Paul G. Buchanan

Change of Guard Ceremony, Government House, Suva. Republic of Fiji Military Forces hand over guardship to Republic of Fiji Police. Photo: Republic of Fiji Military Forces (http://www.rfmf.mil.fj/news/Change%20of%20Guards.html) .

That has led observers to question the RFMF’s commitment to democracy, and led some to wonder if the elections will even be held as scheduled. As things stand a constituent assembly selected from a variety of stake-holding groups by current Prime Minister, Commodore Frank Baimimarama, will be convened in March 2013 with a charge to deliver the constitution for ratification by September. Once ratified, that constitution will be the foundational charter under which the September 2014 elections will be held.

There appears to be a consensus amongst foreign observers that the military objections to the draft charter are a sign of its reneging on its promise to restore democratic governance in 2014. Many see this as a sign of bad faith on the part of Commodore Baimimarama and the RFMF. In truth, this view may have neglected what the RFMF had in mind all along when it proposed the 2014 elections and hand-over date. What it had in mind was not a liberal democracy akin to those of its traditional patrons. Instead, what it envisioned, and which it has been pretty honest about when speaking of its vision of Fiji’s political future, is something that emerged in the 1980s and 1990s in Latin America, the Eastern Meditteranean and Southeast Asia: a “protected” or “guarded” democracy as a successor the the military-authoritarian regime. In spite of their socio-cultural and structural differences, post-military authoritarian Turkey, Brazil, Chile and South Korea represent good examples of the phenomena.

The concept is neither new or novel, and the learning curve derived from the precedent of larger countries is clear in the Fijian case. Fijian use of comparative referents is not unusual in any event.

Before detailing the specifics of “guarded” democratic regimes and the future of such in Fiji, it is worth reviewing some basic issues in constitution-drafting. Constitutions basically outline procedural and substantive guarantees. Procedural guarantees refers to the rules of the political “game:” who gets to vote, how they vote, how the votes are counted, who is eligible for office, how voting is apportioned, the duties and responsibilities of government and its respective agencies, the rights are people entitled to in and outside of the political process, etc. Substantive guarantees refer to the privileges accorded citizens: free speech, freedom of thought, association and movement, the right to cultural autonomy and identity, and often much more. Some constitutions are drafted along “minimalist” lines in that they refer mostly to procedural rather than substantive guarantees. Others are more ambitious, detailing substantive rights to education, health, housing, welfare, caloric intake, a role in governance and redress for past injustices. It goes without saying that the latter are harder to implement. In most instances constitutions are a blend of procedural and substantive guarantees, usually with an eye to providing the basic foundations for governance in which the rule of law can apply (and in which substantive guarantees can be negotiated).

Unlike limited democracies, in which the franchise and collective rights are circumscribed, in guarded democracies there are no limitations on individual or collective freedoms, including the right to vote. Nor is the military directly involved in politics. Instead, in a guarded democracy the military serves as an unelected overseer of the political system precisely because it sees itself as an apolitical, autonomous and professional commonweal organization not beholden to partisan interests. Military entrepreneurial activity (in the form of military and state-operated enterprises and public-private partnerships) and bureaucratic entrenchment (what Alain Rouquie called the “colonization” of the state by the armed forces) facilitate the military withdrawal from politics.

If the civilian government operates within the operational and policy parameters established by the military in the transition to electoral rule, then the military stays in the barracks and out of politics. It is only when civilian authorities are perceived by the military hierarchy to be overstepping their bounds (as defined by the military), that the armed forces as an institution intervene in the political process. This makes the military the power behind the throne and encourages self-limiting behavior on the part of civilian political elites.

Getting the opposition to agree to compete under the constitutional framework and electoral rules of the military regime, and to accept military oversight upon entering government, is a two-step “pact-making” process. Transitions from military-buraucratic regimes often involve implicit or explicit “pacts” between political elites. The first step in the pact-making sequence is agreement amongst opposition factions to compete under military tutelage. The second step is the reaching of agreement between the united (f not unified) political opposition and the military elite on accepting the rules in exchange for the outcome. The opposition agrees to compete under military-imposed conditions and the military agrees to accept the electoral result regardless of who wins. Under those “pacted” conditions the military relinquishes overt control of government while retaining guarantees of its institutional interests.

From its statements the Fijian military regime has been clear in what it expects of the new constitution. First, it expects that the concept of one adult citizen=one vote will apply. Second, it expects that all ethnic and sectoral preferences in politics will be eliminated. Third, it expects that public service autonomy and freedom from political interference will be enshrined in law (ostensibly as an anti-corruption measure but also as a means of ensuring the positions of the numerous military and ex-military appointees hired into the public service over the last six years). Fourth, it expects that the military will be allocated the role of “guardian” of the nation, including oversight and veto power over the policy decisions of elected civilian political authorities. The latter, which is a substantive guarantee to the RFMF, is designed as a check on the demagogic and populist instincts of civilian politicians. Coupled with the pro-military bias of the post-authoritarian public bureaucracy, this limits the effective power of civilian government when it comes to making policy or political choices inimical to the military vision of the “proper” role of civilian elected authority in the Fijian context.

Although there are many specific points of detail in its ideal version, the Baimimarama regime prefers a constitution with a broad procedural minimum and selective substantive guarantees that favor military institutional interests.

Leaked copy of Draft Fijian Constitution. Photo: Australian Network News (www.abc.net.au)

That is why the RFMF has rejected the draft constitution. Due to the tone of the rejection and the often personalized nature of the remarks of military spokespeople with regard to the reasons for the rejection, the regime will not request revisions from the international consitution-drafting committee. Instead, the regime will use offer its own revised constitutional template as the basis for the deliberations of the constituent assembly.  This includes elimination of provisions drafted by the Constitutional Committee that give civil society actors a formal place in political decision-making and agenda-setting, and insertion of military guarantees along the lines mentioned above. The March 2013 date for appointment of the constituent assembly will go ahead on schedule, as will the September 2013 delivery and ratification of the new constitution. Regardless of the concerns of foreign and domestic actors about the nature of the post-authoritarian regime, Commodore Baimimarama and his supporters have the dominant position in the lead-up to these milestones.

The regime’s position is strengthened because large parts of Fijian society support its views on constitutional reform, and it has the support of foreign states, China and Russia in particular, regardless of the final charter or the nature of the post-authoritarian regime. So long as that regime meets its (diplomatic, social and economic) contractual obligations to its supporters and foreign states, it will be seen as legitimate in the eyes of the majority of domestic and foreign actors.

This leaves the domestic opposition as well as foreign states that support a complete transition to elected civilian rule in a quandary. Some foreign actors such as Australia and New Zealand have financially supported the constitutional panel’s draft-making, and have tacitly admitted that the previous sanctions regime imposed on the military authoritarians by a group of Western states has failed.  The domestic opposition has been vocal about its opprobrium of Commodore Baimimarama and his colleagues, seeing no role for them, either individually or institutionally, in the post-authoritarian regime. Yet neither set of actors can play a dominant role in, much less set the terms of the negotiations that will determine the final constitutional draft submitted in September 2013.

In light of these factors, it would seem that the best option for “pro-democracy”  interests to regard the constitution-drafting process and subsequent elections leading to a “guarded” democracy as a step forward towards “genuine” democracy rather than as a reneging on a promise by the Baimimarama regime. Given realities on the ground, adoption of the latter posture will be counter-productive and further alienate the Fijian civil-military coalition from foreign and domestic interlocutors. Adoption of the former stance allows these interlocutors to stay in the game, metaphorically speaking, in order to pursue an incremental gains strategy in which the gradual evolution towards liberal democracy (which includes military subordination to civilian elected authority and institutions) is advanced. That may be a long-term game, but it could well be the only game with a chance of success if success is defined as the end of military guardianship of elected government.

Already, differences in approach are evident between key foreign states. Australia has responded with caution, agreeing with some of the Baimimarama regime’s objections to the draft charter. This appears indicative of an incremental gains approach to the issue of Fijian democratization. New Zealand and Samoa have responded more negatively, arguing that the rejection of the draft constitution is evidence of the military regime’s disinterest in real democratic promotion. The US and other external actors, to include China, India and Russia, have remained largely silent on the matter, which in diplomatic parlance equates to tacit acceptance of the regime’s position.

Foreign non-governmental organizations, including the international union movement, also take a negatively absolutist stance, decrying a dictatorial take-over of the constitution-drafting process. The trouble with the negatively absolutist view is that it offers no incentive structure for the Fijian regime to do anything other than its current course of action. Moreover, the disincentive structure that it favors, sanctions, suspensions and exclusion, simply have not and will not work. Thus those who advocate such a view, be they states or non-state actors, have no leverage in the process. That is why, even if by default or as a second-best option, the incremental gains strategy is the best option for those interested in seeing Fiji progress away from military-authoritarian rule.

Links:

Fijian Constitutional Committee

Party Rules

Constitutional Process Decree 2012

Draft 2013 Constitutional Appendages.

Citizens Constitutional Forum.

 Lowry Institute Assessment

Assessments by International Journal of Constitutional law and Constitution-Making (includes links to draft 2013 constitution and previous commentary).

David Beatson, “Fiji’s Dose of Khaki Democracy.”

Historical Antecedents.

Paul G. Buchanan

“Fratricide.” Reza Karimi. (Source: www.iranianpainting.com/fratricide.htm)

Analytic Brief: Political Fratricide.

Paul G. Buchanan

Analysis – By Paul G. Buchanan.

Elite practice of relocating to a foreign country on a permanent or semi-permanent basis is not new. It has been the privilege of the wealthy to seek tax havens, privacy, investment diversification, better education, criminal immunity, political refuge or holiday relief in foreign climes. Elites regularly commute between countries and hold residence in more than one. In small island states such as those in the South Pacific, royalty and nobles have been exported abroad as a political diffusion measure. Because there are limited formal positions of authority in the home country and those depend on purity of lineage and age, sending lesser nobles abroad helps dissipate potential unrest while at the same time extending elite influence in the diaspora. The historical variations on elite translocation are many but there is one common theme: they maintain a permanent connection to if not presence in their country of origin.

The practice has taken on a new characteristic, where political and corporate elites permanently move their families as well as their assets abroad as insurance against possible economic, social or regime instability. Unlike the waves of elite emigration that characterized Latin America in the 1960s through the 1980s (out of fear of revolution), the flight of Persian elites after the fall of the Shah in 1979 (also because of revolution) or the white migration out of South Africa or Zimbabwe after majority rule was established (which was born of racially-based fear), this is not involuntary exile, be it political or economic in motivation. Nor is it the tried and true practice of working and middle class emigration in pursuit of opportunity. This is an elite practice, done voluntarily and done permanently..

It is not a case of fleeing from criminal prosecution or political persecution. It is not a case of educational migration with an eye towards inter-generational return, such as amongst South Korean “goose families.” Although it involves elements of such, it is not merely a hedge against future economic uncertainty. If anything, it is a variation on the “naked prince” syndrome seen in China (where public and private elites send their families abroad in order to safeguard them from liability or retribution at home in the event the head of household runs into political or criminal difficulty). However, there is a significant difference to the phenomenon described here.

It is a permanent commitment to reside overseas on the part of people who are in very good standing in their home countries. Although they may act individually, their aggregate numbers classify them as a group. Because they are a group, their permanent departure from their countries of origin constitute an exodus.  Because they do so voluntarily before threats to their positions, status or livelihood are threatened, they provide an early indicator of instability in their countries of origin.

The new form of elite exodus is voluntary as well as permanent. The elites in question are not under immediate threat and retain their positions of local authority and power. Yet they choose to permanently relocate their personal lives abroad. This often starts with moving immediate family and purchasing property overseas and establishing permanent residence for them in a foreign country. It includes moving personal assets to said destinations, a practice that is often facilitated by foreign investment and visa schemes designed to attract affluent immigrants. In many instances the security bonafides of the monied entrants is left to private intermediaries. The process is most often gradual, as family and assets precede the definitive move by the main source of social authority or power in the household.

The phenomenon of elite exodus is most often seen in chronically unstable states, but in recent times has extended to what otherwise are considered rising or restored powers, China, Turkey and Russia being foremost amongst them. In unstable states elite emigration is involuntary or coerced. Yet in the latter countries large numbers of the very wealthy have voluntarily moved abroad on a permanent basis. This may be due to concerns about possible future prosecution or legal liability for economic crimes or because of a falling out with political authorities, or may be due to concerns about political oppression, unrest or social disorder in the years ahead. The key to understanding such voluntary permanent relocation as a futures indicator of instability is to understand that the elites in question make the move before their positions of power or authority come under threat.

Analysis of the economic and political backgrounds of elite voluntary exiles can reveal the class, social and political dynamics that motivated the move abroad. In is widely understood that at any given historical juncture there are ascendent and descendent class and non-class factions. Analysis of voluntary elite exodus provides a window on the dynamic between them, but not necessarily from a “losers” perspective. Ascendent elites may also see reason to park their long-term aspirations overseas.

The preferred destinations for the new wave of elite exodus are English speaking liberal democracies and traditional tax havens such as Monaco or several Caribbean island states, but countries such as Singapore also figure as attractive alternatives. The key points of attraction appear to be a combination of market economies, low taxes, strong educational, legal and financial systems, loose immigration and investment  requirements, already established expat populations and stable governance.

Although the elite exodus has economic benefits for the countries of destination, the latter run the risk of seeing at least some of these transferred elites bring unreconstructed attitudes of entitlement, power and influence to their new homes. This is not so much a problem in non-democratic states such as Singapore, which already have highly stratified societies governed by insulated elites with limited vertical accountability. For liberal democracies, the infusion of foreign elites with ascriptive and hierarchical attitudes towards social organization can pose potential problems of assimilation and conformity to the established social order and political rules of the game. Given their wealth and influence, such dispositions amongst at least some elite immigrants might prove pernicious to the host country.

Whatever the orientation of the elites in question, the bottom line is that the new form of voluntary elite exodus provides a long-range futures forecast (or early warning) on regime, social or economic instability in their native countries. Analysis of the specific basis of elite power in the home country (for example, whether they made their fortunes or held power in the private or public sector) can help pinpoint potential areas of unrest in those countries as well as the assimilation potential of the translocated elites into the economic, social and political systems of the countries to which they are emigrating. Trends in the number of foreign elite visa applications, the type of visas applied for and the nature of investment inquiries also provide indicators of foreign elite interests and concerns in their home countries as well as their perception of opportunities structures in destination countries.

Links.

• Globalprosperity.wordpress.com – The Korean Goose Family Phenomena -Educational Migrants
• Worldcrunch.com – China, Businessmen Hedging Their Bets Abroad
• http://www.economist.com/node/21555961
• http://watchdog-watcher.com/2012/05/25/how-to-hide-your-wealth/#more-478
• http://usa.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-09/23/content_15775850.htm
• http://money.msn.com/investing/latest.aspx?post=9852691a-8797-40d9-99ba-3ab1ffb5c242

Balaji Chandramohan and Paul G. Buchanan

Introduction.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s visit to India follows and will be followed by important politico-military changes in what has come to be known as the Indo-Pacific region. The foremost of these is strengthening defense co-operation between India, Japan, the United States, Vietnam, South Korea, New Zealand and Australia.  The new strategic arc in the Indo-Pacific is outlined in two documents published by the United States government: the US Quadrennial Defense Review (2010) and the subsequent Pentagon document on strategic guidance titled “Sustaining Global Leadership: Priorities for Twenty-First Century (January 2012). A core of US strategy is to re-deploy military assets, including the bulk of its carrier and submarine fleets, in the Asia-Pacific region. With that re-positioning in mind, U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta recently asserted that defense cooperation with India is “a linchpin in US strategy” in Asia.

If India is a linchpin of US strategy in the Indo-Pacific, Australia is the hub around which the spokes of US power projection are extended through South-East Asia into the Southwestern Pacific and Indian Ocean. As aspiring Great Powers, India and Australia have begun pursuing bilateral strategic ties while strengthening their respective strategic relationships with other countries in the US-aligned strategic arc, including Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia (with overtures now being made to Myanmar). India has extended its reach further by starting to engage in security co-operation with New Zealand, which has its own web of defense links to the Indo-Pacific coalition. The core of the strategic ties that bind together the coalition (which has yet to be formalized into an alliance) is concern with rising Chinese power projection superimposed on historic rivalries and territorial disputes between coalition members and the Peoples Republic of China (PRC).

Although India and Australia have yet to reach consensus on specific aspects of their relationship, there is agreement on the need to place more importance on their bilateral relationship given their emerging convergence on strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific region. Beyond the mutual concern with the PRC’s growing regional presence, other issues such as the need for stable government in Afghanistan and Pakistan and the need to fight piracy, human trafficking and other maritime criminal behavior help facilitate dovetailing of their respective strategic perspectives.

The recently published White Paper on Australia in the Asian Century confirms Australia’s commitment to strengthening its ties with and presence in the region. Although the emphasis of the Paper’s recommendations targets East and Southeast Asia, it would be remiss and incomplete if the Australian strategy in Asia did not include India as a significant component. Likewise, India cannot advance its interests in Asia without finding common ground with Australia on matters of strategic import.

India views Australia as the major United States ally in the Southern Hemisphere. Indian policy makers took special note of the 2012 trip to Australia by president Barack Obama and the US-Australian agreement to permanently base a 2500-troop strong US Marine Task Force in Darwin. Indian strategic planners increasingly view Australia as the vital cog around which the newly emerging security architecture in the Indo-Pacific is being built. They also accept at face value Secretary Panetta’s characterization of India as a linchpin of US security strategy in the Indo-Pacific and therefore want to be accorded a measure of respect commensurate with that status. That is as true for India’s relationship with Australia as it is for its relationship with the US.

That opens the door to potential disagreements. In spite of overtures such as Prime Minister Gillard’s recent state visit, many Indian decision-makers do not believe that Australia is ready to accept the fact that India is a great power in the Indo-Pacific. They perceive that Australian disregard for or downplaying of Indian strategic ambitions occurs in spite of India’s established role as a regional power in South Asia, where it sees itself to be a buffer against attempts by non-democratic regimes in the Eurasian heartland to spread their influence in Southeast Asia. They maintain that as part of that role India has been important in deterring potential threats to Australia’s sea lanes of communication, which given the export driven nature of the Australian economy has indirectly helped in Australia’s rise as a potential great power in its own right.

India points to concrete evidence of its commitment to the Indo-Pacific. After decades of working under a strategic perspective that gave primacy to its role as a continental regional power in South Asia, since the end of the Cold War India has moved to pursue a more balanced approach that includes development of a robust maritime strategy focused on power projection deep into the Indian Ocean and littoral waters of the Eastern Indian Ocean all the way to and through the Malaccan Straits. This revised strategic outlook was formalized in the Look East policy announced in 1991.

If not explicitly phrased as such, the Look East policy is primarily aimed at curtailing India’s self-defined greatest security threat, the PRC, in Southeast Asia. Indian strategic circles are largely united around the Look East policy, which has received support from other Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. It remains to be seen whether India’s Look East policy will find support in Australia, especially considering Australia’s existing commitments with the Five Power Defense Agreement in South-East Asia (including Malaysia, Singapore, New Zealand and the UK) and the existing balance of power that it has with Indonesia.

Indian force composition, strategic culture and civil-military relations.

The Look East policy does not entirely reverse but significantly alters Indian perceptions of core and peripheral security interests. Throughout its modern history India’s core security threats have been continental, with it fighting four limited land wars with Pakistan and one with China.  This explains its continuing preoccupation with land-based threats and its pursuit of a nuclear deterrent.

The Indian Army is the second largest in the world in terms of uniformed personnel and receives the bulk of Indian defense spending (at 2.5 percent of GDP). The Indian military, which has the common tripartite division of service labor between air, naval and land forces, and a coast guard auxiliary, is organized as a traditional professional armed force with civilian control over the military. However, unlike its Antipodean counterparts and despite its primary external orientation the Indian army often is involved in internal security issues, specifically those involving counter-insurgency operations (COIN) against separatist and terrorist groups. The internal role of the Army is intimately bound up in the threat assessments of Indian intelligence and counter-intelligence, whose competence and orientation will be assessed later in the essay.

The Indian Army is organized as a regimental system along lines followed in other Commonwealth countries, but with the added factor of seven operational commands (Each command is headed by General Officer Commanding-in-Chief with the rank of Lieutenant General) modeled on the organization of the Soviet Red Army. That the Indian Army adheres to the rigid command structures of the Soviet system speaks to the problems involved in its transition from a geographically and demographically large country with marginal power to something more important.

India’s strategic culture permits a limited use of force for political objectives but has not traditionally been seen as expansionist or expeditionary. Political and military elite agreement on the limited use doctrine has helped preserve the status quo in civil-military relations. As in other democracies, India’s strategic culture is a product of the interaction between the civilian security bureaucracy (defense and foreign ministries), the military command and the political leadership, although in practice civilian input into military operational decision-making on strategic and tactical matters is limited by concerns about corporate autonomy and institutional interference.

Issues of importance related to military are not part of mainstream political discourse and periodic inter-elite disagreements on strategic matters have hindered the application of a consistent security policy over time. This leads to episodic contradictions in operationalizing Indian grand strategy, something that has been reflected in the occasional drift to or from pro-western and anti-western stances as well as calls for strategic autonomy.

In terms of formal organization of the national security apparatus, the National Security Council (NSC) (modeled on the United States) is the apex agency looking into the political, economic, energy and security concerns that are at the heart of Indian strategic policy.

The Chief Executive of the National Security Council is the National Security Advisor (NSA) who is also a member of the council. The NSA is the primary security advisor to the Prime Minister and the Indian Cabinet Committee on Security.

The three-tiered organization of the NSC includes the Strategic Policy Group (SPG), the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) and the Joint Intelligence Committee, which is represented by a Secretariat (this secretariat functions under the cabinet secretariat).

The Strategic Policy Group consists of senior civil servants drawn from security-related agencies, the Chiefs of the three services, representatives from the intelligence community and the scientific advisor to the ministry of defense.

The JIC analyzes intelligence data from the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and the Directorates of the three service intelligence agencies. There is very little intelligence co-operation with other intelligence agencies and there is no collection of data from external sources as the IB is wary of intelligence agencies of other countries penetrating its own ranks. Indian intelligence agencies do not usually share data with the Central Intelligence Agency and M15 (or those of their intelligence partners such as Australia), as it fears that the information could be passed on to Pakistan to which the latter agencies have active contacts. However, Indian intelligence agencies have close contacts with Israel’s Mossad, especially on counter-terrorist operations, given their common concern with Islamicist extremism.

Formed in 1968, RAW has an external focus and is modeled on the CIA.  It has reportedly stopped its active espionage work following the so-called “Gujral Doctrine” (enunciated by Indian Prime Minister I.K Gujral in 1997). Interestingly, RAW’s funding is not included in the annual Indian budget so it is difficult to ascertain the full extent of its scope.

The IB has an internal focus and is officially under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), but in practice the Director IB (DIB) is a member of the Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC) and Steering Committee and has the authority to brief the Prime Minister should the need arise. Otherwise, intelligence inputs go through the regular channels in the MHA to the JIC. The collection mechanisms of the IB vary depending on the region, but the IB operates both at the state level and the national level.

The Defense Intellligence Agency (DIA) formed in 2002 is headed by the Director General who co-ordinates inputs from the intelligence wings of the three armed services.

The Indian Army retains its own Military Intelligence wing, which is headed by a Director-General at the rank of Lieutenant General who reports to the Indian Army Chief (rather than the DIA). Army MI keeps a relatively low profile event though it has 700 officers and over 3,000 enlisted personnel. It is still tiny when compared to RAW and the IB, whose combined staff numbers are considered to be around 25,000. In recent years, Army intelligence has assumed a more significant role than the RAW in external intelligence collection. It works closely with India’s friendly countries such as Myanmar, Israel, Afghanistan and Vietnam.

The third tier of the NSC, the NSAB consists of persons of eminence outside the Government with expertise in external security, strategic analysis, foreign affairs and defence. It has no operational authority and serves as an advisory board to intelligence and political decision-makers.

The Ministry of Defence handles matters related to personnel, financial and resource management. All of the three military services have their own independent think tanks, with a newly formed policy-unit for Joint Warfare that reports to the Integrated Defense Staff which was set up in 2001 following the recommendations of the Kargil Review Committee which was formed following the Kargil border clash with Pakistan. The IDS is the first step towards the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) which has not been taken by the Government as it not found consensus among Indian political parties. The primary aim of the Integrated Defense Staff and its policy unit Centre for Joint Warfare studies is to achieve integration and training of joint warfare professionals.

Integrated Defence Staff is headed by the Chief of Integrated Staff to Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), to support the Chiefs of Staff Committee and its Chairman in the optimal performance of their roles and functions. The CISC supervises the Integrated Defence Staff, chairs all multi-Service bodies and the Defence Crisis Management Group (DCMG) and is also responsible for the coordination of long-range plans, five year plans and annual budgetary proposals of the three Services in consultation and co-ordination with the Integrated Services Headquarters.

Despite the existence of IDS, there is an active inter-service rivalry that is reflected in the inability to agree on a unified Chief of Defense Staff modeled on the United Kingdom or a Joint Chief of Staff such as that of the United States. That impedes provision of unified professional military advice to the civilian establishment. Rather than negotiate inter-service needs and wants within the confines of a Joint Staff before presenting agreed upon proposals to the civilian defense leadership, in India each service branch lobbies the civilian elite directly.

In spite of its purported limited use policy, India’s military doctrine is phrased offensively vis a vis Pakistan, with three strike corps based in Central India forming the basis for cross-border attacks. With respect to China India’s military posture is defensive in nature, although in recent times there has been an increased call for a Mountain Strike Corps to be formed. The difference between the two postures can be ascribed to the different sizes of the opponent’s forces as well as their respective strategic depths.

In line with the evolution of 3^rd and 4^th generation warfare concepts in other countries, in recent years Indian military emphasis has turned to joint military operations. The Integrated Defence Staff has released Joint Doctrines for the Armed Forces, including the Joint Amphibious Warfare Doctrine and the Joint Special Forces Doctrine. Tri-service commands have been established, such as the Andaman and Nicobar Command (2001) and the Strategic Forces Command (2006). Major joint exercises have been undertaken in an attempt to operationalize joint doctrines. AMPHEX 07, a tri-service amphibious exercise, serves as a prime example. Defence procurement procedures now emphasize ever more heavily the benefits of tri service coordination.

Proposed Joint Doctrines include the Joint Sub-conventional Warfare Doctrine, the Joint Psychological Operations Doctrine, and the Joint Space Doctrine. The three armed services also have their own respective doctrines that place greater focus on joint operations

India has sent expeditionary forces to countries such as the Maldives in 1988, Seychelles in 1986 and Sri Lanka in 1987. These Army-led operations were done with active participation of Indian Navy. India has sent troops as part of its commitment to United Nations peacekeeping missions. India considered sending troops to Fiji after the 1987 coup but decided that it was unable to do so because of the lack of logistical lift capability needed to carry out a deployment over that distance. One of the priorities of the maritime component of the Look East policy is to be able to project force over increased distance so that such deployments become feasible within the next decade.

On the sub-continent the Indian army has also acted as a type of praetorian guard for the regimes in neighboring small states such as Nepal and Bhutan. Further, as a commitment to the 2011 strategic partnership signed with Afghanistan, the Indian army has committed to “train, equip and facilitate capacity building programmes for Afghan national security forces” after the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) drawdown is completed in 2014.

India’s military and security posture is driven largely in response to China’s military expansion while also seeking to maintain its position of strength relative to Pakistan (a Chinese ally). The PRC is already way ahead of India in terms of military capability, and its forward operating presence is already much greater as well. Not surprisingly, focus on catching up to and countering China has seen India direct increased resources towards upgrading its naval capabilities as well as modernizing its land and air forces in a measure disproportionate to the requirements of regional balancing. Even so, India has yet to develop a robust indigenous military-industrial complex befitting a great power, so unlike the PRC remains very reliant on weapons imports for military upgrading. Moreover, China now maintains a near constant naval presence in the Indian Ocean, with supply stations in Pakistan and the Seychelles part of the logistical chain involved in its “string of pearls” approach to forward naval operations.

With an approximate allocation of 50 per cent of the defence budget, the Army occupies the bulk of military expenditures, followed by the Air Force with 25 per cent and the Navy with 19 per cent. The Defence Research and Development Organization consumes six per cent of the defense budget, with the remaining funds allocated to Ordnance Factories. It is noteworthy that when compared to the previous decades’ defense budget, during the early 2000s the Indian Navy—the fifth largest in the world in terms of number of ships–has significantly increased its share of defense allocations. This demonstrates a shift within the defense establishment that if not altering the fundamentally land-based nature of the military triad certainly recognizes the need for a blue water naval capability if India is to effectively counter China and emerge as a great power in its own right. As a result, Indian naval priorities have shifted from coastal defense to maritime patrol and amphibious operations.

The Indian Navy conducts Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercises annually in order to test the readiness of the fleet to respond to maritime challenges. In concert with the emphasis on joint operations, these exercises involve elements from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and the Indian Coast Guard.

The Indian Navy has three commands – the Western, Southern and Eastern commands. The Eastern command has bases at Visakhapatnam (fleet headquarters) and Kolkata. Once the smallest of the Indian fleets, the Eastern command has grown remarkably in recent years. In 2005, it had 30 warships in its fleet. Six years later, that number has grown to 50 – roughly a third of the Indian Navy’s entire fleet strength. It is poised to expand further. It will soon have a forward base at Tuticorin and an operational turnaround base at Paradeep. In addition to naval air stations at Dega and Rajali, the Eastern command deploys the INS Parundu at Uchipuli, where UAVs are based.

The Eastern command is home to the Indian Navy’s submarine arm. India’s nuclear submarine Indian Naval Ship (INS) Arihant was constructed at Visakhapatnam. Two other nuclear submarines are reportedly being built there, and the nuclear submarine basing facilities in Visakhapatnam are being expanded (code name for the project is reportedly “Varsha”). This year it has taken possession of a Russian Akula II Class nuclear attack submarine, renamed the INS Chakra. Along with its nuclear submarines the Indian Navy currently operates 14 diesel powered submarines, which are based at Visakhapatnam and Mumbai (HQ of the Western Command).

India’s aircraft carrier INS Viraat is based in the Eastern command (although India is constructing two carriers in order to have a three carrier fleet that can protect both flanks of the Indian mainland—two deployed and one in reserve). Another Russian built carrier with a M-29 squadron is on order (INS Vikramditya, formerly the Admiral Gorshkov), but the Russian delivery as well as the indigenous construction efforts has been plagued by delays and cost overruns. That means that India is not anticipated to have a third carrier operational until at least 2018.

INS Vikramditya: Not yet deployed. Delivery date 2014.

All guided-missile destroyers (modified versions of Soviet Kashin class destroyers), which were previously part of the Western command, have joined the Eastern fleet. The amphibious vessel INS Jalashwa, previously the USS Trenton, has been put deployed under the Eastern command. It is joined by the indigenously manufactured stealth frigates INS Shivalik, INS Satpura and INS Sahyadri as well as US-manufactured P-8I Poseidon long-range maritime patrol aircraft and the Italian-made fleet tanker, INS Shakti.

The Indian Navy conducts annual multi-lateral naval war games involving the United States, Japan (most recently the ‘JIMEX 12’ bilateral exercise), Singapore and Australia (which participated in the 2007 exercise that was conducted in waters near India’s eastern command). India and the US have conducted more than 50 joint military exercises in the last seven years.  It has extended its submarine patrols into places like the Gulf of Aden and South China Sea, including one reported encounter with Chinese warships conducting anti-piracy patrols off the Somalian coast.

The sum effect of these changes in force composition and deployment is that India is working hard to develop a blue water joint force expeditionary capability that is increasingly oriented towards the Indo-Pacific as a priority area of operations. Although it retains its majority focus on land-based threats due to the geopolitical position it finds itself in, India has formalized its commitment to the Look East strategy by strengthening its military capability and security relationships in the Indo-Pacific during the last decade, something that will continue in the years ahead.

The Strategic Impact of India on Australia.

During the Cold War Australia paid little heed to Indian strategic objectives. India did likewise with regard to Australia. Post-colonial affinities notwithstanding, India’s non-aligned orientation and limited power projection capacity, the latter only slightly worse than Australia’s itself but the former in stark contrast to the strong pro-US orientation of the Australians, made bilateral concerns inconsequential in either country’s strategic thought. Add to that very different domestic political imperatives governing electoral politics in two very different types of post-colonial democracies, and the need to prioritize bilateral strategic concerns was negligible.

The end of the Cold War and the dissolution of the bipolar balance of power international system amid a rising tide of economic globalization forced reconsideration on both sides of the bilateral divide with regard to their respective positions in the Indian Ocean. As the 1990s gave way to the 2000s, the areas of strategic overlap between the two countries extended into Southeast Asia and, more recently given India’s ambitions, the Western Pacific.

The 2009 Australian Defense White Paper recognized India as an emerging great power and noted the potentially shared threat to both posed by China’s growing military might. The paper also pointed out that the Indian Ocean will have great significance for world economic flows by 2030 and that issues of maritime piracy and smuggling will also be more prominent in the years to come. That is where India-Australia interests intersect.

Australia’s core security interests lie in the Southwestern Pacific and the Indian Ocean. These overlap but are not identical to those of its major allies, particularly the US.  Australia started to pursue self-reliance policy for its defense following the Guam Doctrine announced by the US during the Nixon Administration. The Guam Doctrine saw the need for US allies, Australia in particular, to be as self-reliant on defense and security matters as possible, all the while continuing to strengthen bilateral military-to-military ties with the US. Every Australian defense White Paper since 1976 has adhered to that vision. Australia’s pursuit of strategic self-sufficiency   following the Guam Doctrine allowed the US to encourage its rise as an allied regional power in Asia Pacific.

Although India’s Look East policy has as of yet not fully extended through the Malaccan Straits, in the next five years it is envisioned that India’s eastern outreach will expand diplomatically in the South Pacific, particularly in Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia and New Zealand. Each of these countries has important political and cultural ties with India. Fiji’s domestic demographic contains a population in which nearly 40 percent are identified as “persons of Indian origin.”  For their part, Australia, New Caledonia and New Zealand have sizable and long-established Indian expatriate communities. These communities wield significant economic and political influence in each country and provide an open source conduit for information exchanges between the Southwestern Pacific neighbors and the Indian homeland.

To be sure and in contrast to perceptions of the Chinese diaspora in the South Pacific, the Indian expatriate community is diverse in its loyalties and not as unified in its support for the Indian state or any particular political party. It is therefore not considered to be a source of espionage or influence-peddling in the measure that its Chinese counterparts are, however mistaken the latter belief may be. Whatever the case, the Indian expatriate presence in the South Pacific has the potential to facilitate Indian soft power projection in the Southwestern Pacific, particularly given the post-colonial cultural and ethnic ties that bind India to Fiji and the Antipodes.

Diplomatically, India has shown interest in the South Pacific affairs by participating in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) annually from 2002. India also has begun to provide foreign aid to the islands in the South Pacific by offering soft loans for development projects. Along with aid programs from traditional donor states such as the US, Australia and New Zealand as well as those of Western based charities and non-governmental agencies, this is seen as a soft power counter to the rising Chinese presence in the South Pacific. Somewhat surprisingly, however, India has not sent a Prime Ministerial delegation to Australia or New Zealand for three decades, which points to the lack of priority given to the Antipodes by Indian policy-makers in the recent past.

India has no military presence in the Pacific, but this may change in the next five years as India starts increasing the Eastern Command’s operational capabilities. Given its expanding commercial engagement with Southeast Asia and Western pacific, it would seem like a natural evolution for its navy to participate in maritime patrols along the sealanes involved. For that to happen however, it will have to secure the support of Australia, New Zealand, the US and the other states that comprise the strategic arc that acts as a containment mechanism on Chinese military ambitions in the region.

At the moment India is diplomatically extending its Look East policy via the provision of aid to South Pacific island countries (both bilaterally and through the PIF), is strengthening its naval operational capabilities along the Eastern Indian Ocean, and by involving itself in bi-lateral and multi-lateral military exercises with countries in the Indian Ocean and South Pacific. In terms of Indian strategic planning, Australia is expected to act as an important springboard from which the US will pursue its forward presence in Indo-Pacific region. It is expected that this will be confirmed by the findings of the upcoming 2013 Australian Defense White Paper.

For its part, in its capacity as an emerging regional power Australia has started to “Look West” beyond Indonesia. Diplomatically, Australia participates as an observer in regional multilateral summits such as the South Asian Association of Regional Co-operation, and actively participates in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium and in the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan (Operation SLIPPER). Australia’s military contribution to ISAF includes an annual average of 1,550 Australian Defence Force personnel deployed within Afghanistan.  In contrast, Australia’s bilateral military ties with India are confined to educational exchanges and participation in multinational military exercises.

Australia and India share concerns about Chinese military expansionism in the Indian Ocean, something that in Australia’s case is added to an extant concerns about Chinese blue water operations in the Southwestern Pacific. The two oceans carry the vast majority of Australia’s exports and imports, and therefore are considered national lifelines worthy of priority protection. In light of this, Australia’s strategic re-orientation requires upgrading and expanding of its Navy. Australia’s 2009 defence White Paper called for a major expansion of the submarine fleet from six to twelve boats by 2030.

HMAS Waller (SSG 75) .

HMAS Stirling, also known as Fleet Base West, is the largest base in the Royal Australian Navy.  Providing Australia’s Indian Ocean presence, the base is located on Garden Island south of Perth, Western Australia.  Eleven fleet units are based at HMAS Stirling including the headquarters of the Australian Submarine Squadron. It is also expected that the US Navy will have on-going access to HMAS Stirling in the future (US carriers currently make regular port calls at Garden Island).

To this can be added the Australian forward presence in the Cocos (Keeling) islands, consisting of two atolls and 27 islands some 2,950 kilometers northwest of Perth and 1,272 kilometers southwest of Jakarta. The islands serve as a refueling stop and forward base for the Royal Australian Air Force’s P-3 Orion Indian Ocean surveillance fleet. In the years to come, the Cocos islands could become for Australia what the Andamans and Nicobar islands are to India, since the existing airfield can be upgraded to support the latest generation P8-A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and the world’s largest drone, the US-built Global Hawk. This possibility was emphasized by the 2012 Australia’s Defense Posture Review The Australian Defense Posture Review also mentioned that the Cocos Islands could serve as a spring board for joint US-Australian operations and power-projecting capabilities in the Indian Ocean.

In effect, the Western Fleet will be the foundation of Australian force projection in the Indian Ocean, where it will overlap with the Indian Eastern Fleet’s area of responsibility.

Summation.

The question is whether shared strategic concerns and their respective diplomatic and military initiatives in the Indo-Pacific will translate into a strategic partnership between Australia and India. 

