now, the picture has changed completely. Development rate is now put at 7 per cent as compared to 3 per cent in the past. Egypt is now an investment-attracting country.

Egyptian exports have multiplied as have investments. Real opportunities of employment were generated. A million and 400 thousand young men and women have been employed over the past two years.

This is the new reality, which stands offering hope for optimism. We can also boast clear vision and transparency at the political arena and in connection with the NDP. New policies are introduced by way of solving problems. However, there is much yet to be attained, a fact made clear to all.

There also exist numerous visions that coincide at times and diverge at others, thus creating a healthy climate.

There is indeed new change and new reality.

Mohammad Barakat
Al Akhbar

5/11/2007