Posts with the tag international affairs

Barack Obama, "A Transformational Figure"

Cris — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:06:11 EDT

Obama is quoted saying, "If you're walking down the right path and you're willing to keep walking, eventually you'll make progress." As I've observed him over the past couple years, I've been impressed by his walk, his progress. He's remained steady and calm no matter what challenges have presented themselves. Not only has Barack matured during his campaign to exude even greater poise and diplomacy, but he's proven himself to be unflappable under fire by his opponents. I think Colin Powell's well-balanced perception of Obama, given during his interview with Meet the Press, stated eloquently what people all over the world are observing about Barack's walk, his talk and his confidence in running mate for VP, Joe Biden:

"...he (Obama) displayed a steadiness, an intellectual curiosity, a depth of knowledge, and an approach to looking at problems like this, picking a Vice President that I think is ready to be President on Day One. And also in – not just in jumping in and changing every day – but showing intellectual vigor, I think that he has a definitive way of doing business that would serve us well."

Powell concludes that segment of his interview by saying:

"I think he is a transformational figure. He is a new generation coming into the ... onto the world stage and on the American stage...."

I choose to put my trust in the leadership of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. I trust they will both prove to be trustworthy servants and continue to walk their talk all the way to the White House and for the length of their term(s) in office.

May God give them discernment and wisdom to administer sound advice and judgement in all matters, keep them from harm and from doing harm as they serve the American people and negotiate with world leaders to work toward protecting our freedom, ensuring peace, improving humanitarian and environmental health, and spearheading economic, education and political reforms.

Huffington Post Just Published my Biden/Heads of State article, so please do comment here:http://tinyurl.com/Bidenvs-Palin

Stephen Fox, Contributing Editor New Mexico Sun News — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 20:15:00 EDT

Biden Has Done More Than Look At Russia Across The Horizon, my FIRST article at Huffington Post, so please do comment: http://tinyurl.com/Bidenvs-Palin or www.huffingtonpost.com/stephen-fox/biden-has-done-more-than_b_129382.html

I welcome your insights and ideas, and Huffington Post is a place perhaps millions more people will see them and want to participate in this emerging dialogue about what direction our Nation must move in the next four years, to repair the enormous damage internationally during the past 8 years by Bush/Cheney/Halliburton/Rumsfeld/KelloggBrownand Root/Blackwater, and others!

What Obama might talk about...

RL Watson — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 08:28:08 EDT

The discussion at the Saddleback church emphasized an important difference between Obama and McCain. Obama has the ability to look at the issues and understand their complexity. McCain demonstrated that his perspective is a simplistic black/white view. This is so much like Bush that I shudder to think of him as president. Perhaps McCain is a maverick, but zeal without knowledge is a dangerous thing. A simplistic bull running amuck, making the policies for the United States is a description of both Bush and McCain, and will lead to more disastrous international and national policy.

The black/white, us/them, good/evil view will only drive the world's parties further apart and deeper into conflict. The foundation of policy making has to start from the understanding that we are dealing-not with devils-but with human beings who, like us, want to live peacefully and with self determination. When we start with that premise we have a far greater chance for succeeding in our goals. A good example of the negative consequences of simplistic thinking is Bush's Axis of Evil. This did nothing to create an environment conducive to positive outcomes but rather spurred on fear, alienation, and hostility between the mentioned parties. McCain will continue this kind of action, while I believe that Obama's deeper view and willingness to hear diverse opinions will enable an environment where all parties will feel like their views and interests will be heard.

A bullying maverick, like McCain, will only destroy the delicate "china shop" of public policy.

Why should America care what happens in China?

Marjani — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 22:18:12 EDT

Why Every American Should Care About China

The Emerging Superpower Is Forging Relationships Where the U.S. Isn't By BOB WOODRUFF, GABRIELLE TENENBAUM, SUSAN SCHAEFER and MEENA HARTENSTEIN
Aug. 6, 2008

When the Olympics begin Friday in Beijing it will be a "coming out" party of sorts for China.

Beijing hopes this will be a bright spot in what has otherwise been a tough year -- the country was hit by a devastating earthquake and rocked by scandals over tainted food and medicine and toxic toys.