Although it would seem that the overlap in their shared strategic interests advises in favor of a partnership, whether or not they do so depends on a number of potential contextual factors, including the following (assessments of probability in bold):

a) An increased Chinese military presence on India’s Northern border or renewed tensions with Pakistan could see India shelve or curtail plans for its naval expansion in favor of a re-emphasis on reinforcing Army and Air Force capabilities. 36^th Parallel sees this as a having low probability.

b) If the situation in Afghanistan worsens with the withdrawal of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in 2014, India might consider sending troops as a part of its commitment to the United Nations Peace Keeping Forces in Afghanistan. At present India spends US $2 Billion for development projects in Afghanistan, which could increase after 2014. A troop commitment could be justified as force security for the developmental projects. This move would likely be welcomed by Australia as it draws down its own force commitment to ISAF, but would be unwelcome by Pakistan. 36^th Parallel considers the probability of India sending troops to Afghanistan to be low but sees Indian provision of continued developmental assistance to be high .

c) If the political situation in Fiji worsens on the path to the scheduled September 2014 elections, leading to their postponement or cancellation, India will likely support the military regime in Fiji in contrast to Australia’s continued call for democracy. That is due to the Baimimarama regime’s support from the majority of Fijian Indians and concerns about continued Chinese influence in Fiji in the absence of a countervailing diplomatic presence. The view that ongoing diplomatic engagement is required in Fiji is likely to be shared by the US. Since Australia has begun to soften its stance vis a vis the Baimimarama regime, even if it reverts to a position of strong opposition in the face of electoral cancellation or postponement, this should not negatively impact on the Australian-Indian bilateral relationship. 36^th Parallel foresees that potential differences with regards to diplomatic approaches towards Fiji will not impede broader bilateral cooperation between Australia and India.

d) Based on their past behavior of establishing strategic priorities based on hard power-politics and supporting a strong military, the greatest possibility for increased defense co-operation will occur in the event right-leaning governments are at the helm in each country. Australia has elections scheduled for 2013 and India for 2014, with Left-Center coalitions currently in power. 36^th Parallel sees this as a moderate possibility.

e) India and Indonesia have signed naval co-operation and defense agreements. If the political situation worsens in Aceh and Papua provinces of Indonesia there is a chance that India and Australia might disagree on the proper approach to those conflicts. This could impact on Australian-Indian bilateral relations if India supports the Indonesian position in the face of Australian disagreement. 36^th Parallel views this as a potential roadblock to an Australian-Indian strategic partnership.

f) If the Canak independence movement in New Caledonia continues to grow, given the significant Indian-origin population in the French overseas territory, India might attempt to play a diplomatic greater role in resolving the dispute given its historical ties to the Melanesian country. This move would have to be approved by the French, but could be an area of understanding between India and Australia. 36^th Parallel sees such a move as being a low possibility.

g) Bilateral trade between India and Australia is worth US $20bn and is growing at the rate of 20% every year. This may act as a catalyst for strengthening the strategic relationship given the established linkages historically made between trade and security (trading partners tend to preferentially be security partners and vice versa). A Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand (now in discussion) could accelerate moves towards an Australian-Indian FTA. 36^th Parallel sees this as a distinct possibility.

h) With increased Chinese naval expansion in the Indian Ocean and South China Sea, India will strengthen operational capabilities of the Eastern Fleet and Autralia will do likewise with its Western Fleet based in Perth. Both of these fleets will increase their engagement with the US Navy Fifth and Seventh Fleets. 36^th Parallel sees this as a high possibility.

Assessment.

Growing economic ties, overlapping security concerns and distinct cultural, diplomatic and historical links suggest that a bilateral strategic partnership between Australia and India is a real possibility. This is especially true if conservative governments come to office in either or both countries in the next few years.

Futures Forecast: Australia and India will begin to explore a bilateral strategic relationship by the end of the decade.

Links

http://www.globalsecurity.org/intell/world/india/index.html

http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/how-indian-navy-is-expanding-and-modernising-235746

http://ids.nic.in/welcome.html

http://www.futuredirections.org.au/files/sap/may/Potent_and_Capable_-_Indias_Transformational_21st_Century_Navy.pdf

http://www.observerindia.com/cms/sites/orfonline/modules/occasionalpaper/attachments/op_34_1342006228215.pdf

http://mod.nic.in/aforces/welcome.html

http://indianarmy.nic.in/Index.aspx?flag=cKFtkfylp/mRA5GkEnyaYg==

http://indiannavy.nic.in/

http://ions.gov.in/

http://www.india.embassy.gov.au/ndli/home.html

http://www.indiandiplomacy.in/HTML.aspx?name=topstories&topskrc2=111

http://www.mea.gov.in

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=88371

http://www.tribuneindia.com/2011/20111009/edit.htm#1

http://idsa.in/book/GrandStrategyforIndia2020andBeyond

http://meaindia.nic.in/mystart.php?id=530119048

http://www.india.embassy.gov.au/ndli/pa5009jsb.html

http://www.securitychallenges.org.au/ArticlePDFs/vol6no1Brewster.pdf

http://ids.nic.in/research.htm

http://164.100.47.134/lsscommittee/Defence/36th%20Report-UNIFIED%20COMMAND.pdf

http://164.100.47.134/lsscommittee/Defence/FINAL%20DFG%20%20REPORT%20-2012-13.pdf

http://mea.gov.in/outoging-visit-detail.htm?18258/Address+by+Secretary+East+at+the+Inaugural+Session+of+Look+East+Economic+Summit+2012

http://mod.nic.in/reports/welcome.html

http://www.mea.gov.in/Portal/ForeignRelation/China-January-2012.pdf

http://www.sipri.org/research/armaments/milex/resultoutput/milex_15/the-15-countries-with-the-highest-military-expenditure-in-2011-table/view

https://ids.nic.in/Indian%2520Army%2520Doctrine/indianarmydoctrine_

http://www.idsa.in/idsacomments/ReopeningtheDebateonLimitedWar_aahmed_290212

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/bangladesh-indian-army-military-intelligence-directorate-sheikh-hasina/1/170880.html

http://www.southasiaanalysis.org/node/1014

http://www.pm.gov.au/press-office/transcript-press-conference-new-delhi-india-0

http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/2012/01/31/minister-for-defence-paper-presented-to-the-sea-power-conference/

http://www.defence.gov.au/oscdf/adf-posture-review/docs/final/default.htm#

http://www.aii.unimelb.edu.au/news/india%E2%80%99s-naval-mission-deep-blue-sea

http://www.ausairpower.net/APA-2012-01.html

http://www.navy.gov.au/fleet/ships-boats-craft/submarines/submarine-names

http://www.navy.gov.au/media-room/publications/future-maritime-operating-concept-2025

http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/Australias-Next-Generation-Submarines-05917/

http://asiancentury.dpmc.gov.au/white-paper

Balaji Chandramohan is the Asia Pacific correspondent for World News Forecast, a United States- based future news agency.

This week the US launched a fresh attack on Chinese telecommunication companies.

A congressional committee issued a warning to companies in the US, saying Huawei and ZTE may be a front for Chinese spying, and they shouldn’t be trusted.

But here in New Zealand, Huawei is expanding.

The company’s hiring more staff as part of its contract to help build our ultra-fast broadband network.

The Government is following the advice of our intelligence agency — the GCSB — which has allayed any security fears about Huawei.

But an intelligence analyst, Paul Buchanan, says we should be worried.
He joins Rachel after a report by Natasha Smith.

October 13, 2012. Episode 30, “The Nation”, produced by Front Page Ltd, screening on TV3 in New Zealand 0930 Saturday and 0800 Sunday.

United States Department of Defense

Dempsey: Americans Will Shape Image of Modern Vet

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

MANHATTAN, Kan., Oct. 1, 2012 – Now is when the image of today’s generation of veterans is being formed, and Americans need to have a dialogue on what that image will be, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today.

Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey said he believes the conversation among Americans about today’s veterans has started. “I’m just trying to turn up the volume a bit,” he added.

Dempsey delivered the Landon Lecture at Kansas State University, and used the prestigious platform to focus attention on the dialogue.

Each generation of Americans has formed an image of its veterans. Dempsey spoke of the way America thought of the veterans who fought in Europe and the Pacific during World War II and that generation’s post-war contributions. Americans also formed images of their veterans returning from Korea and Vietnam. “Every generation of Americans does that, and it’s now time for us,” the chairman said.

Today’s veterans have shown courage, resilience, resolve and adaptability, and this must be taken into account as Americans form their image of this generation, he said.

To an extent, the veterans of today are no different from their predecessors. “We are America’s sons and daughters from all across the country, from all walks of life, from myriad backgrounds,” he said.

Today, more than 2 million service members in all components are “proud to wear the cloth of their country and to go wherever, and do whatever we need to do to serve in peace and in war. That’s enduring,” the chairman said.

But some things set this generation apart from earlier ones, Dempsey noted. This military is an all-volunteer force. Only one in four young Americans even qualify to serve in the military, and this means there is a smaller number of Americans with first-hand military experience than in past generations. “That’s got to mean something to the nation,” he said. The force is mostly married, Dempsey added, a sea change from his early years in the Army.

And, “as of a few months ago, we now are serving in the longest conflict in our nation’s history,” he said. “We’ve asked probably the most significant contribution, over time, from our reserve components,” he said. And most service members have served numerous tours in combat.

The wars they are fighting are different from those in the past, the nation’s top military officer said, and the asymmetric nature of the current battle means that any place is at risk with no real place of safety for an in-country break.

“When you are in it, you are in it,” he said. “Think about a young man or woman on patrol in parts of Afghanistan today, where the underground buried mine is a prevalent form of warfare. [They] exhibit incredible courage on the one hand, but there is incredible anxiety on the other, not knowing whether your next step could potentially be your last.”

A veteran coming out of Iraq or Afghanistan “goes from life at Mach 4 to something far slower and somewhat more muted,” the chairman said. “When I look at how we prepare veterans to move into civilian society, … there’s some work we can do.”

Understanding who veterans are and what pressures they underwent for the country is a part of the discussion, but vets themselves have a responsibility in the dialogue, Dempsey said. “We all say thanks to [service members], but how often do we take the time to ask them to share their experiences, and how often are [they] willing to share their experiences?” he asked.

Many times, even the toughest of veterans will say that coming home is even tougher than being in the combat zone, the chairman said. “It’s the emotional fear of constantly having to reintegrate with your family as they grow while you are not there,” he said. “There is in combat a singular focus – you know exactly what you have to do. Your purpose is defined, your mission is clear, the enemy will always try to confuse you, there will be fog and friction, but you have a sense of clarity that’s uncanny. Coming home, it is tough to reconcile that.”

Overall, the chairman said, the image of today’s veterans is positive.

“The veterans of the past decade have each in their own way served heroically – but they are not all heroes,” Dempsey said. “Many have experienced real horrors of war – but they are not all victims. All have served America and want to continue to serve her as they transition into your civilian communities.”

Given what these vets have done for America, it is in the country’s best interest “that we allow this generation of veterans to contribute, to bring their strengths and their passionate curiosity,” he said. “To the extent that we all agree we want a stronger America, then we ought to find a way to ensure that these veterans are a part of it and work with them.”

Ultimately, who these veterans are and the image of them that Americans share “is a question that must be answered by them and by the nation that sent them to war,” Dempsey said.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

PRESS STATEMENT 113/12

PNG Peer Review team with PNG’s Secretary for the Department of National Planning, Dr Peter Kora (second from left) and Forum Deputy Secretary General, Mr Feleti Teo (second from right)

[Port Moresby, Monday 1st October 2012] – Papua New Guinea is demonstrating commitment to transparency and accountability through its initiation of a Peer Review of development coordination.

These were the words of Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat Deputy Secretary General, Mr Feleti Teo, when addressing senior PNG Government representatives today in Port Moresby at a function to welcome the PNG Peer Review team.

At the invitation of the Government of PNG, the Peer Review team comprises Pacific Islands Forum country experts in planning, budgeting, public and financial management systems from Samoa, Solomon Islands and New Zealand. They are Ms Noumea Simi from Samoa, Mr Johnson Naviti from Vanuatu, and Mr Richard Woodham from New Zealand.

“I would like to thank the Prime Minister of PNG, Honorable Peter O’Neill and the Government of PNG for inviting your Secretariat to facilitate this Peer Review process under the Forum Compact,” said Mr Teo.

“By inviting your Pacific neighbours to undertake this Peer Review of your national planning, budgeting, public and financial management systems, PNG is demonstrating commitment to transparency, accountability and engaging in regional initiatives for the benefit of PNG and the Pacific region.”

Over the next three weeks, the PNG Peer Review team will consult with key government ministries and development partner, NGO and private sector representatives. Consultations will take place in Port Moresby, Medang and the East New Britain province. The PNG Peer Review team will be supported by staff from the Forum Secretariat and PNG’s Ministry of National Planning and Monitoring.

Through the Cairns Compact for Strengthening Development Coordination (Forum Compact), Forum Leaders agreed in 2009 that the Forum Secretariat report annually to leaders on regular Peer Reviews of Forum Island Countries’ national development plans and planning processes.

“The initiative is aimed at promoting international best practice in key sectors, improving effective budget allocation processes and guiding support from development partners,” explained Mr Teo. “Peer Reviews are an opportunity for mutual learning between FICs and their peers and development partners (donors) to contribute to reinforcing country leadership.”

Mr Teo added: “The ultimate purpose of the Peer Review process is to assist countries to improve the planning, budgeting and delivery of development programmes to improve development outcomes and accelerate the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).”

PNG is the eighth country to undertake the Forum Compact peer review process after Nauru, Kiribati, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, Niue, RMI and Tonga.

(Ends)

Source

PRESS RELEASE (112/12)

2nd October 2012

Brussels, Belgium, 2/10/12 - Senior officials and trade negotiators from the Pacific ACP (PACP) States are meeting with the European Commission (EC) this week in Brussels to progress the negotiation of their Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European Union (EU).

In his opening remarks at the negotiations, the PACP Co-Chair of the negotiations, Tonga’s Chief Executive Officer at the Ministry for Commerce, Tourism and Labour, Mr Tatafu Moeaki confirmed to the EC that the Pacific ACP States are ready to conclude negotiations of a meaningful comprehensive EPA as mandated by the PACP Leaders, and urged the EC to engage into technical negotiations in good faith and in a spirit of partnership.

The formal negotiations between the EC and the PACP States at the officials’ level takes place through the Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG) meeting, which commenced today in Brussels.

The last formal negotiation of the PACP-EU EPA was held in October 2009. The PACP States have undertaken significant preparations for the negotiations.

“To demonstrate their commitment to the EPA process, all Pacific ACP States have submitted their revised draft conditional market access offers to the European Commission,” Mr Moeaki confirmed.

Over the next 5 days, both sides will discuss the outstanding and contentious issues. The Pacific ACP States believe that with goodwill and constructive dialogue, many of these outstanding and contentious issues can be resolved.

For many Pacific ACP States, particularly the Smaller Island States, the fisheries sector has the greatest potential to contribute to their development. “The EPA would only be meaningful for the Pacific ACP States if it addresses their development aspirations as owners of fisheries resources,” Mr Moeaki stated.

The Pacific ACP States also look forward to working with the European Union to ensure that there are adequate resources to implement the EPA and to take advantage of the benefits of EPA.

“The Pacific ACP region is ready to engage in meaningful discussions on how we can ensure that the final EPA is a tool for development as envisaged under the Cotonou Agreement. We have come here with a mandate to conclude negotiations, and the political support for the conclusion of the EPA is at the highest level,” Mr Moeaki affirmed.

The PACP States stated their appreciation of EU’s financial support for the negotiation and the technical assistance provided by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in preparing for the negotiations.

ENDS.

For media enquiries, contact Mr Johnson Honimae, the Forum Secretariat’s Media Officer on phone: 679 331 2600 or email: johnsonh@forumsec.org.fj

Source

New Zealand

Today I want to focus on the fact that Small States are too often being marginalised in global politics. And this is happening too much at the UN.

We see this demonstrated often in the Security Council. But the problem is not just the Security Council. The problem exists more widely as well.

In recent years global politics have become more complex. The size of the international community has grown, and as a result more and more “big boys clubs” have emerged. For example we now have the G20.

The space for small states is being squeezed relentlessly.

So we need to thank Singapore for convening this meeting.  It is important that a small country like Singapore has called for some time out to focus on the problem so we can begin to work on solutions to widen the space for small states.

There are 105 small states. Small states are the UN. But all too often we see small states as the objects of UN focus and not given a decent hearing or opportunity to put their views – even when the decisions being debated affect them directly.

The Security Council, for instance, continues to resist the reasonable expectations of states on its agenda to have the opportunity for meaningful participation in its deliberations.

This is not what the Charter intended.  Articles 31 and 32 speak clearly of the participation of non-members. The articles exclude them from voting, but they say nothing about excluding them from the room!

This practice of the Council hits hardest on small states which don’t have the resources to compensate.

Recently, when Costa Rica was a member of the Security Council, they argued that at the very least the Council should give countries on the agenda the respect of being heard first when a public debate on that country was being held and before the resolution was put to the vote. But Costa Rica’s initiative was pushed back by larger players.

We recall that when Singapore was a member of the Security Council it staunchly tried to improve transparency for the benefit of smaller states.  But the improvements in working methods achieved by Singapore were rapidly eroded after Singapore left the Council.

Small states are often significantly affected by sanctions resolutions. These resolutions are almost always crafted by larger members but they often cause special economic problems for other states.

The Security Council rarely, if ever, agrees to apply Article 50 which calls for consultation to find solutions to such problems.

Too often smaller states have been unable to get the UN machinery to work, even in situations of grave urgency, because of resistance from larger countries. 

We recall the failure of the Security Council in 1993 to adequately resource and mandate the protection of the safe areas in Bosnia.  Bosnia suffered the tragedy of Srebrenica as a result.

The failure of the Council and the UN as a whole to address the crisis in Rwanda in 1994 resulted in the dreadful genocide in that small country.  The violence in the DRC followed on from the Rwanda genocide. It has affected many small states in the Great Lakes region for more than 15 years.

Turning to today, we see the flood of refugees into a small state like Jordan because of the murderous violence in Syria.  We see many small states in the region deeply worried that the situation in Syria will undermine their security.

It is difficult to understand the failure of the Security Council to act in such circumstances.

But the case of Syria also reminds us of another concern that is deeply held by many small states. It is the need for prevention, for early multilateral action at a point when there is still time to avoid an all-out war. How often have we heard of the need for active preventive diplomacy?  The time for that in Syria was early in 2010.

It is time for a change of culture in the Security Council.  It is time to acknowledge that the small states of the S5 were on to an important issue when they raised the question of Security Council working methods. 

They were told, in effect, that the workings of the Security Council were not the business of non-Council members.

But the workings of the Security Council are surely the business of every UN member.

New Zealand, in common with other small countries, has a huge stake in effective multilateral institutions and clear rules for acceptable behaviour.

As I have just illustrated, there is much to be done to improve the ways in which smaller nations have their interests served by the United Nations.

I thank Singapore for the strong leadership they have shown in promoting the interests of smaller nations and for organising this seminar, so that collectively we might work on making some necessary improvements.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States Department of Defense

Biden, Carter Applaud ‘Team MRAP’ as Production Ends

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – Vice President Joe Biden today joined Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter at a Pentagon ceremony marking the end of production of the mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle.

There are seven MRAP variants, and nearly 28,000 of the vehicles were produced over the past five years, with 24,059 fielded to Iraq and Afghanistan. Nearly 13,000 of the vehicles remain in use in Afghanistan. The vehicle, with its blast-resistant V-shaped hull, was rushed to production as a better defense against roadside bombs than the up-armored Humvee, and it is credited with saving thousands of lives.

Biden noted the speed of MRAP production and fielding since 2007 was the result of a joint effort involving defense, industry and Congress. During that effort, the members of “team MRAP,” he said, showed “remarkable leadership.”

“[It’s] not easy to push something this big through this system this fast,” the vice president said.

Biden said the nation’s leaders, while they have many obligations, have only one “truly sacred obligation”: to equip and protect those who fight the nation’s war, and to care for those who come home from those wars.

The MRAP program faced a crucial vote in Congress in 2007, Biden noted, when — despite then-Defense Secretary Robet M. Gates’ designation of the program as his top acquisition priority — many lawmakers could see little reason for the expense. The vice president was a senator leading the battle for funding at the time, and said today Gen. James T. Conway, then the commandant of the Marine Corps and now retired, tipped the balance toward congressional approval.

Biden said he called Conway before the vote, and asked the general how important the program was to him.

Conway, Biden said, called the program his “highest moral imperative,” because “my kids are getting killed.” Biden quoted those words on the Senate floor, he said, and the vote passed.

Army Chief of Staff Gen. Ray Odierno, then a lieutenant general and commander of U.S. Forces Iraq, also made an ardent case for the lifesaving troop carrier, the vice president said.

Ultimately, Congress appropriated $47.4 billion for the MRAP through fiscal 2012. The alternative in 2007, Biden said, was “a new vehicle in five years” that might only now have begun reaching troops.

“What do we get for the effort?” he asked the audience here. “We’ve got a whole lot of young women and men coming home in one piece.”

Carter, who also spoke at today’s ceremony, noted that at peak production more than 1,000 MRAPS – each weighing between 26,000 and 56,000 pounds – arrived in Iraq or Afghanistan. The deputy secretary, who served under Gates as undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, read a message the former secretary sent about today’s milestone.

The MRAP team, Gates wrote, “implemented the largest defense procurement program to go from decision to full industrial production in less than a year since World War II.”

The members of that team, Gates continued, can look back on their MRAP work and know “that your work truly saved the lives and limbs of many men and women in uniform.”

Carter said the transition formalized today, which sees the MRAP move from production status to a program of record for the military services and U.S. Special Operations Command, marks a strategic turn.

“The era of total focus on Iraq and Afghanistan – which had to be done – is coming to an end, and a new strategic era is dawning,” he said. The defense strategy launched nine months ago provides the framework for the new era and “transitions all of us to the strategic future,” focused on regions including the Asia-Pacific and emerging security challenges such as cyberdefense, he added.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United Nations

1 October 2012 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today highlighted the continuing global threat posed by chemical weapons, voicing particular concern with statements by the Syrian Government regarding the existence and possible use of these tools of mass destruction.

“I once again emphasize the fundamental responsibility of the Syrian Government to ensure the safety and security of any such stockpiles. The use of such weapons would be an outrageous crime with dire consequences,” Mr. Ban told reporters at UN Headquarters in New York.

Syria is one of eight States that are not yet party to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which bans the use and stockpiling of these weapons. The other States are Angola, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Egypt, Israel, Myanmar, Somalia and South Sudan.

“The overall threat remains a serious global concern,” Mr. Ban said in his comments, which he delivered prior to the High-level Meeting of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, which was created to serve as the treaty’s implementing body.

“Chemical weapons simply have no place in the 21st century. Progress in this vital area will help generate momentum to meet our goal of eliminating all weapons of mass destruction.

The time has come,” he added.

The Convention – which is marking its 15th anniversary this year along with the Organisation – now has 188 States parties. Three-quarters of the world’s declared chemical weapons stockpiles have been eliminated.

“This is a remarkable achievement,” Mr. Ban said in his remarks to the High-level Meeting, adding that it is now time to build on these gains and prevent the re-emergence and proliferation of chemical weapons.

“The universality of the CWC is indispensable to eliminating an entire category of weapons of mass destruction. I urge the eight States that are not yet party to the Convention to join without delay.”

Today’s High-Level Meeting is taking place on the margins of the high-level debate of the General Assembly’s 67th session.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

New Zealand

Tēnā koutou katoa, koutou ngā Pirihimana o Aotearoa, o Āhitereiria, o Nga Moutere. Koutou ngā pouaru me ngā whānau, aku mihi māhana ki a koutou, i tēnei rā whakamaumāhara. Kia ora huihui tatou katoa. 

Greetings to all of the police officers of Aotearoa-New Zealand, Australia and of the Pacific Islands.  To the families who have lost loved ones, my warm greetings to you on this day of remembrance.  Greetings to us all gathered here today.

I specifically acknowledge: Hon Anne Tolley, Minister of Police; and Commissioner Peter Marshall and Deputy Commissioners Mike Bush and Viv Rickard; Rear Admiral Jack Steer, Vice Chief of Defence Force; Judge David Carruthers, Chair of the Independent Police Conduct Authority; Padre David Dell, National Chaplain for the New Zealand Police; and Ambassadors, High Commissioners and members of the Diplomatic Corps – tēnā koutou katoa.

It’s an honour to be here today, to join you all for the New Zealand, Australian and South Pacific Region Police Remembrance Day.

Every year, on Anzac Day, New Zealanders say of our war dead: “We will remember them.”  It is only fitting that we should do the same for the police officers who have died in the line of duty – in particular those 29 New Zealand police and traffic officers who have lost their lives as a result of criminal action and the 17 who have died by accident on duty.  And in 2012 policemen and women remember 81 colleagues.

Police Remembrance Day provides the opportunity to pause and reflect on their sacrifice.   And in relation to this ceremony, it is perhaps appropriate we hold it at the Police College. 

In doing so, we recall the stories associated with some of the names on the Memorial Wall – stories of valour that will not be forgotten.

We remember police officers the likes of Constable Neil McLeod, killed in 1890, of Constables Jordan, Best and Tulloch and Sergeant Cooper who were gunned down by Stanley Graham in 1941; the bravery of Sergeant Stu Guthrie, who posthumously won the George Cross for his actions at Aramoana; and most recently, Senior Constable Len Snee’s death while executing a search warrant in Napier in 2009.

Edmund Burke said “All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing”.  As a society, we ask much of those good police men and women who take on the responsibility of protecting their fellow citizens. In doing so, they put themselves at risk.

That is why, all around the country today, police officers will be attending ceremonies like this.  Many will be proudly wearing The Remembrance Day Pin. The two elements of the Pin, the Police chevron on a huia feather, show both the honour and loss of those precious lives that were cut short. It is fitting that funds raised from the sale of these pins will help the families of officers who have lost their lives while carrying out their duties.

On Police Remembrance Day we also remember all members of the Police, serving and retired, who have died over the past year.  To all whānau who have come here today to honour their loved ones, my sincere condolences.  The thoughts of our nation are with you.

Today we also pay tribute to police officers from Australia and the South Pacific region who have lost their lives.  Our thoughts are with their families and we feel their loss.

As the Queen’s representative in New Zealand and representing all New Zealanders, it is always a great pleasure to have the opportunity to recognise outstanding Police service by investing those who have received New Zealand Royal honours in the Queen’s Birthday and New Year’s Honours lists.

As Governor-General, I am proud that the New Zealand Police force is considered to be one of the best-performing services in the world.  It is satisfying to know that New Zealanders in the annual Citizens’ Satisfaction Surveys confirms increased confidence and trust in our Police.  Maintaining its consistently high standards of integrity, ethics and conduct is a mighty challenge. Yet it is a worthy goal, just as it is for the rest of the community.

Looking ahead, Police Remembrance Day, like ANZAC Day, reminds New Zealanders of the work of our police  officers, who face dangers every day in keeping us and our communities safe.

I have no doubt that the stories associated with the lives of our police heroes will continue to inspire contemporary police officers in the way they carry out their duties – to make a real difference to their communities and to the New Zealand Police.  For keeping the peace, for maintaining our safety – we remember!  Kia ora, kia kaha, kia manawanui, huihui tātou katoa—go well, be strong, be courageous.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States Department of Defense

Northcom Marks 10 Years Protecting U.S. Homeland

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – Ten years ago today, still stinging from the devastating 9/11 terror attacks, the United States stood up U.S. Northern Command with one sole mission: to deter, prevent and defeat threats and aggression aimed at the continental United States, its territories and its interests.

The activation marked the first time since the days of George Washington that a single military commander was charged with protecting the U.S. homeland.

Air Force Gen. Ralph E. “Ed” Eberhart, Northcom’s first commander, formed a team focused on aerospace, land and sea defenses that also provided critical support for U.S. civil authorities in times of national need.

Even in its first year, while still building its staff organization and establishing mission plans and processes, Northcom was tested during a range of real-world challenges. Just one day after its standup, the new command responded when Hurricane Lilli struck the Gulf Coast with 100-mph winds that caused extensive damage.

Five months later, Northcom was called to action when the space shuttle Columbia disintegrated as it re-entered the Earth’s atmosphere. The explosion killed seven astronauts and scattered debris from Dallas to Lake Charles, La.

That summer and fall, Northcom provided airborne firefighting capability during an intensive wildfire season in the western United States and disaster relief after Hurricane Isabel struck the eastern seaboard in September.

Since its establishment, Northcom has responded to hundreds of disasters, from hurricanes to wildfires or pandemic influenza outbreaks to an interspace bridge collapse. In 2010, it participated in Operation Unified Response following the Haiti earthquake and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

This summer, widespread wildfires in the West and Hurricane Isaac in late August dominated much of Northcom’s activities.

In declaring that Northcom had achieved full operational capability in 2003, on the second anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Eberhart told his command, “This is not an end state. This is, in fact, part of a journey. We’ll never truly reach full operational capability. We are always going to be striving to be better.”

Today, as Northcom commemorates its 10th anniversary, Army Gen. Charles H. Jacoby Jr., its current commander, continues to build on that legacy.

Emphasizing the importance of Northcom’s mission partners in everything the command does, Jacoby laid out his priorities for the command:

– Expand and strengthen trusted partnerships;

– Advance and sustain the binational North American Aerospace Defense Command;

– Gain and maintain all-domain situational awareness;

– Advocate and develop capabilities in core mission areas to outpace all threats; and

– Take care of people who represent the command’s foundation.

“Our vision is that, with our trusted partners, we will defend North America by outpacing all threats, maintaining faith with our citizens, and supporting them in their times of greatest need,” Jacoby told the Senate Armed Services Committee in March.

“We view our missions as a sacred trust by our governments and our citizens,” he said. “We appreciate the American people and their elected representatives in Congress and the White House rightly have high expectations of our ability to defend them here at home.”
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States Department of Defense

Family Matters Blog: Family Panel Addresses Exceptional Issues

By Air Force Maj. Nicholas Sabula
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – Recently I had the opportunity to serve on a Defense Department advisory panel dealing with special needs issues across the military.

The panel’s meeting last month in Alexandria, Va., was the third of its kind conducted by DOD’s Office of Community Support for Military Families with Special Needs, or OSN, in the past year to address the Exceptional Family Member Program’s family support priorities.

The panel was comprised of family representatives from all services, including active duty and reserves, and addressed communication issues and concerns from military families. The event was chaired by Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy Charles E. Milam.

As the father of three boys, one with autism, I took my role in the process very seriously. In reaching out for input from families through networking, meet-ups and even an unofficial online survey, I found myself not only serving not only as the Air Force representative, but also as a joint representative to all our families.

EFMP impacts a lot of families, with enrollment mandatory for active duty families with a special need. As of December, total EFMP service member enrollment was projected at 93,706 with numbers of EFMP family members estimated at 126,153 across services.

The program becomes especially important when planning and making a permanent change of station move. Some families need support before the move to determine if services are available for their particular special needs. Some find that they need family support assistance to navigate the system when they arrive at a new duty station. Contacts must be made with new school staff, to locate medical providers and work with a variety of offices to support providers on or off the installation.

During previous panels, we presented families’ frustrations with accessing information and services and confusion about policy since each service implements a slightly different program. Lack of standardization and consistency at different installations were top priorities. The panel listed as its three key areas for improvement consistency of support, communication and health care.

What I found is that much of the work our panel initially identified and advocated for a year ago was taken to heart by leadership and we are seeing results. OSN recently completed the first phase of an analysis aimed at standardizing service support for special needs families across DOD. The analysis used a series of site visits to installation-level, headquarters-level and any centralized locations dealing with personnel, family support and assignment processes. The culminating activity was a review by the services to look at enrollment and identification; assignment coordination; overseas family travel; and family support.

Ultimately, the outcome is to consolidate these processes and make it easier for families to maintain support from location to location. Simple things like common forms, databases talking to each other, more user-friendly websites to help families as they transition from one location to another, accessibility of information to understand how to obtain care and support from available resources were all presented.

A TRICARE representative spoke about the health care management activity’s efforts to improve communication with families and collaboration with OSN, such as simplifying online navigation. The representative discussed TRICARE’s Patient Centered Medical Home, which the services are implementing and eventually will address many of the panel’s issues related to lack of consistency of medical providers and timely access to specialty care. It places emphasis on personal relationships, team delivery of holistic care, coordination across medical specialties and settings, and increases access to affordable care.

EFMP representatives from each service’s headquarters shared their efforts to improve communication and outreach, as well as awareness on adult-age children or spouses with special needs, respite care and other EFMP initiatives such as joint base support.

I was especially pleased to see that the services are working more closely together to build cohesion across the joint force. It might not sound like much, but as an Air Force family on an Army installation, such cohesion is important and reflects a readiness issue for the military community at large.

Perhaps the hardest part of participating in these panels has been the expectations of families after it ends. It’s hard to tell families that their concerns were presented, but won’t be fixed right now. As I’ve learned, the complexity of coordination and needed approvals at the department or service level means change typically gets accomplished at one speed: glacial.

Despite more work to be done, military families like mine with special needs should see some direct benefits from the recommendations brought forth through this panel, indicating the importance DOD is putting on listening to families’ concerns and working to act on their issues.

There’s still going to challenges with support and services in the short term, but the ball is rolling on lasting improvements to make things better for all our families.
 

Guest blogger Air Force Maj. Nicholas Sabula is a communication plans officer at the Defense Media Activity. He was selected to a 10-member panel as part of the Defense Department’s Exceptional Family Member Program. He has a son with autism and, off-duty, is an advocate for military families dealing with autism.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United Nations

01 October 2012

UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors Ronaldo and Zinédine Zidane (Photo: Witters)

Annual Match to take place in Porto Alegre on 19 December 2012  

Geneva/New York/Brasilia — Football legends and UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors Ronaldo and Zinédine Zidane are inviting some of the world’s top players to join them in an all-star line-up for the 10th “Match Against Poverty,” to take place on 19 December 2012 at the Gremio Arena in Porto Alegre, Brazil.

As Goodwill Ambassadors for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ronaldo and Zidane will each captain a team for this friendly match aimed at mobilizing the public in the fight against poverty. 

“The struggle against poverty is not a game,” said Ronaldo, who launched the Match Against Poverty with Zinedine Zidane and UNDP ten years ago. “But we use this Match to raise both funds and awareness that the solution is in everyone’s hands. Working together we will all be winners in the Match Against Poverty.”

Zidane, who will play in Brazil for the first time, said that after ten years of playing with Ronaldo he is excited to play against him and his friends at the Match Against Poverty. “Although it will be a friendly match, I very much look forward to playing against my old friend in Porto Alegre,” he said.

The Match in Porto Alegre follows nine successful editions that took place in Basel, Madrid, Dusseldorf, Marseille, Málaga, Fez, Lisboa, Athens and Hamburg. Each year funds raised support specific projects in different countries facing difficult challenges.  “At the tenth match we will use the proceeds to support solutions in my own country, as well as another programme in Africa in which Brazil is actively engaged in” said Ronaldo. 

Italian legend Pierluigi Collina, who refereed eight out of the nine editions to date, will be the referee of the Match this year again: “It is not easy to find a charity initiative that is able to reach its 10th anniversary. The Match against Poverty did it and this is really great! “For me it has been always a privilege to be invited as the referee of these matches and to give my contribution to those who need help” he said.

UNDP Associate Administrator Rebeca Grynspan said the match is one of the highest profile and far-reaching events for UNDP and its partners. “As football is the world’s most popular sport and poverty is a global challenge, the match is a wonderful instrument to mobilize people around the world to support all efforts to ensure that everyone, everywhere, can lead healthy, productive and rewarding lives.”

This year’s Match, which will take place at the Gremio Arena at 21:00 local time, is being organized with 9INE Sports & Entertainment of Brazil.  The annual event, which is televised globally, is supported by both football’s governing body, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA).

Ronaldo and Zidane are part of an elite group of UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors, which includes other football stars Didier Drogba, Iker Casillas and Marta Vieira de Silva, Crown Prince Haakon Magnus of Norway, Japanese actress Misako Konno,  Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova and Spanish actor Antonio Banderas.

Contact Information

Aziyadé Poltier-Mutal; Mobile: + 41 79 3491610  – Tel: + 41 22 917 83 68; aziyade.poltier@undp.org; 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United Nations

1 October 2012 Describing terrorism as one of the most “potent threats” to international peace, India’s Minister of External Affairs, S. M. Krishna, used his address before the United Nations General Assembly today to call for universal rejection of acts of terror and piracy.

“The international community must adopt a ‘zero-tolerance’ approach towards terrorism and focus on efforts to dismantle the infrastructure of terrorism, including its invidious network of epicentres, training facilities and financing,” Mr. Krishna told the 67th Assembly’s on the last day of its General Debate, taking place at UN Headquarters in New York.

He said it was “high time” the world “demonstrated the necessary political will” to finalize a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism that would aim to strengthen international law in the bid to suppress terrorist acts.

Mr. Krishna raised the spectre of nuclear terrorism by highlighting what he called the “grave risks” posed by terrorists gaining access to nuclear weapons. “Measures must be taken to reduce nuclear risks,” he said.

While he also noted India was committed to achieving a nuclear-free world, he added there was a “need to forge a renewed consensus” on non-proliferation and nuclear disarmament. He said this included a need for a “meaningful dialogue” among states possessing nuclear weapons to “build trust and confidence for reducing the salience” of such arms in international affairs and security doctrines.

The international response to acts of piracy should also be “under the UN auspices,” Mr. Krishna added, noting that, “apart from major economic and commercial consequences of this scourge, it has serious humanitarian implications for the large number of seafarers and their families.”

“The need of the hour is once again concerted international action… with special attention being paid to address the welfare of seafarers and their families,” he added.

Still on the theme of security, the External Affairs Minister highlighted India’s “proud history” of participation in UN peacekeeping operations. But he expressed that the international community needed to “ensure peacekeeping is adequately resourced and enabled to meet the realities of today, including in post-conflict and peacebuilding contexts.”

In his remarks, Mr. Krishna addressed a series of other national and international issues, among them development, gender equality, climate change, and UN reform.

He noted India was “firmly committed” to “scaling up” its development partnership with Africa, while on the issue of gender, he said women’s empowerment was “essential to the pursuit of building inclusive societies.”

India’s approach to what he described as its commitment to climate control would be through a “comprehensive, equitable and balanced outcome, based on the principles of equity and common, but differentiated, responsibilities,” the Indian official stated.

On the issue of UN reform, echoing many other officials who have addressed the Assembly over recent days, Mr. Krishna said India believed that most in need of reform at the world body was its 15-member Security Council, which he declared should see both its permanent and non-permanent membership extended.

“The reformed Council must include countries that are capable and willing to bear additional burdens relating to the maintenance of international peace and security and be able to sustain global campaigns against new and emerging threats,” he said.

India’s Minister of External Affairs is among scores of heads of state and government, and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual, national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends later on Monday.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United Nations

1 October 2012 Addressing the General Assembly at UN Headquarters in New York, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minster, G. L. Peiris, today deplored the selective intervention in the internal affairs of some countries, stressing from the Assembly’s podium that conflict resolution must be based on the United Nations principle of the sovereign equality of States.

“The noticeable recent tendency to selectively and arbitrarily intervene in the internal affairs of States flies in the face of this principle and dilutes the confidence so carefully nurtured in the UN system,” Foreign Minster Peiris told the 67th Assembly on the last day of its annual General Debate.

“Sri Lanka believes that in the settlement of international disputes, action must be based on the fundamental principle of sovereign equality of States, a principle firmly enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations,” he added.

In his statement, the Foreign Minister decried the “cavalier attitudes” of the financial markets in developed countries which have led to the disruption of millions of lives and the social fabric of many societies in the current global economic crisis.

“A recovery without uplifting the developing countries simultaneously will be unsustainable,” he warned, emphasizing that a significant aspect in addressing the problem must be a restructuring of the global financial architecture. “It is important to note that global financial power has shifted over recent times from the industrialized North to the powerhouses of the South.”

“It is imperative that the global financial institutions reflect these tectonic changes in the international arena. They must now be reflected in the global structures, including the UN, its agencies and other multilateral institutions,” Mr. Peiris continued. “The UN can play an important role towards achieving this end.”

He also stressed the need for assistance to help developing countries mitigate the adverse consequences from too rigid an application of green economic principles to combat climate change, and called on the UN system and other development cooperation mechanisms to provide aid for middle-income countries to achieve sustainable development.

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual, national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends later on Monday.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States Department of Defense

Missions, Capabilities Will Top NATO Conference Agenda

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – NATO defense ministers and partners will meet next week to discuss the alliance’s defense capabilities and missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan, NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said today in Brussels.

On Afghanistan, NATO officials and partners will reaffirm efforts to transfer full responsibility to the Afghans by the end of 2014, Rasmussen said during his monthly news conference.

“Our strategy is to build up the capacity of the Afghan security forces and gradually hand over to them lead responsibility for the security across the country,” he said. Afghan security forces already have security lead in areas where 75 percent of the Afghan population lives, Rasmussen added, and Afghanistan soon will reach its goal of 352,000 members serving in its security forces.

“At that time, our current ISAF combat mission will end, and from 2015, it and will be followed by a NATO-led mission to train, advise and assist Afghan security forces,” Rasmussen said. “The goal, the strategy and the timeline remain unchanged.” European and NATO foreign ministers meeting in New York last week solidified that commitment, he added.

The secretary general also acknowledged that NATO is undergoing a “challenging period,” due at least in part to so-called insider attacks, in which members of Afghanistan’s security forces or insurgents wearing Afghan uniforms attack members of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force.

