The XXXVI Middle East Medical Assembly marks the 50th anniversary of an idea that has matured into one of the foremost scientific, professional, and educational medical forums of the region. In the tradition of this event, the meeting will proudly host world-renowned scientists, medical pioneers and opinion leaders. We also welcome an added participation of prestigious medical establishments including the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Mayo Clinic, and Syracuse University. The stage is set for global scientific and medical collaboration and cooperation.

The scientific sessions of the XXXVI Middle East Medical Assembly com-prise a rich and diversified program. This program features advances in mo-lecular biology including the recently concluded genomic program. The molecular, and cellular mechanisms underlying inflammatory diseases will be presented as a unifying concept. Concurrent sessions will also highlight im-portant and relevant issues in the science and practice of Pediatrics, Neuro-surgery, Endocrine diseases, Imaging, and Surgical intervention. Additionally, there will be extensive didactic and interactive sessions that will expose the momentous progress in Echocardiography and Electrical dis-eases of the heart. Moreover, there will be a one day program dedicated to update primary care physicians on standards of care and guidelines of com-mon diseases and clinical conditions. Several workshops and satellite sympo-sia are also planned for in-depth discussion of pressing clinical challenges. Lastly, special attention will be granted to the enormous and exponential growth of technology utilization in medicine. Two attractions deal with this aspect: The first is a multidisciplinary technology forum which aims at clos-ing the gap and enhancing transfer of skills among various disciplines of med-icine and surgery; the second is a rich scientific exhibit which displays the latest advances in the application of technology and therapeutics.

On behalf of a large team of dedicated staff, I am pleased and honored to in-vite you to join us for the XXXVI Middle East Medical Assembly. We pledge to make your visit scientifically gratifying and socially exciting and rewarding. In Lebanon there is a rich heritage of history, culture, and a millennia old tra-dition of warmth and hospitality. We are anxiously anticipating your visit.

Welcome to Lebanon.

Samir Alam, M.D., F.A.C.C.
Professor of Medicine
Chairman,
XXXVIth Middle East Medical Assembly