There have been protests, both within China and in other countries, about its human rights policies in Tibet and Darfur.

Even the Olympic torch relay, normally a celebratory event, sparked demonstrations around the world.

Now billions of eyes will be focused on a nation that has become so important to so many, yet remains misunderstood. Many people, perhaps most vocally in the United States, fear China's growing power and influence around the world. But it is unavoidable.

"The rise of China is the single most important geopolitical event of the 21st century," said John Thornton, professor and director of Global Leadership at Tsingua University in Beijing. "And the implications of that rise are enormous."

Hillary The Delusional

COL Mo — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:23:32 EDT

I recently read an article on "perfectionists" in the current issue of Psychology Today. According to that source, perfectionists, who must always be right and first, are made not born. Often it begins in childhood, inculcated by parents with high expectations for whom second best is not good enough. Perfectionist seek love and approval from high achievement. Eventually, they find themselves in competitions with everyone about every thing. To succeed in that environment they begin to "juice" or over sell their own accomplishments. Later comes fantasies of achievement and experiences they never had. For some, they come believe in their fantasies and tell their stories, as if they were real.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with fantasies that help children grow and develop their imaginations. Neither is there anything wrong with adults fantasies like - "what good would I do if I won $150 Million in the lottery. Trouble comes when you live in the fantasy world - then you are delusional. Hillary Clinton has told us about her delusion about landing under sniper fire in Bosnia, of the principal role she played bringing peace to Northern Ireland, and (I suspect) about her days hunting as first lady and shooting a duck. She needs to lie to try to make a connection with people whowere never part of her background and for 61 years, her actions have shown little concern for.

The media have done a good job debunking the landing under fire myth. (As retired Secret Service let me asure you we would never allow the first family -- or any other protectee -- to land under such rsisks). It has not however widely reported the truth about her role in the Irish Peace process, which I refer to as Hillary as cheerleader. For an excellent recent article in the Belfast Telegraph, use this link: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/columnists/lindy-mcdowell/article3509263.ece

To me there is a real question of mental stability on Hillary's part. I don't believe we can tolerate a delusional President in a dangerous world. If elected she'll be known as Hillary I - The delusional.

International economics, a proposal.

Grito — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 18:06:45 EDT

I am writing this message because of the serious financial problems my state, our country and foreign countries are encountering. Albert Einstein is quoted as having said "You can't solve the problems of the future with the technology that created them." I believe that the present circumstances require new and long term solutions and that the methods to those solutions are being used to a limited extent now,in part,in private industry and in state government.
My proposal is to(1) use currently available technology to create a basis for(2) allowing the state and federal work forces to reduce costs, increase productivity and promote tremendous economic benefits for all the citizens of our United States and, eventually, the world.

(1)More specifically, by funding the creation of a paper less system via the synergistic use of computers(most state and federal employees now have a computer),digital recorders,intelligent pens, digital video machines and their peripheral equipment(including cell phones-all available at reasonable prices)with the goal of replacing the use and cost of paper,writing instruments,files,documents,ordering and billing procedures,physical storage before use and the disposal, the faxing of and the transportation, mailing and the large storage costs(some documents have to be stored for 25 years or more)associated with the physical constraints of our present paper based system. Instead, all these functions could be accomplished by instant computer communication and server storage, all instantly available by remote access. A by product of this environmentally friendly system, would be an example of how to reduce our reliance on the source of paper; trees and dramatically reduce pollution and mitigate the threat posed by global warming. Once in place this system would permit the state and federal work forces to:

(2)Work at remote locations. Essentially, the workforce would not be limited to working from strictly from the office. The web of instantaneous computer communication would be viable from any point of Internet access. The net result would be that a worker could work at home two or three days a week and only come in to their office when required. The New Jersey State E.P.A. now uses this method. Thus, there is the potential of eliminating the cost of fifty percent of the office space that the state now pays for in buildings because alternating days at the office with days working at home for all employees would reduce the need for office space by fifty percent. This is the critically essential facet of my proposal that should save hundreds of millions of dollars, or much more, on a state level, and trillions of dollars on a national level, especially when combined with the savings to be realized during phase one as noted above.
The proper implementation of this two phase plan would eliminate the need to raise revenues through other avenues and would ultimately eliminate fiscal budget deficits.
Additionally, it would reduce travel to and from work sites, road congestion,road repair,vehicle depreciation(both state and private vehicles), gasoline consumption, insurance costs, reduce child care costs(work at home)environmental pollution would be reduced and worker productivity would be increased substantially(proven in private industry use).
These are some of the benefits but there are many more benefits inherent to this system because it can be applied to any level of government, including municipal and federal government. I would expect that the use of this plan on a national level has the potential of trillions of dollars in savings. Consequently, this system could be exported to other country's, with American guidance and expertise, that would engender good moral and political dividends.
In conclusion, the question is not whether or not to use this system because its' use is inevitable. The question is when and whom will implement it. It is my hope that Senator Obama will see the value of my suggestion for the citizens of our great nation and the world and seriously consider its merit.

Senator, start taking up international issues....

Francia from New York, NY — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 21:19:54 EST

For example, put your two cents in about the young journalist in Afghanistan given the death penalty for downloading information that the government considered "blashphemous." This was reported in numerous papers abroad, but not in America. Didn't we bring democracy to Afghanistan? Talk strategy and concern to the media. We know your issues at home quite well, let's hear what you are going to do (and CAN do) internationally. If this case is moved to Kabul, then it's a non-issue. Jesse Jackson was able to resolve issues internationally presidents and ambassadors couldn't achieve. take that lead.

Here's a statement from Journalists Without Borders

The Final Presidential Debate

Scott A. Giordano — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:14:52 EST

How Obama made foreign policy a stronger issue for him and a weaker one for Clinton ...

Barack Obama's Statement on Fidel Castro

Matthew Negrete — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 11:04:28 EST

The following is the statement made by Barack Obama concerning the resignation of Cuban President Fidel Castro:

Today should mark the end of a dark era in Cuba's history. Fidel Castro's stepping down is an essential first step, but it is sadly insufficient in bringing freedom to Cuba.
Cuba's future should be determined by the Cuban people and not by an anti-democratic successor regime. The prompt release of all prisoners of conscience wrongly jailed for standing up for the basic freedoms too long denied to the Cuban people would mark an important break with the past. It's time for these heroes to be released.
If the Cuban leadership begins opening Cuba to meaningful democratic change, the United States must be prepared to begin taking steps to normalize relations and to ease the embargo of the last five decades. The freedom of the Cuban people is a cause that should bring the Americans together.

Exploring Bill Richardson’s ‘New Realism’

Matthew Negrete — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:40:48 EST

In the January/February 2008 edition of the Foreign Affairs Journal, Democratic presidential candidate (at the time) Bill Richardson wrote an impressive essay titled, A New Realism: A Realistic and Principled Foreign Policy. The summary for this essay is as follows:

The United States needs a foreign policy that is based on reality and is loyal to American values. The next U.S. president needs to send a clear signal to the world that America has turned the corner and will once again be a leader rather than a unilateralist loner. Getting out of Iraq and restoring our reputation are necessary first steps toward a new strategy of U.S. global engagement and leadership.

You can also read essays from other presidential candidates on the Foreign Affair’s Campaign 2008 site. As a note, I have written my commentary on Barack Obama’s essay awhile back.

Benazir Bhutto and Pakistan

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 23:46:21 EST

On Thursday, December 27, former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was assassinated during an election rally for her political party in Rawalpindi. Accordingly, Barack Obama has released his statement concerning her death:

I am shocked and saddened by the death of Benazir Bhutto in this terrorist atrocity. She was a respected and resilient advocate for the democratic aspirations of the Pakistani people. We join with them in mourning her loss, and stand with them in their quest for democracy and against the terrorists who threaten the common security of the world.

In the following commentary, I will focus on the unfolding events thus far, a brief historical background of Pakistan as it relates to Ms. Bhutto, and Pakistan policy.