“We look at these attacks with the utmost concern,” he said.

Rasmussen said he and other officials are determined to challenge the attacks, especially since ISAF and Afghan forces not only face similar threats, but also share the goal of a sovereign, stable and secure Afghanistan.

“The insurgents are trying to undermine our partnership and drive a wedge between us,” Rasmussen said. “We will not let them succeed.”

Most ISAF units continue to conduct normal partnered operations as Afghan forces assume responsibility for large areas of the country, the secretary general said, and the initial results are promising.

“In the regional command for Kabul, … enemy-initiated attacks fell by 17 percent in the first eight months of this year compared with the same period last year,” he said. “And when the enemy did launch attacks, the Afghan forces took the lead in dealing with them.”

At their upcoming Brussels meeting, the secretary general said he expects NATO defense ministers will take the next step in plans to provide training, assistance and advice to Afghan forces beyond 2014.

“We have already begun the planning process,” he added, “and I expect ministers to conclude the first phase by approving the broad framework for the mission.” Ideally, he added, partners and allies will begin a detailed transition plan by 2013 to better ensure a seamless transition.

“Our partners share our interest in cooperative security,” Rasmussen said. “They share the burden of our operations, so it’s only right they should share the planning of our operations to which they have committed.”

Rasmussen said the defense ministers also will discuss the alliance’s “Smart Defense” initiative, which calls for sharing capabilities to help NATO continue its work as defense budgets shrink.

“We will make sure we keep up the momentum on Smart Defense, finding more ways to become more efficient in the way we go about the business of security,” he said.

During the alliance’s May 2012 summit in Chicago, Rasmussen noted, NATO member and partner nations approved a list of 22 multinational products that give allies access to crucial capabilities with less strain on their budgets. The initiatives include cost-effective methods in clearing roadside bombs, sharing smart munitions and pooling maritime patrol aircraft, Rasmussen said.

He also noted that he expects about 10 more projects to emerge in coming months, with some 100 additional initiatives in development.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States Department of Defense

United Nations

1 October 2012 A new law which complicates the process for labourers to acquire work permits in Kazakhstan risks reversing recent gains made by the Central Asian country in its fight against slavery, a United Nations human rights expert warned today.

“I spoke to employers and Government officials who are frustrated by the complicated process to obtain a work permit,” the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, Gulnara Shahinian, said in a news release, following her eight-day visit to the country.

“In some cases, unless assisted by an intermediary such as an NGO[non-governmental organization], the employer does not bother applying for a work permit and prefers instead to employ undocumented workers,” she added, noting that recent statistics show that there are over twice as many undocumented workers in Kazakhstan than documented workers.

The Government of Kazakhstan has been fighting slavery since 2009 when instances of forced and bonded labour were found in the country’s tobacco plantations.

However, Ms. Shahinian acknowledged that recently proposed revisions to the law complicating the work permit application process would ultimately dissuade employers and employees from pursuing a legal path to employment.

“Without long-term solutions such as an easier process for acquiring work permits and ensuring access to education and medical services for all – foreigners and Kazakhs as mentioned in the Kazakh constitution – the huge gains that have been made might be lost,” she stated, suggesting that any introduction of new laws or amendments “should be done after consulting with the sectors most affected by slavery, which should include relevant government bodies, civil society organizations, international organizations, and relevant private sector companies.”

In addition to the complications, the new revisions make it difficult for children of undocumented workers to attend school while also preventing their families from accessing basic medical treatment when needed.

Ms. Shahinian urged the Government to implement a range of anti-slavery measures, including establishing an easier process for acquiring work permits, creating a national awareness of slavery, providing training to government officials and civil society, and educating employers and workers about their rights and obligations. At the same time, she applauded the Government’s readiness to address the problems related to modern forms of slavery.

The expert’s findings will be presented at the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council in September 2013. Independent experts, or special rapporteurs, are appointed by the Council to examine and report back, in an unpaid capacity, on specific human rights themes.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States Department of Defense

Face of Defense: Marine, Seabee Reunite After Decade

By Marine Corps Cpl. Timothy Lenzo
Regional Command Southwest

FORWARD OPERATING BASE JACKSON, Afghanistan, Oct. 1, 2012 – The sound of power tools and commands come from the battalion aid station here, startling a few Marines walking by. Two corpsmen stand out from the crowd of safilors inside the building as they work on a remodeling project.

More than a decade after their paths first crossed in Operation Iraqi Freedom, the former Marine and Seabee are united as corpsmen with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. The two service members started their military careers in different fields. One trained to be a Marine, the other a Navy Seabee, but now they work together here.

“When I joined the Navy, I had a degree in construction, so that’s what the Navy wanted me to do,” said Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class David Cergol. “At the time, the Seabees were undermanned, so it was more important for me to help them.”

Cergol, from Pittsburg, started working construction when he was 14. After 10 years in the civilian world, he decided he wanted a change, but found himself again working construction for the Navy.

“The Seabees are a great group of people, but I ultimately joined because I wanted to be on the front lines and be with the Marines,” he said.

Unlike Cergol, Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Jordan Fitzgerald started his military career with the Marines. He served with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, and was part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The corpsmen’s paths first crossed during the initial push into Iraq. Fitzgerald served in the infantry and fought on the front lines. Meanwhile Cergol, working as a builder with the Seabees, followed behind the infantry, helping with security.

“We were both able to talk about the towns we went through, and the forward operating bases being set up,” Cergol said. “He was more the tip of the spear, and I was more behind, doing logistics.”

After their first enlistment, the two service members decided to sever ties with their old units. Fitzgerald, from Yucca Valley, Calif., considered joining the Navy SEALs before deciding on a different future.

“Being a grunt, I had a pretty good idea of what corpsmen did,” he said. “I knew corpsmen went with Marines, and I’m not the guy who likes ship life. Also I enjoy helping people, and knew I’d be helping Marines.”

While Fitzgerald looked at other jobs first, Cergol knew from the start he wanted to be a corpsman. He helped as a Seabee because that’s where the Navy needed him, but he jumped at the chance to start his career in the medical field.

“I enjoy the medical side,” he said. “I wanted to be with the Marines, and I wanted to make more of a difference and ultimately save lives.”

The two use their prior jobs as tools for their current jobs. Cergol became certified to operate the heavy equipment around the forward operating base. He regularly helps by driving forklifts and constructing new fixtures. “I’m able to draw on my experience with the Seabees to strengthen security and improve overall living conditions,” he said. “When I was in Iraq, one of the bases we stayed at had little to no security. We were able to get together and build up the walls and better secure our buildings.”

During that deployment, a suicide bomber attacked the base. “The additional walls definitely paid off,” Cergol said. “The walls ended up protecting us.”

Cergol and Fitzgerald recently took on a construction job inside the battalion aid station here.

“Being a prior Seabee makes him more versatile,” Fitzgerald said of Cergol. “Right now we are remodeling the BAS to better suit our needs, and his experience as a builder definitely helps.”

Cergol said his experience as a Seabee helps him in tangible ways, while Fitzgerald’s experience as a Marine is more abstract. “He’s very disciplined,” he said. “You can tell he used to be a Marine. He still has that rigid discipline about him.”

Fitzgerald’s past also gives him an immediate connection with the Marines he cares for. “I think it gives me instant credibility,” he said. “After all, I’ve done more deployments than the majority of them.”

He also has learned a great deal of leadership from the Marines, he added, and this skill helps him teach the corpsmen under him.

“I think the Marine Corps teaches small-unit leadership better than the other branches,” he said. “The Marine Corps taught me how to manage situations really well.”

Though their focus is the health of the Marines and sailors, service members might see Cergol operating a forklift or Fitzgerald correcting his corpsmen on the proper wear of the uniform. The two moved on from the early part of their military careers, but have found they use their original military skills every day.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States Department of Defense

Allen Discusses Insider Attacks in ‘60 Minutes’ Interview

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – In an interview on the CBS program “60 Minutes” last night, the commander of U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan said he takes his mission personally and is angered by insider attacks by Afghan security forces and militants wearing Afghan uniforms.

“I’m mad as hell about them, to be honest with you,” Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, commander of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force, told CBS correspondent Lara Logan. “We’re going to get after this. It reverberates everywhere across the United States. We’re willing to sacrifice a lot for this campaign, but we’re not willing to be murdered for it.”

The general said it is important to understand the Afghan people still support ISAF troops and their mission to guide Afghan troops as they prepare to take full responsibility for security in their country.

“The key point is for us to understand that the vast majority of the Afghans, … they’re with us in this,” Allen said. “They understand right now the severity of this problem and the urgency of what’s happening.”

Afghans have been killed trying to save coalition forces when some attacks have been under way,” the general noted. “[It] was the only reaction that they could have taken … to try to save us at that moment of attack,” he said.

More than 50 coalition members have been killed by insider attacks this year. Allen said insurgents recognize the vulnerability posed as coalition forces work alongside Afghan counterparts, and they have adapted their tactics to exploit it.

“In Iraq, the signature weapon system that we hadn’t seen before was the [improvised explosive device],” he said. “We had to adjust to that. Here, I think the signature attack that we’re beginning to see is going to be the insider attack.”

Afghan President Hamid Karzai, also interviewed in the segment, acknowledged the attacks and pledged to help ISAF eliminate the threat. “These attacks are sad,” he said. “This is something I have discussed in detail, something that I bear responsibility for to correct.”

Allen also discussed the presence of al-Qaida and ISAF’s commitment to continuing to “target and eliminate them.”

“Al-Qaida has come back, [and] is a resilient organization,” he said. “But they’re not here in large numbers. But al-Qaida doesn’t have to be anywhere in large numbers.”

The terrorist organization is not significant in a traditional military sense, Allen said. “Al-Qaida has significance beyond its numbers, frankly,” he added. “And so for us, our 24-hour-a-day objective is to seek out those al-Qaida cells.”

It is important to ensure al-Qaida doesn’t feel as though it can put down roots in Afghanistan, the general said, and while security isn’t perfect around the country, there has been much improvement.

“An awful lot of the population of this country is living in an area where there is vastly improved security from where it was just a few years ago,” he said.

Meanwhile, Allen said, coalition officials are doing a great deal to address terrorist safe havens in Pakistan, and the relationship between ISAF forces and the Pakistani military has improved dramatically.

“There’s a very complex relationship with Pakistan, and we’ll work very hard and very closely with the Pakistani military to achieve common objectives,” he said. “But to some extent, the Pakistani military has been successful in cooperating with us in the last several months with regard to complementary operations on both sides of the border, but much more needs to be done.”

ISAF is doing everything it can within its authority to hunt down and kill Haqqani network operatives in Afghanistan who “ultimately threaten my troops, threaten the Afghan troops and the Afghan society, the Afghan civilians, and ultimately the Afghan government,” Allen said.

The general also described his intense commitment to the mission in Afghanistan, which he said often leads him to “turn around and go back” to work some nights after asking himself while he’s walking home if he’s done enough.

“I came here believing this would be the last job I’d ever have,” Allen said. “I don’t care about anything beyond this. This is what’s important to me. I almost can’t remember ever having been anywhere else.

“This is completely consuming for me, and I am dedicated 24 hours a day to these magnificent troops, to the Afghans, to this cause, and ultimately to successful completion,” he continued. “This is very personal to me. And I take it very personally.”

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

United States White House Statements

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as part of his We Can’t Wait initiative, President Obama announced that two nationally and regionally significant transit projects in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Cleveland, Ohio will be expedited to put Americans to work building a 21st century infrastructure and providing Minnesota and Ohio with more transportation choices.  These projects will improve local and regional connectivity and provide more transit choices for residents and commuters. Best practices, including conducting permitting and other environmental review processes concurrently instead of sequentially, are expected to shave several months off project schedules.

As part of a Presidential Executive Order issued in March of this year, the Office of Management and Budget is charged with overseeing a government-wide effort to make the permitting and review process for infrastructure projects more efficient and effective, saving time while driving better outcomes for local communities.  The Administration’s efforts to continuously add more transparency, accountability, and certainty into the permitting and review process will enable project developers and private investors to more efficiently modernize our nation’s infrastructure.   Additional expedited infrastructure projects will be announced in the coming weeks.

“Investments in infrastructure are putting people back to work in Minnesota and Ohio building and modernizing our transit systems,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “The Obama Administration is committed to doing its part to help communities across the country move forward with these critical projects as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Southwest Light Rail Transit
Minneapolis, MN
Coordinating Agency: Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration
Target date for completing Federal permit and review decisions: November 2014

The Southwest Light Rail Transitway (LRT) Project will greatly improve access to major employment centers and all area attractions for residents and commuters in greater Minneapolis by building new light rail service running between downtown Minneapolis and the southwestern suburbs out to Eden Prairie. The project, funded in part by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), adds over 15 miles of new track as well as several new stations and park-and-ride lots. The LRT line would improve accessibility and mobility by enhancing transit travel speeds.  The LRT line would link several major activity centers, including Target Field on the corridor’s eastern end and the Eden Prairie Center Mall on the corridor’s western end.  Also, because the project would share track with the Central Corridor LRT line, it would provide a one-seat ride from Minneapolis’ southwestern suburbs via downtown Minneapolis to the State Capitol complex and downtown St. Paul. 

FTA is using an enhanced coordination process with other Federal agencies as well as exploring using the NEPA/Clean Water Act Section 404 Merger process, which is estimated to save several months by aligning multiple permit and review processes to work concurrently instead of sequentially.

University Circle – Little Italy Rapid Station
Cleveland, OH
Coordinating Agency: Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration
Target date for completing Federal permit and review decisions: April 2013

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority’s University Circle-Little Italy Rapid Station project involves the relocation of an existing station at E 120th Street and construction of a new a rail transit station along with the rehabilitation of two transit track bridges at Mayfield Road. The project will integrate the station with the dense, high employment areas of the Little Italy neighborhood and University Hospitals. The project replaces an obsolete station with a new, energy efficient building, while focusing on reusing existing community resources. The project is funded in part with a Department of Transportation TIGER grant. FTA is working closely with the Greater Cleveland Transit Authority and is implementing FTA’s new internal environmental standard operating procedures to develop a focused and more efficient environmental assessment. Using these new, more efficient processes will save more than a month on the project’s timeline.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/we-cant-wait-obama-administration-announces-transit-projects-in-minnesota-and-ohio-to-be-expedited/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-breast-cancer-awareness-month-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-breast-cancer-awareness-month-2012/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 16:27:13 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-breast-cancer-awareness-month-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 01, 2012

NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Breast cancer touches the lives of Americans from every background and in every community across our Nation. Though we have made great strides in combatting this devastating illness, more than 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and tens of thousands are expected to lose their lives to the disease. During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we honor those we have lost, lend our strength to those who carry on the fight, and pledge to educate ourselves and our loved ones about this tragic disease.

Though the exact causes of breast cancer are unknown, understanding its risk factors is essential to prevention. Older women and those who have a personal or family history of breast cancer are among those at greater risk of developing the illness. Early detection is also key in the fight against breast cancer. Getting recommended screening mammograms can help to detect breast cancer early. I encourage women and men to speak with their health care provider about breast cancer, and to visit www.Cancer.gov to learn more about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

My Administration remains committed to ensuring access to quality health care that includes preventive services for women. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, many health plans are required to cover mammograms and other recommended cancer screenings without co-pays or deductibles. Starting in 2014, it will also ensure that no American can be denied health insurance because of a pre-existing condition — including breast cancer.

This month, we stand with the mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, and friends who have been affected by breast cancer, and we recognize the ongoing efforts of dedicated advocates, researchers, and health care providers who strive each day to defeat this terrible disease. In memory of the loved ones we have lost and inspired by the resilience of those living with the disease, let us strengthen our resolve to lead our Nation toward a future free from cancer in all its forms.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and all other interested groups to join in activities that will increase awareness of what Americans can do to prevent breast cancer.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-breast-cancer-awareness-month-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-substance-abuse-prevention-month-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-substance-abuse-prevention-month-2012/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 16:27:12 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-substance-abuse-prevention-month-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 01, 2012

NATIONAL SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Every day, far too many Americans are hurt by alcohol and drug abuse. From diminished achievement in our schools, to greater risks on our roads and in our communities, to the heartache of lives cut tragically short, the consequences of substance abuse are profound. Yet, we also know that they are preventable. This month, we pay tribute to all those working to prevent substance abuse in our communities, and we rededicate ourselves to building a safer, drug-free America.

By stopping drug use before it starts, we can prevent the disease of addiction and create stronger neighborhoods across our country. My Administration has placed prevention at the heart of our National Drug Control Strategy, promoting a balanced approach that advances evidence-based public health and safety reforms. We have invested in outreach programs that empower young Americans with the facts about substance abuse, and we have worked to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse through education, monitoring, proper disposal, and enforcement. We have also worked to develop a nationwide, community-based prevention system that joins stakeholders at every level of government with local organizations that can deliver local solutions.

All of us can play a role in preventing drug and alcohol abuse. As our children’s first teachers, parents and guardians can help by talking to their kids about the dangers of substance abuse. Alongside them, coalitions of teachers, faith-based groups, health care providers, law enforcement officials, and other local leaders are joining together to address substance abuse in their communities. As we observe National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, let us join in those vital efforts and reaffirm our vision for an America where each of us has the fullest opportunity to live in health and happiness.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. I call upon all Americans to engage in appropriate programs and activities to promote comprehensive substance abuse prevention efforts within their communities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-substance-abuse-prevention-month-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-domestic-violence-awareness-month-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-domestic-violence-awareness-month-2012/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 16:27:12 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-domestic-violence-awareness-month-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 01, 2012

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

For far too long, domestic violence was ignored or treated as a private matter where victims were left to suffer in silence without hope of intervention. As we mark the 18th anniversary of the landmark Violence Against Women Act, authored by Vice President Joe Biden, we reflect on how far we have come. We have made significant progress in changing laws and attitudes, providing support to survivors, and reducing the incidence of domestic violence. But we also know that we have not come far enough, and that there is more work left to be done. During National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we stand with all those who have been affected by this terrible crime, recognize the individuals and groups who have stepped forward to break the cycle of violence, and recommit to putting an end to domestic violence in America.

Despite considerable progress in reducing domestic violence, an average of three women in the United States lose their lives every day as a result of these unconscionable acts. And while women between the ages of 16 and 24 are among the most vulnerable to intimate partner violence, domestic violence affects people regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, race, or religion. Tragically, without intervention, children exposed to such violence can suffer serious long-term consequences that may include difficulty in school, post-traumatic disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, and criminal behavior.

My Administration remains committed to getting victims the help they need, from emergency shelter and legal assistance to transitional housing and services for children. We are also working to stop violence before it starts. Last year, agencies across the Federal Government held town hall meetings nationwide to promote men’s roles in ending violence against women. Through Vice President Biden’s 1is2many initiative, we built on that progress earlier this year by releasing a public service announcement that features professional athletes and other role models speaking out against dating violence. This April, I directed leaders throughout my Administration to increase efforts to prevent and combat domestic violence involving Federal employees and address its effects on the Federal workforce. Since August, the Affordable Care Act has required most insurance plans to make domestic violence screening and counseling available as a preventive service for women — without co-payments, deductibles, or other cost-sharing. And most recently, we developed a new initiative to reduce domestic violence homicides through high risk screening and linking victims with services. Moreover, my Administration looks forward to working with the Congress to strengthen and reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

While government must do its part, all Americans can play a role in ending domestic violence. Each of us can promote healthy relationships, speak out when we see injustice in our communities, stand with survivors we know, and change attitudes that perpetuate the cycle of abuse. We must also ensure that survivors of domestic violence know they are not alone, and that there are resources available to them. I encourage victims, their loved ones, and concerned citizens to learn more by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE, or by visiting www.TheHotline.org.

This month, let us renew our efforts to support victims of domestic violence in their time of greatest need, and to realize an America where no one lives in fear because they feel unsafe in their own home.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I call on all Americans to speak out against domestic violence and support local efforts to assist victims of these crimes in finding the help and healing they need.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-domestic-violence-awareness-month-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-disability-employment-awareness-month-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-disability-employment-awareness-month-2012/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:25:50 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-disability-employment-awareness-month-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 01, 2012

NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

In the 22 years since the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act, we have made significant progress in giving all Americans the freedom to make of our lives what we will. Yet, in times of prosperity as well as challenge, people with disabilities have had fewer opportunities in our workplaces than those without. As we work to revitalize our economy, it is essential that each of us can bring our talents, expertise, and passion to bear in the marketplace. But a stronger economy is not enough; we must ensure not only full participation, but also full opportunity. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recognize the indispensable contributions people with disabilities make in our economy and recommit to building a country where each of us can realize the full extent of our dreams.

Because America’s workforce should reflect the diversity of its people — including people with disabilities — my Administration remains committed to helping our businesses, schools, and communities support our entire workforce. To meet this challenge, the Federal Government must be a model employer. That is why I was proud to sign an Executive Order in 2010 that called on Federal agencies to increase recruitment, hiring, and retention of people with disabilities. In 2012, the Office of Personnel Management reported on our progress, revealing that we are moving toward meeting our goal of hiring an additional 100,000 people with disabilities into the Federal workforce over 5 years. Today, more people with disabilities work for the Federal Government than at any time in the past 20 years, and we are striving to make it easier to get and keep those jobs by improving compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

All Americans are entitled to an accessible workplace, a level playing field, and the same privileges, pursuits, and opportunities as any of their family, friends, and neighbors. This month, let us rededicate ourselves to bringing down barriers and raising up aspirations for all our people, regardless of disability, so we may share in a brighter future together.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. I urge all Americans to embrace the talents
and skills that individuals with disabilities bring to our workplaces and communities and to promote the right to equal employment opportunity for all people.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-disability-employment-awareness-month-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-arts-and-humanities-month-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-arts-and-humanities-month-2012/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:25:49 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-arts-and-humanities-month-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — National Arts and Humanities Month, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 01, 2012

NATIONAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES MONTH, 2012

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

After the bombing of Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, a young lawyer named Francis Scott Key reached for his pen and captured the resilience of the American people. His poem became our National Anthem, and almost two centuries later, it continues to speak to the American spirit just as it did on that September day so long ago. Throughout our history, the arts and humanities have given us comfort and confidence, drawn us together, and called on us to strive for a more perfect Union. This month, we celebrate our Nation’s rich artistic heritage.

Artistic expression and memorable ideas can resonate with us, challenge us, and teach us important lessons about ourselves and each other. At their best, great works of literature, theater, dance, fine art, and music reflect something common in all of us. They open dialogues between cultures and raise poignant questions about our world. They are also vital components of our children’s education and our national growth — not only teaching our youth to observe closely, interpret creatively, and think critically, but also bringing new cultural experiences to our communities and helping drive economic progress. That is why my Administration is committed to strengthening arts and humanities programs in schools and communities across our Nation.

When children read their first book, pick up their first instrument, or perform in their first play, they demonstrate the power of the arts to ignite wonder and imagination. This month, let us pledge to invest in America’s next generation by ensuring our children have the opportunity to participate in and enjoy the arts and humanities. If we give them the tools to create and innovate, they will do their part to disrupt our views, challenge our perceptions, and stir us to be our best selves.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as National Arts and Humanities Month. I call upon the people of the United States to join together in observing this month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs to celebrate the arts and the humanities in America.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-arts-and-humanities-month-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-energy-action-month-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-energy-action-month-2012/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:25:49 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-energy-action-month-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — National Energy Action Month, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 01, 2012

NATIONAL ENERGY ACTION MONTH, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

A secure energy future is vital to an economy built to last. When we use American energy to power our homes, businesses, and vehicles, we create new American jobs, grow new American industries, and safeguard our national security and our economic potential. As demand for energy increases worldwide, our Nation must continue to lead the world in a rapidly evolving energy market by pursuing safe and responsible domestic energy production, promoting efficiency, and developing clean energy and renewable fuels.

My Administration is pursuing an all-of-the-above strategy to put energy independence within our reach and power a sustainable, vibrant economy. We took bold action to double our use of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal; finalized new standards to nearly double the fuel efficiency of our Nation’s automobiles by 2025; and invested in energy-saving upgrades in homes, public buildings, and businesses across our Nation. These programs spur innovation, make American manufacturers more competitive, and save families money on their energy bills.

As we lay the foundation for a clean energy economy, we must also take advantage of the abundant energy resources we have here at home and reduce our dependence on oil imports. That is why my Administration continues to open millions of acres for oil and gas exploration. Today, domestic oil production is at the highest level in nearly a decade, while oil imports have fallen to the lowest level in nearly 20 years.

Thanks to pioneering new technologies developed right here at home, America is also now the world’s leading producer of natural gas. As production has increased, it has boosted our manufacturing, dramatically reduced prices, and created more jobs for the American people. Along with advances in renewable energy and increased efficiency, our investments in natural gas can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change.

Moving forward, we will continue to invest in new technologies that put Americans to work in the jobs of tomorrow — from building advanced wind turbines and long-lasting batteries to developing cutting-edge clean coal technologies and next generation biofuels. We will promote growth and job creation throughout the entire energy sector by further developing our domestic energy resources and supporting our nuclear industry. And we will modernize our electric grid, allowing us to better integrate renewable energy, increase efficiency and reliability, and empower families to make informed decisions about their energy consumption.

Finally, we must also harness our greatest natural resource — the creativity, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit of the American people. Across our country, scientists and engineers are laying the groundwork for the next big energy breakthrough, farmers across rural America are producing homegrown fuels, students are promoting conservation in their communities, and autoworkers are manufacturing the next generation of fuel-efficient cars. If we continue to invest in American potential, I am confident that new plants and factories will dot our landscape and new energy will power our future.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as National Energy Action Month. I call upon the citizens of the United States to recognize this month by working together to achieve greater energy security, a more robust economy, and a healthier environment for our children.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-national-energy-action-month-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/dublin-to-host-8th-forum-of-cities-against-poverty/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/dublin-to-host-8th-forum-of-cities-against-poverty/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:25:35 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/dublin-to-host-8th-forum-of-cities-against-poverty/ Dublin to host 8th forum of cities against poverty

United Nations

01 October 2012

Cities can offer their citizens many social and economic benefits, but they can also become deep poverty traps, when not managed properly. (Photo: Markus Schieder, Getty Images)

Making Cities Smart, Safe and Sustainable to be key focus of the forum

Geneva — On World Habitat Day, the United Nations Development Programme has announced the host city of WACAP8 will be Dublin, Ireland.  The WACAP8 forum will take place on 20-21 February 2013.

The World Alliance of Cities Against Poverty (WACAP) was first launched in 1996 as a global network of municipal governments.  Its ambition is to address the challenges of urbanization, to facilitate south-south and triangular cooperation, and to share knowledge of best practices. Each Forum attracts senior political leadership from cities as well as policy and technical specialists with designated authority.

Naoise Ó Muirí, Lord Mayor of Dublin, said his city is proud to host WACAP8 and is looking forward to receiving the delegates in February. “The International Forum and Expo will bring together key people to build solutions for the Millennium Development Goals and to address the global challenge of urban poverty,” he said.  “Through a diverse range of speakers and sessions, the Forum will specifically examine ways in which technology can make our cities ‘Smart, Safe and Sustainable”.

UNDP Administrator Helen Clark said more people now live in cities than in rural areas.  The Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development estimates that by 2050, 70 per cent of the world population will live in cities. “Cities should offer social, economic and political opportunities for citizens to reach their full potential. WACAP is meant as a contribution, with our partners, to facilitate this process”.

UN WOMEN Executive Director Michelle Bachelet said that no city could be considered safe, smart or sustainable unless half of its population – women and girls—could enjoy public spaces without the fear of violence. “Working with municipal leaders, WACAP8 can help ensure that women, youth and children are safe to fully enjoy the many opportunities that cities offer”.  

WACAP is led by UNDP and a 10-member executive steering committee consisting of the cities of Florence (Italy), Malaga (Spain), Huy (Belgium), Monaco, Nantes (France), Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Dublin (Ireland), in addition to UNDP, UNITAR and UN Women.  Past Forums have taken place in Lyon, France (1998); Geneva, Switzerland (2000); Huy, Belgium (2002); Rome, Italy (2004); Valencia, Spain (2006); Athens, Greece (2008) and Rotterdam, Netherlands (2010).  This year’s forum in Dublin will coincide with the country’s hosting of the presidency of the European Union.

Contact Information

Adam Rogers, UNDP Geneva, tel: (41 22) 917 8541; e-mail: adam.rogers@undp.org

 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/dublin-to-host-8th-forum-of-cities-against-poverty/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/attack-may-have-included-insurgent-fire-officials-say/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/attack-may-have-included-insurgent-fire-officials-say/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 14:30:22 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/attack-may-have-included-insurgent-fire-officials-say/ Attack May Have Included Insurgent Fire, Officials Say

United States Department of Defense

Attack May Have Included Insurgent Fire, Officials Say

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force and ISAF Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – A Sept. 29 exchange of gunfire in Afghanistan’s Wardak province that left an International Security Assistance Force service member and an ISAF-contracted civilian employee dead may have involved insurgent fire, ISAF officials reported yesterday.

Official said three Afghan soldiers reportedly also were killed in the incident, which initially was reported to be a suspected insider attack.

In a written statement, ISAF officials said the incident occurred while an ISAF unit was manning a temporary checkpoint in an area near an Afghan army unit. According to ISAF and Afghan army reporting, gunfire occurred after a short conversation took place between Afghan and ISAF personnel, and an ISAF soldier and his civilian colleague were killed. In an ensuing exchange of fire, three Afghan army personnel are reported to have died, officials added.

“We deeply regret the loss of life in this tragic incident,” officials said in the statement, “Our deepest sympathies are with the families of our personnel who were killed.”

Afghan National Army and ISAF personnel are investigating the incident jointly.

In operations around Afghanistan today:

– A combined Afghan and coalition security force in the Nad-e Ali district of Helmand province detained two suspected insurgents while searching for a Taliban operative believed to be responsible for planning and executing ambush attacks on Afghan and coalition forces and directing insurgents for senior Taliban leaders in the district.

– In Khost province’s Sabari district, an Afghan-led security force supported by coalition troops detained several suspected insurgents during a search for a Haqqani network leader believed to maintain a large cache of weapons and to be responsible for purchasing supplies for future attacks.

– A combined security force in the Gelan district of Ghazni province detained several suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest a Taliban leader suspected of planning attacks using improvised explosive devices and small-arms fire against Afghan and coalition forces.

– In Logar province’s Pul-e Alam district, Logar province, a combined security force detained several suspected insurgents during a search for a Haqqani network leader suspected of acquiring supplies to plan and execute suicide attacks against Afghan and coalition forces while directly reporting to senior Haqqani leadership.

In operations yesterday:

– Afghan and coalition forces killed the No. 1 Taliban leader and another insurgent with a precision airstrike in Nangarhar province’s Sherzad district. Nawab, also known as Nil, equipped and coordinated fighters in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He facilitated the movement of weapons and explosives, and was directly involved in an Aug. 21 attack on a government official. A post-strike assessment determined no civilians were harmed and no civilian property was damaged during the operation.

– Afghan special police and coalition forces recovered more than 5,800 pounds of white opium and heroin and detained several insurgents during a vehicle interdiction operation in the Chakhansur district of Nimroz province. The narcotics are estimated to be worth about $800,000, and the detained insurgents are believed to be involved in narcotics trafficking and weapons facilitation for the Taliban.

– A combined security force in the Tsamkani district of Paktia province arrested a Haqqani network IED expert suspected of procuring IED-building materials, coordinating the shipment of those materials throughout the region, and importing anti-aircraft weapons. In addition to directing ambush attacks against Afghan National Police, he is believed to have been directly responsible for building numerous remote-controlled IEDs, planning their use, and facilitating their delivery. The security force also detained seven other suspected insurgents and seized firearms in the operation.

In Sept. 29 operations:

– A combined force in the Sar-e Pul district of Sar-e Pul province arrested a Taliban leader and five other suspected insurgents. The detained leader is believed to have supported and directed IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He reportedly reported directly to senior Taliban leaders while exercising command and control to coordinate insurgent attacks, and is suspected of purchasing and distributing supplies for future attacks.

– In Logar province’s Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested of a Taliban attack leader suspected of having played a key role in the procurement, planning and execution of IED attacks against coalition and Afghan security forces. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents.

In Sept. 28 operations:

– A precision airstrike in the Darah-ye Pech district of Kunar province killed Asad, an al-Qaida associated Taliban leader, and two other suspected insurgents. Asad — also affiliated with the Tehrik-Nefaz-i-Shariat-Muhammadi, a Pakistani militant group and known supporter of the Afghan Taliban — engaged in numerous attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and was believed to be planning additional strikes. A post-strike assessment determined no civilians were harmed and no civilian property was damaged in the airstrike.

– A combined force in the Sharan district of Paktika province arrested a Haqqani network IED attack leader suspected of having a direct role in the construction and distribution of IEDs and directing their use throughout the region. He was also known to seek additional weapons, including ammunition and mortars. At the time of his arrest, he was believed to have been planning an attack against high-level Afghan government officials. The security force also detained two additional suspected insurgents and seized firearms in the operation.

In other news, Taliban insurgents shot an Afghan civilian in the Muqor district of Ghazni province Sept. 28 while Afghan and coalition special operations forces were conducting a security meeting. The man was injured by machine-gun fire after the Taliban attacked the combined force at the meeting. Afghan and coalition troops treated and stabilized the man and fought off the attack. Local villagers then took the wounded man to a hospital in Ghazni City.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/attack-may-have-included-insurgent-fire-officials-say/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-child-health-day-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-child-health-day-2012/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 14:26:22 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-child-health-day-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — Child Health Day, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

October 01, 2012

CHILD HEALTH DAY, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

As a Nation, we share an obligation to ensure the health and well-being of our children. The youth of today will shape America’s tomorrow, and on Child Health Day, we rededicate ourselves to providing our next generation with access to the quality health care and clean environment that will nurture their future success.

My Administration has made the health of our Nation’s children a top priority. Because of the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies can no longer deny coverage to children with pre-existing conditions. The law also allows young adults to stay on their parents’ health insurance plan until age 26, which has brought coverage to more than 3 million Americans. My Administration has also taken action to ensure all our children can attend schools that are safe, where we address bullying and end the myth that it is a simple rite of passage. And through First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative, we are joining with parents, schools, and community leaders to address childhood obesity.

A safe environment in which our children can live and grow is also essential to their well-being. Because clean water is the foundation for healthy communities, we are working to reduce contaminants in our drinking water by updating standards and better protecting our water sources from pollution. We are also building on the successes of the Clean Air Act to improve our air quality and help decrease harmful toxins that can lead to acute bronchitis, asthma, cancer, and impaired development.

On Child Health Day, we are reminded that by giving our children a healthy start in life, we put them and our Nation on the path to a successful future. As we mark this important occasion, let us reaffirm our commitment to meeting that most fundamental responsibility.

The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 18, 1928, as amended (36 U.S.C. 105), has called for the designation of the first Monday in October as Child Health Day and has requested the President to issue a proclamation in observance of this day.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Monday, October 1, 2012, as Child Health Day. I call upon families, child health professionals, faith-based and community organizations, and all levels of government to help ensure America’s children stay healthy.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/presidential-proclamation-child-health-day-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unhcrs-guterres-says-global-humanitarian-crises-at-levels-unmatched-in-recent-history/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unhcrs-guterres-says-global-humanitarian-crises-at-levels-unmatched-in-recent-history/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 13:25:53 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unhcrs-guterres-says-global-humanitarian-crises-at-levels-unmatched-in-recent-history/ UNHCR’s Guterres says global humanitarian crises at levels unmatched in recent history

United Nations

News Stories, 1 October 2012

© UNHCR/J-M.Ferré

UN High Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres addresses members of UNHCR’s governing Executive Committee today at the annual ExCom meeting in Geneva.

GENEVA, October, October 1 (UNHCR) – The head of the UN refugee agency, Antonio Guterres, warned today that UNHCR and other humanitarian actors are under increasing strain from a combination of simultaneous major new conflicts and unresolved old ones.

In a speech to the opening of the annual meeting of UNHCR’s Executive Committee, Guterres said UNHCR was facing a level of refugee crises unmatched in its recent history, with simultaneous new emergencies in Syria, Mali, Sudan and South Sudan, and Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

“Already in 2011, as crisis after crisis unfolded, more than 800,000 people crossed borders in search of refuge – an average of more than 2,000 refugees every day. And this was higher than at any time in the last decade,” he said. “And so far this year, more than 700,000 people have fled from the DRC, Mali, Sudan and Syria.”

Guterres said UNHCR’s capacity to help the world’s forcibly displaced was being “radically tested” by this acceleration in new crises. He praised countries that have kept borders open to people fleeing conflict, and thanked donors for continuing to provide generous support, particularly during a period of global economic strain.

However, the High Commissioner also warned that the costs of helping the world’s more than 42 million forcibly displaced were escalating fast, with protracted large-scale displacement situations continuing – for example, in Afghanistan and Somalia.

“We are at a moment when the demands on us are rising while the means available to respond have remained at a similar level to last year. Our operations in Africa, in particular, are dramatically underfunded,” he said. “At this moment, we have no room for any unforeseen needs. No reserves available. In today’s unpredictable operating environment, this is a cause for deep concern.”

Guterres said that to ameliorate matters UNHCR had instituted new efforts to improve efficiencies, among them cutting back on non-essential procurement and tightened control on replenishment of aid stockpiles. In addition, he said UNHCR – which relies on voluntary contributions – was seeking increased funding from non-traditional sources, including in the private sector.

Guterres, who has been the UN’s High Commissioner for Refugees since 2005, said continued support was needed for those nations that host the world’s major refugee populations – mainly developing countries. He also spoke of the importance to UNHCR of partnerships with other humanitarian actors, including national non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in countries and regions with large displaced populations.

The High Commissioner said that while ending conflict required a political solution, humanitarian actors should also do more to improve prospects for peace – including through advocacy, investing in livelihoods, education and other activities to enhance self-reliance among refugee populations.

“The majority of those who fled Côte d’Ivoire last year have already returned home. In Myanmar, I hope that positive developments will pave the way for a resolution of the plight of hundreds of thousands of refugees in Thailand and other countries in the region,” he said. “I also strongly hope that next year will be one of opportunity for Somalis, enabling us to leverage potential solutions in ways which have never been possible in the past.”

Currently made up of 87 members, ExCom meets in Geneva annually to review and approve the organization’s programmes and budget, advise on international protection and discuss a wide range of other issues with UNHCR and its inter-governmental and NGO partners.

This year’s meeting is chaired by Jan Knutsson, permanent representative of Sweden to the UN, and runs from today to Friday. It is expected to look at many issues, including evolving protection needs for refugees and internally displaced people, and the situation of the world’s millions of stateless people.

Guterres spoke of progress since 2011 in efforts to increase the number of states that have acceded to the main statelessness conventions and he called on states to bring an end to statelessness within the next decade.

For displaced people worldwide he appealed to ExCom members to do even more: “We live in dangerous times, in an unpredictable world. More and more people are forced to flee in search of refuge,” he said. “I urge all ExCom members to renew their collective commitment to addressing their plight, and that of all those who find themselves uprooted from their homes and communities, as the crises of today and tomorrow continue to unfold.”

Read High Commissioner’s Opening Statement

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unhcrs-guterres-says-global-humanitarian-crises-at-levels-unmatched-in-recent-history/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/agricultural-g-20-proposals-could-revive-negotiators-engagement-chair-says/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/agricultural-g-20-proposals-could-revive-negotiators-engagement-chair-says/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:27:32 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/agricultural-g-20-proposals-could-revive-negotiators-engagement-chair-says/ Agricultural G-20 proposals could revive negotiators’ engagement, chair says

World Trade Organisation

NOTE:

THIS NEWS STORY is designed to help the public understand developments in the WTO. While every effort has been made to ensure the contents are accurate, it does not prejudice member governments’ positions.

“INFORMAL MEETING” means there are no minutes.

MORE:

> News: agriculture talks

> Agriculture negotiations

> Modalities phase

> The Doha Round

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> Find help here

 

Chairperson John Adank, New Zealand’s ambassador, had called the meeting so that members could share information on their discussions since the last meeting in March. He concluded that after a lull in the talks, delegations’ willingness to examine the new proposals will mean a greater engagement by negotiators, which has been absent for some time.

