The University of Michigan accepts with appreciation the invitation of the Carnegie Corporation of New York to submit this application to host a number of Arab social scientists during the coming two years. At a time of transition in the Arab world, when hope and uncertainty intermingle, U.S. engagement in general and collaboration between Arab and American scholars in particular are more important than ever. Presented below are (1) a brief account of the situation in the Arab world that gives this initiative special importance at the present historical moment; and (2) a brief description of the expertise and experience that make the University of Michigan particularly well suited to participate in this program.