ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the Hammer Project on Economic Cooperation in the Middle East under peace, its roots, its history, its development, and the main findings of the research activities carried out within its framework. Dr. Hammer has always seen the development of economic relations as an instrument for promoting peace. In 1978, we presented our plans to him and requested his support. This was two months prior to the signing of the Camp David accords, a time of crisis in the negotiations with Egypt. Peace may provide the momentum for economic development in the Middle East. The potential for such development lies in the area's natural resources and plentiful manpower. International corporations perceive the potential of the Middle East for large-scale economic and commercial growth and development. The Litani waters are already fully utilized or earmarked for future Lebanese development projects.