One of the proposals is a draft “understanding” written in treaty language on the administration of tariff quotas — how imports within the quotas are shared among importers, when duties inside the quotas are lower than on quantities outside.

Brazil, the group’s coordinator, told an informal negotiations meeting that the G-20 considers this to be a subject that could be settled ahead of a fuller agreement on the whole Doha Round package.

The other is a call for new Secretariat studies on tariff quota administration, and on export subsidies and other forms of export competition — export credit and insurance, state trading enterprises and food aid, which can all involve hidden export subsidies.

Brazil said that the G-20’s members have been working on new ideas since agriculture negotiators last met in March, except during the Geneva summer break. They had only just agreed on the text to submit even though Beijing was still examining the tariff quota administration draft. The proposals are still evolving but the group felt it should present something to start with, Brazil said.

Speaking for itself Brazil added that it considers export competition and the linked issue of cotton subsidies to be other contenders for subjects that could be agreed early.

It also said it is looking at ways of moving the negotiations forward on issues related to agriculture but in other committees:

 

Reactions

Because the proposals were only circulated at the beginning of the meeting, most members said they still needed time to study them before responding properly. Most also said they are committed to finding ways to move the talks forward, and would therefore respond seriously.

In their preliminary responses, some questioned the selection of issues that could be candidates for early agreement, such as tariff quota administration and export competition. They said these are part of the December 2008 draft “modalities”, which contains a considerable amount of agreement based on a balance of issues. The balance could be upset if these issues were isolated, they said.

Brazil said the approach should not be challenged since ministers had instructed their negotiators to look for potential “early harvest” subjects.

The G-10 (Switzerland speaking) said “export competition” should include export restraints. G-20 members endorsed Brazil’s statement on their behalf. Norway joked that it endorsed the beginning of the statement: “Mr Chairman …”

Chairperson Adank said that clearly another meeting of some kind is needed, although he could not say yet when, or in what form.

Members cannot expect a quick agreement, he added, other than on “Mr Chairman …”

 

Next

Another meeting: time and form to be announced

Audio

Use these links to download the audio files or to listen to what he said:

The chair’s statements:

 

Explanations

This was an informal agriculture negotiations meeting of the full membership, officially an “Informal Open-Ended Special Session” of the Agriculture Committee.

Modalities : The way or method of doing something — in this case, how to cut tariffs, enlarge quotas and reduce subsidies and support, along with flexibilities to deal with various sensitivities. The core methods are formulas for cutting tariffs and supports, with a number ways of achieving the flexibilities or tightening disciplines. Once the modalities have been agreed, countries can apply the formulas to tariffs on thousands of products and to various support programmes.

 

 

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/agricultural-g-20-proposals-could-revive-negotiators-engagement-chair-says/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/estonia-must-reform-to-ward-against-boombust-cycles-oecd-says/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/estonia-must-reform-to-ward-against-boombust-cycles-oecd-says/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:15:51 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/estonia-must-reform-to-ward-against-boombust-cycles-oecd-says/ Estonia must reform to ward against boom/bust cycles, OECD says

OECD

 

01/10/2012 - Estonia recovered forcefully from the global economic crisis but growth has since slowed, highlighting the need for further reforms that reduce exposure to external shocks and ensure against future boom/bust cycles, according to the OECD’s latest Economic Survey of Estonia.

 

The report, presented today in Tallinn by OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría and Estonian Prime Minister Andrus Ansip notes Estonia’s resilience, despite the continuing slowdown across Europe. The OECD projects Estonian economic growth of around 2.2 percent this year and 3.6 percent in 2013.

 

“Over the past decade, Estonia has achieved one of the highest medium-term growth rates in the OECD, accompanied by rapid improvements in living standards,” Mr Gurría said. “It is in good times that we prepare for future storms, which is why Estonia should begin implementing reforms today to make it even more resilient to future shocks. Reducing the considerable volatility that Estonia has experienced is key to ensuring sustainable growth and well-being over the long term.”

 

The OECD identifies three priorities for future action.

 

First, more effective supervision of financial markets would help Estonia ward against excessive credit cycles driven by foreign-financed lending. While micro-prudential regulation of financial markets is well established, existing macro-prudential instruments were insufficient during the build‑up of the recent boom/bust cycle. Cross‑border co‑operation of financial sector regulation needs to be further strengthened, particularly as Estonia is so integrated into the Nordic regional banking market.

 

“Within these frameworks for cooperation, it will be important to consider how macro-prudential tools, such as countercyclical capital buffers, can be best designed and implemented to ensure the stability of the Estonian economy,” Mr Gurría said.

 

Second, the OECD says that fiscal policy can also be a key line of defense against boom/bust cycles, noting that spending ceilings could be used to contain increases in government outlays during boom times. Such a ceiling would constrain over-spending in boom years, but would also allow automatic stabilizers (mainly on the tax side) to operate during downturns. The planned establishment of an independent fiscal institution is seen as a key step forward, but the OECD points out that such institutions must have a clear mandate, be adequately funded and fully independent.

 

A third priority should be improving the effectiveness of social protection, labour market and education policies, to support the most vulnerable and tackle unemployment and skill mismatches, particularly among young people, who have been hard-hit by the crisis. A switch to more activation oriented, and better-targeted policies, as well as support for life-long learning, will help promote more sustainable and inclusive long-term growth.

Journalists seeking further information should contact the OECD’s Media Division: news.contact@oecd.org, +33 1 45 24 97 00.

 

 

 

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/estonia-must-reform-to-ward-against-boombust-cycles-oecd-says/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/saudi-arabian-woman-researcher-hayat-sindi-to-be-appointed-unesco-goodwill-ambassador/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/saudi-arabian-woman-researcher-hayat-sindi-to-be-appointed-unesco-goodwill-ambassador/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 11:26:28 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/saudi-arabian-woman-researcher-hayat-sindi-to-be-appointed-unesco-goodwill-ambassador/ Saudi Arabian woman researcher Hayat Sindi to be appointed UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador

United Nations

Born in 1967 in Mecca (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), Dr Hayat Sindi has made major contributions to point-of-care diagnostics, medical testing at or near the site of patient care, specifically designed for the vast number of people who do not have access to hospitals and medical facilities. She made this contribution through the invention of a biochemical sensor with thermo elastic probes and her development of the Magnetic Acoustic Resonance Sensor (MARS).

 

            Ms Sindi’s nomination as UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador comes “in recognition of her work to create an ecosystem of entrepreneurship and social innovation for scientists, technologists and engineers in the Middle East and beyond, her efforts to bring the youth closer to innovators and her dedication to the ideals and aims of the Organization.”

 

            In her capacity as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, Ms Sindi will support science education, especially inspiring more girls to enrol in science subjects; building ecosystems for entrepreneurship for science students leaving university; research in science, particularly in the life sciences in the Gulf region; and the visibility of UNESCO’s natural sciences programmes, particularly those pertaining to life science education. Moreover, she will help mobilize funds through her professional network to support UNESCO’s priority activities.

 

            As a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, Ms Sindi will join the ranks of outstanding celebrity advocates who spread the ideals of UNESCO through their name and fame. They extend and amplify UNESCO’s work and mission and generously use their talent and status to help focus the world’s attention on UNESCO’s  work.

 

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www.unesco.org

 

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/saudi-arabian-woman-researcher-hayat-sindi-to-be-appointed-unesco-goodwill-ambassador/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/pm-to-visit-los-angeles-film-sector/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/pm-to-visit-los-angeles-film-sector/#comments Mon, 01 Oct 2012 03:40:46 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/pm-to-visit-los-angeles-film-sector/ PM to visit Los Angeles film sector

New Zealand

Prime Minister John Key today announced that he will make a brief visit to Los Angeles to meet with heads and senior executives of major United States’ studios this week.

The trip, which is at the invitation of Film New Zealand, is to support New Zealand’s growing international reputation as a centre of excellence for screen production and post-production.

“This visit is extremely important for our industry. The screen industry contributed almost $3 billion in revenue to the New Zealand economy last year – and it keeps growing. In simple terms, this visit is about jobs for New Zealanders,” says Mr Key.

“However, there is intense international competition for the business and we need to keep telling our story to movie and television production people.”

During the visit Mr Key will be the guest of film-maker James Cameron and his business partner Jon Landau at a private dinner of major studio heads.

He will also make visits to Walt Disney Studios, Sony Pictures Studios and Warner Bros. Studios.

“The screen industry in New Zealand supports over 2700 businesses, over 95 per cent of which are involved in production and post-production work. We need to keep New Zealand front of mind for those individuals who can bring further investment to New Zealand.”

As well as Warner Bros., Sony Pictures Entertainment, and The Walt Disney Company, Mr Key will meet the heads and senior executives of Twentieth Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, and Universal Pictures, as well as the Motion Picture Association of America, other major production houses and current clients of the New Zealand screen industry.

The Prime Minister leaves New Zealand on the evening of Wednesday 3 October and returns on Sunday 7 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/pm-to-visit-los-angeles-film-sector/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/encouragement-for-australias-plan-to-protect-medical-workers-in-syria/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/encouragement-for-australias-plan-to-protect-medical-workers-in-syria/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 23:46:50 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/encouragement-for-australias-plan-to-protect-medical-workers-in-syria/ Encouragement for Australia’s plan to protect medical workers in Syria
Australian Government News – Australian Entities

Media release

30 September 2012

Foreign Minister Bob Carr has secured a positive response to Australia’s plan to protect access to hospitals and medical care in Syria, with leaders from the United Nations and Arab League offering encouragement for the plan to proceed.

“This is a minimalist plan to protect hospitals and health workers in Syria and to help the thousands of families cut off from medical care,” Senator Carr said.

“Australia’s plan is not a military or political intervention.

“It is necessary because of the Security Council deadlock over a ceasefire.

“In the last 24 hours I’ve presented the plan to the Joint Special Envoy for Syria Lakdar Brahimi and to UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Valerie Amos.

“Both offered encouragement.

“Similar support was received from European and Arab foreign ministers over the last seven days.

“We’ll continue to seek public support.”

The Australian plan would involve securing a commitment from all sides in the Syrian conflict:

• Not to target medical personnel;
• Not to block access to doctors, hospitals or emergency care; and
• Not to attack medical facilities

Implementation could be observed by a neutral third party, such as a non-government organisation.

More than 30,000 Syrians have died in the current civil conflict, and the United Nations has estimated more than 2 ½ million others are in need of humanitarian care and up to 500,000 are homeless.

This week Australia also provided another $4 million for Syrian medical aid, comprising:

• An additional $2 million for medical supplies and emergency food aid in Syria; and
• An additional $2 million for food, shelter and health care in Syrian refugee camps in Jordan and elsewhere.

This $4 million additional contribution lifts Australia’s total commitment to the Syrian humanitarian crisis to $24.5 million. Australia is now the third largest national contributor to humanitarian aid for Syria, behind the United States and the United Kingdom.

• Minister’s office: (02) 6277 7500
• DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/encouragement-for-australias-plan-to-protect-medical-workers-in-syria/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/prime-minister-tuivakano-statement-at-unga-67th-session/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/prime-minister-tuivakano-statement-at-unga-67th-session/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 22:16:37 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/prime-minister-tuivakano-statement-at-unga-67th-session/ Prime Minister Tu’ivakano: Statement at UNGA 67th Session

Pacific Islands Governments

28 September 2012 Statement delivered by the Prime Minister of Tonga and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lord Tu’ivakanoa in New York on the occasion of The General Debate of the General Assembly Sixty Seventh Session.

Thank
you Mr. President

Mr.
Secretary General

Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests

Ladies
and Gentlemen

Accept
my sincere congratulations Mr. President upon your election to guide and oversee
the important work of this session of the General Assembly.

I
assure you of the support and cooperation of my delegation during your
Presidency.

I
must also congratulate your predecessor His Excellency Mr. Nasir Abdulaziz
Al-Nasser of Qatar for his recently concluded term as the outgoing President of
the Sixty Sixth Session.

During
his term, he enhanced the profile and work of the General Assembly and we are
pleased that your Presidency has decided to carry forward and build upon a
shared theme of the settlement of international disputes or situations by
peaceful means.

Our Organization
continues to draw strength from the steady leadership of Secretary General Ban
ki Moon.

Together
with the Secretariat ~ they face, on a day-to-day basis, the increasingly
volatile challenges and fast evolving crises around the globe with unwavering
commitment and steadfast determination.

We
continue to remember those of the Organization who have fallen fulfilling their
duty ~ pursuing our collective aspirations reflected in the Charter of the
United Nations.

Mr.
President

We
are pleased with the convening earlier this week of the High Level Meeting on
the Rule of Law at the National and International Levels.

Whatever
the setting or the circumstances of States like Tonga, the rule of law, is a
core pillar and fundamental component of the national fabric.

Tongans take much
pride in the enduring qualities of the 1875 Constitution and the early legal
codes of 1839 and 1850 as instruments of visionary nation building and, with reform
over time, lasting peace and stability.

It
also laid the foundation for firmly setting Tonga’s international relations
with the global powers of the time and set us on a path that ultimately has led
to membership of the global body of our time, the United Nations.

As
such Tonga was pleased to join other Member States in adopting the Declaration
of the High Level Meeting.

To
expand and improve the role and impact of the rule of law at national, regional
and international levels requires the expert and technical assistance available
from the UN system, relevant intergovernmental agencies and interested
development partners to be coordinated, continuous and coherent.

This
week’s outcome is a positive development for small jurisdictions like Tonga in strengthening
its capacity to address the political, social, economic and environmental
challenges of our time.

Mr.
President

Building upon the
Secretary General’s historic attendance at last year’s meeting of the Pacific
Islands Forum (‘PIF’), a further meeting took place this week within the
margins of this year’s General Debate for the first time.

An
important outcome of the meeting provides a stronger and regular basis for high
level interaction and an exchange of views on issues of mutual import and
concern between PIF Leaders and the Secretary General.

This
year’s PIF meeting was hosted by the Cook Islands and our Communique gives
proper focus to issues important to Tonga and the region such as sustainable
development, climate change, oceans, renewable energy and gender equality.

Mr.
President

Tonga,
like other Small Island Developing States (‘SIDS’), returned to Rio de Janeiro
in June to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development to chart a new global
course for sustainable development.

For
many if not all SIDS, this return amounted to a re-affirmation of the special
and particular vulnerabilities, recognized in 1992, which make States like
Tonga unique.

With
other SIDS we look to advance, during this General Assembly session, the
agreement reached in Rio for a Third International Conference for the
Sustainable Development of SIDS to take place in 2014.

This
Third Conference should be hosted in the Pacific region.

Against
the background of the recent Rio+20 and the on-going efforts to achieve the
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), such a Conference would represent an early
but timely moment for SIDS to take stock of implemented outcomes.

A
successful Conference can only be built upon the strong and active
participation of all SIDS and a strong, responsive and cohesive UN system
attuned to SIDS issues.

Building
towards such a Conference will provide a boost to ongoing national initiatives
such as our Tonga Strategic Development Framework and its priority objectives
for 2011 to 2014.

Mr.
President

Tonga
joined other Member States of the Alliance of Small Island States (‘AOSIS’)
yesterday, under the chairmanship of Nauru, in adopting a Declaration focused
on the continuing serious threat of climate change to the territorial
integrity, viability and survival of all Small Island States.

There
is an urgent need to continue to address the security implications of climate
change including the impact on territorial integrity, the frequency and
severity of climate related disasters, the threat to water and food security
and forced displacement of people.

Our
challenge to the international community ~ in particular developed countries ~
is to ‘take the bold measures necessary to reduce emissions of all greenhouse
gases to levels that ensure a viable and meaningful future for SIDS like Tonga
~ for to safeguard the survival of the smallest and most vulnerable States
amongst us is to safeguard a viable future for all States’.

A
rising tide may lift all boats but it will drown us all.

The
UNFCCC meeting in Qatar must advance efforts from Durban to bridge differences
over key issues such as those related to the Kyoto Protocol’s future, climate
finance, closing the pre-2020 mitigation ambition gap and constructively
addressing loss and damage associated with climate change impacts, bearing in
mind the adaptation costs, in developing countries like Tonga.

Mr.
President

This
year’s theme of the Pacific Islands Forum was “Large Oceans Island States – the
Pacific Challenge”. It builds upon the positive outcomes of Rio+20 on the
conservation and sustainable use of the oceans and its marine environment or
what we call the ‘blue economy’.

Tonga’s
connection with its oceanic environment, like other Pacific neighbours, is one
with deep historical dimensions.

More
than an ancient pathway to a maritime and seafaring past amongst disparate
islands ~ the oceans and its resources ~ now potentially represent a liquid
highway to a more sustainable future for Pacific peoples.

To
quote an eminent Tongan scholar, the late Dr. ‘Epeli Hau’ofa:

“We
should not be defined by the smallness of our islands but by the greatness of
our oceans. We are the sea. We are the ocean. Oceania is us.”

As
custodians of the ocean and its living and non-living resources, we have long
appreciated that the health of the oceans is critical to maintaining a staple
source of sustenance and livelihood for island communities.

We
welcome the focus from Rio+20 on sustainable fisheries and developing national
capacity, on the importance of access and the role of small scale and artisanal
fishers and women, and on the need for concerted action to address the
vulnerability of coral reefs and mangroves.

As
a party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, Tonga is actively
interested to implement its obligations under the Convention including through:

* timely negotiation of maritime boundary
delimitation agreements with neighboring States,

* effective participation in the work of the
International Seabed Authority and the Commission on the Limits of the
Continental Shelf,

* implementing related agreements such as the
Fish Stocks Agreement, and

* considering the potential development of
further legal instruments within the Convention’s framework to reflect new
realities.

Mr.
President

During
this International Year of Sustainable Energy for All, we welcome the Secretary
General’s High Level Event this week dedicated in part to addressing the
continued development of renewable energy sources.

With
like-minded AOSIS Member States, Tonga will build on the Barbados Declaration
on Achieving Sustainable Energy for All in SIDS and Rio+20 to implement its
voluntary commitment to reducing Tonga’s greenhouse gas emissions and improving
energy security through 50% renewable energy mix by 2020.

With
the requisite financial resources, on-going capacity building, appropriate
technology transfer and genuine partnership with dedicated development
partners, such as New Zealand, Italy, Japan and the United Arab Emirates,
national initiatives such as the Tonga Energy Road Map will continue to show progress
and real benefit to Tongans.

We
are committed to a strong advocacy role on the Council of the International
Renewable Energy Agency (‘IRENA’) and the critical work the Agency does in
pursuing a more secure and sustainable energy path.

Mr.
President

Tonga
joined other Member States of the Pacific Islands Forum in adopting, as an
important part of the PIF Communique this year, a Pacific Leaders Gender
Equality Declaration.

It
sets a valuable political platform for investing in empowering and encouraging
women and young girls as a vital part of Tongan society and the region’s
future.

We
thank Australia for her investment in ‘Pacific Women Shaping Pacific
Development’.

Steps
taken to promote and protect the interests of Tongan women and gender equality
include:

* the extension of paid maternity leave
within the Public Service from 1 to 3 months,

* Government approval to draft legislation on
Violence Against Women and Children to be tabled during this Parliamentary
session,

* Government approval for the conduct of
nationwide consultations to reach a consensus with a view to considering the
ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination Against
Women (CEDAW),

* the launch of a National Study on Domestic
Violence Against Women, and

* most recently the launch last week of a Social Welfare Scheme
for the Elderly, for those over 75 years of age.

Without
genuine improvement in gender equality, Member States will continue to struggle
to achieve real progress towards meeting their MDG commitments and beyond.

Mr.
President

In
closing, on behalf of His Majesty King Tupou VI, Queen Nanasipau’u and the
Royal Household, the Government and the People of the Kingdom of Tonga ~ I wish
to convey our profound appreciation for the overwhelming messages of condolence
and sympathy from Member States, the Secretary General, the UN Secretariat and
the General Assembly on the untimely passing earlier this year of our much
beloved King George Tupou V.

I
acknowledge in particular the assistance of the People’s Republic of China at
that time. Though His reign may have been short in time ~ it may yet prove
timeless in enabling an environment where Tongans now exercise greater
electoral democracy and enjoy a fully elected Government and a more
representative Parliament.

This perhaps may
His reign’s most enduring legacy be.

I thank you for
your attention.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/prime-minister-tuivakano-statement-at-unga-67th-session/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unesco-director-general-deplores-destruction-of-ancient-aleppo-markets-a-world-heritage-site/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unesco-director-general-deplores-destruction-of-ancient-aleppo-markets-a-world-heritage-site/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 19:26:26 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unesco-director-general-deplores-destruction-of-ancient-aleppo-markets-a-world-heritage-site/ UNESCO Director-General deplores destruction of ancient Aleppo markets, a World Heritage site

United Nations

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/unesco-director-general-deplores-destruction-of-ancient-aleppo-markets-a-world-heritage-site/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/speech-to-united-nations-general-assembly/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/speech-to-united-nations-general-assembly/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 11:40:15 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/speech-to-united-nations-general-assembly/ Speech to United Nations General Assembly

New Zealand

Mr President

I bring greetings from the South Pacific.

For the past year New Zealand has had the privilege of chairing the Pacific Islands Forum – a regional body that represents some of the smallest and most vulnerable states on this planet.

For us this has been an important responsibility.

Because we are a small country with modest resources, we choose to focus much of our attention on our own region.

Over 60% of our ODA is spent in our own neighbourhood.

Serving as Pacific Islands Forum Chair has caused us to reflect on the role of regional organisations, and also on the extent to which we all depend upon the United Nations for solutions to challenges that are truly global in character.

I say with some confidence that we have been making good progress in dealing with those challenges that are capable of regional solutions.

But I must also say that we need and expect more from this institution.

The Pacific Islands Forum has sixteen members, of which fourteen are small island states.

I was pleased to attend this week the first meeting between the UN Secretary-General and Pacific Islands Forum Leaders, which I hope will mark a new era of enhanced high level engagement between this organisation and our region, and a greater understanding of our needs.

The Pacific has had its share of stability and security challenges in recent times.

As a region, we have done reasonably well in dealing with them.

Most recently it has been in the Solomon Islands that a regional initiative has been required.

The regional assistance mission, RAMSI, has involved a truly regional approach, with the participation of police and other personnel from every member of the Pacific Islands Forum.

And I am pleased to report that the security element of that initiative has been scaled down and will soon be fully withdrawn.

But there is also more this organisation, particularly the Security Council, can do to acknowledge and support regional leadership, in the Pacific and elsewhere, on peace and security matters.

Concerns about democracy, the rule of law and human rights are not mere abstract considerations within the Pacific.

These principles have been challenged in a number of states, most notably in recent years in Fiji.

In that respect I am pleased to report that progress is being made towards the holding of elections in 2014, and that support has been forthcoming to ensure that such elections are free and fair.

Stability and security issues are not the only priorities for our regional body.

In our year as Forum Chair, New Zealand chose to focus on a number of development priorities, two of which I wish to mention in my remarks today.

For many of the poorer states within our region, their fisheries resource is the major economic asset they hold.

Yet due to illegal fishing practices, unreported catch and inadequate management regimes, these countries have received far too small a return on the resource.

Because of the highly migratory character of the tuna resource, this truly is a matter requiring regional management and solid progress is being made in such areas as improved surveillance, the training of monitors, and improved management practices, both to protect the last really healthy fishery on the planet, and to ensure that its owners receive their fair share of the resource they own.

One of the highest priorities within our region is the need for practical initiatives in the area of renewable energy.

Ours is a region heavily dependent upon fossil fuels for the generation of electricity.

The cost of expensive imported diesel on most small Pacific economies is absolutely crippling.

The climate change impact is obvious.

After a decade of climate change conferences and hundreds of millions of dollars in so-called climate change initiatives, one might be forgiven for imagining that the Pacific, over-endowed as it is with good sunlight, would be by now positively festooned with solar power plants.

Sadly, Mr President, I must report that this is not in fact the case.

Indeed, one of the most striking features of our region has been the complete lack of progress in putting lofty climate change rhetoric into any form of renewable energy practice.

In our year as chair of the regional body we have set out to correct this serious shortcoming.

A small but important illustration lies in our work in the tiny Tokelau Islands.
Until now, Tokelau has been 100% dependent upon fossil fuels for the generation of electricity.

By the end of this year – 2012 – Tokelau will be over 90% resourced with renewable solar electricity.

Good progress has been made too in Tonga, where I recently participated in the opening of a solar plant supplying around 20% of the electricity requirements of the main island, Tongatapu.

And we are working with the Cook Islands government to assist in meeting their bold aspiration of 50% renewable electricity by 2015, mostly through solar initiatives.

These New Zealand-funded programmes are an important part of our overall commitment in the region.

Our parting legacy from our year in the Chair of the regional body is a renewable energy pledging conference to be held early next year with the objective of matching donors, suppliers of concessional and commercial finance, and others with the renewable energy plans of our Pacific neighbours.

Here I must acknowledge the commitment of the European Union in co-leading this initiative, and the support of the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and the governments of Australia, the United States and others who are generously supporting this initiative.

Mr President, while there is much that can be achieved by regional action; we must acknowledge that sometimes regional solutions are just not enough.

That goes right to the heart of the very reason for the existence of this organisation.

My point is most vividly illustrated today in relation to Syria.

It would be difficult for me to overstate the level of frustration of the people I represent with the complete inability of the United Nations Security Council to act in relation to Syria.

And it would be even more difficult to overstate the extent to which the Security Council is at risk of losing its credibility in the eyes of reasonable and fair minded people through its inability to act.

People in my country ask a very simple question:

If 25,000 deaths, countless thousands injured, and many more thousands displaced and homeless, is not enough to get the Security Council to act, then what does it take?

What does it take?

I welcome the leadership which the Arab League and Arab States have shown on this issue – as we have also seen on some of the other difficult issues in their region.

And I welcome the fact that the General Assembly has been looking for opportunities to be more engaged.

In the absence of leadership from the Security Council, I suggest that this Assembly will need to find ways to play a more activist role.

But from all of this, the case for reform of the Security Council has become utterly compelling.

Indeed, increasingly, the future credibility of the United Nations may depend upon it.

If we are to make progress in that respect we will need to see members move past the extravagant attempts to maximise individual positions and try to find some meaningful, practical reforms that actually hold the prospect of widespread support.

I represent a small nation of practical, constructive people.

And it is because we seek practical, constructive reform that our Government supports the so-called intermediate solution: the creation of a new category of seat for the group of larger countries that feel under-represented in comparison with the P5, but seats they would need to win in open elections – to make them fully accountable to the broader membership.

I do not intend in these remarks to canvass other specific proposals we would like to see considered – with one exception:

There are now compelling reasons for us to ask the P5 to voluntarily accept restrictions on the use of veto.

To go further, and seek its abolition is pointless – it simply will not happen.

But to ask the P5 to acknowledge and respect the genuine concerns of the wider membership by voluntarily accepting a curb on the exercise of the veto, is an entirely reasonable and achievable objective.

My country was one of those that led the opposition to the veto when this institution was being established; indeed, it was the only Charter issue that was forced to a vote.

The permanent members argued at that stage that the veto was necessary in order to protect their vital national interests.

Yet today, we routinely see the exercise of the veto in circumstances which have little to do with national interests.

My request to the five permanent members is simply that they stick with what they said in 1945.

And my challenge to them today is to consider a process by which they collectively and voluntarily agree to confine their use of the veto to those issues that clearly and directly affect their vital national interests; and that they voluntarily agree not to use their veto in situations involving mass atrocities.

Mr President, while on the topic of the Security Council, I take the opportunity to urge the Council and relevant organs of the General Assembly to respond positively to requests from ECOWAS for support in dealing with the conflict in Mali and the Sahel.

Too often we have seen the Security Council fail to make a timely response to requests for help – in Rwanda, in Guinea, in Darfur and in Somalia.

Too often it has been a case of too little, too late.

In all of these cases we have seen good leadership from the African Union – and that leadership deserves a timely and constructive response from New York.

Many of you will be aware that New Zealand is an energetic candidate for election to the Security Council for the 2015-16 term.

You will hear more from us on these topics over the next two years.

We are a small country, with a big voice, and an approach that is fair minded and constructive.

Mr President, in the past few days this Assembly has heard from both Prime Minister Netanyahu, and President Abbas.

We are now on notice that the issue of Palestinian status in the UN will come before this Assembly this session.

We look forward to seeing the text of a resolution, and engaging in the consultations that have been signalled.

I said earlier that New Zealanders are constructive and practical.

They are also fair minded people; and they expect to see their Government bring all of those attributes to the consideration of this resolution – and that we will do.

Having said that, let me also be clear that we see such a resolution as a very poor substitute for the direct discussions that need to occur between two leaders who live half an hour down the road from each other.

In his address to this Assembly earlier this week Prime Minister Netanyahu set out clearly the grave implications for the Middle East – and for the global community more generally – of a nuclear ‘break out’ in the region.

Like other Member States, New Zealand believes Iran must be told to step back from a course that risks a further dangerous escalation of the situation.

And we hope the international community will stand firm in sending this message. 

In return, however, I suggest it is fair for the international community to make a request of Prime Minister Netanyahu.

And that is to put a hold on the settlements, at the very least while negotiations proceed, and engage in the direct talks with his Palestinian counterpart that represent the only basis for a durable solution to this issue, and an essential step in removing the seeds of wider conflict in the region.

Mr President: I remind the Assembly that these are very difficult times for Governments around the world.

Budget economies have affected Foreign Ministries, my own included.

It is only fair that we should in turn ask this large institution to find economies and improved working methods in order to deliver better value for our taxpayers.

Smaller countries like New Zealand depend more than most on good multi-lateral institutions.

We need a United Nations that is modern, efficient and able to meet changing needs.

We all need a Security Council that is more responsive to the needs of the wider membership, and more effective at dealing with the significant challenges we all confront today.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/10/speech-to-united-nations-general-assembly/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/foreign-ministers-agree-on-draft-commonwealth-charter-and-epg-recommendations/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/foreign-ministers-agree-on-draft-commonwealth-charter-and-epg-recommendations/#comments Sun, 30 Sep 2012 02:25:43 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/foreign-ministers-agree-on-draft-commonwealth-charter-and-epg-recommendations/ Foreign Ministers agree on Draft Commonwealth Charter and EPG Recommendations

Commonwealth Secretariat

• Home:
• Foreign Ministers agree on Draft Commonwealth Charter and EPG Recommendations

29 September 2012

Commonwealth Foreign Ministers met in New York today on the margins of the 67th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Ministers agreed on a draft charter of the Commonwealth, that embrace its fundamental values, principles and aspirations. This draft charter will now be submitted to Commonwealth Heads of Government for approval.

The ministers agreed to all the remaining recommendations of the Commonwealth Eminent Persons Group, aimed at sharpening impact, strengthening networks and raising the Commonwealth’s profile. These recommendations will now also go to Commonwealth leaders for approval.

Ministers concluded on previously discussed options for enhancing Commonwealth political values. The Group agreed on a range of measures to support CMAG in its enhanced mandate and the Secretary-General’s ‘Good Offices for Peace work.’

The meeting produced traction on developments for a new Strategic Plan for the Commonwealth Secretariat. This is a plan that will see the Secretariat focus on its areas of comparative advantage, as a modern, dynamic organisation addressing contemporary challenges.

Ministers were briefed by the Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka on preparations for the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka in November 2013.

For media enquiries, contact:

Richard Uku
Spokesperson/Director of Communications and Public Affairs
Commonwealth Secretariat
Tel: +44 (0)7711 187784
Email: r.uku@commonwealth.int

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/foreign-ministers-agree-on-draft-commonwealth-charter-and-epg-recommendations/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-sudans-foreign-minister-highlights-recent-cooperation-pact-with-south-sudan/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-sudans-foreign-minister-highlights-recent-cooperation-pact-with-south-sudan/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 21:27:04 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-sudans-foreign-minister-highlights-recent-cooperation-pact-with-south-sudan/ At UN, Sudan’s Foreign Minister highlights recent cooperation pact with South Sudan

United Nations

29 September 2012 Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ali Ahmed Karti, today highlighted, among other issues, his country’s role in reaching a key framework agreement for cooperation – particularly in security, the common border and economic relations – with South Sudan, at talks this week in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital.

The agreement with South Sudan would not have taken place without Sudan’s willingness to cooperate and its commitment to peace, stability and development, the Foreign Minister told the 67th Assembly’s General Debate, held at UN Headquarters in New York.

In light of this, he added, attempts to distort the image of his country or its leadership were devoid of any substance.

South Sudan became independent from Sudan in July last year, six years after the signing of the peace agreement that ended decades of warfare between the north and the south. However, the peace between the two countries had come under threat over recent months by armed clashes along their common border and outstanding post-independence issues that have yet to be resolved.

The talks, held under the auspices of the African Union High-Level Implementation Panel, were designed to enable the two nations to fulfil their obligations under a so-called roadmap aimed at easing tensions, facilitating the resumption of negotiations on post-secession relations and normalizing the relations between the two countries.

Sudan, Mr. Karti noted in his speech, remained determined to tackle the reasons for war and strife, despite unfair sanctions imposed on it by the United States, and would require assistance during this “sensitive stage,” with its debts cancelled and its economy supported.

The country’s good neighbourly approach was further evidenced in its support for a range of agreements to do with the final status of the Abyei territory, which straddles the border area between Sudan and South Sudan and which both nations contest, he said.

“We have turned a page in Darfur,” Foreign Minister said in relation to the west Sudanese region, referring to the so-called Doha Document, an agreement signed in Qatar last year between the Sudanese Government and the Liberation and Justice Movement rebel group.

Since 2003, conflict between the Sudanese Government and Darfur rebel groups has led to the deaths of tens if not hundreds of thousands of Darfuris and the displacement of nearly two million.

Mr. Karti called on the international community to protect and secure the gains made with the Doha Document by countering other rebel groups which had refused to take part in it. He urged UN Member States to attend a donors’ conference for rebuilding Darfur, to be held in Qatar in the coming months.

Other topics mentioned in the Foreign Minister’s speech included the need to avoid offending religious beliefs and reform of the main and subsidiary bodies of the United Nations. He also raised concerns about the concepts of humanitarian intervention, economic and political sanctions and the principle of the responsibility to protect.

Foreign Minister Karti is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual, national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-sudans-foreign-minister-highlights-recent-cooperation-pact-with-south-sudan/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/tuvalus-foreign-minister-calls-on-un-to-grant-special-status-to-developing-small-island-states/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/tuvalus-foreign-minister-calls-on-un-to-grant-special-status-to-developing-small-island-states/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 21:26:54 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/tuvalus-foreign-minister-calls-on-un-to-grant-special-status-to-developing-small-island-states/ Tuvalu’s Foreign Minister calls on UN to grant special status to developing small-island states

United Nations

29 September 2012 In a call for greater international focus on the problems of developing small-island states, Tuvalu’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Apisai Ielemia, today told the United Nations General Assembly that the time had come for special recognition of countries such as his.

Using the acronym for the designation Small Island Developing States, Mr. Ielemia said: “This implies that a number of needed special international measures for SIDS be identified and, naturally, also that some order be put in the definition of SIDS, a necessary condition for making SIDS a genuine, internationally accepted special category of countries.”

In his address to the 67th Assembly’s General Debate, at UN Headquarters in New York, Mr. Ielemia stated that much work remained to be done in devising an international response to the challenges faced by SIDS and that, despite a focus on the problems over the last two decades, making substantive progress depended on “SIDS status and SIDS-specific treatment.”

Climate change’s related rise in sea levels poses the greatest threat to small island states, he noted, adding that his country’s elevation of only four metres “pronounces us as extremely vulnerable” to this and other “natural shocks.”

“As is well known, sea-level rise and flooding threaten Tuvalu’s limited agricultural production, undermining food security and increasing our vulnerability to supply disruptions,” said Mr. Ielemia, whose portfolio also sees him serve as Minister of Trade, Tourism, Environment and Labor for his Pacific island country.

He added, “We therefore support advances and urge perseverance with the UNFCCC (UN Framework Convention on Climate Change) and the Kyoto Protocol as the primary international, intergovernmental fora for negotiating the global response to climate change in order to gain substance to international agreements.”

Because of its limited resources and geographical remoteness, Tuvalu has faced sufficient development challenges for the UN to designate it as a Least Developed Country (LDC) – a category whose members are eligible to receive trade preferences and financing for development.

Since Tuvalu could now be “graduated” out of the LDC classification, because indicators show it exceeds two of the three criteria for inclusion, Mr. Ielemia called on the UN to “revisit” the benchmarks.

The minister told delegates that Tuvalu is actively pursuing energy efficiencies and development strategies that were environmentally conscious and economically sustainable.

Among other matters mentioned in his speech, Mr. Ielemia also called on donor countries to realize their pledges for enabling the establishment of tsunami and tropical cyclone early warning systems, and concluded by calling on the UN to seek efficiency through “timely actions and achievements.”

Tuvalu’s Foreign Affairs Minister is among scores of heads of state and government, and other high-level officials, who are presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/tuvalus-foreign-minister-calls-on-un-to-grant-special-status-to-developing-small-island-states/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-papua-new-guineas-foreign-minister-thanks-un-for-its-support/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-papua-new-guineas-foreign-minister-thanks-un-for-its-support/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 21:26:53 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-papua-new-guineas-foreign-minister-thanks-un-for-its-support/ At General Assembly, Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Minister thanks UN for its support

United Nations

29 September 2012 Highlighting his country’s most recent achievements at the General Assembly, Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Rimbink Pato, today expressed his country’s thanks for the roles played by the United Nations and others in providing support.

“Papua New Guinea continues to benefit from a strong UN presence through its delivery of various development programmes, which we highly value,” Mr. Pato told delegates gathered at the 67th Assembly’s General Debate, at UN Headquarters in New York.

Referring to the UN ‘Delivering as One’ initiative, he said: “This is working exceptionally well for Papua New Guinea.” The initiative arose due to concerns that the UN system has suffered in the past from fragmentation in policy development and implementation, and differing management structures, among other issues. It aims to improve the quality of UN programme and operational support.

Mr. Pato also thanked the UN for having “heeded our call” to use his country’s medium-term development plan to “synergize” the world body’s development efforts contained in its Development Assistance Framework 2012-2015. “We can all do more together,” he said.

In welcoming the UN for its “proactive engagement” in the Pacific region, Mr. Pato also thanked the UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon, for his “visit and commitment.” He added, “We are encouraged that contacts with the UN system and personnel are to be strengthened in the years ahead.”

With the help of the United Nations and others, as well as Papua New Guinea’s political stability and sound macroeconomic decision-making, the country’s economy is enjoying an eight per cent annual growth rate, Mr. Pato noted. He said revenue from a liquid natural gas (LNG) project will further increase growth – and could enable Papua New Guinea to help others.

“A sovereign wealth fund is being set up to professionally manage the revenue from the LNG project and other extractive industries,” he explained. “We also hope to share this wealth with our Pacific neighbours in the appropriate manner.”

Mr. Pato said the strengthened economy would enable his country to improve its social indicators, such as literacy levels, maternal and infant mortality rates, and law and order enforcement.

But, he noted, challenges remain for Papua New Guinea to achieve by the anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by their 2015 deadline. Agreed on by world leaders at the UN Millennium summit in 2000, the MDGs seek to slash extreme poverty and hunger, infant and maternal mortality, a host of diseases and lack of access to health services and education. But many countries are lagging way behind schedule.

“We recommit ourselves to work with our international partners, including the UN, and we reiterate that the MDGs need to be the priority while we discuss the (succeeding) Sustainable Development Goals,” Mr. Pato said.

In his remarks to the Assembly, Mr. Pato also spoke of his country’s commitment to “gender empowerment and equality,” saying that women and girls were increasingly present in higher education and employment outside the home.

Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Pato is among scores of heads of state and government, and other high-level officials, who are presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-papua-new-guineas-foreign-minister-thanks-un-for-its-support/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-southeast-asian-ministers-call-for-un-reform-buttressed-by-rule-of-law/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-southeast-asian-ministers-call-for-un-reform-buttressed-by-rule-of-law/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 18:25:42 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-southeast-asian-ministers-call-for-un-reform-buttressed-by-rule-of-law/ At General Assembly, Southeast Asian ministers call for UN reform buttressed by rule-of-law

United Nations

29 September 2012 Speakers representing a trio of Southeast Asian countries called for reform of United Nations bodies today, with Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister framing their arguments for change mainly around development and economic urgencies, and Malaysia’s Foreign Affairs Minister focusing more on what he characterized as failures of the UN Security Council.