CNN: 'Analysis: Bush's Pakistan policy -- forget "Plan B," time for "Plan C"'

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 23:26:33 EST

The following is an analysis, Bush's Pakistan policy -- forget 'Plan B,' time for 'Plan C,' made by CNN White House correspondent Ed Henry.

Excerpt:

What's next for the U.S. in Pakistan?
That's the burning question President Bush must contemplate as he tries to get some down time for the New Year's holiday.
He has a slew of foreign policy challenges to confront in 2008 -- ranging from Iraq to Afghanistan, Iran and North Korea to name just a few.
Perhaps none is as pressing on January 1 as the unfolding crisis in the wake of the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

UNICEF: 'Little respite for Iraq’s children in 2007'

Matthew Negrete — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 21:56:29 EST

The following United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) report, Little respite for Iraq’s children in 2007, describes the current situation concerning children in Iraq.

Excerpt:

An estimated two million children in Iraq continue to face threats including poor nutrition, disease and interrupted education.
Iraqi children were frequently caught in the crossfire of conflict throughout 2007. Insecurity and displacement continues to cause hardship for many in the most insecure parts of the country and further eroded access to quality essential services country-wide. Iraq remains volatile; however conditions begin to allow for more a concerted effort to deliver assistance.

It mentions UNICEF funding into immunization campaigns, education, and relief for local communities.

More Foresight, Less Hindsight Needed in Foreign Policy

Scott A. Giordano — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 19:41:30 EST

Why Obama fits the bill ...

The Democrats in the Final Iowa Debate: Winning the Hearts of Voters

Matthew Negrete — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:48:54 EST

The Democrats held a presidential debate this past Thursday, December 13, in Iowa. The contenders were Senator Barack Obama (IL), Senator Joe Biden (DE), Senator Hillary Clinton (NY), Senator Chris Dodd (CT), former Senator John Edwards (NC), and Governor Bill Richardson (NM). Former Senator Mike Gravel (AK) and Congressman Dennis Kucinich (OH) did not meet the criteria to attend the debate.

The Des Moines Register wrote in Why Kucinich isn't in the Democratic debate?:

Neither Dennis Kucinich nor Mike Gravel had a campaign office in Iowa by the Oct. 1 deadline, according to reports filed with the Federal Election Commission. Gravel also did not have any paid staff in the state by the deadline.

This debate was hosted by The Des Moines Register and was shown on Iowa Public Television, although some of the major networks, such as CNN, Fox News Channel, and others broadcast the event. It was moderated by the editor of The Register Carolyn Washburn. As a note, I found this debate to be much more civilized than the previous.

Kosovo: What Happens Now?

Matthew Negrete — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 23:51:36 EST

The United Nations deadline to figure out the future of Kosovo has come to an end on December 10. The European Union has failed to produce an agreement. So, the question now is, what happens next? As a note, you may want to read Dr. Mark Elrod’s Countdown on Kosovo.

Hillary Dealt the Losing Hand in Vegas, the Democrats Debate

Matthew Negrete — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 00:58:20 EST

On Thursday, November 15, the seven Democratic presidential candidates debated the issues in Las Vegas, Nevada at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV). This debate was broadcasted on Cable News Network (CNN) with moderator Wolf Blitzer. As the title partially suggests, this debate further spiraled in the contest between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. The candidates at this intense debate were Senator Barack Obama (IL), Senator Joe Biden (DE), Senator Hillary Clinton (NY), Senator Chris Dodd (CT), former Senator John Edwards (NC), Congressman Dennis Kucinich (OH), and Governor Bill Richardson (NM). Former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel was not invited due to the CNN criteria-failure of raising $1,000,000, in which, his campaign has reported $240,000, thus far. In this post, I will highlight the foreign policy issues, as well as, the building rivalry between Senators Clinton and Obama, and why I did not like the quality of the debate.

The Dilemma: Justice vs. National Sentiment

Matthew Negrete — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 13:50:35 EST

Recently, I have come across an interesting story by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), EU positive on Balkan entry bids. The European Union is seeking to expand its membership to include western Balkan countries, which are Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia and Serbia. The main focal point will be the dilemma question that comes with membership. I will also focus on some of the recent and historic events in these countries as it relates to their entry bids. As a note, you may also be interested in reading my two posts related to the Balkans, The Kosovo Question and The Future of Kosovo.

