Third Petra Conference of Nobel Laureates Concludes

Petra (May 16, 2007) – Organizers of Third Petra Conference of Nobel Laureates announced the establishment of a new science fund to support new scientific projects in the Middle East with the goal of promoting scientific cooperation in the region.

According to conference organizers, the science fund's board, which will function under the King Abdullah Fund for Development, will include a number of Nobel Laureates. The fund is being established with a capital of $10 million provided by private donors.

In concluding remarks at the end of the two-day event, His Majesty King Abdullah II reiterated the importance of the role of Nobel Laureates in championing issues and ideas that can contribute to the region's development and enhance the living standards of its people.

Conferees also announced the formation of a committee that will soon share with the conference participants a set of recommendations aimed at strengthening economic development in the region.

Over the course of two days, 23 youth from around the region played a leading role in this year's conference sessions, during which they shared their vision of the region's future with the Laureates.

During the closing session, King Abdullah said that youth can make countless positive contributions to the region's future.

This year's conference included discussions on health, economics and the environment.

The conference, organized by the King Abdullah II Fund for Development and the Elie Wiesel Fund for Humanity, convenes Nobel Laureates from the six disciplines in which the prize is awarded each year, as well as tens of international and Jordanian public figures. The Petra conference was an initiative of King Abdullah in appreciation of the commitment of Nobel Laureates to the betterment of humanity.

Thirty-three Nobel Laureates who shaped history with their innovations attended this year's conference, among them Kofi Annan (peace), Richard Axel (medicine) Johann Deisenhofer (chemistry), Robert Merton (economics), and Norman F. Ramsey (physics). More than 200 leading figures in politics, economics, media and youth also attended this year's conference.