The significance of the Group of 20 (G20) major economies featured in the speeches of both Singaporean Foreign Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Hor Namhong to the 67th General Assembly’s high-level debate, at UN Headquarters in New York.

Mr. Shanmugam cited the G-20 as being one of the “smaller and exclusive groups,” beyond the United Nations, to which countries had turned because of a “growing frustration” over the inability of existing multilateral institutions to deal with various global challenges, among them rising income disparities, climate change and worries about food security.

But, he said, the world body ultimately had the advantage of being able to come up with global solutions because of its universal membership. “We should therefore support ongoing and new efforts aimed at strengthening the UN, instead of denigrating it,” Mr. Shanmugam said.

In outlining his country’s vision for a reformed UN, the Foreign Minister said Singapore wanted to see an “effective system of international law and resilient mechanisms for peaceful dispute settlement.”

He stated that this would “provide a platform for states under threat to bring their problems before these mechanisms with confidence, rather than trying to resolve them by force.”

Mr. Shanmugam also emphasized the importance of the rule of law at the international level, saying it was “particularly important” for the survival of small states such as Singapore for a “predicable and stable rule-based system” to exist.

For his part, the Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister said the G-20 had a “crucial role” to play in meeting a series of global challenges, among them rising oil and food prices, while noting that a more empowered General Assembly could play a “leading role” in addressing the world’s problems.

“The reform of the UN will no doubt render it more effective in preserving international peace, security and stability, as well as in realizing justice in the international economic system,” said Deputy Prime Minister Hor, who also serves as his country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

In addition to empowering the Assembly and calling for an expansion of the 15-member Security Council, Mr. Hor said the 54-member UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) should be “strengthened to effectively coordinate international cooperation and efforts to tackle social and economic challenges.”

In his General Assembly address, Malaysia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Anifah Aman, addressed the topics of UN reform and the rule of law while, while also commenting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the question of Palestinian membership of the UN.

“This is just one of a host of reasons… why the United Nations, especially the Security Council, needs to be reformed,” he said. Citing in particular the Council, Mr. Aman added that there were “so many instances (where) it has failed to take action when action is needed the most.” He ascribed the inaction on the “veto power conferred to the five permanent members.”

Mr. Aman also shared Malaysia’s position on what he called the “distasteful and insulting” anti-Islam video, made by a US citizen, which recently sparked protests in a number of predominantly Muslim countries around the world.

“While we condemn the irresponsible actions of those who intentionally incite hatred, we are equally saddened by the violent reactions that ensured,” he said, mentioning the deaths of the US Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, and others, in the eastern Libya city of Benghazi, during demonstrations believed to be linked to the video.

He called for the events to spark a deeper questioning of the relationship between freedom of expression and social responsibilities. “A line should be drawn when the prejudicial effect outweighs everything else,” Mr. Aman said.

Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister Hor also expressed his country’s “regrets” over the deaths of Ambassador Stevens and others, but added that Cambodia also understood the “legitimate anger” linked to “disregarding… the Muslim religion.”

The Southeast Asian officials are among scores of heads of state and government, and other high-level officials, who are presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-general-assembly-southeast-asian-ministers-call-for-un-reform-buttressed-by-rule-of-law/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-debate-tajik-foreign-minister-voices-need-for-un-reform-engagement-in-afghanistan/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-debate-tajik-foreign-minister-voices-need-for-un-reform-engagement-in-afghanistan/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 16:26:03 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-debate-tajik-foreign-minister-voices-need-for-un-reform-engagement-in-afghanistan/ At debate, Tajik Foreign Minister voices need for UN reform, engagement in Afghanistan

United Nations

29 September 2012 The need for reform of the United Nations, illicit drug trafficking and the situation in Afghanistan were among the topics covered in the speech by Tajikistan’s Foreign Minister, Hamrokhon Zarifi, to the UN General Assembly today.

“The recent developments in the world proved once again that it is impossible to address global and regional issues without strengthening the central role of the United Nations in the international affairs and without collective initiatives in world politics, with due respect of the norms of international law,” the Foreign Minister told the 67th Assembly’s General Debate, at UN Headquarters in New York.

“In this regard, it is becoming obvious that it is necessary to carry out a rational reform of the Organization, as a result of which the renewed United Nations will emerge capable to respond to the developments in the world in a quick and adequate manner, and to effectively meet numerous global challenges and threats of a new generation,” he added.

Turning to his country’s southern neighbour, Afghanistan – which will acquire “an exclusive importance not only for the region but for the world” with the departure of the International Security Assistance Force in 2014 – Mr. Zarifi said that its social and economic development will be “the key” for ensuring its stable peace.

“For this reason, the international assistance rendered to Afghanistan should be aimed, first and foremost, at its utmost economic rehabilitation, further strengthening of its social sphere, job creation, etc,” he said. “In this regard, realization of projects on construction of railroads, motorways, power transmission lines, gas pipelines and etc. that connect Afghanistan with Tajikistan and other countries of the region is of utmost importance.”

The prevention of illicit drug trafficking, the Foreign Minister stated, demands cooperation from the international community. Due to it shared borders with Afghanistan – a major drug-producing country – an estimated 15 per cent of all of Afghanistan’s opiates and 20 per cent of its heroin is trafficked through Tajikistan, according to estimates of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

“It is essential that the international community unite the measures aimed at reducing both the demand and supply of drugs, and integrate the efforts undertaken at the national level into the international strategy for drug control,” he said, adding that Tajikistan has started developing a new anti-narcotics strategy for the 2013-2020 period.

In relation to human rights, Mr.Zarifi noted its place, alongside peace, security and development, as one of the pillars of the work of the United Nations, and how Tajikistan seeks a bigger role in this area with a seat on the Geneva-based Human Rights Council for the 2015-2017 period.

“Being a signatory to the major international treaties on human rights, Tajikistan, in a consistent manner, undertakes relevant measures aimed at ensuring protection and promotion of human rights in the country,” the Foreign Minister said.

Other topics touched upon in his statement to the Assembly included respect for cultural and religious diversity, the harm caused by anti-personnel mines and sustainable development.

The Tajik Foreign Minister is one of scores of heads of State and government and other high-level officials who are presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-debate-tajik-foreign-minister-voices-need-for-un-reform-engagement-in-afghanistan/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nuclear-weapons-are-no-guarantee-of-security-kazakh-foreign-ministers-tells-un-debate/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nuclear-weapons-are-no-guarantee-of-security-kazakh-foreign-ministers-tells-un-debate/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 15:25:51 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nuclear-weapons-are-no-guarantee-of-security-kazakh-foreign-ministers-tells-un-debate/ Nuclear weapons are no ‘guarantee of security,’ Kazakh Foreign Ministers tells UN debate

United Nations
29 September 2012

The inability of nuclear weapons to guarantee a country’s security or independence was highlighted in the speech of Kazakhstan’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kairat Umarov, to the United Nations General Assembly today.

“The threat of proliferation of nuclear weapons and technology, along with the spectre of their acquisition and use by terrorist entities, has been one of the most daunting challenges to humanity,” the Foreign Affairs Minister told the 67th Assembly’s General Debate at UN Headquarters in New York today.

“It is our strong view that the possession of weapons of mass destruction is not a guarantee of security or greater independence. Kazakhstan’s own record goes to show that countries reap huge benefits from the renunciation of nuclear weapons,” he added.

The Central Asian nation closed down its nuclear weapons site Semipalatinsk, one of the largest test sites in the world and located in the country’s north-east, in 1991. As a result of this, the Foreign Affairs Minister noted, Kazakhstan has “won more friends and [has] become a more prosperous, stable and influential country.”

“This year, we will complete the project to enhance physical security of the former Semipalatinsk test site,” he said. “We view this project, which is being implemented jointly with the United States and Russia, as our significant contribution to the global non-proliferation regime.”

Mr. Umarov said that Kazakhstan fully supports a proposal by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to adopt a nuclear weapons convention, noting the suggestion of his country’s president that, as an important step in that direction, the United Nations should adopt a Universal Declaration of a Nuclear Weapon-Free World.

“This will, undoubtedly, facilitate our advancement towards a nuclear weapon-free world and an early adoption of a nuclear weapons convention,” the Foreign Affairs Minister said, while also calling for the “early establishment” of a nuclear weapon-free zone in the Middle East.

In relation to Afghanistan, Mr. Umarov noted his country’s active involvement in multilateral cooperation efforts there, stating that for these efforts to be successful, its economic situation should be a priority.

“The efforts to stabilize the situation should be bolstered by reforms aimed at sustainable development and the improvement of socio-economic indicators in the country, its level of education and other human standards,” he said.

Other topics covered in his remarks to the Assembly included the crisis in Syria, energy security, intercultural dialogue and human rights, to which Kazakhstan “attaches special importance.” The Central Asian is seeking a seat on the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council for the 2012-2015 period.

“If elected, Kazakhstan will participate, with a full sense of responsibility, in the proceedings of that important human rights body, on the basis of an open, impartial, non-politicized and mutually respectful dialogue between the Member States of the United Nations,” Mr. Umarov said.

The Kazakh Foreign Minister is one of scores of heads of State and government and other high-level officials who are presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nuclear-weapons-are-no-guarantee-of-security-kazakh-foreign-ministers-tells-un-debate/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/weekly-address-its-time-for-congress-to-help-responsible-homeowners/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/weekly-address-its-time-for-congress-to-help-responsible-homeowners/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 10:26:17 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/weekly-address-its-time-for-congress-to-help-responsible-homeowners/ Weekly Address: It’s Time for Congress to Help Responsible Homeowners

United States White House blog

In this week’s address, President Obama explains his administration’s steps to help the housing market, including giving responsible homeowners a chance to save thousands of dollars every year by refinancing their mortgages, but says we need Congress’s help to do more.

Transcript | Download mp4 | Download mp3

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/weekly-address-its-time-for-congress-to-help-responsible-homeowners/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fema-invests-100-million-in-post-tsunami-disaster-relief-emergency-preparedness-improvements-for-american-samoa-noaa-will-certify-territory-as-tsunamiready-this-week/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fema-invests-100-million-in-post-tsunami-disaster-relief-emergency-preparedness-improvements-for-american-samoa-noaa-will-certify-territory-as-tsunamiready-this-week/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 03:15:35 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fema-invests-100-million-in-post-tsunami-disaster-relief-emergency-preparedness-improvements-for-american-samoa-noaa-will-certify-territory-as-tsunamiready-this-week/ FEMA Invests $100 Million in Post-Tsunami Disaster Relief, Emergency Preparedness Improvements for American Samoa NOAA will certify Territory as TsunamiReady this week

Pacific Islands Governments

FEMA Invests $100 Million in Post-Tsunami Disaster Relief, Emergency Preparedness Improvements for American Samoa NOAA will certify Territory as TsunamiReady this week

Details

Friday, 28 September 2012

(Honolulu, Hawaii: Thursday, September 27, 2012) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded nearly $100 Million dollars in Post-Tsunami improvements to American Samoa for lifesaving emergency management systems that include an early warning siren system, 9-1-1 emergency call center and the completion of a formal tsunami hazard plan that proved instrumental in helping the island achieve the coveted status of TsunamiReady.

To be recognized as TsunamiReady, a community must establish a 24 hour warning point and emergency operations center, develop multiple ways to receive tsunami warnings and alert the public, develop a formal tsunami hazard plan, conduct emergency exercises and promote public readiness through community education. Given that American Samoa is located 120 miles away from the Tonga Trench, one of the fastest moving subduction zones in the world, tsunmi readiness is paramount to the island’s safety posture.

After meeting all federal requirements, this week the islands of Tutuila, Aunuu, Ofu, Olosega and Tau and all of the National Park of American Samoa have attained the federal NOAA/NWS designation of TsunamiReady and will be officially designated as TsunamiReady in a ceremony with senior American Samoan Government, NOAA and FEMA officials.

“This subduction zone will continue to produce earthquakes and potentially damaging tsunamis,” said Regional Administrator Nancy Ward. “American Samoa Government officials have truly made preparedness one of their most important priorities. Their training and outreach programs have achieved remarkable results that will help save future lives.”

On September 29, 2009 the South Pacific Tsunami was generated by a series of earthquakes that took place at possibly the closest point of this trench to American Samoa, causing fatalities and regional devastation. Resources have been invested by federal, territorial, voluntary and private sectors partners since the killer wave came ashore in 2009 that have helped the territory to achieve a heightened level of preparedness.

The whole community of American Samoa has come together during the past three years to make the citizens of the islands safer and better prepared to meet a wide variety of threats.

“This is a perfect example of the resilience of the Pacific Islanders and the value of government coordination and cooperation. Everyone met this disaster head on and never stopped moving forward. This recognition is something that the people of American Samoa and their many partners can be very proud of,” said Jeff LaDouce, Director of NOAA’s National Weather Service Pacific Region.

Post-Tsunami FEMA funded projects include: the purchase of a generator and two ambulances for LBJ hospital and establishing an Emergency 9-1-1 Call Center. In addition, funds were used to purchase and install an early warning siren system complete with 48 sirens throughout American Samoa. Funds were also used to improve airport security and to purchase equipment for American Samoa Department of Homeland Security’s Emergency Operation Center. Communications equipment and Official vehicles for the American Samoa Department of Homeland Security were also acquired. The Land-Mobile-Radio project contract has been awarded and is the next phase to be implemented to improve communication capability on the island.

FEMA’s aggregated financial assistance to long term recovery have included:

• Awarding more than $37 million in FEMA’s Individual Assistance programs. This includes assistance under various FEMA programs, including Housing Assistance, Other Needs Assistance that provided support for dental, medical, moving, storage and a variety of other needs
• The award of more than $54 million to the ASG to rebuild public infrastructure, mitigate against future disasters and reimburse the American Samoa government for some of the money spent during the initial response.
• In consultation with the American Samoan Government, FEMA has rebuilt and turned over 39 permanent replacement homes to deserving American Samoan families who lost their homes as a result of the devastating tsunami.
• The award of more than $8 Million in Homeland Security Grant Program funds and Public Safety Interoperable Communications funding used for planning and to help American Samoa to be more prepared for natural disasters, train first responders and citizens of American Samoa and provide much needed communication equipment.

The TsunamiReady program is administered by the National Weather Service as a way to increase and strengthen the ability of communities to prepare for, mitigate, and recover from natural hazards. The TsunamiReady ceremony for the Territory of American Samoa and the National Park of American Samoa, will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the Maota Samoa at Utulei Beach on Friday, September 28, 2012, one day before the 3rd anniversary of the devastating 2009 South Pacific Tsunami.

An American Samoa Tsunami Study was conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Honolulu District in cooperation with the American Samoa Government to help strengthen American Samoa’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from tsunami hazards. To view the study visit: http://astsunamiresilience.org/reports/

To learn more about this disaster, please visit: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/1859

MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA: To request photos from the event and/or schedule an interview, please email your request to External Affairs Officer Mary Simms at mary.simms@fema.dhs.gov. Please include your name, media affiliation and contact information in your request.

###

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Courtesy of FEMA Media Contact

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fema-invests-100-million-in-post-tsunami-disaster-relief-emergency-preparedness-improvements-for-american-samoa-noaa-will-certify-territory-as-tsunamiready-this-week/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/myanmar-can-count-on-un-support-to-face-challenges-ahead-says-envoy/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/myanmar-can-count-on-un-support-to-face-challenges-ahead-says-envoy/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 00:25:56 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/myanmar-can-count-on-un-support-to-face-challenges-ahead-says-envoy/ Myanmar can count on UN support to face challenges ahead, says envoy

United Nations

28 September 2012 The United Nations will continue to assist the people of Myanmar to address the various challenges facing the country, a senior official said today.

Vijay Nambiar, the Secretary-General’s Special Adviser for Myanmar, was among those attending a high-level meeting of the Group of Friends on Myanmar which discussed recent developments and the overall reform process in the country.

“We have taken note of the progress made by the Government of Myanmar,” Mr. Nambiar told reporters after the meeting, which was held on the margins of the high-level debate of the General Assembly’s 67th session.

“We hope it will continue and result in the strengthening democratic institutions and forging peace with all ethnic and religious groups in the country.

“The United Nations will continue to do its part to help the people of Myanmar to address the political, humanitarian and developmental challenges facing their country.”

Myanmar has been undergoing a series of democratic reforms, led by President Thein Sein. They include by-elections held earlier this year for the parliament, to which Nobel laureate and pro-democracy leader Aung Sang Suu Kyi, who was released from nearly two decades of house arrest in November 2010, was elected. A second wave of reforms was announced in June.

Addressing the Assembly’s General Debate yesterday, Mr. Sein said that while Myanmar is making progress in its democratic transition, it faces a number of formidable challenges that will require both the continued support and patience of its people, the UN and the wider international community.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/myanmar-can-count-on-un-support-to-face-challenges-ahead-says-envoy/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/in-un-speech-uzbek-foreign-minister-stresses-water-conservation-as-key-to-regional-security/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/in-un-speech-uzbek-foreign-minister-stresses-water-conservation-as-key-to-regional-security/#comments Sat, 29 Sep 2012 00:25:46 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/in-un-speech-uzbek-foreign-minister-stresses-water-conservation-as-key-to-regional-security/ In UN speech, Uzbek Foreign Minister stresses water conservation as key to regional security

United Nations

28 September 2012 In a speech to the United Nations General Assembly, the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Abdulaziz Kamilov, today underlined the commitment of his country – a landlocked nation in Central Asia – to a United Nations convention protecting water resources in his water-scarce region as part of a larger effort to ensure regional peace and stability.

“In the modern world, given climate change and the worsening ecological situation on a global scale, ensuring reasonable and rational use of water resources becomes the most acute problem,” Mr. Kamilov told the 67th Assembly on the fourth day of its annual General Debate, at UN Headquarters in New York.

A report released last year by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) noted how boosting cooperation between countries sharing the waters of the Amu Darya, Central Asia’s longest river, could be key to the future peace and security of the region and urged the four main nations involved – Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan – to ratify the Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes.

The report further notes that water resources in the region are already depleted by decades of often-unsustainable development dating back to the Soviet era, when large-scale engineering projects diverted flows from the river into cotton, wheat and fodder farming in arid and desert regions.

In reference to plans by neighbouring Tajikistan to build a major dam – the Rogun hydropower station – Mr. Kamilov urged that the region’s limited water resources be used “first, to meet potable and sanitary needs, and only after that to ensure food security, ecological needs and the needs of industry.”

In addition, he stressed that all construction projects of hydropower facilities in the upper stream basins of the Syr Darya and Amu Darya rivers be subjected to international authoritative appraisal under UN auspices, and be in line with the Convention.

Located on the Vakhsh River in the country’s south, the Rogun project has reportedly caused some regional tensions. According to media reports, Uzbekistan has opposed construction on the basis that it will negatively impact the region’s environment, as well as adversely impact its agricultural sector.

The Uzbek Foreign Minister is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/in-un-speech-uzbek-foreign-minister-stresses-water-conservation-as-key-to-regional-security/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-calls-on-yemenis-to-ensure-transition-milestones-are-met-on-time/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-calls-on-yemenis-to-ensure-transition-milestones-are-met-on-time/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 23:26:20 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-calls-on-yemenis-to-ensure-transition-milestones-are-met-on-time/ Security Council calls on Yemenis to ensure transition milestones are met on time

United Nations

28 September 2012 Commending the progress made by Yemen in its democratic transition, the Security Council today called on all parties to continue to honour the timetable for achieving key milestones along that path, including the upcoming national dialogue.

Council members re-emphasized the importance of conducting a “fully-inclusive, participatory, transparent and meaningful” national dialogue conference, Ambassador Peter Wittig of Germany, which holds the Council’s rotating presidency for this month, said in a statement read out to the press.

They also called on all stakeholders to participate actively and constructively in this process.

The statement follows the Friends of Yemen ministerial meeting held yesterday at UN Headquarters, on the margins of the high-level debate of the General Assembly’s 67th session, at which Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon congratulated Yemen for the progress it has made and called on the international community to support the country in protecting its “fragile gains.”

Yemen has been undergoing a democratic transition, under the leadership of President Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi Mansour, who came to power in an election in February. This followed the agreement signed by warring factions in November 2011 on a transitional settlement in the wake of widespread protests and the resignation of former president Ali Abdullah Saleh.

Initial preparations have begun for the national dialogue conference, whose outcome will feed into the constitution-making process that is to conclude in late 2013, enabling general elections to take place in February 2014.

Council members reiterated their support for Yemen in its efforts to reach key milestones in the transition, including the upcoming national dialogue conference, adoption of the transitional justice law, setting up of a new electoral commission, and ongoing security sector reform.

“They called upon all parties to continue to honour the timetable set out in the agreement and for all sides to act in a transparent, peaceful, inclusive and timely manner, and in a spirit of reconciliation,” said Mr. Wittig.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-calls-on-yemenis-to-ensure-transition-milestones-are-met-on-time/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/american-samoa-is-now-officially-declared-a-tsunami-ready-territory/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/american-samoa-is-now-officially-declared-a-tsunami-ready-territory/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 23:16:21 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/american-samoa-is-now-officially-declared-a-tsunami-ready-territory/ American Samoa is now officially declared, “A Tsunami Ready Territory. . .”

Pacific Islands Governments

American Samoa is now officially declared, “A Tsunami Ready Territory. . .”

Details

Friday, 28 September 2012

(UTULEI: Friday, September 28, 2012) – Rebounding from the destruction of a tsunami that struck three years ago, American Samoa has now earned NOAA’s official TsunamiReady™ designation—making the US Pacific Island Territory more prepared to act in the event of a future tsunami.

To be recognized as TsunamiReady, the criteria that a community must meet are: Establish a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center, have more than one way to receive tsunami warnings and to alert the public, promote public readiness through community education and the distribution of information, develop a formal tsunami plan, which includes holding emergency exercises, and comply with TsunamiReady guideline—American Samoa has met all these requirements.

A ceremony was held today to commemorate this outstanding step into the betterment of the American Samoa and its people—and among the special guests were Pacific Regional Director for NOAA/National Weather Service, Mr. Jeff Ladouce and the Honorable Governor, Togiola T.A. Tulafono. The Master of Ceremony was Meteorologist-in-Charge, Mase Akapo.

—americansamoa.gov—

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/american-samoa-is-now-officially-declared-a-tsunami-ready-territory/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/naval-historian-describes-u-s-7th-fleets-impact-in-asia/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/naval-historian-describes-u-s-7th-fleets-impact-in-asia/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 22:30:39 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/naval-historian-describes-u-s-7th-fleets-impact-in-asia/ Naval Historian Describes U.S. 7th Fleet’s Impact in Asia

United States Department of Defense

Naval Historian Describes U.S. 7th Fleet’s Impact in Asia

By John Valceanu
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – The U.S. 7th Fleet has played a key role in American foreign policy and has had a major positive impact in Asia since being stood up during World War II, a historian told an audience of military service members and Defense Department civilian employees at the Pentagon.

Edward J. Marolda, author of “Ready Seapower: A History of the U.S. Seventh Fleet,” outlined the contributions made by the fleet over the past half century. Marolda teaches at Georgetown University and is a former senior historian at the U.S. Naval History and Heritage command. He has authored, coauthored or edited 12 books on U.S. naval history.

“The U.S. 7th Fleet has had a dramatic and lasting influence promoting and protecting U.S. interests in the Far East,” Marolda said. “It’s been a major factor in bringing stability to the region, enabling countries relying on us to prosper economically. By the same token, it’s helped our friends in the region to develop democratic governing systems and universal human rights ideas.”

The historian described the fleet’s trial by fire during its early years in World War II, mainly under the leadership of Vice Adm. Thomas C. Kinkaid. Marolda touched on Kinkaid’s sometimes contentious relationship with Army Gen. Douglas MacArthur, who was the higher-level commander in the South West Pacific Area.

“The most stellar accomplishment of the fleet” in World War II was the Battle of Leyte Gulf, Marolda said, calling it “a key turning point” in the war. The battle took place from Oct. 20 to Dec. 31, 1944, and launched the Allied campaign to recapture the Philippine Archipelago and liberate it from the Japanese.

After World War II, the 7th Fleet became a permanent forward-deployed force based in Asia. Marolda said that presence became an important political presence in the Pacific region, helping to deter aggression among states.

“When all else is quiet, and there are no wars going on, deterrence is still a big part of the mission,” Marolda said. As an example, he cited the China-Taiwan crises of 1954-55, 1958, 1963 and 1995-1996, in which China threatened military action against Taiwan.

“Our naval presence really did stop them from taking any action,” Marolda said. “It gave them pause and cause for caution.”

Marolda quoted Mao Zedong, who led the People’s Republic of China from 1949 to 1976, as saying, “the 7th is the biggest fleet, and it surrounds us.”

In addition to deterrence of aggression, Marolda said the 7th Fleet also helped maintain the freedom of the seas for trade and shipping by suppressing pirates. In doing so, it enabled economic prosperity to flourish.

Allied nations like Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand all benefited from the 7th Fleet’s efforts, he said, as did even the People’s Republic of China, which took advantage of reduced piracy and free seas to expand its international trading activities. The results have been a much more stable region and a proliferation of more democratic governments.

“It has been one of the primary instruments of U.S. foreign policy in Asia,” Marolda said. “Behind the shield of the U.S. Navy, economic and political prosperity were able to occur in the region. By protecting our maritime allies, the fleet was able to counter both Marxist-Leninist and radical Islamist movements.”

Along with deterrence, Marolda said the 7th Fleet used “soft power” to show nations in the region that the U.S. wanted to do the right things and shared in their values. Examples include refugee evacuations, disaster relief and humanitarian operations.

The fleet helped in various ways over the years, including working with North Vietnamese refugees escaping by boat during the Vietnam War and providing disaster relief during the 1991 volcanic eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines and the 2004 earthquake and tsunami in the Indian Ocean, Marolda said.

Though these are missions for the fleet, the most important reason for its existence is the ability to fight wars, Marolda said, and the 7th is the only U.S. fleet to have been involved in every major conflict since World War II. During the Korean and Vietnam wars, the fleet’s ability to control the sea was critical.

“Both in Korea and Vietnam, naval power was absolutely vital to whatever success we had,” Marolda said, noting that the fleet was able to deny the use of the seas to adversaries, thereby preventing the movement of supplies and personnel.

“We could not have fought those wars the way we did without being able to control the seas,” he said.

Marolda’s book is available for download from the U.S. Navy’s Naval History and Heritage Command site, and it may be purchased in book form through the U.S. Government Printing Office. The presentation was sponsored by the Historical Office of the Office of the Secretary of Defense as part of its History Speaker Series.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/naval-historian-describes-u-s-7th-fleets-impact-in-asia/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/president-proclaims-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/president-proclaims-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 22:30:38 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/president-proclaims-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day/ President Proclaims Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day

United States Department of Defense

President Proclaims Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – President Barack Obama asked the nation to “rededicate ourselves to upholding the sacred trust we share with our Gold Star families and the heroes we have laid to rest,” in his proclamation issued today declaring Sept. 30, 2012, as Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day.

The proclamation reads:

“From the revolution that gave life to our Republic to the trials of our times, our men and women in uniform have put themselves in harm’s way to defend the people they love and the land they cherish. Their actions attest not only to the depth of their sacrifice, but also to a belief in their country so profound they were willing to give their lives for it. Today, we pay solemn tribute to all who did. Sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, they were all patriots — and with a devotion to duty that goes without equal, these proud Americans gave of themselves until they had nothing more to give.

“As a grateful Nation honors our fallen service members, so do we honor the families who keep their memory burning bright. They are parents who face the loss of a child, spouses who carry an emptiness that cannot be filled, children who know sorrow that defies comprehension. The grief they hold in their hearts is a grief most cannot fully know. But as fellow Americans, we must lend our strength to those families who have given so much for our country. Their burdens are ones that no one should have to bear alone, and it is up to all of us to live our lives in a way worthy of their sacrifice.

“On this day of remembrance, let us rededicate ourselves to upholding the sacred trust we share with our Gold Star families and the heroes we have laid to rest. Let us always remember that the blessings we enjoy as free people in a free society came at a dear cost. Let us hold the memories of our fallen close to our hearts, and let us mark each day by heeding the example they set. Finally, let us forever keep faith with our men and women in uniform, our veterans, and our military families by serving them as well as they have served us. Our Union endures because of their courage and selflessness, and today, we resolve anew to show them the care and support they so deeply deserve.

“The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1985 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as ‘Gold Star Mother’s Day.’

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 30, 2012, as Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day. I call upon all Government officials to display the flag of the United States over Government buildings on this special day. I also encourage the American people to display the flag and hold appropriate ceremonies as a public expression of our Nation’s sympathy and respect for our Gold Star Mothers and Families.”
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/president-proclaims-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/roth-contributions-to-open-to-all-active-duty-troops/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/roth-contributions-to-open-to-all-active-duty-troops/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 22:30:38 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/roth-contributions-to-open-to-all-active-duty-troops/ Roth Contributions to Open to All Active-duty Troops

United States Department of Defense

Roth Contributions to Open to All Active-duty Troops

By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – Beginning Oct. 1, 2012, active-duty members of the Army, Navy and Air Force will be able to contribute to the Roth Thrift Savings Plan as part of their investment planning, Defense Financing and Accounting Service officials said today.

The after-tax contributions will be electronically deducted from service members’ pay accounts.

Active-duty service members also can start their Roth TSP contributions now through their online MyPay accounts, which offer the fastest, easiest and most secure method to manage both Roth and traditional TSP contributions. The second option open to service members is to submit a TSP-U-1 form to their finance office.

Active-duty Marines, Guardsmen, reservists and civilians paid by DFAS were able to begin making contributions to the program in June, officials said.

Additionally, the other branches of the National Guard and reserves will be able to make Roth TSP contributions by mid- to late 2013.

The timeline difference between active-duty and other service members resulted from an interim solution for reserve component members, which didn’t meet Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board requirements, according to DFAS.

While work continues for options that will be available more quickly and satisfy the law and FRTIB requirements at the same time, the new schedule will allow time to make systems changes and electronic deductions that meet all requirements. DFAS officials said.

To begin making Roth TSP contributions, service members should determine how much of their pay is eligible. A Roth TSP worksheet can help make the calculations.

Military members are required to contribute an amount equaling 1 percent of their eligible pay to begin TSP contributions. For those who are not participating in traditional TSP investments, the initial Roth TSP election must meet this 1 percent requirement. The IRS maximum contribution to Roth TSP is $17,000 per year, DFAS officials said.

Military members can use pay earned in combat zones, and are excluded from federal taxes to contribute to Roth TSP.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/roth-contributions-to-open-to-all-active-duty-troops/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-welcomes-sudan-south-sudan-pacts-as-breakthrough-for-peace/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-welcomes-sudan-south-sudan-pacts-as-breakthrough-for-peace/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 22:26:53 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-welcomes-sudan-south-sudan-pacts-as-breakthrough-for-peace/ Security Council welcomes Sudan-South Sudan pacts as ‘breakthrough’ for peace

United Nations
28 September 2012

The Security Council today lauded the agreements reached by the leaders of Sudan and South Sudan in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, on Thursday as a “major breakthrough” for peace.

“The members of the Council warmly congratulate the leaders and negotiators on both sides for demonstrating courageous leadership to find durable solutions to the challenging disputes that divided them,” said a statement read out to the press by Ambassador Peter Wittig of Germany, which holds the Council’s rotating presidency for this month.

“These agreements represent a major breakthrough for the establishment of peace, stability and prosperity in both Sudan and South Sudan and give cause for genuine hope that the peoples of these two countries will realize the fruits of lasting peace and friendship.”

South Sudan became independent from Sudan in July last year, six years after the signing of the peace agreement that ended decades of warfare between the north and the south. However, the peace between the two countries has been threatened in recent months by armed clashes along their common border and outstanding post-independence issues that have yet to be resolved.

The talks, held under the auspices of the African Union High-Level Implementation Panel, were designed to enable the two nations to fulfil their obligations under a so-called roadmap aimed at easing tensions, facilitating the resumption of negotiations on post-secession relations and normalizing the relations between the two countries.

The Council underlined the importance of the immediate and full implementation of the agreements as well as the need to continue working with relevant parties to resolve outstanding issues, such as the final status of the Abyei territory and disputed and claimed areas.

They also reiterated their grave concern about the worsening humanitarian situation the states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile in Sudan, and urged the Government to expedite the unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance to the affected civilian populations as rapidly as possible.

The two states, which lie on the border with South Sudan, have been beset by fighting between Sudanese forces and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N) since last year. The SPLM-N was previously part of the rebel movement that fought for the independence of South Sudan.

The Council strongly urged the Sudanese Government and the SPLM-N to engage in direct talks to agree to and implement a cessation of hostilities and create a conducive environment for further progress on political and security issues.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/security-council-welcomes-sudan-south-sudan-pacts-as-breakthrough-for-peace/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/palomeros-takes-reins-of-nato-command-in-norfolk/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/palomeros-takes-reins-of-nato-command-in-norfolk/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 21:34:06 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/palomeros-takes-reins-of-nato-command-in-norfolk/ Paloméros Takes Reins of NATO Command in Norfolk

United States Department of Defense

Paloméros Takes Reins of NATO Command in Norfolk

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

NORFOLK, Va., Sept. 28, 2012 – Supreme Allied Command Transformation Commander Gen. Stéphane Abrial of the French Air Force passed command today to fellow French airman Gen. Jean-Paul Paloméros, marking only the second time that a non-U.S. officer has been permanently assigned to one of NATO’s two Supreme Allied Commands.

Abrial had served as ACT’s Norfolk-based commander since 2009.

Paloméros said he already feels welcome and is ready to take on the responsibilities of his new position. “George Washington had a coalition of victory that will resonate throughout history,” Paloméros said. “Almost one year ago, military operations [in] Libya demonstrated the strength of our alliance and the continuing importance of coalitions — in this case, one led by NATO with the active participation of partner nations.”

NATO will continue to evolve to face ever-changing threats, he said. “Reaching our destination requires enduring commitment … and working together,” Paloméros said. “I’m very proud to take on my full share of this collective effort.”

As the only NATO headquarters in the United States, the Supreme Allied Commander Transformation preserves the peace, security and territorial integrity of alliance military forces, structures, capabilities and doctrine. Speakers at today’s change of command ceremony included Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who presented Abrial with the NATO Meritorious Service Medal.

Rasmussen used the event to underscore the importance that the command plays in maintaining the momentum of the NATO mission in Afghanistan especially as the alliance moves toward the end of the operation there in 2014. “Training and exercising will play an important part in these efforts,” he said. “Simulation and networking will offer cost effective ways of sustaining and improving operational [tasks].”

In his departing remarks to Rasmussen, Abrial said NATO’s combat effectiveness is a product of the times and central to ACT’s work. “Your exceptional foresight in launching such important initiatives as … Connected Forces has been critical in placing ACT squarely at the service of NATO,” Abrial said. “ACT is a place where NATO has decided to bring together strategic thinking … [and] cost-effective capabilities — this consolidation gives us the extraordinary advantage of having an all-encompassing, cross-functional vision.”

Paloméros echoed those remarks. “We shape our forces … to maintain the face of transformation for the future of our armed forces,” he said.

Paloméros drew from French author Antoine de St. Exupéry to relate his vision.
“Quant à l’avenir, votre tâche n’est pas de prévoir, mais le permettre,” he said. “As for the future, your task is not to foresee but to enable it.”

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/palomeros-takes-reins-of-nato-command-in-norfolk/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-envoy-alarmed-by-recent-wave-of-killings-of-journalists-in-somali-capital/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-envoy-alarmed-by-recent-wave-of-killings-of-journalists-in-somali-capital/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 21:25:52 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-envoy-alarmed-by-recent-wave-of-killings-of-journalists-in-somali-capital/ UN envoy alarmed by recent wave of killings of journalists in Somali capital

United Nations

28 September 2012 The top United Nations political official for Somalia today said he was shocked and alarmed by the killing of seven journalists in the capital, Mogadishu, over the past month.

“I am appalled by the rise of violence targeting media professionals in Somalia,” said the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, Augustine P. Mahiga, in a statement.

“I send my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the Somali media community, which has endured death threats, intimidation and assassination attempts for too long.”

The total number of Somali journalists killed this year has now risen to 15 while more than 20 have been reportedly injured. The UN has repeatedly called on the Somali authorities to conduct independent and swift investigations into the killings and to bring an end to the cycle of violence and to impunity.

According to the UN Political Office for Somalia (UNPOS), the body of sports journalist Abdirahman Mohamed Ali was found yesterday evening beheaded at a former animal market in Mogadishu, and Ahmed Abdullahi Fanah, a reporter for the Yemeni news agency SABA, was reportedly shot dead earlier today.

On 21 September, Hassan Youssouf Absuge, a well-known radio journalist, was shot dead as he left the studios of Radio Mantaa, an independent station for which he was the programme director.

In addition, three journalists – Liban Ali Nur, head of news at Somali National TV, Abdisatar Daher Sabriye, head of news at Radio Mogadishu, and Abdirahman Yasin Ali, director of Radio Hamar (Voice of Democracy) – were killed and four others injured in a double suicide-bombing at a popular restaurant frequented by journalists in Mogadishu on 20 September.

Four days earlier, Zakariye Mohamed Mohamud Moallim, who worked as an independent cameraman, was shot dead in the Nasib Bundo neighbourhood of the capital.

“Somalia has entered a new phase. The media needs to be protected in order for the fundamental rights of freedom of expression and freedom of the press to be exercised,” said Mr. Mahiga, adding that “these are preconditions for the construction of a healthy democratic state.”

Mr. Mahiga reiterated UNPOS’ call on the Somali authorities to improve its police investigative capacity and said the office stands ready to assist whenever possible.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-envoy-alarmed-by-recent-wave-of-killings-of-journalists-in-somali-capital/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-national-public-lands-day-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-national-public-lands-day-2012/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 20:26:13 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-national-public-lands-day-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — National Public Lands Day, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

When Thomas Jefferson described the view from Monticello in 1786, he wrote, “How sublime to look down into the workhouse of nature, to see her clouds, hail, snow, rain, thunder, all fabricated at our feet!” Though much has changed in the years since our third President put those words to paper, the sense of awe and reverence he expressed still courses through the American spirit. Our expansive landscapes remain an inspiration for all to behold, and as an essential piece of our heritage, it is incumbent upon us to protect them not only in our time, but for all time.

Today, thousands of Americans will take up that task by volunteering to care for our public lands. Cities and communities across our country will join together to restore the lands and waters we share, and families nationwide will explore the natural splendor that stretches from our Atlantic shores to the Pacific’s rocky coasts. As we take time to connect with America’s great outdoors in urban and rural areas alike, we are reminded of the varied roles our public lands play in our national life. These areas boost tourism and contribute to public health; they power local economies, fuel tomorrow’s energy solutions, and serve as critical havens of biodiversity; and just as they always have, our public lands remain places of irreplaceable beauty. Through the America’s Great Outdoors initiative, my Administration has worked to expand access to these important spaces while ensuring they are protected for future generations, and moving forward, we will continue to advance that vital mission.

The rugged grandeur of the American landscape has helped shape our character and our soul as a Nation. As we celebrate this National Public Lands Day, let us reflect on the lands and waters that so deeply enrich our experience, and let us renew our commitment to protecting them in the years to come.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 29, 2012, as National Public Lands Day. I encourage all Americans to participate in a day of public service for our lands.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-national-public-lands-day-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day-2012/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 20:26:12 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day-2012/ Presidential Proclamation — Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day, 2012

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY’S DAY, 2012

- – - – - – -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

From the revolution that gave life to our Republic to the trials of our times, our men and women in uniform have put themselves in harm’s way to defend the people they love and the land they cherish. Their actions attest not only to the depth of their sacrifice, but also to a belief in their country so profound they were willing to give their lives for it. Today, we pay solemn tribute to all who did. Sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, husbands and wives, they were all patriots — and with a devotion to duty that goes without equal, these proud Americans gave of themselves until they had nothing more to give.

