Meaning: The quote by Lakhdar Brahimi, a prominent public servant and diplomat, reflects a sentiment of frustration and skepticism regarding the sudden focus on promoting freedom in the Arab world by President Bush. In just a few words, Brahimi succinctly captures the complexity and long-standing nature of the issue, highlighting the fact that the concept of freedom for the Arab world is not a new or recent concern.

Lakhdar Brahimi is an Algerian diplomat who has served in various high-profile positions within the United Nations, including as the UN Special Adviser to the Secretary-General and as the UN Special Representative for Afghanistan. With his extensive experience in international relations and diplomacy, Brahimi is well-versed in the complexities of global politics, particularly in the Arab world.

The quote suggests that the idea of advocating for freedom in the Arab world is not a novel concept. Brahimi implies that he has been advocating for this cause for over five decades, indicating that the issue of freedom in the Arab world has been a long-standing concern for individuals who have been involved in international affairs. This perspective challenges the notion that the promotion of freedom in the Arab world is a recent development or a sudden priority, raising questions about the sincerity and depth of the current discourse on the topic.

Brahimi's remark also touches on the potential political motivations behind President Bush's public statements about freedom in the Arab world. The timing of the President's focus on this issue, particularly in the context of the post-9/11 era and the subsequent military interventions in the Middle East, may lead to skepticism about the true intentions and motivations behind the rhetoric. Brahimi's comment implicitly suggests that the issue of freedom in the Arab world should not be exploited for political gain or used as a convenient talking point in a specific geopolitical context.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting the long history of advocacy and activism for freedom and democracy in the Arab world. It serves as a reminder that the struggle for freedom is not a recent phenomenon, but rather a deeply rooted and enduring aspiration for many individuals and communities in the region. Brahimi's statement emphasizes the need to acknowledge the efforts and sacrifices of those who have been working towards this goal for decades, and to approach the issue with a deep understanding of its historical and cultural context.

In conclusion, Lakhdar Brahimi's quote encapsulates a critical perspective on the discourse surrounding freedom in the Arab world. It offers a thought-provoking commentary on the historical continuity of the issue and raises important questions about the sincerity and motivations behind political rhetoric on this topic. Brahimi's remark serves as a reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom in the Arab world and the need for a comprehensive and informed approach to addressing this complex and deeply rooted aspiration.