Jerusalem: Arab capital of culture

The most contested city in the world will be the 2009 Arab capital of culture [AFP]

2009 will see Jerusalem crowned the Arab capital of culture.

 

The move, although part of a rotation of all Arab capitals, is hugely symbolic.

 

No city in the world is as contested as Jerusalem, and no people are fighting as hard to protect the identity of their city as the Jerusalemites.

 

By selecting Jerusalem as the capital of Arab culture the Arab League is sending a clear message to the world that the Arabic identity of Jerusalem will withstand the persistent attempts by Israel to impose a Jewish identity on the city.

 

Although some events will have to take place outside the city to avoid Israeli restrictions, Palestinians are going to celebrate the title despite the Israeli objections.

 

Inside Story, with presenter Sami Zeidan, discusses the significance of this move.