As a grateful Nation honors our fallen service members, so do we honor the families who keep their memory burning bright. They are parents who face the loss of a child, spouses who carry an emptiness that cannot be filled, children who know sorrow that defies comprehension. The grief they hold in their hearts is a grief most cannot fully know. But as fellow Americans, we must lend our strength to those families who have given so much for our country. Their burdens are ones that no one should have to bear alone, and it is up to all of us to live our lives in a way worthy of their sacrifice.

On this day of remembrance, let us rededicate ourselves to upholding the sacred trust we share with our Gold Star families and the heroes we have laid to rest. Let us always remember that the blessings we enjoy as free people in a free society came at a dear cost. Let us hold the memories of our fallen close to our hearts, and let us mark each day by heeding the example they set. Finally, let us forever keep faith with our men and women in uniform, our veterans, and our military families by serving them as well as they have served us. Our Union endures because of their courage and selflessness, and today, we resolve anew to show them the care and support they so deeply deserve.

The Congress, by Senate Joint Resolution 115 of June 23, 1936 (49 Stat. 1985 as amended), has designated the last Sunday in September as “Gold Star Mother’s Day.”

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 30, 2012, as Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day. I call upon all Government officials to display the flag of the United States over Government buildings on this special day. I also encourage the American people to display the flag and hold appropriate ceremonies as a public expression of our Nation’s sympathy and respect for our Gold Star Mothers and Families.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-proclamation-gold-star-mothers-and-familys-day-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/deputy-cio-computer-users-must-practice-cyber-security/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/deputy-cio-computer-users-must-practice-cyber-security/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:30:43 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/deputy-cio-computer-users-must-practice-cyber-security/ Deputy CIO: Computer Users Must Practice Cyber Security

United States Department of Defense

Deputy CIO: Computer Users Must Practice Cyber Security

By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – National Cyber Security Awareness Month in October lasts just 31 days, but practicing good cyber security is important 365 days a year, the Defense Department’s deputy chief information officer said yesterday.

Because users engage with the network on a daily basis, good cyber security practices should be second nature, Robert J. Carey, DOD’s deputy chief information officer, said during a joint American Forces Press Service and Pentagon Channel interview.

This means “changing our culture to be more mindful of the fact that the information needs to only be transmitted to those who are fit to consume it [and] who are authorized the right accesses,” he said.

Specific cyber security practices vary depending on the type of users, but Carey said there is one overriding concept: everyone is responsible for protecting information.

Commanders rely on information relayed through electronic networks to make life-and-death decisions, but, Carey asked, what if they couldn’t trust that information?

“What if [they] trusted it but it was wrong?” he said.

Understanding how that information traversed the network — whether it came from the person it’s supposed to have come from — is essential to commanders, he said.

And while information technology can be a complicated subject, with an equally complicated lexicon, Carey said his office is working to ensure that DOD adopts policies and strategies that help users at all levels to understand exactly why cyber security is so important. This way, he said, they can be confident that they’re taking the right steps to protect information.

“The most important link is the user. Each of us, when we engage the network, is either an asset or a vulnerability, depending on our actions,” he said. “The human becomes the weakest link, and so the more we can strengthen that weakest link, the better we will be.”

Responsible network access means users are aware of what they’re clicking on, Carey said.

“If you click on a link that you don’t know where it came from and suddenly bad things happen … well the link has already provided the information to your computer,” he said, “so now you have bypassed a lot of the protections that the system has.”

The Department of Homeland Security has adopted “Stop. Think. Connect” as the motto for National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Carey said the program asks users to consider their actions and remember that what they do online may affect others.

“If you’re … cutting corners and you’re doing the wrong things, you can be a vulnerability to this big thing called the network,” he said. “People don’t realize the extent of it. They think if my machine has a problem that that’s the extent of it. It’s generally not the extent of it.”

Network users should ask themselves if they’re doing the right things or exhibiting the right behaviors to perform risk management of the information they’re going to access, he said.

This thought process should continue even when people aren’t accessing the network from their workplace, Carey added.

“At home you don’t think about security,” he said. “When you get on your computer at home and you engage the internet, it’s highly unlikely that you have a firewall [and] it’s highly unlikely that you have a smart card to log on, so the layers that afford us security aren’t generally present.”

People may feel annoyed when security layers are added to the home experience, but, Carey said, “that operational overhead is a necessary evil to ensure that the information stays protected.”

“If we can keep the information secure, the layers, they’re just a necessary part of the accessing process,” he added.

Carey said that every user is front and center in the battle to ensure networked information remains secure.

“It is … a cost of doing business in the information age; you just have to be aware,” he said.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/deputy-cio-computer-users-must-practice-cyber-security/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-mckay-share-concerns-on-iran/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-mckay-share-concerns-on-iran/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:30:43 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-mckay-share-concerns-on-iran/ Panetta, McKay Share Concerns on Iran

United States Department of Defense

Panetta, McKay Share Concerns on Iran

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – U.S. policy toward Iran’s nuclear capability “is not about containment, it’s about prevention,” Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said here today, in reference to what Western nations believe is Tehran’s attempt to enrich enough uranium to acquire a nuclear weapon.

Panetta and Canadian National Defense Minister Peter G. MacKay spoke to the Pentagon press corps following a meeting during which they discussed bilateral relations, Western Hemisphere concerns, Afghanistan and the Middle East with a particular emphasis on Iran.

In their session with reporters, both stressed they want the Iranian government to respond to diplomacy and international sanctions aimed at thwarting suspected efforts to develop a nuclear weapon.

Canada has deep concerns about the Iranian nuclear program and recently closed its embassy in Tehran. Canadian Prime Minister Stephen J. Harper has called Iran the most dangerous place on Earth, and spoke of the “clear and present danger” that Iran poses to the world during a speech to the United Nations.

There were questions at today’s joint news conference about red lines for Iran regarding its alleged nuclear ambitions. “There have been a number of red lines placed already, and Iran has edged closer and stepped over those red lines on a number of occasions now, particularly when it comes to cooperation around the subject of inspections,” MacKay said.

On Syria, Panetta said there were indications the Syrian military had moved some chemical weapons in recent weeks, but that the main bases with these armaments remain secure.

In their meeting, Panetta and MacKay also discussed the need for greater security collaboration across the Western Hemisphere, particularly for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “We think that’s a real potential for bringing countries together in a common effort,” Panetta said. He hopes this will be part of the agenda at the Defense Ministerial of the Americas beginning next week in Uruguay.

Panetta thanked MacKay for Canada’s steadfast support in Afghanistan where it has deployed about 500 troops who are training Afghan national security forces.

There is progress and there is hope” in Afghanistan, MacKay said.

“This is what we had always anticipated, is the eventual turnover of security responsibility will allow … Afghanistan and hopefully the region, to spread that security and spread that hope,” he said.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-mckay-share-concerns-on-iran/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-2-6-million-records-released/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-2-6-million-records-released/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:26:45 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-2-6-million-records-released/ More Than 2.6 Million Records Released

United States White House blog

In September 2009, the President announced that—for the first time in history—White House visitor records would be made available to the public on an ongoing basis. Today, the White House releases visitor records that were generated in June 2012. Today’s release brings the total number of records made public by this White House to more than 2.6 million—all of which can be viewed in our Disclosures section.

Ed. note: For more information, check out Ethics.gov.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-2-6-million-records-released/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-annual-refugee-admissions-numbers/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-annual-refugee-admissions-numbers/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:26:39 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-annual-refugee-admissions-numbers/ Presidential Memorandum — Annual Refugee Admissions Numbers

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE

SUBJECT: Fiscal Year 2013 Refugee Admissions Numbers and Authorizations of In-Country Refugee Status Pursuant to Sections 207 and 101(a)(42), Respectively, of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and Determination Pursuant to Section 2(b)(2) of the Migration and Refugee Assistance Act, as Amended

In accordance with section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (the “Act”) (8 U.S.C. 1157), as amended, and after appropriate consultations with the Congress, I hereby make the following determinations and authorize the following actions:

The admission of up to 70,000 refugees to the United States during Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 is justified by humanitarian concerns or is otherwise in the national interest, provided that this number shall be understood as including persons admitted to the United States during FY 2013 with Federal refugee resettlement assistance under the Amerasian immigrant admissions program, as provided below.

The 70,000 admissions numbers shall be allocated among refugees of special humanitarian concern to the United States in accordance with the following regional allocations (provided that the number of admissions allocated to the East Asia region shall include persons admitted to the United States during FY 2013 with Federal refugee resettlement assistance under section 584 of the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act of 1988, as contained in section 101(e) of Public Law 100-202 (Amerasian immigrants and their family members)):

Africa . . . . . . . . . . . . .12,000
East Asia. . . . . . . . . . . .17,000
Europe and Central Asia. . . . . 2,000
Latin America/Caribbean. . . . . 5,000
Near East/South Asia . . . . . .31,000
Unallocated Reserve. . . . . . . 3,000

The 3,000 unallocated refugee numbers shall be allocated to regional ceilings, as needed. Upon providing notification

to the Judiciary Committees of the Congress, you are hereby authorized to use unallocated admissions in regions where the need for additional admissions arises.

Additionally, upon notification to the Judiciary Committees of the Congress, you are further authorized to transfer unused admissions allocated to a particular region to one or more other regions, if there is a need for greater admissions for the region or regions to which the admissions are being transferred. Consistent with section 2(b)(2) of the Migration and Refugee Assistance Act of 1962, as amended, I hereby determine that assistance to or on behalf of persons applying for admission to the United States as part of the overseas refugee admissions program will contribute to the foreign policy interests of the United States and designate such persons for this purpose.

Consistent with section 101(a)(42) of the Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(42)), and after appropriate consultation with the Congress, I also specify that, for FY 2013, the following persons may, if otherwise qualified, be considered refugees for the purpose of admission to the United States within their countries of nationality or habitual residence:

a. Persons in Cuba
b. Persons in Eurasia and the Baltics
c. Persons in Iraq
d. In exceptional circumstances, persons identified by a United States Embassy in any location

You are authorized and directed to report this determination to the Congress immediately and to publish it in the Federal Register.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-annual-refugee-admissions-numbers/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-s-3625/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-s-3625/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:26:39 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-s-3625/ Statement by the Press Secretary on S. 3625

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

On Friday, September 28, 2012, the President signed into law:

S. 3625, which delays requirement, with certain exceptions, that financial disclosure forms of employees of the Executive and Legislative Branches be made available on official websites until December 8, 2012; and specifies that, beginning January 1, 2013, periodic transaction reports of Legislative and Executive Branch employees must include transactions of their spouses or dependent children. 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-s-3625/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-presidential-determination-with-respect-to-the-child-soldiers-prevention-act-of-2008/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-presidential-determination-with-respect-to-the-child-soldiers-prevention-act-of-2008/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:26:38 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-presidential-determination-with-respect-to-the-child-soldiers-prevention-act-of-2008/ Presidential Memorandum — Presidential Determination with respect to the Child Soldiers Prevention Act of 2008

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE

SUBJECT: Determination with Respect to the Child Soldiers Prevention Act of 2008

Pursuant to section 404 of the Child Soldiers Prevention Act of 2008 (CSPA) (title IV, Public Law 110-457), I hereby determine that it is in the national interest of the United States to waive the application of the prohibition in section 404(a) of the CSPA with respect to Libya, South Sudan, and Yemen; and further determine that it is in the national interest of the United States to waive in part the application of the prohibition in section 404(a) of the CSPA with respect to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to allow for continued provision of International Military Education and Training funds and nonlethal Excess Defense Articles, and the issuance of licenses for direct commercial sales of U.S. origin defense articles; and I hereby waive such provisions accordingly.

You are authorized and directed to submit this determination to the Congress, along with the accompanying Memorandum of Justification, and to publish the determination in the Federal Register.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/presidential-memorandum-presidential-determination-with-respect-to-the-child-soldiers-prevention-act-of-2008/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/order-signed-by-the-president-regarding-the-acquisition-of-four-u-s-wind-farm-project-companies-by-ralls-corporation/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/order-signed-by-the-president-regarding-the-acquisition-of-four-u-s-wind-farm-project-companies-by-ralls-corporation/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:26:37 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/order-signed-by-the-president-regarding-the-acquisition-of-four-u-s-wind-farm-project-companies-by-ralls-corporation/ Order Signed by the President regarding the Acquisition of Four U.S. Wind Farm Project Companies by Ralls Corporation

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

ORDER

- – - – - – -

REGARDING THE ACQUISITION OF FOUR U.S. WIND FARM PROJECT COMPANIES BY RALLS CORPORATION

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 721 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (section 721), 50 U.S.C. App. 2170,

Section 1. Findings. I hereby make the following findings:

(a) There is credible evidence that leads me to believe that Ralls Corporation (Ralls), a corporation organized under the laws of Delaware, and its subsidiaries, and the Sany Group (which includes Sany Electric and Sany Heavy Industries), a Chinese company affiliated with Ralls (together, the Companies); and, Mr. Dawei Duan (Mr. Duan) and Mr. Jialing Wu (Mr. Wu), citizens of the People’s Republic of China and senior executives of the Sany Group, who together own Ralls; through exercising control of Lower Ridge Windfarm, LLC, High Plateau Windfarm, LLC, Mule Hollow Windfarm, LLC, and Pine City Windfarm, LLC (collectively, the Project Companies), all limited liability companies organized under the laws of Oregon, might take action that threatens to impair the national security of the United States; and

(b) Provisions of law, other than section 721 and the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), do not, in my judgment, provide adequate and appropriate authority for me to protect the national security in this matter.

Sec. 2. Actions Ordered and Authorized. On the basis of the findings set forth in section 1 of this order, considering the factors described in subsection 721(f), as appropriate, and pursuant to my authority under applicable law, including section 721, I hereby order that:

(a) The transaction resulting in the acquisition of the Project Companies and their assets by the Companies or Mr. Wu or Mr. Duan is hereby prohibited, and ownership by the Companies or Mr. Wu or Mr. Duan of any interest in the Project Companies and their assets, whether directly or indirectly through owners, subsidiaries, or affiliates, is prohibited.

(b) In order to effectuate this order, Ralls shall divest all interests in:

(i) the Project Companies;

(ii) the Project Companies’ assets, intellectual property, technology, personnel, and customer contracts; and

(iii) any operations developed, held, or controlled, whether directly or indirectly, by the Project Companies at the time of, or since, their acquisition

not later than 90 days after the date of this order, unless such date is extended for a period not to exceed three (3) months, on such written conditions as the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) may require. Immediately upon divestment, Ralls shall certify in writing to CFIUS that such divestment has been effected in accordance with this order.

(c) No later than 14 calendar days from the date of this order, the Companies shall:

(i) remove from the properties on which the Companies have proposed to construct wind farms (including alternate sites) that are identified in the notice filed with CFIUS (Properties) all items, structures, or other physical objects or installations of any kind (including concrete foundations) that the Companies or persons on behalf of the Companies have stockpiled, stored, deposited, installed, or affixed thereon; and

(ii) provide CFIUS with a statement signed by Mr. Duan and Mr. Wu certifying that the Companies have completed such removal.

(d) The Companies, and any persons acting for or on behalf of the Companies, including officers, employees, and owners, shall cease all access, and will not have any access, to the Properties. Notwithstanding the foregoing, individuals that are U.S. citizens contracted by the Companies and approved by CFIUS may access the Properties solely for purposes of fulfilling the requirements of subsection (c) of this section.

(e) The Companies, Mr. Duan, and Mr. Wu shall not sell or otherwise transfer, or propose to sell or otherwise transfer, or otherwise facilitate the sale or transfer of, any items made or otherwise produced by the Sany Group to any third party for use or installation at the Properties.

(f) Ralls shall not complete a sale or transfer of the Project Companies or their assets to any third party until:

(i) all items, structures, or other physical objects or installations of any kind (including concrete foundations) that the Companies or persons on behalf of the Companies have stockpiled, stored, deposited, installed, or affixed on the Properties have been removed from the Properties and the Department of Defense has notified the Companies that it has verified the Companies’ certification of such removal provided pursuant to subsection (c) of this section;

(ii) Ralls notifies CFIUS in writing of the intended recipient or buyer; and

(iii) Ralls has not received a provisional or final objection from CFIUS to the intended recipient or buyer within 10 business days of the notification in subsection f(ii) of this section. Among the factors CFIUS may consider in reviewing the proposed sale or transfer are whether the buyer or transferee: is a U.S. citizen or is owned by U.S. citizens; has or has had a direct or indirect contractual, financial, familial, employment, or other close and continuous relationship with the Companies or Project Companies, or their officers, employees, or owners; and can demonstrate a willingness and ability to support compliance with this order.

(g) From the date of this order until Ralls provides a certification of divestment to CFIUS pursuant to subsection (b) of this section, the Companies shall certify to CFIUS on a monthly basis that they are in compliance with this order.

(h) Without limitation on the exercise of authority by any agency under other provisions of law, and until such time as the divestment is completed and verified to the satisfaction of CFIUS, CFIUS is authorized to implement measures it deems necessary and appropriate to verify that operations of the Project Companies are carried out in such a manner as to ensure protection of the national security interests of the United States. Such measures may include but are not limited to the following: on reasonable notice to the Project Companies and the Companies, employees of the United States Government, as designated by CFIUS, shall be permitted access, for purposes of verifying compliance with this order, to all premises and facilities of the Project Companies and the Companies located in the United States:

(i) to inspect and copy any books, ledgers, accounts, correspondence, memoranda, and other records and documents in the possession or under the control of the Companies or the Project Companies that concern any matter relating to this order;

(ii) to inspect any equipment and technical data (including software) in the possession or under the control of the Companies or the Project Companies; and

(iii) to interview officers, employees, or agents of the Companies or the Project Companies concerning any matter relating to this order.

CFIUS shall conclude its verification procedures within 90 days after the divestment is completed.

(i) The Attorney General is authorized to take any steps necessary to enforce this order.

Sec. 3. Revocation of Prior Orders. CFIUS’s Order Establishing Interim Mitigation Measures of July 25, 2012, and Amended Order Establishing Interim Mitigation Measures of August 2, 2012, are hereby revoked.

Sec. 4. Reservation. I hereby reserve my authority to issue further orders with respect to the Companies or the Project Companies as shall in my judgment be necessary to protect the national security.

Sec. 5. Publication and Transmittal.

(a) This order shall be published in the Federal Register.

(b) I hereby direct the Secretary of the Treasury to transmit a copy of this order to the appropriate parties named in section 1 of this order.

BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/order-signed-by-the-president-regarding-the-acquisition-of-four-u-s-wind-farm-project-companies-by-ralls-corporation/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airport-road-reconstruction-and-intersection-improvement-project-is-approved-and-ready-to-start/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airport-road-reconstruction-and-intersection-improvement-project-is-approved-and-ready-to-start/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 19:15:18 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airport-road-reconstruction-and-intersection-improvement-project-is-approved-and-ready-to-start/ Airport Road Reconstruction and Intersection Improvement Project is Approved and Ready to Start

Pacific Islands Governments

Airport Road Reconstruction and Intersection Improvement Project is Approved and Ready to Start

Details

Thursday, 27 September 2012

(TAFUNA: Thursday, September 27, 2012) – The drive from the Tafuna intersection towards the airport seems so long, when you have to drive 1 mile per hour– just so the tires on your vehicle do not break off all at once, from driving into a pothole the size of a mini swimming pool.

The ground breaking ceremony for the airport road reconstruction and intersection improvement project was held today, in Tafuna—and it was a momentous occasion for the Department of Public Works under the direction of Director Taeaotui Punaofo Tilei and the whole Government of American Samoa.

“The project is anticipated to be completed within 6 years. . .” said Taeaotui, during his remarks in describing the project. According to Taeaotui, the contract amount is approximately $7,997,885.00, and it has been awarded to an American Samoan contractor, Whitehorn Constructions Inc. He explained funding was approved and given by the U.S. Department of Transportation and The Federal Highway Administration, and he is thrilled to finally announce that the airport road is ready to be reconstructed with improvements.

The project includes the reconstruction of 8,700-linear feet for Route 014-Airport Road (from intersection with Route 001 extending just past the intersection with Route 106 at the police substation including intersection improvements. The new structure that will be constructed include: Sidewalks, bike lanes, medians, buffer areas, curb and gutters, pavement markings, drainages, roundabouts at 4 intersections and street lights with 35kW Photo Voltic.

Federal Highway Administration representative, John Nickelson and Honorable Togiola T.A. Tulafono also gave remarks, both of which were encouraging and filled with gratitude for the airport road project to finally undergo its reconstruction and repairs.

CCCAS of Aua Reverend, Viliamu Leilua blessed the project site and the honors of turning the soil were given to Governor Togiola, FHA Rep. John Nickelson, Cabinet members and Fono Representatives that were present.

The Department of Public Works credits the architectural portion and designs of the project to Department Deputy Director Faleosina Voight and her staff: Design Engineer, Estela P. Rubin, Project Engineer, Reuben R. Siatu’u, and Project Inspector, Alofa Tanuvasa.

—americansamoa.gov—

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airport-road-reconstruction-and-intersection-improvement-project-is-approved-and-ready-to-start/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dod-receives-military-family-support-award/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dod-receives-military-family-support-award/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 18:30:42 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dod-receives-military-family-support-award/ DOD Receives Military Family Support Award

United States Department of Defense

DOD Receives Military Family Support Award

By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – The Defense Department has been honored by a nonprofit organization for its collaboration with Congress in creating programs to support military families.

The National Military Family Association awarded its annual Support of Military Families Award to the department at a Sept. 24 reception on Capitol Hill that celebrated several longstanding supporters of military families.

Presenting the award, Mary Scott, chairman of the association’s board of governors, highlighted the many programs the department has created in partnership with congressional committees since Sept. 11, 2001, to support military families worldwide.

“Since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, through the many deployments of all services, we have seen an incredible response in the development of programs and policies in support of the families of the uniformed services,” she said. “These honorees have authorized, funded, developed, and implemented these programs. We are thrilled to publicly recognize and honor these dedicated Americans.”

Scott noted that shortly after terrorists hit the Pentagon with a hijacked plane, the department’s Office of Military Community and Family Policy quickly set up a family assistance center at a nearby hotel to help with immediate needs.

The family policy office “continued to address evolving challenges with innovative and responsive programs,” including Military OneSource which provided geographically-dispersed families information, support, and counseling through its toll-free phone number and website, Scott said. The office went on to create the Exceptional Family Member Program, which later evolved into today’s Office for Military Families with Special Needs, and the Military Homefront website.

Charles E. Milam, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy, accepted the award on behalf of the department. “We are grateful for our tremendous partnership with organizations such as the National Military Family Association,” he said. “Together, we bring an incredible breadth and depth of talent to the challenges that military families face today. We are expanding our reach to families, wherever they live and serve.”
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dod-receives-military-family-support-award/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/military-explores-new-processes-packaging-for-combat-rations/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/military-explores-new-processes-packaging-for-combat-rations/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 18:30:41 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/military-explores-new-processes-packaging-for-combat-rations/ Military Explores New Processes, Packaging for Combat Rations

United States Department of Defense

Military Explores New Processes, Packaging for Combat Rations

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

NATICK, Mass., Sept. 28, 2012 – When a warfighter bites into a combat ration, Lauren Oleksyk wants it to taste as good as if it had been cooked up that morning at a local bistro — even if it’s been stored for years, transported thousands of miles in sweltering or bone-chilling temperatures and airdropped by parachute from 100 feet overhead.

“Our mission is to provide warfighters with near-fresh, high-quality, shelf-stable rations,” said Oleksyk, team leader for food processing, engineering and technology at the Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center here.

“What we are really going for is that, even if they get something that may be three years old, for them to feel like it was made yesterday, or even that same day,” she said.

In the quest to produce “fresh-like” combat rations and broaden the array of foods they can deliver, Oleksyk and her team are working with their industry and academic partners to push the envelope in food processing and packaging.

Meals, Ready to Eat, the individual combat ration that’s the centerpiece of the combat feeding program, are processed using retort thermosterilization, The process is similar to canning, Oleksyk explained, with items cooked at high temperatures and under pressure for as long as three hours to kill any bacteria.

“You get the sterilization that you need,” she said. “But because it involves cooking a product for a long period of time, it can be detrimental to the product itself.” Foods typically become stew-like, with mushy textures, bland colors and little flavor after extended cooking. The nutritional value drops, too.

That led Natick engineers to explore new processing methods that commercial food service companies are emulating.

One of the most promising technologies the Natick center pioneered is microwave-assisted thermal sterilization. The process uses giant commercial microwaves that kill bacteria within just eight minutes and heats packaged foods uniformly in a way that traditional microwaves don’t.

The result is higher-quality products, Oleksyk said, with firmer textures, more natural colors and fresher-tasting flavors. It’s also expanding the possibilities in terms of what foods can be included in combat rations.

Pasta, for example, tends to get mushy and lumpy using the retort method. The protein in fish and seafood breaks down, giving entrees a soft texture and an unpleasant “fishy” flavor and odor. Eggs take on a greenish cast. Fruits and vegetables become the consistency of baby food.

But a new developmental dish Oleksyk and her colleagues are advancing, Cajun chicken pasta, shows the difference microwave sterilization makes. When presented side-by-side with the same recipe processed using the retort method, the microwaved entree features al dente noodles, juicy chicken pieces and a just-cooked consistency and flavor.

“When you taste the microwave sterilized chicken, you really wouldn’t know that it was processed two years ago,” Oleksyk said. “You would think it was just prepared. And that is the goal.”

A salmon-in-alfredo-sauce MRE under development using microwave sterilization delivers a firm texture and fresh-caught taste. “It’s a very high-quality product, but also shelf-stable for three years,” said Jeremy Whitsitt, technology integration analyst for the center’s Department of Defense combat feeding directorate.

But the Natick team isn’t putting all its proverbial eggs in one basket. They’re working with industry and academia to advance a process using high pressure rather than intense heat to sterilize combat rations. “We’re not quite as far along with this as microwave sterilization, and we haven’t yet achieved the pressures necessary for full sterilization,” said Oleksyk. “But we are at the point where we are getting pasteurization using pressure, and pursing this [technology].”

A Natick research program still in its infancy is using supercritical carbon dioxide — essentially, carbon dioxide that’s been heated and pressurized so it’s somewhere between a gas and a liquid — to sterilize foods.

The commercial food industry uses this process to extract caffeine from coffee. But what Oleksyk found particularly interesting was learning that the medical field uses supercritical carbon dioxide to sterilize bone fragments, tendons and other tissue samples for transplant surgeries.

“When we found out it was being used for that, we said, ‘Why not look at it to see if it can sterilize foods?’” she said.

The Natick center partnered with a company that uses the process for medical sterilization to see if that’s feasible. “The program is still in the early stages of the research and development, but it is very promising,” Oleksyk said.

Osmotic drying is another new process being explored. This involves grinding up meat or vegetables, using a conveyor to roll them into a sheet, then running them through an osmotic tank that removes the moisture. The product remains in its raw form until the end, when it can be put into a smoker or otherwise cooked.

The result, unlike beef jerky in a combat ration that gets hard and brittle over time, is closer to the sliced deli meats one might find at the local supermarket.

“We are thinking of all kinds of applications for this product,” Oleksyk said. One is a “combat sandwich” of osmotic-dried meat, and shelf-stable cheese and -bread. Another is osmotic-dried pepperoni that could be used on a shelf-stable pizza.

Working with a large commercial meat producer in South Carolina, the team plans to prototype “all kinds of products” using this technology within the next fiscal year, Oleksyk reported.

While researching novel ways to process combat rations, the staff continues to investigate better packaging methods that will stand up to combat rigors and shelf-life requirements.

One program is looking into a variety of ways to keep combat rations sterile: controlling the amount of moisture in them, increasing their acidity and adding nisin, a proven antimicrobial compound. Another project involves injecting oxygen scavengers into food packages to reduce spoilage and extend shelf life. That process, Oleksyk said, could enable packaged bread to last in an MRE for as long as three years.

Oleksyk said she and her team are driven to provide warfighters the tastes of home, no matter where they may be deployed.

“We want them to have the kinds of foods they want, with the best quality possible,” Oleksyk said. “That’s the inspiration behind everything we do here.”
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/military-explores-new-processes-packaging-for-combat-rations/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/secretary-panetta-and-canadian-minister-mackay-hold-a-joint-news-conference/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/secretary-panetta-and-canadian-minister-mackay-hold-a-joint-news-conference/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 18:30:35 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/secretary-panetta-and-canadian-minister-mackay-hold-a-joint-news-conference/ Secretary Panetta and Canadian Minister MacKay hold a Joint News Conference

United States Department of Defense

            It’s — it’s always an honor to be able to welcome Minister Peter MacKay to the Pentagon.  This is the second time I’ve had the privilege of hosting Peter here in Washington and it’s the seventh time that we’ve met since I became secretary of defense. 

            I think it’s fair to say we’ve built a very close working relationship between our two countries.  We’re not just neighbors.  We are very close allies and we are working together on a number of issues. 

            Our close working relationship, I think, testifies to the importance of the larger U.S.-Canada relationship and to our defense partnership.  Our countries, as I said, are neighbors.  We’re friends and our militaries are working closely together not just for the security of our two countries, but for the security and stability of the Americas and of the world. 

            This morning, Peter and I had the opportunity to discuss a range of important issues in advance of next month’s conference of defense ministers of the Americas, which both of us will be attending.  I look forward to joining him in Uruguay as we try to develop, you know, a future course of action with regards to this hemisphere. 

            We have shared our perspectives on the need for greater security collaboration across the Western Hemisphere, particularly regarding humanitarian assistance in disaster relief.  We think that’s a real potential for bringing countries together in a common effort, and we will be discussing that further at the conference. 

            We also discussed the upcoming NATO defense ministerial, which will take place right after that, and how we can work together to implement the Chicago summit priorities. 

            One of these priorities is obviously building modern, integrated capabilities on the part of NATO forces and the — the NATO forces’ 2020 goal. 

            On Afghanistan, I thanked Peter for Canada’s critical contributions to training Afghan forces, particularly as we continue to transition to an Afghan security lead. 

            And lastly, we discussed regional security challenges in the Middle East, including Iran, and some of the common concerns that we share about dealing with Iran. 

            On a personal note, later today, I want to point out that Peter will be accepting the William J. Perry Award from the Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies for his contributions to security cooperation in the Western Hemisphere. 

            It was then Secretary Perry who helped establish the Conference of Defense Ministers of the Americas.  So the award, I think, is truly a fitting tribute to Peter for all that he has done to advance security in this hemisphere. 

            Thank you, Peter, for your leadership.  Thank you for your friendship.  And thank you for your continuing cooperation with the United States in trying to deal with the security issues that both of our countries face. 

            I really do believe that the close ties between our two militaries and the tremendous contribution of the Canadian forces is helping us provide greater security not only between our two countries, but across the world. 

            So, Thank you very much. 

            MINISTER OF NATIONAL DEFENSE PETER MACKAY:  Thank you very much.  Thank you for those — those kind words and your gracious hosting of myself and our delegation — the Canadian delegation here at the Pentagon once again. 

            And to echo your sentiments about the close and abiding working relationship between Canada and the United States, I don’t think it’s overstating it to say that there are not two more closer peoples on the planet when it comes to our values, when it comes to our commitment to global security.  And our efforts are lasting, resilient.  We continue to work closely in so many sectors, but first and foremost security. 

            And like yourself, I’ve traveled a great deal in recent months, recent years, in fact.  And I know the grueling schedule that you keep.  And we’re very cognizant of the fact that your leadership is having effect.  What we have seen in Afghanistan in particular, our close working relationship there, while it remains a challenging mission, there is — is progress and there is hope.  And this is what we had always anticipated is the eventual turnover of security responsibility will allow this country — allow Afghanistan and hopefully the region to spread that security and spread that hope. 

            I also know that our experience in joint operations, as well as joint training exercises like RIMPAC allows us to improve our interoperability, and NORAD remains the primary security apparatus for North America.  And our shared responsibilities for North American security is something that Canada is deeply committed to, including the — the facility at — at Colorado Springs. 

            So we’re — we’re very grateful for the remarkable and enduring security relationship that we have established over the years, and, as well, spreading that security effort further into the region, into the Americas. 

            Our humanitarian relief efforts, our efforts to continue to work both bilaterally and multilaterally with — with countries in the Americas is a shared commitment. 

            And as we prepare to attend the Conference of Defense Ministers of the Americas, this is, again, an opportunity for us to unilaterally reach into the neighborhood, into — literally into our backyard, and improve the partnerships and reemphasize our commitment as two nations in North America, working with our partners throughout the region. 

            And I’m very much looking forward to that conference.  I think that this is a chance for Canada and the United States to up our game and demonstrate that commitment in tangible ways. 

            So I’m, again, personally very, very grateful for the strong working relationship that we have enjoyed and continue to enjoy.  Having hosted you in Canada, along with our Mexican counterparts, as well the many, many NATO meetings we’ve attended in Brussels, but in other locations as well, and your hosting in Chicago this past summer, and throughout — throughout both our time in office, I dare say that we have seen the defense relationship reach new heights. 

            And so, once again, Secretary Panetta, I really do appreciate your leadership, your friendship and — and your advice, because I know one of the areas where Canada does hope to establish greater credentials — if I can put it that way — is in the Pacific.  And so we take very close note of — of recent decisions and pronouncements that have been made about the United States intentions to continue their presence in the Pacific.  And Canada is similarly making decisions in that regard. 

            So thank you once again. 

            SEC. PANETTA:  Thank you very much. 

            GEORGE LITTLE:  Mr. Secretary, Mr. Minister, thank you. 

            We’ll take two questions per side.  We’ll start with — (inaudible). 

            Q:  Secretary Panetta, do you agree with where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu drew his red line, literally, yesterday at the U.N.?  And are you any more assured now about — that there may will not — that there will not be an imminent Israeli strike on Iran? 

            And to Minister MacKay, if you could elaborate a bit to us here — I know this has been discussed in the past — about the decision to withdraw the mission from Iran? 

            SEC. PANETTA:  You know, I think we’ve made very clear what the policy of the United States is with regard to Iran.  And the president has made it clear, I’ve made it clear that the United States’ position is that we will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon.  This is not about containment; this is about prevention.  And so that has been and remains the policy of the United States. 

            And with regard to what Israel will or will not do, you know, our — I think — our hope is that both the United States and Israel and the international community can work together to try to ensure that we achieve the same end, which is that Iran does not attain a nuclear weapon and that, hopefully, we can try to resolve these issues peacefully as opposed to militarily. 

            MIN. MACKAY:  Canada along with the United States, international community continues to have these deep concerns.  Our prime minister has called Iran the most dangerous place on the planet.  He underscored those comments again in New York yesterday and talked about the clear and present danger that Iran poses to the world.  And after a great deal of deliberation and discussion with our allies, including the United States, we took the considered opinion that our embassy staff could no longer be exposed to risk, given the circumstances inside Iran. 

            It also was intended, and I believe did send a clear signal to the Iranian regime that the sanctions and decisions of countries like Canada are a reflection and a repudiation of their action.  Their posturing, their threats to their neighbors to the world, won’t be tolerated.  And so our decision to close the embassy was in keeping with increased sanctions, messaging, and a direct delivery of — of further importance that we place on Iran abandoning its nuclear ambitions and working in a more collaborative, cooperative way with the international community. 

            GEORGE LITTLE:  Keith of the CBC.  

Q:  Mr. MacKay, on the same topic, with regard specifically to the question of a red line, there seems to be a disagreement between Netanyahu and the United States.  Where is Canada on that? 

            MIN. MACKAY:  Well, Keith, to be frank with you, I think that there have been a number of red lines placed already, and Iran has edged closer and stepped over those red lines on a number of occasions, now particularly when it comes to cooperation around the subject of inspections.  And the rhetoric that continues to come from the regime, particularly from Ahmadinejad, is unnerving in the extreme.  And even his comments this week continue to cause tremendous consternation in capitals around the world. 

            So Canada, I think, has been consistent.  I think our decision to close the embassy is in keeping with clear signaling and communication that we want to send to the regime, and Minister Baird and the prime minister, I think, have made Canada’s position very clear.  And that is, we have a different expectation of Iran than their current behavior. 

            Q:  Does that mean that the red line argument is a sterile argument because — (inaudible)? 

            MIN. MACKAY:  Well, I think people, you know, can interpret where and — and what the red line is.  But the achieving of nuclear capability is the red line.  When and where that kicks in, I guess is open to interpretation. 

            MR. LITTLE:  Barbara, CNN. 

            Q:  Mr. Secretary, I want to ask you about Syria’s chemical weapons.  You have spoken extensively about your broad concern about it.  I want to ask you with some specificity this morning.  Rebel groups are claiming that they have captured some military sites in Iraq — in Syria — where, in fact, they have found chemical weapons components, capability, whatever it may be, at some of the areas they now control. 

            So do you now believe that rebels have essentially found — do you have concerns that they have found some of Syria’s chemical weapons capability? 

            Do you believe that Syria’s chemical weapons have been moved beyond the initial incident of many, many weeks ago?  And what concerns does this now pose in the equation? 

            Does it raise a concern that Iranian Al-Quds inside Syria could also be getting their hands on chemical capability there? 

            SEC. PANETTA:  First and foremost, as I’ve — as I’ve expressed, obviously we — we continue to have a concern about the security of the CBW sites, and we continue to monitor that.  We’re working with — with the countries in the region to ensure that — that we have the best information possible with regards to the sites and how they’re being secured. 

            At — at this stage, with regards to, you know, the major sites that we’re looking at, we do believe that those sites still remain secured by — by the Syrian military. 

            There has been intelligence that there have been some moves that have taken place.  Where exactly that’s taken place, we don’t know.  I don’t have any specific information about the opposition and whether or not they’ve obtained some of this or how much they’ve obtained and just exactly what’s taken place. 

            But with regards to, you know, the movement of the — of some of this and whether or not they’ve been able to locate some of it, we just don’t know. 

            The main point I would make, though, is that we still believe that, based on what we know and what we’re monitoring, that the principal sites that we are concerned about still remain secure. 

            Q:  I’m sorry, sir, can I just ask you to clarify?  You have for the first time, I think, are saying moves, multiple moves of chemical weapons.  We knew of one incident many, many weeks ago. 

            Can you elaborate?  And you’re not talking about the main sites.  So are you seeing things move?  Just tell us what you mean. 

            SEC. PANETTA:  What — what we mean is that there has been some intelligence that — that, with regards to some of these sites, that there has been some movement in order to — for the Syrian to better secure what they — the chemicals.  And while there’s been some limited movement, again, the major sites still remain in place, still remain secure. 

            But as to, you know, the movement of some of these — these materials and what, you know — whether or not they’ve been exposed to — to possession by — by the opposition or others, that’s something we — I — I really don’t have any firm information to confirm that that’s taken place. 

            Q:  But if they’re still secure — that if — if you’re saying they’re secure – 

            SEC. PANETTA:  The main sites — the main sites, as we’ve determined and monitored, still remain secure. 

            MR. LITTLE:  Paul — (inaudible). 

            Q:  Thanks very much. 

            Minister MacKay, go back to your suggestion that the red lines are open to interpretation.  I’m interested in yours.  The Israeli prime minister drew a very clear one yesterday.  Is that a valid red line in the opinion of the government of Canada to warrant Israeli attacks on Iran? 

            MIN. MACKAY:  I think the more important question, Paul, is it — is it the red line in the minds of the Israelis.  And so Canada has been consistent in saying that we continue to encourage the international community, the United Nations, to keep the pressure on the Iranian regime; to pursue the sanctions; to pursue diplomatic pressures and interventions where and when we have those opportunities.  And unfortunately, those opportunities are becoming less and less obvious and less and less effective. 

            So, you know, the preferred options always will be and remains these alternatives to keeping the pressure on Iran to bring about more acceptable behavior.  But, you know, trying to shift the attitude of this regime and their leadership has proven to be enormously challenging. 

            Q:  Okay, but my question was, do you or don’t you endorse the prime minister of Israel’s red line? 

            MIN. MACKAY:  Well, the Israelis are going to make their own decisions.  They’re going to consult with their allies.  They’re going to continue to signal very clearly their alarm over the — the nuclear ambitions of Iran.  And we are going to continue to work with them. 

            But these are sovereign decisions.  I think it’s fair to say that the United States, Canada still believe that the effective use of sanctions and diplomacy will be the preferred option in trying to bring about corrections in the direction that the Iranians have been headed. 