Chicago Defender: Senator Obama: 'Violence against women, at home and abroad, must cease'

Matthew Negrete — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 19:05:05 EDT

The following is an op-ed by Barack Obama titled, Violence against women, at home and abroad, must cease, for the Chicago Defender. You can also share Senator Obama's statement with family, friends, and others by filling the form.

The op-ed begins below:

The Democrats Truly Square Off in the MSNBC-Pennsylvania Presidential Debate

Matthew Negrete — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:56:24 EDT

On October 30, 2007, seven of the eight Democratic presidential contenders faced off at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was moderated by Brian Williams and Tim Russert. The seven candidates that participated were Senator Barack Obama (IL), Senator Joe Biden (DE), Senator Hillary Clinton (NY), Senator Chris Dodd (CT), former Senator John Edwards (NC), Congressman Dennis Kucinich (OH), and Governor Bill Richardson (NM). Former Alaska Senator Mike Gravel did not meet the three criteria to participate, which was based on not campaigning in Iowa and New Hampshire, polled below 5 percent, and did not raise $1,000,000 for his campaign. Senator Gravel wrote his rebuttal at the Huffington Post, titled Why NBC and the DNC Want Me Out of the Debates.

This debate brought forth the first beginnings of the candidates taking their gloves off and making distinctions from Hillary Clinton. The debate covered several issues from Iran, Social Security, to UFO (unidentified flying object) sightings. This was probably the best debate since the discussion hosted by CNN and YouTube. With 63 days to the Iowa caucus, this intensity came at the right time. If you did not watch the debate, MSNBC has the transcript on-line.

The United Nations: Past, Present...and Future?

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 22:25:27 EDT

This past October 24 was the 62nd anniversary of the United Nations. This supranational organization has faced many different situations under a number of secretary-generals. Where is the U.N. heading and how is its effectiveness? Before I can answer this question, I will briefly discuss two supranational predecessors. As a note, you may also want to read Emma's blog post, Why Obama should celebrate U.N. Day.

Why Obama is Correct to Openly Confront Musharaff and Pakistan

Scott A. Giordano — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 12:57:48 EDT

Newsweek reports on Islamic militants operating freely in Pakistan, calling it the most dangerous nation in the world.

Are U.S. Ties with Turkey Deteriorating?

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 23:56:34 EDT

This past week, the ties between the United States and Turkey have been strained. The escalation of events began with the passing of a non-binding resolution (known as House Resolution 106), through the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The question was whether events that took place during the First World War with Turkish pursuit of Armenians were considered genocide. The Foreign Affairs Committee has voted that genocide took place.

Union Leader: 'Sen. Barack Obama: Five years after Iraq war vote, we're still foolishly rattling our sabers'

Matthew Negrete — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 11:50:49 EDT

The following is a commentary by Barack Obama, Five years after Iraq war vote, we're still foolishly rattling our sabers, in the Union Leader.

[Commentary begins below]

Obama Wants More Answers on Iraq

Scott A. Giordano — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 19:11:57 EDT

Obama Calls on Bush to Release Info on Private Security Contractors in Iraq.

The MSNBC New Hampshire Democratic Presidential Debate

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 23:36:13 EDT

This past Wednesday, the eight Democratic Presidential candidates squared off in their seventh debate at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. It was broadcasted on MSNBC with Tim Russert as moderator. The eight candidates who participated were Senator Barack Obama (IL), Senator Joe Biden (DE), Senator Hillary Clinton (NY), Senator Chris Dodd (CT), former Senator John Edwards (NC), former Senator Mike Gravel (AK), Representative Dennis Kucinich (OH), and former Governor Bill Richardson (NM). I will, as usual, analyze on the foreign policy issues of the debate.

The Defeat of U.S. Senate Amendments to Change Iraq Policy

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 22:48:43 EDT

This past week was very important for Iraq policy proposals for the United States Senate. I will focus on four amendments brought forth by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Russ Feingold (D-WI), Carl Levin (D-MI), and Jim Webb (D-VA). I will also include how Democratic Presidential candidates (Senators Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, and Chris Dodd) voted. Overall, the proposals for change in Iraq were defeated.

