Clinton visits the American University in Dubai

"This is indeed a time for commemoration, reflection and reverie. Bill Clinton's presence among us today once again bolsters our commitment and courage as we seek to build for tomorrow this "work-in-progress" called The American University in Dubai,"said Dr. Lance De Masi, President, AUD.

This is the fourth time that President Clinton visits AUD. In 2002 he was the guest speaker during AUD's 5th Commencemet Exercises. His second visit came in 2003 when he met a culturally diverse group of AUD students and responded to their questions on the political, cultural and intellectual issues of the moment. On that occasion he announced the Clinton Scholarship Program.

In 2004 President Clinton chose the Library at the American University in Dubai as the venue for the signing of his autobiographical book "My Life".

"This fourth visit to AUD, which coincides with the university's tenth anniversary, clearly demonstrates President Clinton's commitment to education and in particular the Clinton Scholarship Program which was initiated to enhance intercultural understanding,"

said Elias Bou Saab, Executive Vice President, AUD.

The Clinton Scholars Program provides US students with the opportunity to expand their educational and cultural horizons by studying in the Arab world. The Clinton Presidential Foundation aims to strengthen the capacity of people throughout the world to meet the challenges of global interdependence through its work in racial, ethnic, and religious reconciliation.

This also coincides with the mission of The American University in Dubai to provide for the varying educational needs of a culturally diverse and geographically dispersed student body with the goal of preparing students academically, personally, and professionally for successful careers.

After addressing the attendees, Clinton gave AUD students the opportunity to ask questions on a variety of topics relating to the United States strategies and stand towards the current political dilemmas in Syria, Iraq and Palestine, in addition to various other topics of interest.