Fostering international physics cooperation in the Middle-East

Opportunities to foster both scientific progress and the development of long-term productive relations in the Middle-East region could benefit from participation by international organizations and sponsors. However, the conditions for success are especially challenging due to both political barriers and economic imbalances. We will share some personal experiences on these conditions and suggestions for advancing existing initiatives as well as proposals for new initiatives. Key elements include mechanisms for developing bi-lateral or even regional consensus on important physics projects/programs, acceptable support mechanisms and appropriate/valuable roles for individuals, organizations and governments outside the region.