Jimmy Carter's Commentary 'Mixed message on nuclear weapons'

Matthew Negrete — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 13:19:15 EDT

The following is former U.S. President Jimmy Carter's commentary, Mixed message on nuclear weapons, which was published in the Chicago Tribune. He explains his position and critique on the current policy. The commentary begins below:

The Future of Kosovo

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 18:41:53 EDT

Over the past several months, the agreement over the future of Kosovo has stalled. The United Nations (U.N.) has administered Kosovo, since the 1999 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) campaign, which drove out the Serbian Army. The discussion concerns whether Kosovo should be granted independence from Serbia and what would be the best solution.

The Question of the 'Balancing Act' in Global Politics

Matthew Negrete — Mon, 03 Sep 2007 13:52:16 EDT

The events that have occurred during this decade, which includes the war in Afghanistan, the Iraq War, the growth of Iranian influence, among other issues, brings forth a very important question. Is the balance of political influence and power still an issue worth observing? This foreign policy analysis will bring forth many questions that could be fueled for discussion concerning the progression toward twenty-first-century foreign relations.

An Important Week in Endorsements and Foreign Policy

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 20:08:00 EDT

This past week is one of the most memorable moments for Barack Obama and U.S. foreign policy in newscasts. Senator Obama has received two important endorsements and laid out his plan for Cuba. Also, several important figures have taken positions on the future of Iraq and Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki.

The ABC Iowa Democratic Debate

Matthew Negrete — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 19:01:04 EDT

Yesterday, the Democratic Presidential hopefuls participated in the ABC Iowa Debates. It was part of a special edition of This Week, moderated by George Stephanopoulos. The presidential candidates present at this debate were Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, Joe Biden, Dennis Kucinich, Chris Dodd, and Mike Gravel. The issues debated included experience, prayer, education, and other issues. I will analyze what I felt were noteworthy moments concerning U.S. foreign policy issues and my critique of the debate and Barack Obama’s performance.

Clarence Page's Column 'Obama's international melodrama'

Matthew Negrete — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 11:37:18 EDT

I came across a column from Clarence Page, titled, Obama's international melodrama. In particular, I found his question on "actionable intelligence," noteworthy.

The AFL-CIO Democratic Presidential Debate

Matthew Negrete — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 21:07:47 EDT

This past Tuesday, seven of the eight Democratic Presidential candidates debated in the AFL-CIO Forum at Soldier Field in Chicago. It was broadcasted on MSNBC and moderated by Keith Olbermann. The candidates addressed and answered the questions on issues ranging from Obama's counterterrorism strategy, the growing influence of China, to the outsourcing of jobs. The seven candidates, who wooed current and potential supporters, were Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, Dennis Kucinich, Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, and Bill Richardson. The only presidential contender not invited was Mike Gravel. The controversy was surrounded by the AFL-CIO contending that Gravel did not fill a questionnaire on time. He has called the AFL-CIO's reason a poor excuse, since he has worked with labor issues for many years. I will analyze the foreign policy issues that I found noteworthy.

Barack Obama's Counterterrorism Strategy

Matthew Negrete — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 14:40:39 EDT

Yesterday, Barack Obama gave his speech at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars addressing terrorism. He, indeed, has given a comprehensive speech. His strategy is broken down into areas that include switching the battlefield from Iraq to Afghanistan and Pakistan, political and economic solutions, improving intelligence and security, and improving the American-image. A certain portion of his strategy to counter terrorism has received much controversy. As president, Obama has mentioned possible military intervention in Pakistan. I will critique on this subject, as well as, other parts of his speech that I found noteworthy.

Barack Obama’s Diplomatic Leadership

Matthew Negrete — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:18:11 EDT

This past Monday, the eight Democratic presidential candidates describe their positions in the historic CNN/YouTube Debate at the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. I will focus on a particular moment that has received news coverage. This pertains to the very brewing controversy between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton concerning diplomacy.