            MR. LITTLE:  Thank you, everyone.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/secretary-panetta-and-canadian-minister-mackay-hold-a-joint-news-conference/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/letter-from-the-president-regarding-designation-of-funds-for-overseas-contingency-operationsglobal-war-on-terrorism/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/letter-from-the-president-regarding-designation-of-funds-for-overseas-contingency-operationsglobal-war-on-terrorism/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 18:26:15 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/letter-from-the-president-regarding-designation-of-funds-for-overseas-contingency-operationsglobal-war-on-terrorism/ Letter from the President regarding Designation of Funds for Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:)

In accordance with section 115(c) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2013, I hereby designate for Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism all funding so designated by the Congress in section 115(a) pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, as amended, as outlined in the enclosed list of accounts.

The details of this action are set forth in the enclosed letter from the Deputy Director for Management of the Office of Management and Budget.

Sincerely,
BARACK OBAMA

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/letter-from-the-president-regarding-designation-of-funds-for-overseas-contingency-operationsglobal-war-on-terrorism/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/green-alert-for-tropical-cyclone-norman-12-population-affected-by-category-1-120-kmh-wind-speeds-or-higher-is-0/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/green-alert-for-tropical-cyclone-norman-12-population-affected-by-category-1-120-kmh-wind-speeds-or-higher-is-0/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 17:50:18 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/green-alert-for-tropical-cyclone-norman-12-population-affected-by-category-1-120-kmh-wind-speeds-or-higher-is-0/ Green alert for tropical cyclone NORMAN-12. Population affected by Category 1 (120 km/h) wind speeds or higher is 0.

External Global Bodies

Tropical Cyclone NORMAN-12 can have a low humanitarian impact based on the Maximum sustained wind speed and the affected population and their vulnerability.

• Tropical Cyclone Tropical Storm (maximum wind speed of 83 km/h)
• on 28/09/2012 15:00 UTC
• Population affected by Category 1 (120 km/h) wind speeds or higher is 0
• Vulnerability: Medium

Extreme Rain

Potential rainfall is calculated based on rainfall observed by several microwave satellite sensors.

The image shows the total rainfall accumulation associated with the cyclone.

Storm surge

The tropical cyclone did not reach sufficient strength to cause significant storm surge.

Known identifiers for this event: ep1412 (jtwcId) EP142012 (noaaId)

Articles: 0 |
About casualties: 0
| Last hour: 0

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/green-alert-for-tropical-cyclone-norman-12-population-affected-by-category-1-120-kmh-wind-speeds-or-higher-is-0/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dempsey-releases-concept-to-build-joint-force-2020/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dempsey-releases-concept-to-build-joint-force-2020/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 17:31:11 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dempsey-releases-concept-to-build-joint-force-2020/ Dempsey Releases Concept to Build Joint Force 2020

United States Department of Defense

Dempsey Releases Concept to Build Joint Force 2020

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – At the heart of the Capstone Concept for Joint Operations released today by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is an idea called globally integrated operations, which will be used to build and organize Joint Force 2020.

The concept stresses the military’s agility and flexibility as the United States faces unclear and unknown threats in the future.

It is a confusing time, Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey noted in the forward to the concept. While the overall security situation is trending toward greater stability, “destructive technologies are available to a wider and more disparate range of adversaries,” he wrote. “As a result, the world is potentially more dangerous than before.”

To face these varied threats, a globally postured U.S. joint force must be able to quickly combine capabilities — both U.S. and allied nations — across “domains, echelons, geographic boundaries and organizational affiliations,” said Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George J. Flynn, the director of Joint Force Development on the Joint Staff. Flynn spoke about the Capstone concept during a recent interview.

A key aspect of the Capstone concept is these networks of forces can “form, evolve, dissolve and reform in different arrangements in time and space with significantly greater fluidity” than today’s force.

Events will happen faster, Flynn said, and the military has to create the ability to operate at “the speed of the challenges.”

There are eight key elements to globally integrated operations. The first is mission command. “This is all about people, it’s all about empowering leaders to be able to operate on trust and on commander’s intent,” Flynn said. This means, he said, developing leaders who understand the environments they are working in, react well to surprise and uncertainty and who can lead transitions.

Another element is to seize, retain and exploit the initiative in time and across domains. “We want to be in position to control the pace of operations or control the tempo,” Flynn said.

The United States will have a smaller force so this is going to rely on partnering, the general said. This means not just partnering with allies, but other U.S. agencies and international agencies.

“Partnering means being able to work with anyone who has a stake,” in the outcomes, Flynn said.

Integrated operations means flexibility, he said. Joint commands can be local or functional or both. “As we look to the future and how we form out joint task forces, this concept says we need to have flexibility in how we do these relationships,” he said. “The chairman sees this document as the lens to see if we are developing the force he needs to do that,” Flynn added.

Globally integrated operations place a premium on partnering, he said. This allows the U.S. military to absorb qualities and capabilities from other agencies, helping to employ the “whole of government” strategy.

Joint forces also must leverage integration to improve capabilities across domains. “What is new today are the cyber and space domains,” the general said. The U.S. military, he said, needs to use capabilities from one domain to increase the advantages it enjoys in these new domains.

Another concept element, he said, involves small-footprint capabilities such as cyber operations, space, special operations, global strike and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance that will play a more important role in the future.

The last element of the concept is joint operations, he said, which will become more and more precise to lessen the risks of unintended consequences.

The Capstone concept will permeate the military from professional military education, to training, to equipping, to mindset, Flynn said.

Last week, Dempsey said that 80 percent of Joint Force 2020 is already in the ranks. The remaining 20 percent that’s being developed must dovetail with the concept, he said, because it will serve as a catalyst for the military.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/dempsey-releases-concept-to-build-joint-force-2020/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-h-j-res-117-s-3245-and-s-3552/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-h-j-res-117-s-3245-and-s-3552/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 17:25:59 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-h-j-res-117-s-3245-and-s-3552/ Statement by the Press Secretary on H.J. Res. 117, S. 3245 and S. 3552

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

On Friday, September 28, 2012, the President signed into law:

H.J. Res. 117, which provides fiscal year 2013 appropriations for continuing projects and activities of the Federal Government through Wednesday, March 27, 2013;

S. 3245, which extends to September 30, 2015, the expiration dates of key requirements of four immigration programs administered by the Department of Homeland Security:  the EB-5 Regional Center Program; the E-Verify Program; the Special Immigrant Non-Minister Religious Worker Program; and the Conrad State 30 J-1 Visa Waiver Program; and

S. 3552, the “Pesticide Registration Improvement Extension Act of 2012,” which reauthorizes and modifies fee collection provisions and related authorities in the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-the-press-secretary-on-h-j-res-117-s-3245-and-s-3552/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/united-nations-and-partners-commit-to-building-disaster-resilience/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/united-nations-and-partners-commit-to-building-disaster-resilience/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 17:25:48 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/united-nations-and-partners-commit-to-building-disaster-resilience/ United Nations and partners commit to building disaster resilience

United Nations

28 September 2012

UK Secretary of State for International Development, Justine Greening, convened a meeting of donors and other partners this week alongside the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator, Helen Clark, to commit to providing greater support for countries to prepare for and recover from disasters.

More than 1.3 million people have been killed in disasters caused by natural hazards in the past 20 years and the threat is increasing. Greater investment in building resilience to disasters can save lives and livelihoods, and is better value for money than providing a humanitarian response or cleaning up after a catastrophe.

Innovative measures pioneered in recent years have included making schools double up as cyclone shelters, early warning or early response systems for droughts and stimulating the uptake of insurance to minimize the impact of a disaster. In Mozambique, the death toll from annual floods and cyclones is less than a quarter of the 10-year average after the government adopted flood monitoring and cyclone warning systems. Regional cooperation in the Caribbean has dramatically improved hurricane warning systems and responses, with death tolls falling as a result.

During the meeting, held in New York in the margins of the UN General Assembly, there was praise for countries addressing the threat of natural disasters – but there was also agreement that much more needs to be done.

In addition to Minister Greening and Miss Clark, the meeting included representatives of the governments of Japan, Mozambique, Sweden and the United States, as well as the Caribbean Community, the European Union, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and the World Bank.

Representatives from the United States and the European Union provided an update on the progress being made through initiatives to build resilience they are undertaking in the Horn of Africa and the Sahel. 

There was agreement on a new initiative to build resilience in the areas of the world most affected by disasters. This will help countries to develop national resilience plans and ensure they have financial backing for disaster risk reduction strategies, as well as improve coordination between humanitarian and development assistance. Linked to this will be mechanisms to stimulate private sector engagement and support to help countries better understand and financially manage disaster risks.

UNDP, who hosted the meeting, works with 59 governments to help them minimize the damage caused by natural hazards. Over recent years, UNDP has especially emphasised climate and weather-related disasters, as there is a growing recognition of the need to consider the effects of climate change in disaster preparedness.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/united-nations-and-partners-commit-to-building-disaster-resilience/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-bhutans-premier-highlights-worlds-challenges-and-aims-for-security-council-seat/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-bhutans-premier-highlights-worlds-challenges-and-aims-for-security-council-seat/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:27:18 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-bhutans-premier-highlights-worlds-challenges-and-aims-for-security-council-seat/ At UN, Bhutan’s premier highlights world’s challenges and aims for Security Council seat

United Nations

28 September 2012 In his address to the United Nations General Assembly, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Jigmi Y. Thinley, today highlighted a range of challenges and areas of progress before the international community, while also affirming his country’s intent to seek a seat on the Security Council.

“As with most sessions of the General Assembly, we are sharing, yet again our common fears and frustrations in a world that is going wrong. We have no stories except fleeting moments, to fill our sinking hearts with hope in our near or distant future. Ours is a narrative of mounting challenges and doubts,” the Prime Minister told the 67th Assembly’s General Debate at UN Headquarters in New York.

“Deep in our hearts, we know that our very survival on this fragile planet is under threat. Yet, we share no common vision and fail to think and act in concert and with faith. And so, we find ourselves being overwhelmed by the forces that our irresponsible and discordant actions have unleashed,” he added. “All that we have achieved individually, as nations, as regions and as a species, face the threat of loss and reversal. As we argue and falter, the world we have built is falling apart.”

The Bhutanese leader cited climate change and its impact on ecosystems, the depletion of natural resources due to the growth in extractive industries, growing costs in food and energy, a rise in the number of conflicts as well as looming conflicts, economic insecurity, and a lack of respect for human rights as among the ills affecting the world.

However, he noted, despite the slew of challenges on the international agenda, the realization that the world’s problems – be they economic, social, ecological or political – are interconnected has helped.

“Although the United Nations has been a house of gloom in recent years, it does have its shining moments, projecting rays of hope,” he said, noting the Assembly’s past acceptance of well-being and happiness as a developmental goal “binding all of humanity with a common vision and pursuit – that it should bring about a holistic, sustainable and inclusive approach to development.”

The small Himalayan kingdom has introduced a new measurement of national prosperity, focussing on people’s well-being rather than economic productivity – in recent years, there has been growing interest in this concept, known as ‘gross national happiness.’ In 2011, the General Assembly adopted a resolution, sometimes referred to as the ‘happiness resolution,’ which noted, inter alia, that the traditional gross domestic product indicator “does not adequately reflect the happiness and well-being of people in a country.”

That Assembly resolution led to Bhutan hosting a high-level meeting on the new economic paradigm at UN Headquarters in April, with hundreds of participants from governments, academia, civil society and religious bodies. The outcome of the conference also informed negotiations related to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), held in Brazil in June.

Rio+20 was attended by some 100 world leaders, along with more than 40,000 representatives from non-governmental organizations, the private sector and civil society, all seeking to help shape new policies to promote global prosperity, reduce poverty and advance social equity and environmental protection.

At the end of the gathering, participants agreed on an outcome document which called for a wide range of actions, such as beginning the process to establish sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Referring to the outcome document, Prime Minister Thinley noted that it “fell far short of what we ought to have achieved” with many people seeing it as a missed opportunity.

“Not so my country and people who, with minimum expectations, came away with reason for hope. The agreement to develop universal sustainable development goals that would integrate the economic, environmental and social dimensions of development was a substantive outcome, consistent with the (General Assembly) resolution and the efforts that my own country is taking,” Prime Minister Thinley said.

He added, “What inspired me even more at Rio was the indomitable spirit of the hundreds of side events, several of which I was honoured to participate in. These were organized by civil society, grassroots organizations and the private sector. They came to share best practices and learn from each other but, more importantly, to demonstrate that sustainable development was not just an idle dream but that there are individuals and organizations who are breathing and living lives to realize what is profound and necessary.”

The Bhutanese leader said he was also inspired by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s appointment of a High-Level Panel to advise on the global development agenda beyond 2015, the target date for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The eight MDGs, agreed on by world leaders at a UN summit in 2000, set specific targets on poverty alleviation, education and environmental stability, in addition to other areas.

In his speech, the Prime Minister said that Bhutan has benefited from the international community throughout its 42 years of UN membership in the United Nations, while his country has provided “modest although focused” contributions to it in the areas such as the cause of peace, development, and the rule of law – and re-affirmed that his country is seeking a seat on the Security Council for the 2013-2014 term.

“As a responsible member of the international community, committed to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, Bhutan is now prepared and seeks to engage directly in the process of building a more secure world through non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council,” he noted. “This we regard, not only as a privilege, but also, as a responsibility of UN membership.”

“Never having served nor sought membership on the Council before, we are convinced that all states, regardless of size, population, level of development, must be permitted the opportunity to contribute by bringing diversity of thought, approach and indeed, their will, to the work of the Council,” he said.

Prime Minister Thinley is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/at-un-bhutans-premier-highlights-worlds-challenges-and-aims-for-security-council-seat/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/laos-wto-membership-terms-agreed-next-stop-general-council/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/laos-wto-membership-terms-agreed-next-stop-general-council/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:26:53 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/laos-wto-membership-terms-agreed-next-stop-general-council/ Laos’ WTO membership terms agreed — next stop: General Council

World Trade Organisation

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Essentially, the deal is done, but officially it is “ad referendum”, meaning it still needs to be confirmed, in this case at the General Council meeting.

WTO Director-General Pascal Lamy praised members for the remarkable acceleration in least developed countries’ accessions since 2011. Laos’ talks benefited from members agreeing to speed up the process and to provide essential technical assistance to the government. “It shows the commitment of the WTO to the least-developed countries,” he said.

Chinese Ambassador YI Xiaozhun, who chairs the working party of members negotiating with Laos (officially the Lao People’s Democratic Republic or Lao PDR), also welcomed the decision: “Lao PDR’s WTO accession is a strong, positive and clear signal for its commitment to engaging with the global economy in the framework of the rules-based trading system.

“For the WTO, Lao PDR’s accession means a warm welcome to another least-developed country into the multilateral trading system. This, in turn, has systemic benefits such as improved compliance with market access commitments in goods and services and with WTO rules,” Ambassador Yi said.

Laos’ Industry and Commerce Minister Nam Viyaketh thanked WTO members for concluding the accession negotiations. He praised the chairperson for his leadership and commended the Secretariat team for professional dedication.

The agreement by consensus in Laos’ 66-member Accession Working Party (counting the EU’s member states as well as the EU itself) comes 15 years after Laos first applied to join the WTO in 1997. The working party was set up in 1998 but did not meet until 2004.

The timing will allow Laos to meet its objective of being accepted as a new member by the time it hosts an Asia-Europe summit meeting (ASEM) in November, even though a few legal formalities still remain before it is officially a member.

 

Where is Laos now in its negotiation?

Essentially the negotiation is now over. The membership package now goes to the General Council for formal approval. After that, Laos still has to ratify the agreement and inform the WTO that it has done so by depositing its “Instrument of Acceptance”.. Thirty days later it officially joins the WTO. Minister Nam said he is confident the National Assembly will complete ratification in December.

As a least-developed country (LDC), Laos’s application is covered by new guidelines for accelerating membership negotiations for these countries, approved by the General Council on 25 July 2012 (document WT/L/508/Add.1), which in turn update the original 2002 guidelines (document WT/L/508).

After a slow start, Laos’ membership talks accelerated into a final sprint with three working party meetings in 2012 — before that the working party had never met more than once a year.

 

In this meeting

The working party’s 10th meeting informally went through the set of documents covering the details of the accession and Laos commitments before the chairperson formally gavelled through the agreement.

Minister Nam said: “Lao people place high hopes on today’s event. We have gone — and we continue going — through a process of intensive reforms. During the accession process, Lao PDR has amended and enacted more than 90 pieces of laws and regulations, all in compliance with WTO Agreements.”

He went on: “This process has been long and tedious and very difficult for us. As you know, as experienced negotiators, the position of a negotiator is not an easy one. We knew that we were engaged in a difficult exercise of convincing our trade partners of our good will, but also the constraints we are facing as a least developed country with a less bargaining power and still rely on ODA [overseas development assistance].

“We, however, underestimated the difficult negotiations we would have to undergo at the internal front. Quite frankly, trying to convince our trading partners of the position of Lao PDR only to go home, and to convince our internal partners of the justification of the reforms requested, was one of our most difficult and hard tasks.”

Members congratulated Laos. They supported approving the accession package and holding a special General Council meeting on 26 October to adopt it.

Fellow least developed countries Haiti, which coordinates the group in the WTO, Nepal and the Central African Republic, said the deal will inspire other least developed country applicants. Yemen, one of these applicants, said it hopes its membership deal can be approved by December.

The EU, US, Australia, Japan, Switzerland, Canada praised Laos’ commitment to the multilateral trading system and pledged to continue to give technical assistance to Laos after it has become a member. Also welcoming Laos’ membership were the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN, which includes Laos), Chinese Taipei, Viet Nam, Hong Kong China, India, Argentina and Ukraine.

 

Laos’ commitments

Part of the membership package contains the market access commitments that Laos is making in goods and services — tariff ceilings on goods, subsidy limits in agriculture, and access to its services markets. These are a combination of the offers Laos itself made, with additional commitments agreed in bilateral negotiations with the nine interested members — Australia, Canada, China, the EU, Japan, Rep. Korea, Chinese Taipei, the US and Ukraine — and built into the multilateral package.

The multilateral deal also contains descriptions of Laos’ trade regime, and wide-ranging commitments on laws and measures designed to ensure the regime conforms to WTO rules. Laos is also land-locked. In order to support the negotiations, Laos has received technical assistance from other WTO members, who said they would continue to provide aid after it has joined the WTO.

When it joins the WTO, Laos has agreed to the following:

Market opening

For goods, Laos is committing “bound” tariffs (effectively maximum rates) that average 18.8% for all products — 19.3% on average for agricultural products, and 18.7% for the rest.

In services, Laos has made market access commitments in 10 sectors, covering 79 sub-sectors.

Other commitments include:

• Tariffs will be “ordinary customs duties” only, within committed levels, with no additional duties and charges.
• Agricultural subsidies to be according to Laos’ “schedule” of commitments — including no export subsidies.
• WTO rules, such as rules of origin, preshipment inspection, anti-dumping measures, countervailing duty, safeguards, customs valuation, export measures including prohibitions, subsidies, trade-related investment measures, free zones, laws on transit operations, preferential trade under bilateral, regional and other agreements, to comply with WTO agreements immediately.
• Technical Barriers to Trade (product standards and labelling) and Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (food safety and animal and plant health) agreements fully implemented by 1 January 2015.
• Intellectual property protection to comply fully with the WTO Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement by 31 December 2016.
• WTO rules on trading rights to apply from the date of becoming a member, with some exceptions for two years, although measures can be applied under WTO agreements on import licensing, technical barriers to trade (product standards and labelling) and sanitary and phytosanitary measures (food safety and animal and plant health).
• State enterprises to import or export broadly under commercial terms, and to notify their imports and exports to the WTO.
• Price controls will be consistent with WTO rules on trade in goods, agricultural products and services.
• Companies and individuals to have the right to legal appeal on government administrative actions covered by WTO rules, including those on trade regulations, subsidies, customs valuation, intellectual property rights and domestic regulation in services.
• Laos’ commitments and WTO rules to be applied throughout the country and enforced by the government without the need for recourse to the courts.
• Government fees and charges for services will be according to WTO agreements.
• Taxes and other charges on imports to comply with WTO agreements including national treatment (non-discrimination between imported and domestically produced products).
• No quantitative restrictions such as licensing, quotas, prohibitions, bans and other restrictions, except if for balance of payments purposes, which would follow WTO rules.
• Transparency: Laos to submit initial notifications as required within six months. All relevant laws, regulations and other measures will be notified as required by WTO rules and be made public in print and on the Internet. An Official Gazette to be set up within three years.

Next

General Council: 26 October 2012.

Background

Laos Accession Working Party members(according to the latest official list, but regularly updated):

Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Canada, China, Dominican Rep., EU, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Rep. Korea, Lesotho, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, Switzerland, Chinese Taipei, Tanzania, Thailand, Ukraine, United States, Viet Nam, Zambia

Chairperson: Ambassador Yi Xiaozhun of China

Secretary: Mr Dayong Yu

Co-Secretary: Ms Petra Beslać

Director of the WTO Accessions Division: Mr Chiedu Osakwe

Lao People’s Democratic Republic applied to join the WTO on 16 July 1997. The General Council agreed to set up a working party on 19 February 1998. The working party met on 28 October 2004, 30 November 2006, 15 November 2007, 4 July 2008, 14 July 2009, 24 September 2010, 29 June 2011, 16 March 2012, 12 July 2012 and 28 September.

 

Statement by H.E. Dr Nam Viyaketh
Minister of Industry and Commerce, Lao PDR

10th Session of the Working Party on WTO Accession of Lao PDR

28 September 2012

On behalf of the Lao delegation, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the WTO Secretariat, particularly the Accessions Division, for their hard work in planning, facilitating, and preparing for this final Working Party meeting of Lao PDR. I would also like to extend these sincere thanks to you, Mr Chairman, for your effective leadership in our accession process. Allow me to as well take this opportunity to thank all WTO Members and development partners for their constant support. Without your active engagement and support in the process, today’s concluding meeting would not have been possible.

Mr Chairman,

Lao people place high hopes on today’s event. We have gone — and we continue going — through a process of intensive reforms. During the accession process, Lao PDR has amended and enacted more than 90 pieces of laws and regulations, all in compliance with WTO Agreements, covering various areas in particular on trading rights, import licensing procedures, customs valuation, investment regime, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, and trade related intellectual property rights. Lao PDR has also made tremendous efforts in improving investment climate and opening its market for goods and services.

Lao PDR is able to open its economy as it is already a member in a free trade agreement with very competitive neighbours. Moreover, as a landlocked country with long porous borders which are difficult to control, our ability to protect the internal market with high tariffs is thus very limited unless we simply want to encourage fraud. This, however, does not mean that Lao PDR’s accession results should be used as a standard for other LDCs with different conditions. Let me conclude with the importance of a tailor-made approach for the accession process: each country has its own possibilities and constraints. Clearly guidelines and benchmarks for LDC accession are important. However, at the end, what counts is that WTO Members and acceding governments are sensitive to each other’s needs and possibilities and come to an agreement on the essential elements.

This process has been long and tedious and very difficult for us. As you know, as experienced negotiators, the position of a negotiator is not an easy one. We knew that we were engaged in a difficult exercise of convincing our trade partners of our good will, but also the constraints we are facing as a least developed country with a less bargaining power and still rely on ODA. We, however, underestimated the difficult negotiations we would have to undergo at the internal front. Quite frankly, trying to convince our trading partners of the position of Lao PDR only to go home, and to convince our internal partners of the justification of the reforms requested, was one of our most difficult and hard tasks.

Another important constraint in our accession process was to create the necessary capacity to implement the reforms once we got the political green light for them. Reforms cannot be made by outsiders: you need the internal capacity to fully measure the meaning and the implications of the reform. We had to build up this capacity both within our Ministry and in our partner Ministries, train them and introduce them to the multilateral requirements. This can help explain the amount of time our accession process took. I can proudly announce that today we have competent and dedicated team working on these issues, which allowed us to master a large reform program and which will ensure their full implementation.

Mr Chairman,

Please allow me to take this opportunity to acknowledge the support we have received in form of financial and technical assistance by bilateral and multilateral donors. Without outside help it would be difficult for Lao PDR to achieve this reform goal. I appreciate the effective use donor support for Lao PDR to meet WTO standards.

Lao PDR has used the accession process as a useful blueprint for reforms in our trade and economic framework on the basis of international best practices. We were privileged to benefit from comments and suggestions of Working Party Members. Without your cooperation and your compassion for our country, we would not have been able to institute those reforms. The accession process — we are convinced — has provided us with the necessary basis to achieve our goal of meeting the Millennium Development Goals by 2015 and graduating from the LDC by 2020.

Mr Chairman,

We are fully aware that WTO accession and this meeting are important milestones in our efforts, but the work continues. Our first task is to ensure that the WTO accession package is approved by the National Assembly as swiftly as possible. Right after this meeting we will submit the package to the National Assembly and we are confident that the whole package will be approved in this December session. Our confidence is based on the following elements: (i) we have already mobilized our National Assembly and have organized very useful sessions with neighboring countries; (ii) we have kept the National Assembly informed about the process and they have already approved all the laws that have lead us to this point; and (iii) we have prepared the necessary arguments to explain the benefits and the reasons for the package.

Our second task will be to share the results of our negotiations with the private sector and the public. We have foreseen a campaign not only in Vientiane Capital, but also in the provinces, both to inform them about the package agreed with our partners and to mobilize their support and their interest in taking full advantage of the new opportunities that these reforms are opening up. Only if the economic actors know their rights, can we ensure that they will also be respected.

Thirdly, we put ourselves to the task of fully implementing our commitments. You all know that one thing is to pass reforms another thing is to make sure that they are implemented. We are setting up the necessary structures to ensure this and to make sure that any new laws and regulations are in full compliance with our commitments. We need to train government officials to correctly apply the new policies. Allow me to make an appeal to our friends: we need your assistance and support in this implementation phase. Let us not lose time and the momentum we have built; we want to start our implementation work immediately. Lao PDR is very grateful for the transition periods it has received. It is for us also a matter of honor to ensure that we implement the measures foreseen in the transition period in time and fully.

We still have a long way to go on our development path. Lao PDR is an LDC of 6 million people, with more than 1 million of these still living under the poverty line. The limited human and financial resources and the lack of expertise are still major problem for Lao PDR. Even though our economy has experienced a high growth rate — with more than 7 per cent on average over the last decade — its main source of growth are still natural resources and prone to external shocks.

Mr Chairman,

When we compare where we were at the beginning of this process and where we are now, it is easy to appreciate the tremendous effort Lao PDR has made. All Members’ interests, questions and requests have been fully addressed; and all relevant documentation has been circulated to WTO Members.

Today my delegates come with the high hopes of Lao people who are waiting for good news from us. On behalf of my delegates, I would like to seek the Working Party Members’ acceptance of the Draft Working Party Report, and provide a green light for us to become a Member of this family. This would be a historical achievement for my country, and it would also be the end of this long accession process. But, it would also be the beginning of the new phase of putting commitments and obligations into practice, a new challenge we are prepared and eager to begin.

Mr Chairman,

In order to keep up the momentum back home, on behalf of the delegation from Lao PDR, please allow me to seek the agreement of the Members on the next step, permitting an early signing ceremony with the WTO Director General. The sooner we are able to proceed with this signature, the better momentum we can bring to our people back home. This is a crucial time, since we would like to announce this historical news as hosts of the 9th Summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting, which will be held in Vientiane in early November. Therefore, on behalf of the Government of Lao PDR, I would like to seek the support of the Members to facilitate the organizing of such an important signing ceremony as early as possible, in advance of the upcoming summit in November.

Thank you!

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This donation will finance technical assistance programmes and training activities for developing and least developed countries. The aim is to better adapt their practices and laws to WTO rules and disciplines, improve the implementation of their obligations and enhance the exercise of their membership rights.

“I welcome Liechtenstein’s contribution that will allow developing countries to expand their markets, find new trading partners and better integrate into the global economy” declared WTO Director General Pascal Lamy.

Liechtenstein’s WTO Ambassador Norbert Frick stated “Liechtenstein will continue to support developing countries in better understanding the WTO rules with the aim of expanding their trading activities. Trade can be used as a tool for growth and development and is especially crucial given the troubled times we are facing today”.

 

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Panel requests

DS434: Australia — Certain measures concerning trademarks and other plain packaging requirements applicable to tobacco products and packaging

At the second request by Ukraine, the DSB agreed to establish a panel to study the complaint against measures taken by Australia concerning trademarks and other plain packaging requirements applicable to tobacco products and packaging.

In its request for the establishment of a panel, Ukraine said that Australia’s measures “erode the protection of intellectual property rights” and “impose severe restrictions on the use of validly registered trademarks”. Ukraine’s statement also said that “Ukraine considers that governments should pursue legitimate health policies through effective measures without unnecessarily restricting international trade and without nullifying intellectual property rights as guaranteed by international trade and investment rules”. Ukraine also considers that the measures “are clearly more restrictive than necessary to achieve the stated health objectives” and thus violate the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade as an “unnecessary obstacle to trade”.

Australia showed surprise and disappointment that Ukraine decided to challenge Australia’s tobacco plain packaging measures since this step “is at odds with the policies being pursued within Ukraine to comply with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control”. Australia mentioned that Ukraine has also taken many measures in accordance with this Convention and said that the tobacco plain packaging “is a sound, well-considered measure designed to achieve a legitimate objective — the protection of public health”, which the WTO recognizes as a fundamental right of its members. Australia added that the measure is “clearly non-discriminatory”, “nor is [it] more restrictive than necessary to fulfil its legitimate objective”.

Uruguay supported Australia and said that it could not remain silent in this fight against “the most serious pandemic confronting humanity”. Uruguay also said that “the norms of the Multilateral Trading System cannot and should not force its members to allow that a product that kills its citizens in unacceptable and alarming proportions continues to be sold wrapped as candy to attract new victims”.

New Zealand and Norway also supported Australia. New Zealand said that it is also considering plain packaging measures and Norway said that countries are under obligation to adopt measures to protect public health.

Zimbabwe, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Indonesia supported Ukraine. Zimbabwe said that 200,000 farmers and their families in the country depend on tobacco for their livelihood. Honduras said that the WHO Framework Convention is indicative and non-binding. Nicaragua said that tobacco is one of the most important items in the country’s exports.

Members that asked to exercise third-party rights in the dispute were: Uruguay, New Zealand, Norway, Zimbabwe, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Zambia, Nicaragua, Indonesia, United States, Chinese Taipei, Turkey, Oman, Japan, European Union, Philippines, Ecuador, Korea, India, Brazil, Argentina, Singapore, Guatemala and Canada.

DS437: United States — Countervailing duty measures on certain products from China

The DSB also agreed to establish a panel to study the complaint against countervailing duty measures taken by the United States on certain products from China that the US considers are subsidized.

China said that it recognizes WTO members’ legitimate rights to adopt trade remedy measures but such rights must be exercised in accordance with WTO rules and not be subject to any form of abuse. The US said that the measures applied were necessary in order to offset injurious subsidies bestowed (by China) on the manufacture, production or export of goods, and to counteract the injury caused by China’s subsidies.

Members requesting to exercise their third-party rights were: European Union, Japan, India, Turkey, Norway, Viet Nam, Australia, Russian Federation, Canada, Brazil and Korea.

DS440: China — Anti-dumping and countervailing duties on certain automobiles from the United States

In another request for a panel, China rejected the first request by the United States for the establishment of a panel to study China’s anti-dumping and countervailing duties on certain automobiles from the United States.

The US reminded members that this was the third time that the US had brought a dispute relating to China’s “multiple failures” to apply the appropriate procedures and legal standards in its injury determination, and to adhere to transparency and basic procedural requirements set out in the Anti-dumping Agreement and Subsidies Agreement.

China said that its investigating authority had determined that the imports of the product concerned originating in the US constituted dumping and was benefiting from the US government’s subsidization, and the dumped and subsidized imports had caused material injury to the domestic industry of China.

 

Implementation

Several members submitted reports on their implementation of recommendations adopted by the DSB.

 

Next meeting

The next regular meeting of the DSB is on 23 October 2012.

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]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/eu-will-ask-for-countermeasures-in-aircraft-dispute-with-the-us/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-3-experts-say-trade-is-part-of-the-answer-in-the-fight-against-record-unemployment/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-3-experts-say-trade-is-part-of-the-answer-in-the-fight-against-record-unemployment/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:26:50 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-3-experts-say-trade-is-part-of-the-answer-in-the-fight-against-record-unemployment/ Day 3: Experts say trade is part of the answer in the fight against record unemployment

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> Public Forum 2012

> Programme

  

WTO Deputy Director-General Rufus Yerxa, moderator of the panel, said that “for many governments, employment is now the top priority — in this context, the question of the role of trade is of crucial importance”.  

He said that many WTO members are “expressing concern that political pressures to preserve jobs may fuel protectionist actions, and that these actions may actually jeopardize the prospects for longer term growth”.

His questions to the panellists included: “What is the effect of trade on jobs in developing and developed countries? What complementary policies are needed to ensure that trade reform actually translates into economic growth, high productivity and more jobs? How can the multilateral system contribute to boost growth and employment?”

Mr Alberto Trejos, Professor of Economics at INCAE Business School and former Trade Minister of Costa Rica, cautioned against “overreacting” to the potential of trade to influence the number of jobs. He said that where trade can make a difference is on the quality of jobs, especially if complemented by sound domestic policies. Additionally, a good trade policy can help in the acceleration of job creation.

Mr John Evans, General Secretary of the Trade Union Advisory Committee to the OECD, said that one factor in the current crisis was an imbalance between growth and social policies, as growth was not matched by an equitable distribution of its gains. Even worse, now we have collective austerity measures, weakening collective bargaining and lowering wages. The question is how to make better trade policies and reach a better globalization balance.

Mr Yogendra K. Modi, board member of the International Organisation of Employers and  Chairman and CEO of  Great Eastern Energy Corporation, said that India saw the benefits of trade when its economy was opened in 1991 and growth expanded rapidly. Countries must be competitive, and imports are as important as exports. Multilateral agreements are essential. In the context of the Doha Round, to a businessman, the policy of agreeing either to everything or to nothing makes no sense. Smaller, weaker countries must be included in all discussions. Blaming the WTO or trade for a country’s internal problems is wrong – one can only help oneself.

Senator Ricardo Lagos of Chile said that trade can cushion the effects of the crisis on jobs by generating growth, which, in turn, leads to job creation. However, in most cases, there is a missing link: how do you integrate domestic and labour policies with trade policy so that more trade effectively leads to more jobs?

Mr Stephen Pursey, Director, Policy Integration Department and Senior Advisor to the ILO Director-General, said that since the onset of the crisis, global unemployment has risen by around 30 million to over 200 million, and that 75 million of the unemployed are young women and men. He added that ILO research had found that the trade contraction during the global crisis has resulted in the loss of nearly 4 million jobs in India and about 900,000 in South Africa. This was the result of declines in exports to the EU and the US between early 2008 and early 2009. He added that there are about 60 million fewer jobs globally than in 2007.

He said an outright global recession is likely unless the current policy thrust in the largest economies changes. The gains from globalization are not distributed equally, and some workers and firms may lose out in the short and medium term. The Nordic economies, which have been open for the longest, have the most extensive systems of social protection, developed before these economies were rich. Education and Aid for Trade are also important. What is needed is the integration of trade and job strategies in a major way but this would not be easy to achieve in the present macroeconomic situation.

Session 30: Emerging Powers, National Interests and the Future of Multilateralism

The session provided an opportunity for representatives of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and Turkey to pinpoint their respective interests in the current multilateral system and the challenges that their countries are facing. Most speakers made a plea in favour of multilateralism but called for a change in its current format to encompass new issues. The conclusions revealed that a common agenda for the BRICS is yet to be outlined. 

Most panellists stressed the importance of multilateralism and the crucial role that the WTO plays in global governance and in ensuring that the proliferation of preferential trade agreements (PTAs) does not affect BRICS economies. Meanwhile, the trend in both Turkey and South Africa is regional economic integration. Among the arguments against regionalism, Dr Lin Guijun, Vice-President of the University of International Business and Economics, pointed out its inability to protect China’s trade interests since China is now aiming for increased access to global markets. Dr Umit Ozlale, Director of the Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkey, said that continuing to reap the benefits of customs unions has become a challenge for Turkey amid the proliferation of free trade agreements (FTAs).

Despite the overall support for multilateralism, the panel members rejected its current format, arguing that it generates imbalances and inequalities and lags behind in terms of development objectives. According to Mr Pedro da Motta Veiga,  Director of CINDES, and Mr Bipul Chatterjee, Deputy Executive Director of CUTS International, multilateralism should consolidate and improve its existing set of rules and incorporate new issues such as climate change and food security. All speakers agreed that multilateralism must be redefined to deal with current global threats and one panellist opined that multilateralism is in crisis, as shown by the recent global financial crisis and the deadlock facing the negotiations.

This “new multilateralism” would be to a large extent shaped to address the domestic challenges facing the BRICS and Turkey. These include: fulfilling development objectives including poverty reduction, increasing competitiveness and productivity in manufacturing and the services sector, enhancing coordination between the private and public sector, and protecting foreign exchange assets.

On the question of whether a common BRICS trade agenda can emerge, it was stated that for now, the BRICS are signatories to a collection of bilaterals. Future challenges include agreeing on trade data, trade facilitation, small and medium enterprises development concerns, investment, cooperation on technology transfer, intellectual property and finance issues. On a possible BRICS common strategy for Africa, Ms Catherine Grant, Programme Head at the South African Institute of International Affairs, said that it depends on how South Africa plays its role as it is often pulled in to being Africa’s representative in the international arena. While there is room for coalitions among emerging powers, she argues, whether they will influence the multilateral space remains to be seen.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 31: Is a Multilateral Approach to Fair Trade Possible? The Parliamentarian Point of View

The session opened with remarks from Mr Mbuku Laka, Vice President of the Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) Commission on Cooperation and Development, who gave his perspectives on the development of fair trade in his home country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as well as that of the APF in exploring it as an option in francophone Africa. His brief presentation covered two overarching themes: the difficulties that a heterogeneous approach to fair trade poses to African countries; and the need to support and protect “food sovereignty”.

According to Mr Laka, African countries such as the DRC face great difficulties in developing fair trade and organic crops. As standards are not harmonized, producers find it costly to take the necessary measures to become certified. These challenges were echoed by an NGO representative working with farmers in West Africa. Mr Laka suggested a new approach was needed to ensure standards were more accessible, including efforts to further institutionalize these systems.

Mr Laka regularly referred to “food sovereignty” as a major concern for his country and others in Africa. He said that rapid liberalization of agricultural markets can lead to insecure conditions for countries like the DRC to meet its own needs. He suggested that fair trade could be used as a way to give producers greater income, thereby ensuring the means to achieve “food sovereignty”. 

Mr Germinal Peiro, Member of the National Assembly of France, focused his presentation on the French consumer experience with fair trade and organic products.  He echoed Mr Laka’s call for “food sovereignty” and the need for countries to be able to feed their own populations.  Mr Peiro highlighted the environmental concerns that agriculture faces and also the role it plays in exacerbating the degradation of habitats, particularly through the contamination of waterways. He called for a more locally based form of food production and consumption in light of dwindling fossil fuel supplies, while also underlining the need for more accurate and transparent labelling systems.

As the moderator, Mr Hervé Cronel, Special Adviser in the Cabinet of the Secretary-General of la Francophonie, fielded the audience’s questions. One participant claimed that organic agriculture actually harmed the environment when compared with conventional methods. Mr Peiro defended organic agriculture, particularly its ability to reduce chemical run-off into waterways, while the moderator cited Brazil as an example of supporting both large-scale and small-scale farming techniques. 

 

> More on this session

 

Session 32: Managing Conflict in the WTO Without Formal Disputes: Enhancing the Use of Notifications and Specific Trade Concerns

In this session, transparency and surveillance were discussed as forms of conflict management in international trade.  Focusing on technical and sanitary regulations, the panel examined how certain transparency measures work at the committee level in the broader context of WTO dispute settlement and negotiations.

