On November 16, 2023, the Institute for Global Public Policy (IGPP) hosted the second lecture of the Fudan-Arab Lecture Series. Professor Yahia H. Zoubir, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs Goha, Qatar, gave a lecture titled “Culture and Management in the Middle East & North Africa.” The lecture was hosted by Professor Jing Yijia, Dean of the IGPP. Passant Mamdouh, Postdoctoral fellow of the Fudan University Institute of Belt and Road & Global Governance, served as a discussant.

Professor Zoubir first shared his perspective on the meaning of the Arab world. He pointed out that the Arab world with a population of over 400 million is highly diverse. He emphasized that Arab does not equate to Islam; the former is a linguistic, geographical, and cultural concept, while the latter is a religious concept. He analyzed the fundamental characteristics of the Arab world in terms of religion, law, and business. In particular, he examined the core values cherished by Arabs, such as dignity, honor, prestige, friendship, loyalty, generosity, and justice. He also highlighted the similarities between Arab and Chinese cultures. Professor Zoubir shared insights into the behavioral characteristics of the Arab world in the business field.

Dr. Passant Mamdouh from Egypt provided her comments on the lecture. Drawing on her own experience of studying in China, she emphasized that true understanding of different cultures can only be achieved through practical experience. It is through active and effective engagement with different cultures that one can truly integrate into them.

During the Q&A session, the audience engaged in in-depth discussions with Professor Zoubir on hot topics such as the culture and development of the Arab world.