The Democratic Presidential CNN/YouTube Debate

Matthew Negrete — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:13:11 EDT

This past Monday, the eight Democratic presidential candidates held their fourth discussion on the main issues in the historic CNN/YouTube Debate at the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. This debate was formatted on questions via video that were submitted by YouTube users. Then, CNN selected what they perceived were the best and most creative questions, and they were played live during the debate to the Democratic candidates. The contenders for the presidential nomination included Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, Dennis Kucinich, Joe Biden, Bill Richardson, Mike Gravel, and Chris Dodd. If you missed the debate, you can watch it on YouTube.

Barack Obama's Foreign Affairs Essay

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 07 Jul 2007 17:11:00 EDT

In the July/August 2007 magazine issue of Foreign Affairs, Barack Obama wrote a very interesting foreign policy essay titled, Renewing American Leadership. He discusses topics that affect the U.S. and global community, such as security, ending the war in Iraq, the future of the military, the threat of nuclear weapons, restoring U.S. image abroad, and reestablish American trust in foreign policy matters. I will analyze some areas of this essay that I found interesting and noteworthy.

Third Round of Presidential Debates

Matthew Negrete — Sat, 30 Jun 2007 18:49:48 EDT

The third Democratic Presidential debate, called the All-American Presidential Forum, took place this past Thursday at Howard University, a historical African-American university. The eight contenders each tried to win over African-American voters with issues, such as racial profiling, HIV/AIDS, Hurricane Katrina, and the current situation in Africa. The eight candidates that participated were Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, Dennis Kucinich, Joe Biden, Bill Richardson, Mike Gravel, and Chris Dodd.

Gordon Brown Moves in, Tony Blair Moves on

Matthew Negrete — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 17:07:04 EDT

Today, after serving a decade in office, Tony Blair steps down as British Prime Minister. Blair’s chancellor, Gordon Brown, has become Britain’s new Prime Minister. Blair had vowed to serve his full third term, but pressures within his Labour Party led him to leave early. One of the reasons for his unpopularity was his initial and continuing support for the War in Iraq. As he was leaving, Tony Blair commented on the issue, "I am truly sorry about the dangers that they (British soldiers) face today." He continued to reaffirm his decision stating that the war was not in vain.

The Palestinian Conflict

Matthew Negrete — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 00:00:52 EDT

The recent events concerning the Israelis and Palestinians have caused a possible setback in peace talks. These complications have begun last week when the Palestinian group, Hamas, took control of the Gaza Strip. In response, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who belongs to the rival group, Fatah, set up an emergency government, excluding Hamas. The United States and Israel offered their support for President Abbas’ decision. Today, the Egyptians have suggested hosting a Middle East summit, which will include Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and the U.S. Earlier this week, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter criticized U.S. and Israeli policy toward the Palestinians. I will focus on how Carter’s critique has substance.

The New Hampshire Presidential Debates

Matthew Negrete — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 22:51:04 EDT

This past Sunday, the eight Democratic Presidential candidates concluded their second debate at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire. The same eight from the first debate included Barack Obama, John Edwards, Hillary Clinton, Bill Richardson, Joe Biden, Dennis Kucinich, Chris Dodd, and Mike Gravel.

The Kosovo Question

Matthew Negrete — Wed, 16 May 2007 00:19:33 EDT

This week, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss issues ranging from missile defense to discussing the future status of Kosovo. Although the development of a missile defense system is a hot topic, I would like to discuss the latter, since it has not been given considerable attention since the NATO campaign in 1999.

Peace in the Middle East

Matthew Negrete — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 23:14:13 EDT

Peace in the Middle East has been a longtime goal ever since the expiration of the British Mandate of Palestine in 1948. This process has followed a series of up-and-downs over the decades. Israel and the Arab states fought several conflicts, which included the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, 1956 Suez conflict, Six-Day War of 1967, and the October/Yom Kippur War of 1973, among others. I would like to note that Israel took control of the territories during the 1967 war, which constituted the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Golan Heights (Syria), Sinai Peninsula (Egypt - though this would be settled in 1979), and Shebaa Farms (dispute over whether it is part of Lebanon or the Golan Heights).