The Sociological Association and the American University of Sharjah yesterday launched their joint Journal of Social Affairs quarterly magazine, in English and Arabic, in a bid to bridge the cultural and social gaps between the Arab world and the West.

However, this issue was in fact number 71 of the Association's Journal of Social Affairs, which has been published since the establishment of the Association in 1984.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem Al Qasimi, Head of the Amiri Court, handed over appreciation certificates to 111 representatives of establishments, businessmen, and individuals who supported the magazine during the previous 17 years.

"For the first time, in this joint issue, researches and studies in English and by non-Arab sociologists have been included, said Dr Mohammed Al Mutawa," Editor-in-Chief of the magazine.

He said the magazine has included abstracts in English for articles in Arabic and abstracts in Arabic for articles in English.

"This will help exchanging social and cultural concepts between the East and the West," he said.

"We are looking for an international spread of the magazine which has gained recognition in the Arab World. It is accredited by my university as a reliable reference for higher studies theses," he said

"In many cases, researchers face problems finding references in English language on Middle East and related issues.

"There is a scarcity of Middle East sociological researches in the English language."

Dr Roderick S. French, the Chancellor of the American University, said such bridges of communication and dialogue are very healthy even if they opposed the United States stand on Middle East issues.

Criticism is always healthy and the university will not prevent people giving opposing opinions about the United States policy.

The magazine will be the place where such open opinions are voiced, said Dr French.

Nada Mourtada-Sabbah, Deputy Editor-In-Chief who represents the American University of Sharjah in the joint magazine said that the university will send it to all reputed universities and research centres, especially those who have concerns in the Middle East issues.

"Many foreign researchers, from different countries including the U.S., UK, Australia, France, and Iran have already expressed their will to contribute to the magazine," she said.