Dear Harry,
I looked at the list of topics for this conference and could not think of any topic which is not included! Otto, you are on the Program Committee; what can you tell us about the proposed new conference?
Being a member of the programme Committee happened similarly to me as the process of "Immaculate Conception" 2006 years ago.
About the conference: a. I know Houda Labiod and I'm convinced that she will make a very good job. b. Having an event in libanon is a very good thing for IFIP. I support the idea. c. As almost usual the list of topics is very general. It contains all the actual buzzwords. However, it will probably not suitable to amke a drasctic reduction of topics since it will be hard enough to attract many high-quality foreign papers. d. PC in general: Substantially biased towards French speaking people who came originally from former French colonies in North Africa or from Lebanon. This should be changed. Some TC6 names have to be added in order to give abetter balnace.
In summary, I support the event.
Best regards Otto