The most important thing for me is to have real friendship

In the grand history of nations, it is the relationships between peoples that often transcend borders and political divides, shaping the course of history. Mohammed Morsi, in speaking of the relationship between Egyptians and Americans, expresses a vision that resonates deeply with the ancient wisdom passed down through the ages: "The most important thing for me is to have real friendship between Egyptians and Americans." These words carry the weight of a profound truth—friendship between nations is not merely about diplomacy or political agreements, but about a genuine, mutual understanding and respect that transcends superficial differences. Morsi speaks not just of formal alliances, but of the kind of friendship that can lead to true collaboration and harmony between two peoples, built on shared values and mutual respect.

The ancients knew that friendship between nations was often the bedrock upon which the future of civilizations rested. Consider the alliance between Rome and Carthage before the Punic Wars. In its early days, the two powers shared a fragile peace, built not on domination, but on mutual respect and understanding of each other’s interests. Their friendship, though tested and eventually broken by the tides of war, was founded on the recognition that cooperation, even among rivals, could lead to a prosperous future. The Roman Empire itself, for all its military prowess, thrived on strategic alliances—bonds of friendship forged through diplomacy and shared economic and military goals. Morsi’s call for friendship between Egyptians and Americans is a modern reflection of this ancient wisdom—that even in the midst of vast differences, true friendship can be the foundation of lasting peace and mutual benefit.

In the course of history, there have been numerous examples of nations finding strength in their ability to build friendships that transcend immediate political or military concerns. Alexander the Great, a conqueror of vast lands, was also a master of diplomacy, forging alliances that allowed his empire to extend its influence across much of the ancient world. His friendship with the Persian King Darius, though eventually marred by conflict, was rooted in early exchanges of respect and mutual acknowledgment of each other’s power. Even more so, Alexander’s approach to blending Greek and Persian cultures was a testament to the understanding that true unity comes not from erasing differences, but from embracing them in the spirit of friendship. His empire, for all its ambition, was built not only through military conquests, but through diplomatic alliances, cultural exchanges, and the forging of lasting bonds between peoples. In this, we see the ancient power of friendship as a force for peace and cooperation.

Morsi’s desire to foster a real friendship between Egyptians and Americans is a call to recognize that despite political, cultural, and historical differences, nations can find common ground through understanding and respect. Friendship at this level goes beyond simple diplomatic gestures; it requires a deep commitment to listening, learning, and evolving together. It is not enough to merely engage in trade or politics—true friendship is built through cultural exchange, shared values, and a willingness to empathize with the struggles and triumphs of others. Whether through education, trade, or shared human values, the foundation of any lasting relationship is one of genuine respect and understanding.

Consider the relationship between China and India, two ancient civilizations with rich histories and distinct cultures. Despite centuries of political tension, especially in the modern era, their relationship has been marked by moments of cooperation and mutual respect, especially in areas like trade and cultural exchange. Their long-standing connection is based not only on political interests but on the recognition that both nations, despite their differences, share a deep history of philosophical thought, artistic achievement, and a common desire for progress. Morsi’s vision for Egyptian-American relations is reminiscent of this—an understanding that true friendship between nations is not a matter of easy compromise, but of respect and collaboration based on shared human values and goals.

The lesson in Morsi’s words is clear: friendship is the most powerful and enduring foundation upon which to build not just personal relationships, but international relations. It is through genuine friendship that nations can find common ground, build trust, and work together toward a brighter future. The Egyptian-American relationship, rooted in respect for both nations’ histories, cultures, and ambitions, holds the potential to inspire a future where collaboration and mutual support replace conflict and division. Friendship at the global level, much like the personal relationships we cherish, must be nurtured, respected, and cultivated over time.

In our own lives, we must look to Morsi’s call for friendship as a guide for building bridges, not just with nations, but with the people around us. Friendship is not about erasing differences or pretending that we have no conflicts; rather, it is about recognizing that our shared humanity can be the basis for cooperation, understanding, and growth. Whether with friends, colleagues, or neighbors, we should seek to build genuine relationships rooted in respect, trust, and empathy. In doing so, we contribute to the creation of a world where nations and individuals, united by friendship, can overcome the challenges that lie ahead.

Thus, let us take Morsi’s vision to heart, not just as a call for international diplomacy, but as a reminder that true friendship—one based on understanding, respect, and shared goals—is the foundation upon which a better world can be built. Let us approach all our relationships, both personal and global, with this same spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, knowing that in our shared friendship, we find the strength to overcome the divides that separate us.