The panel built upon the conventional notion of periodic negotiation rounds, in between which trade rules take root through WTO dispute settlement.  The session viewed the work of committees as a corollary to these WTO activities, stressing in particular notification and transparency mechanisms used in the context of technical and sanitary regulations under the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) and Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreements. Panellists examined how transparency measures work, the way they are utilized by WTO members, and their nature in the context of dispute settlement.

“Notification” finds expression in varying forms under WTO agreements, creating reporting obligations for actions affecting other WTO members. Within the great volume of notifications to committees, “specific trade concerns” (STCs) are raised by members on matters of special interest within the purview of WTO agreements. Based on the extremely small fraction of such matters reaching formal dispute settlement, the discussion turned to the role of transparency in resolving potential disagreements. 

Data compilations of STCs and notifications under the SPS and TBT Agreements showed that almost one-third of STCs reached “resolution” under the SPS Agreement, while roughly one-fifth were resolved under the TBT Agreement.  These findings were qualified, however, by definitional caveats and analytical assumptions, and the panel questioned the “resolution” of matters by posing alternative explanations to the lack of formal adjudication involving political considerations between and within member states.

While it was agreed that notifications enhance transparency, panellists acknowledged that what is not notified remains untransparent. In this respect, “reverse notification” by members of undisclosed measures was mentioned and the panel explored the differing incentives for notification and concealment between agreements, specifically mentioning subsidies. Ultimately, the topic was taken to illustrate a change in perspective towards the WTO from negotiation and dispute settlement, signalling the value of committee review processes and an optimistic tone in response to questions of multilateral crisis.     

 

> More on this session

 

Session 34: The Role of Non-State Actors in WTO Dispute Settlement: Fostering Effective Public Private Collaboration in Support of Global Trade Governance

The session revolved around the indirect participation of non-state actors (NSAs) in intergovernmental WTO dispute settlement proceedings. The panel highlighted NSAs’ contribution, and agreed that NSA participation should be further enhanced through increased transparency and access.

The panel brought together representatives of different NSAs and analysed the contribution of NSAs to WTO dispute settlement, placing a special focus on private actors such as business associations, traders or specific domestic interest groups. The debate hinged upon private actors’ contribution, which ranges from the identification of the trade barrier and requesting the initiation of a dispute to the defence of the strategic interests of the WTO member involved in litigation or in implementing rulings.

Discussants examined the different channels through which NSAs intervene: direct channels through legal and diplomatic means; or indirect channels, such as lobbying and the use of the media. The discussion revolved around the strategic considerations that come into play when choosing direct or indirect channels. While governments produce norms such as subsidies which sometimes impair business and trade, they are also part of a company’s customer portfolio.

Companies’ integration in global supply imposes the need for dealing with governments in a manner that goes beyond the protection of domestic interests. Therefore, private companies are more likely to use indirect channels of access to WTO litigation and work through trade coalitions or sectoral associations in order to avoid being singled out as the company behind a WTO dispute in the event of retaliation. Despite the fact that companies may not use proactively the WTO dispute settlement mechanism, it was emphasized that they nonetheless highly value the fact that countries in which they invest form part of the WTO membership. This implies that all WTO commitments are legally enforceable via the dispute settlement mechanism.

The panel highlighted the particular challenges faced by developing countries involved in a dispute when it comes to meeting demands of different NSAs, such as increasing production, foreign direct investment and employment. A further challenge is to ensure that the media and NGOs conduct adequate and timely press coverage at all stages of the proceedings. Adequate information dissemination has an impact on civil society’s understanding of a dispute. The discrepancy between the systemic interest of the party involved in the dispute in bringing the measure into conformity and the business interest geared towards an “immediate” settlement for the past damage done is also one issue that needs to be carefully managed by governments at the implementation stage. Governments have to educate private actors about the aims and objectives of WTO dispute settlement. 

The panel shared the view that NSA participation constitutes an effective tool to defend members’ interests and that it should be further enhanced through increased transparency and access to dispute settlement proceedings.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 35: The Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures: Past, Present and Future

The session discussed the various challenges for the WTO’s subsidies disciplines in the future. Discussion revolved around the need to ensure that WTO members have adequate policy space to address political and economic issues, such as climate change, macroeconomic emergencies and the interests of developing countries, while also ensuring that rent-seeking through protectionism is curtailed. In this context, participants asked whether it was necessary to revise the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM), to leave it to the dispute settlement system to grapple with the difficult policy issues, or whether the attention of participants in the system should shift to meaningful discussions through the SCM Committee.

Mr Gary Horlick, from the Law Offices of Gary N. Horlick, provided a brief overview of the development of the subsidies disciplines in the Tokyo Round Code and the Uruguay Round SCM Agreement. He noted that the SCM Agreement appears to have weathered the challenge of the global financial crisis comparatively well, in the sense that governments did not resort to the use of explicit export subsidies. However, he acknowledged that the SCM Agreement was not as successful in restraining the use of import substitution subsidies He also noted that, although the aftermath of the global financial crisis resulted in government bail-outs around the world, only in isolated cases has such action been challenged by other WTO members.

Dr Sadeq Bigdeli, Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Waikato, New Zealand, discussed the changing ways in which subsidies have been imagined over time, which he saw as being linked to changing ideological notions as to the proper role of government in a market economy. He argued that the jurisprudence on the meaning of “benefit” fails to acknowledge the role of government in addressing market failure and may also run the risk of encouraging rent-seeking behaviour in the form of unwarranted use of countervailing measures. In his view, the objective of the SCM Agreement should be to strike a balance between legitimate government activities and the curtailment of protectionism.

Dr Luca Rubini, Reader in Law at Birmingham Law School, posed the question whether, assuming that public support satisfying certain conditions is desirable in the area of climate change, the SCM Agreement gives WTO members sufficient policy space to pursue climate change measures that are legitimate from a policy and economic perspective. He pointed to several respects in which the interpretation of terms in the SCM Agreement is unclear: e.g. how to determine whether tax and regulatory incentives are covered by the SCM Agreement, how to approach the question of “benefit” in particular situations where markets are distorted or the purpose of the government intervention is to correct market failure, and the rules on specificity. As to the future regulation of climate change subsidies, he hoped to see a revival of the idea that certain subsidies that satisfy agreed conditions should be permitted even if they cause trade distortions as well as institutional reforms promoting better transparency. He argued that WTO members should assume responsibility for these issues, and that leaving their resolution to the dispute settlement system was not optimal. 

Professor Dukgeun Ahn, Professor of International Trade Law and Policy at the Graduate School of International Studies, Seoul National University, noted that the provisions concerning countervailing measures in the SCM Agreement essentially permit an importing member to pass judgment on the policy actions of the exporting member. This can be problematic where governments provide indirect subsidies in macroeconomic emergencies, as demonstrated by the countervailing duty action taken by the United States, the European Union and Japan against Hynix following the Asian financial crisis. In his view, the SCM Agreement disciplines were not devised for macroeconomic emergencies and, given the likelihood that such emergencies will become more commonplace, this poses challenges for the future. 

 

> More on this session

 

Session 36: Trade and Public Policies: NTMs in the 21st Century

The session presented an interdisciplinary analysis of non-tariff measures (NTMs). NTMs and services regulation are the main topic of the World Trade Report (WTR) 2012. Starting from the findings of the WTR 2012, the panellists discussed the main challenges for international cooperation and trade raised by NTMs.

The analysis in the WTR 2012, presented by Mr Cosimo Beverelli, WTO, highlighted several critical factors regarding NTMs:

• NTMs have two purposes: they meet a legitimate policy objective and they restrict trade. From this dual nature arises the need for tight legal analysis. Ms Gabrielle Marceau, WTO, presented the legal techniques to assess the legitimacy of public policy objectives. The WTO’s Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Agreement and the WTO Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) Agreement represent a more flexible system than the GATT’s closed list of legitimate objectives.

• Transparency of NTMs is an issue. Professor Robert Wolfe, Queen’s University, Canada, detailed the need for transparency from governments (to implement surveillance), firms (to overcome uncertainty which acts as a gigantic tariff for small firms) and analysts.

• Private standards proliferation. Ms Gretchen Stanton, WTO, documented how the private sector is not moving towards harmonization and pointed out the difficulties that this trend poses for developing countries’ exporters. She argued how the rationale behind proliferation is the need for firms to differentiate. She stressed the positive side of private standards: their very prescriptive nature may help a new exporter to enter the international market.

• Regulation of NTMs. Mr Mombert Hoppe, World Bank, developed this theme, distinguishing between three levels of regulation: global, regional and domestic. A regulatory reform should select the adequate level according to the specific needs (competitiveness/governance etc.) and the particular stage of development.

The discussion focused mainly on legal issues (the tuna-dolphin case providing an interesting application of many theoretical points touched upon during the presentation) and private standards (customers’ need to distinguish and the problem of misleading labels). 

 

> More on this session

 

Session 37: Services Regulation in a Globalizing Context

The session looked at possible avenues for the liberalization of trade in services and mainly revolved around the issue of domestic regulation.

The panellists shared the view that domestic regulation in services pursued various legitimate policy objectives and that the lack of sound domestic regulation of services had negative effects.  As a result, it was argued that further negotiations should concentrate on re-regulation rather than de-regulation.

Professor Markus Krajewski, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität, suggested that a paradigm shift in services negotiations is needed: from disciplining to promoting domestic regulations. He suggested that an alternative approach to services negotiations should include the development of standard policy instruments for regulation, focusing on sectors/modes, incorporating regulatory standards in model schedules, reaching out to international organizations and private standards, setting initiatives to encourage “good regulation” and supplementing “Aid for Trade” with “Aid for Regulation”.

Dr Marion Jansen, International Labour Organization, criticized the current approach of including regulatory measures as limitations in the schedules of commitments, creating excessive complexity for negotiators and businesses. It was also mentioned that least-developed countries face serious difficulties in scheduling their commitments in such a manner. Dr Jansen drew attention to the approaches in other regulatory agreements (such as the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade): transparency, references to international standards, and promoting (mutual) recognition.

The discussion of the use of international standards in the services field identified possible challenges: defining legal and institutional relationships between the WTO and standardization bodies, efforts to ensure the participation of developing countries, the role of regulatory agencies in dispute resolution and the assessment of the quality of regulations.

Finally, Dr Bernard Hoekman, World Bank, emphasized the problem of the lack of information on the constraints and effects of regulation on international trade in services. It was argued that quite often there was a lack of information on the regulatory framework, its application and possible options at the domestic level. He described the efforts of the World Bank in this area and suggested that a cautious assessment should be made of the usefulness in any given sector and country of binding commitments as opposed to better regulation.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 38: Are Agreements Occurring outside the Multilateral Process Helping or Hindering Multilateralism?

Panellists analysed the impact that agreements taking place outside the framework of the WTO, namely bilateral, plurilateral and regional trade agreements, have on multilateralism.

Ambassador Fernando de Mateo, Permanent Representative of Mexico to the WTO, said that agreements occurring outside the WTO are positive for the multilateral system given that there is a mutual dependence between both. He stressed the fact that these agreements permit discussions on topics that are not open to debate in the Doha Round.

Dr Alexander Triebnigg, President of Novartis Biociencias S.A. Brazil,  gave his analysis of the positive influence of the Trade-related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement in Brazil, and criticized some of the latest reforms.

Mr Bertrand Moullier,  Advisor at the International Federation of Film Producers Association, spoke from the perspective of the film industry about the importance of implementing an intellectual property (IP) legal system that guarantees legal certainty and predictability.

Dr Xavier Seuba, Senior Lecturer at Pompeu Fabra University, discussed the problems encountered when IP law is exported to other legal systems, mainly due to the imbalances that are generated. He stressed that in this regard there are limits in implementation that cannot be surpassed.

Dr Henning Grosse Ruse-Khan, Senior Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Intellectual Property and Competition Law, said that the TRIPS Agreement contains minimum standards and a non-contravention test so that there is a ceiling in implementation that cannot be exceeded. He also analysed how the TRIPS Agreement is used as a framework for free trade agreements (FTAs) including chapters on IP.

Mr Pedro Roffe, Senior Associate at the International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development, argued that the proliferation of FTAs has contributed to the expansion of TRIPS-plus obligations. He further added that the Council for TRIPS should play a role in analysing the validity of TRIPS-plus provisions implemented in FTAs.

Finally, Mr Andres Guggiana, Permanent Mission of Chile to the WTO, discussed the lack of balance in the IP legal systems of some developing countries and posed some questions to the other panellists.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 39: Doha and the Multilateral Trade System: From Impasse to Development?

This panel discussed the way in which development has been addressed at various stages over the course of the Doha Round. Critical assessments were made of the shortcomings of negotiation proposals and the future for the development dimensions of the trade talks. 

Discussion began with the observation that many developing countries had entered into the Uruguay Round agreements without fully understanding the negotiation results, and the following years were taken up with implementation concerns. Members of the WTO have struggled since its inception with the tension between making its rules more development-friendly and pushing further into new areas or disciplines. For instance, whereas developing countries sought favourable adjustments to rules in textiles and agriculture, developed countries have often looked for expansion into areas of investment, the environment, labour, competition and procurement. The panel identified a common situation of developing countries being asked to surrender “policy space” in non-agricultural market access while getting little in return in agricultural trade. 

It was stated that there is no movement in any area of the negotiations apart from trade facilitation. Other initiatives had emerged outside the Doha framework through preferential trade agreements and plurilateral negotiations in services, causing concern that the results of such agreements would eventually be multilateralized and thus escape input from developing countries. On the topic of trade facilitation, many of the panellists asserted that these talks were premised upon the importance of global value chains in trade. This, in turn, drew strong misgivings from the panel that the narrative of global value chains overstated the gains of import liberalization to developing countries, and furthermore was directly inconsistent with developed countries’ own protectionist measures against imports. 

Panellists were therefore sceptical of calls for liberalization that did not account for social realities and evenness of opportunity in trade rules.  Proposals on import facilitation and General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS) rules on financial services were further criticized for being based on discredited assumptions on the relationship between deregulation and development.  It was thus broadly agreed that trade negotiations cannot focus exclusively on free trade, but must seek balance with human rights and sustainability. 

 

> More on this session

 

 

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]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-3-experts-say-trade-is-part-of-the-answer-in-the-fight-against-record-unemployment/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/eu-requests-consultations-with-the-us-on-compliance-in-the-boeing-dispute/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/eu-requests-consultations-with-the-us-on-compliance-in-the-boeing-dispute/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:26:50 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/eu-requests-consultations-with-the-us-on-compliance-in-the-boeing-dispute/ EU requests consultations with the US on compliance in the Boeing dispute

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The EU says it has reviewed the announced US measures and considers that the US maintains a series of subsidies. In its requests for consultations, the European Union says that the actions and events listed by the United States in its 23 September 2012 notification to the DSB (notifying compliance) do not withdraw the subsidies or remove their adverse effects, as required by the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures.

The communication by the EU also says that instead, after the end of the implementation period on 24 September 2012, the United States “maintains specific subsidies that cause present adverse effects to EU interests”. The communication also says that “in the view of the European Union, the United States has failed to achieve compliance with the commendations and rulings of the Dispute Settlement Body (of the WTO)”.

> Further information will be available within the next few days in document WT/DS353/16

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]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/eu-requests-consultations-with-the-us-on-compliance-in-the-boeing-dispute/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-helping-developing-countries-remains-priority-but-nature-of-trade-is-changing/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-helping-developing-countries-remains-priority-but-nature-of-trade-is-changing/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:26:49 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-helping-developing-countries-remains-priority-but-nature-of-trade-is-changing/ Lamy: Helping developing countries remains priority but “nature of trade is changing”

World Trade Organisation

Secretary-General Panitchpakdi Supachai,

Honourable Ministers,

Ambassador Seilenthal,

Ambassadors,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am very pleased to address this fifty-ninth session of the Trade and Development Board on the subject of the ’Evolution of the international trading system and its trends from a development perspective’.

The global economy remains fragile. Recovery from the financial and economic crisis remains sluggish and risks for the near future are still on the downside. In fact, just last week the WTO revised its projections for trade growth in volume from the spring forecast of 3.7 per cent growth to 2.5 per cent, which is a more than expected downgrade. Even the picture for South-South trade is less buoyant than before. If the crisis worsens, it will certainly put at risk some of the developmental gains of recent years.

Persistent high unemployment is testing many governments’ resolve about keeping markets open. Small trade restrictions are accumulating like bad cholesterol, and the danger is that the benefits of trade openness will be incrementally undermined. The WTO’s and UNCTAD’s monitoring of trade-restrictive measures are a useful means to help members keep their cholesterol levels under control. I encourage you within this UNCTAD forum to pay attention to these developments.

What can we in the international community do to help in the present circumstances?

First of all, we must remain focused on our primary objective, a goal that the WTO and UNCTAD share: to help developing countries benefit from the globalized economy to raise living standards. In essence, to use trade as a conduit to achieve development that is both sustained and sustainable.

The turbulence in the global economy has not changed this priority. However, the nature of trade is changing. We are increasingly trading in tasks and in value-added and through value chains which are increasing in both breadth and in depth. The way that goods or services are produced and traded has implications for how we can best maximise trade’s contribution to growth and development.

Of course, regional and global value chains are not new. The journalist Nayan Chanda tells us that by the 11th century AD, regular trade had evolved in which African ivory was shipped to India, where craftsmen carved it into jewellery for export to Europe. That is a global value chain. Manchester’s 19th century textile mills were fed with cotton from India, the United States and elsewhere. The cloth produced there was exported throughout the world.

The pattern in itself is not new but what is new are their unprecedented scale, scope, sophistication and speed. Today, trade in intermediate products accounts for more than half of world merchandise exports. Shrinking transport and communication costs, underpinned by a more predictable trade policy environment, have enabled industrial production to be fragmented across regions as never before. Particularly for smaller developing countries but also for small and medium companies, global value chains are good news. Why? Because they lower the bar for entry into the global economy as they do not need to have a full-fledged vertically integrated industry to penetrate the value chain.  And this phenomenon is by no means exclusive to high-tech products. This replacement of “trade in goods” with “trade in tasks” has major implications for how we think about trade.

The way we measure trade also has to change. Our traditional methodology assigns the total commercial value of an import to a single country of origin. When applied to “made in the world” products, this methodology can exaggerate, and does exaggerate if we look at the initial approximations of trade in value added,  bilateral trade balances and under-state where value addition occurs which is what matters for jobs.

Inflated bilateral trade numbers can inflame anti-trade sentiment. Worse, they can cause countries to assess their trade interests incorrectly – and bad measurements tend to lead to bad policy. The WTO is working with national and international institutions such as UNCTAD, the OECD, the World Bank, networks of academics and statisticians to develop trade statistics that better reflect the reality of trade today. As was discussed at the Seminar on Global Value Chains held in Beijing recently, the first batch of numbers on trade in value added will appear at the end of the year

A second set of changes is even more relevant to our discussion today: the rise of global value chains requires governments to re-think how best to pursue trade-led growth. Government policies can help create a virtuous circle of increasing international competitiveness and trade flows, yielding steady development dividends. Public-private co-operation can encourage foreign direct investment, which often brings with it improved technology. Investments in infrastructure, coupled with efficient business and support services, can help deepen ties between countries, making it easier to fragment production regionally. Reduced transaction costs further boost the competitiveness of domestic firms. Active labour policies, education and innovation policies must be part of the mix.

In short, catching the opportunities presented by global value chains requires smart government interventions which need to be rethought in light of this new background.

But the trade narrative also needs to change. The traditional approach to trade was “exports good, imports bad”.  The political economy of trade policymaking in many countries reflects this: governments instinctively work to bolster exporters’ market access while trying to protect import-competing sectors, whatever the merits of this approach were a few decades ago. This is ill-suited to a world in which the import content of exported goods is 40 per cent – double the level from 20 years ago, and which might be 60 per cent 20 years from now. There is a need to switch the mind-set from the old school need to export to cover imports to the new school of thought which recognizes that we need to import to cover exports.

What can the multilateral trading system do to smooth the path through the world economy? How can we encourage the development of new trade flows? And how can developing countries be helped up the value chain to create more growth and jobs? These are all relevant questions worth looking into and we did last week at a seminar co-organized by MOFCOM, UNCTAD, OECD and the WTO in Beijing.

We will look at the capacity-building side of this at next July’s Fourth Global Aid for Trade Review which will look into how we can leverage Aid for Trade to unlock the potential offered by global value chains. The consequences for trade policy-making and domestic policy adjustment to this pattern are also true for Aid for Trade.

Aid for Trade can help countries develop the competitive, well-regulated logistics and connective services sectors that can be as important as physical infrastructure to their trade competitiveness. Aid for Trade projects can also help developing country producers upgrade equipment, improve marketing activities, and comply with international standards and other non-tariff requirements, helping them move higher up on their respective value chains. The Enhanced Integrated Framework can play this role for the least-developed countries, for whom the costs of joining value chains as compared to emerging countries remains relatively high. We have seen this in the case of rum in the Caribbean, flowers in Eastern Africa, cashews in Mozambique and mangoes in Mali.

Trade facilitation is another area which can help unlock the potential of global value chains. Stripping away red tape at customs points, and enhancing transparency and predictability at borders would lead to considerable savings in time and costs of transacting trade.

Action taken at the regional level to facilitate trade could also go a long way to encouraging the development of regional and global value chains. This is particularly true for Africa, where manufacturers are often stymied by poor road, rail and port infrastructure, by high and unpredictable transportation costs, by tariffs and non-tariff measures and by red tape. According to surveys conducted by the UN Economic Commission for Africa, a typical customs transaction in Africa involves an array of 20 to 30 different parties, 40 documents, 200 data elements (many of which are repeated multiple times). This is not the route to “Factory Africa”.

The African Union is taking steps to remedy the situation. African governments this year adopted a declaration on “Boosting Intra-African Trade”, pledging to improve infrastructure and reduce trade barriers and this is very much in synergy with the trade facilitation agenda. I see this as a very encouraging move.

We have also heard the same message coming from the recent Ministerial conference of Land-locked Developing Countries in Almaty.

I do, therefore, believe that concluding a WTO deal on trade facilitation, sooner rather than later, can result in significant cuts to the costs of trading today.

Let me, in closing, raise another important factor in international production chains: non-tariff measures (NTMs). The broad decline in tariff levels has meant that non-tariff measures, such as technical standards, health and safety requirements, and services regulation, now loom larger in international trade. This year’s edition of the WTO World Trade Report focused on this issue. We found that the nature of NTMs has shifted: the traditional protection-motivated quotas and safeguards have increasingly given way to a precaution-oriented emphasis on health, safety, environmental quality and other social considerations. These concerns are wholly legitimate and cannot, indeed should not, be blindly trumped by a desire to keep trade completely unobstructed. Contrary to the universe of tariffs where the objective of the trade negotiations has been to move to zero tariffs, this cannot be the same for NTMs. The aim should be to create a level playing field on NTMS although this can be more politically challenging. The next focus in decades to come would be how to address barriers meant to protect not the producers but the consumers.

That said, the nature of the measures taken to pursue public policy objectives, and the way those measures are administered, can have widely varying effects on trade, both positive and negative. We can agree that it is desirable to ensure that NTMs do not increase trade costs more than the minimum necessary to achieve their objective. Similarly, it is reasonable to argue that NTMs should not be constructed in ways that unduly favour domestic interests. Yet, in light of the complex objectives and policies in play where NTMs are concerned, finding the right balance will require cooperation and dialogue.

We can start by improving transparency about existing NTMs. At the WTO, we have created the Integrated Trade Intelligence Portal (I-TIP), a one-stop shop for accessing all information notified to the WTO by members, including NTMs, tariffs, trade remedy use and trade statistics. For the first time, it will be possible to access the whole universe of the trade regime of a country. We intend to continue to work with UNCTAD to shed further light on NTMs and explore ways to preserve the gains from trade without sacrificing public policy objectives – a debate that is likely to increase in years to come.

There is also one issue about NTMs that is entirely uncontroversial: the importance of capacity-building, whether for helping developing country exporters comply with NTMs in important markets or for helping governments participate in standard-setting. I encourage UNCTAD with its specific focus on development to have a closer, wider and deeper look at the universe of standard-setting and the places where this is done, including private standards, and what the development community can do in order to bring a developing country input into this debate that rebalances the framing of these NTMs. I suggest that you could focus your trade reflection on this impact for the future.

In conclusion, I want to reiterate that even though the Doha Development Agenda remains at an impasse, there are realistic, short-term concrete steps that can be taken to bolster trade-led growth and development, enabled by global value chains. The recent decision on WTO accession for least-developed countries (LDCs) and the work on the Information Technology Agreement and the Government Procurement Agreement and even the APEC environmental goods agreement show that when the will is there amongst WTO members we can collectively deliver. This same will is required in trade facilitation and other areas of importance to WTO members, especially to the LDCs. This includes the special and differential treatment leg of the Doha Round which is a low-hanging fruit that we can work to reap together.

I hope that your deliberations over this period will help to further engender this will as we continue to promote a multilateral trading system built on the premise of trade as a critical input in attaining development.

I thank you.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-helping-developing-countries-remains-priority-but-nature-of-trade-is-changing/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-2-amid-global-economic-problems-wto-reforms-urged/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-2-amid-global-economic-problems-wto-reforms-urged/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:26:48 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-2-amid-global-economic-problems-wto-reforms-urged/ Day 2: Amid global economic problems, WTO reforms urged

World Trade Organisation

Speakers are members of the Director-General’s Panel on Defining the Future of World Trade.

Director-General Lamy opened the discussion by asking two questions: Is multilateralism in crisis? And if it is, how is that affecting your work and objectives?

Ms Sharan Burrow, Secretary-General of the International Trade Union Confederation, said that there was no doubt that multilateralism is in crisis, as shown by current economic indicators, including record  unemployment and the falling income share of working people. She pointed to growing despair among workers and surveys indicating that two-thirds of the people believe their children will be worse-off in the future. She said capitalism is not working, and that trade and economic institutions must be reformed.

Former President of Botswana Festus Gontebanye Mogae said that while African countries have been experiencing the crisis for a long time, they are not glad that big nations are finally experiencing it. He said that 40 to 60 per cent of African youth remain unemployed. He said big countries are withdrawing from multilateralism and engaging in bilateral trade deals where they can gain more concessions over smaller countries. This is the reason, he said, why African countries prefer the multilateral approach where the rules apply equally for everybody.

Mr Frederico Fleury Curado, President and CEO of Embraer S.A, Brazil, said that multilateralism has been important for Latin America’s recent economic growth. He said the proliferation of regional trade agreements is a threat to private industry and urged a conclusion to the Doha Round, even if it does not cover the entire package. He said businesses need multilateral institutions to ensure a level playing field.

Mr George Yeo, former Foreign Minister of Singapore and Vice Chairman of Kerry Group Limited, said that people do not really want a global government, which can create even bigger problems. He said people also want big powers to lead but not to dominate. He commended the WTO for helping move economic policies in the right direction.

Mr Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, Chairman and founder of Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Overseas Corporation, Jordan, said the WTO rules go back some 50 years ago but the world has changed since then. He called for revisiting the function of the WTO as a negotiating forum, including finding an alternative to decision-making by consensus. More attention should be given to making the WTO a knowledge organization like the World Bank, and to enable direct participation of the private sector. Finally, he urged making accession into the WTO less difficult, noting that half of the Arab world was still outside the organization.

Mr Fujimori Yoshiaki, President and CEO of JS Group Corporation, Tokyo, said that private industry has been working in an environment of protectionism for a long time. Businesses have to adapt to the exchange rate issue, the rise of RTAs, new non-tariff measures, and various national laws and regulations. He said that the WTO must have a mechanism that would allow participation of private industry in its work.

Mr Pradeep Singh Mehta, Secretary-General of CUTS International, India, said that multilateralism has to deal with issues other than trade that cross borders, like climate change, energy issues and security concerns. He said that the Doha Round is at an impasse because of differing levels of ambition, and this is sending very negative signals. Finally, he said that despite all these factors, multilateralism is still the way to go.

The questions from the floor included one that asked if poor countries should wait for multilateral solutions that would be a long time coming, or go for bilateral agreements instead. A member of civil society urged changing WTO rules to promote employment.

Mr Festus Gontebanye Mogae said that bilateral agreements are not the answer, and that multilateral agreements are better, especially for small countries with little bargaining power.

Ms Sharan Burrow urged changing trade rules to allow policy space for governments to help people and sectors in need of help. She emphasized that labour must have a voice in the WTO.

Mr Pradeep Singh Mehta said that the WTO has to take on board the concerns of farmers and workers.

Mr Talal Abu-Ghazaleh said that the WTO should develop a mechanism that would directly involve traders, businesses, workers and consumers in its work.

Mr Fujimori Yoshiaki said that from his experience, companies thrive if they contribute directly to the welfare of communities. Thus, multilateral institutions should always be cognisant of providing benefits on the ground.

Director-General Lamy welcomed the discussions as interesting and useful, noting that there can be no easy solutions. He urged participants to send comments and suggestions to panellists through a special facility on the WTO website.

Session 14: Labour Rights: Value Chains, Labour Rights and Development

The session discussed the various implications of global value chains (GVCs) on labour rights, wages and development. Some panellists shared the view that trade does not have direct implications on labour conditions. Others argued that labour standards should be brought into trade agreements. The panellists shared the view that GVCs are not a novelty, but their expansion has created new trade flows that were not predicted by traditional trade statistics. What is new is that, in terms of development, trade has lifted millions of people out of poverty.

 

Mr Hubert Escaith, Chief Statistician of the WTO, explained the concept of global value chains and how trade is measured in value added. He highlighted that progress in technology led to global outsourcing. In GVCs, it is difficult to measure “who produced what”. GVCs’ impact on jobs is that high-skilled workers have increased.

Mr Douglas Lippoldt, Senior Economist and Trade Policy Analyst at the OECD, argued that as an impact of the GVCs, the industrial perspective and comparative advantage have changed. Tasks that go into the production of a finished product — for example, services — are increasing, leading to increased specialization. GVC expansion has made things less predictable, demanding policy responses. These responses include open markets, avoiding protectionism and simplifying ways of doing business.

Ms Jenny Holdcroft, Policy Director of IndustriALL Global Union, highlighted that 90% of workers in Export Processing Zones are women. Employment conditions are not optimal and not stable. She emphasized that there should be a transfer of economic upgrading into social upgrading and that the benefits of global trade be passed on to workers. She concluded by stressing the need for integrated industrial policies that encourage freedom of association and collective bargaining to enable workers to be more involved.

Ms Emily Sims, Senior Specialist at the ILO, underscored the importance of helping governments in the enforcement of labour rights protection and legislation. Complaints mechanisms should be put in place and labour standards should be embedded into trade agreements. Businesses need to discuss with each other a culture of rule of law and employees’ protection. She concluded by saying that workers should be treated as a critical component of an effective trade regime.

Mr Anthony Miller, of UNCTAD, presented a study on corporate social responsibility. He argued that countries have the responsibility of legal compliance with human rights and labour practices and standards. The study recommended that hard laws should be implemented and become more regulatory rather than voluntary. There is a need to raise the capacity of governments in issues of labour, human rights and environmental practices. International investment agreements are also a promising area where labour issues should be addressed and incorporated.

 

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Session 15: New Models for Trade and Development in the 21st Century: An Opportunity-Driven Approach to Building African Regional Markets and Increasing Trade and Food Security

This session focused on the challenges facing the African agricultural sector, and the implications for trade in agricultural products. The panel provided a largely economic analysis, which was illuminated by anecdotes and real examples of how such impediments affect different economic actors across the continent.

The panel identified different obstacles to the development of a healthy agricultural industry in Africa. All speakers identified barriers to trade — be they regulatory barriers or impediments created by poor infrastructure — as significantly affecting the growth of the industry.

The panel also highlighted that responses to food crises — such as, for example, export restrictions — may have deleterious effects to which poor farmers in Africa are particularly vulnerable.

The panel questioned the extent to which regional trade agreements are genuinely assisting the development of the industry, concluding that they may not be affecting domestic farmers and entrepreneurs in the manner envisaged by the drafters.

While there was support for liberalization of, and growth in, agricultural trade through the multilateral system, one of the main conclusions of the panel was that empirical research, informed by the experiences of farmers, investors and other private actors, should form the basis of identification and analysis of impediments to the development of the industry. Such empirical research could help remedy what Ms Katrin Kuhlmann, moderator of the session and President of TransFarm Africa, described as the “missing middle”; that is, the lack of local entrepreneurialism and investment required to develop a functioning agricultural sector in Africa.

 

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Session 16: Gridlock: Why Global Cooperation is Failing When it’s Most Needed

The session’s three principal questions were: Why is global cooperation failing? Why is it failing now? And what are the possible solutions? The session was framed by a forthcoming book by Mr Thomas Hale, Mr David Held and Mr Kevin Young.

Mr Hale, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Oxford University, launched the discussion, describing the transformation of the global environment since 1960. The necessity for the creation of a liberal, stable economy after World War II put the world on a new trajectory; however, the process has now reached an intensity that impedes its own development. The major global players have changed; institutions tend towards institutional inertia; there is an expanding range of problems; and there is fragmentation in many areas of global governance. Three possible solutions are institutional innovation, new leadership and systemic shock.

From the viewpoint of international environmental negotiation, for Mr Mark Halle, Vice President of the International Institute for Sustainable Development, problems are more easily solved at a regional level, when there is a common problem and a number of different stakeholders at the negotiating table. Difficulties arise when problems are tackled at the global level, governments are expected to solve the problems alone, economic restructuring is required, and the solution requires a shift in the equity balance between richer and poorer countries.

For Mr Thorsten Benner, Associate Director of the Global Public Policy Institute, from the perspective of global security, multilateralism has had both successes and failures. Major systemic war has successfully been avoided in the last seven decades, and we have not therefore needed to rethink our institutions, a factor in the current gridlock. Building regional global security communities could be the best second-best solution.

Ms Caroline Deere Birkbeck, Senior Researcher at Oxford University, spoke from the context of international trade negotiations and negotiations in intellectual property. She argued that gridlock is not always a problem, but may merely be a manifestation of multilateralism, when all parties do not agree. Deals must be fair, sustainable, timely and implementable. Often a major cause of gridlock is that the parties involved do not agree on what the problem is, and that time is required for impact assessment.

 

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Session 17: A Menu for Renewed WTO Relevance: Natural Resources and Preferential Trade Agreements

The session revolved around the relationship between the WTO system and preferential trade agreements (PTAs). The panel shared the view that there is a boom in PTAs in the last decades, especially after the rise of emerging economies, such as the Asian countries, particularly India and China, and the BRICS. The main question of the session was how does the WTO system deal with these agreements? Or what is the capacity-building needed by the WTO system to deal with these changes in the economic powers?

The panellists agreed that the WTO has to find or create a new system which can achieve coherence between the old rules of the WTO and the PTAs because up to now the WTO system has not been involved in these agreements.

The session was divided into two parts, the first hour was for the speakers’ interventions and the second was for questions and comments from the audience.

Mr Pablo Heidrich, senior researcher at NSI and the moderator of the panel,  started the session by asking what contributions can the WTO provide to PTAs?

Ms Sandra Polonia Rios, Director of Centro de Estudos de Integracào e Desenvolvimento (CINDES), sees that the problem of multilateralism as shown in the Doha Round impasse is just a symptom of other problems. The great recession, the deep changes in the global economy and in the balance of power and the surge in the international prices of resource-intensive commodities during the last decade reveal two important questions: 1) how to guarantee access to essential and scarce resources?  and 2) how to better distribute the extra rents resulting from this context? Concerning natural resources and security concerns, WTO rules have been designed to deal with import restrictions and ban quantitative restrictions but do not discipline export duties. All these factors reduce the capacity to define a common agenda for international trade and consequently reduce the role of the WTO.

Professor Debra Steger, Senior Fellow  of the Centre for international Governance Innovation (CIGI) and Professor, Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa, stated that it is not clear what the mandate of the WTO is:  is it trade or development? This is the main problem facing the conclusion of the Doha Round. This is also the reason why the WTO cannot move to new issues e.g. the financial crisis, climate change, etc. Since 2011, a lot of not only PTAs have been notified to the WTO but also bilateral investment treaties (BITs) and plurilateral agreements, which are discussed outside the WTO. The WTO has to find an institutional way to deal with PTAs in terms of Article XXIV of the GATT. This institutional mechanism could be assumed as follows: 1) As some of the PTAs go further than WTO rules (e.g. competition rules, environmental issues…etc.), a working party or a committee allowing the members to discuss these new issues or PTAs is a must. 2) Article 24 of the GATT recognizes PTAs so the dispute settlement mechanism should have jurisdiction over these PTAs. The WTO and PTAs are part of the broader multilateral system.

Mr Eduardo Bianchi, Co-chair  of FLASCO-WTO Chair and former Secretary of Industry of Argentina, said that the increase in prices of natural resources will continue after the emergence of Asian countries and especially China. There has to be a new agenda for the WTO for dealing with the impact of China and India’s emergence. There is a demand for more complex rules at the multilateral level, linking PTAs, regional trade agreements (RTAs) and the WTO system. There should be a WTO+ where new areas are discussed and implemented, such as capital movement, competition rules. etc.

Mr Rolf Traeger, Economic Affairs Officer at UNCTAD, started his presentation by asking about the consequences of the South’s emergence in natural resources, particularly least developed countries (LDCs) and low-income countries? What is the attitude of LDCs vis à vis bilateral relations? In one sense, they are happy. It means a new market for these countries but at the same time, they face a huge challenge because of the asymmetry between the economies of the parties. LDCs will not be developed by an increase in its raw materials prices as there are a lot of other issues on the technological side which also have to be considered. That is why the WTO will maintain a very important role for the development of LDCs.

During the Q&A with the audience, it was asked whether the WTO should intervene or have the capacity to intervene in scientific issues. A representative from the University of Colombia commented that China exploits the lack of rules in the WTO by concluding these agreements.

 

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Session 18: Panel of Multi-Stakeholders

see above

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Session 19: Better Jobs through Trade: Presenting the Results of the ICITE Project

The session presented the results of the Collaborative Initiative on Trade and Employment (ICITE). ICITE is a joint undertaking of 10 international organizations. Launched in 2009, it aims to seek a better understanding of how trade interacts with employment, to promote discussion on these issues and to develop policy-relevant conclusions.

The main findings of ICITE, overviewed by Mr Douglas Lippoldt, OECD, are the following:

• Openness is associated with growth and better labour market outcomes. However, the adjustment costs can be substantial.

• Complementary policies, especially on the labour market, are needed.

• Protection is costly because it impedes the ability to reap gains from trade.

The WTO has cooperated with ICITE with a research paper on offshoring and migration and with active participation in regional conferences. More generally, the WTO is concerned about the relationship between trade and employment, as argued by Mr Marc Bacchetta, WTO.

Other international organizations, including UNCTAD and ILO, have also actively researched the issue of trade and employment. Notably, Dr Marion Jansen, ILO, discussed some recent ILO work, the results of which can be summarized as follows:

• Trade unions are instrumental in assuring the distribution of gains from trade.

• Labour protection is not racing to the bottom; rather it is converging across countries.

• The possibility to establish social protection systems is not confined to high-income countries. The supply response to trade opening is crucial for employment. Investment in human capital is a key trigger of such a response.

The discussion focused on two main issues. Firstly, data availability problems, especially on sectoral employment and on education, limit the possibility to conduct research and produce firm policy recommendations. Secondly, some commentators expressed the view that some sub-Saharan African countries are experiencing “export-led jobless growth”. Higher export diversification could mitigate the lack of job creation.

 

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Session 20: Moving towards a Demand-Driven Agricultural Sector: Implications for Trade Policy

The seminar addressed the implications of the changing agricultural reality (from supply to demand-driven) for progress on agricultural trade policy-making. Topics touched upon were agricultural price hikes, biofuels, GMOs, sustainable development, export restrictions, subsidies and the Doha Round. The discussion revolved around the causes of the price hikes and the possible solutions. Export restrictions, biofuels and speculation on commodity prices were seen by some as exacerbating factors, although disagreement existed on the role of speculation. Also, export restrictions were criticized from the perspective of developing countries. Flexible mandates for biofuels were agreed to be one of the solutions.

One of the panellists, Mr Tim Yeend, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the WTO,  promoted the Doha Round as the framework in which to improve agricultural trade policies, whereas Mr Manzoor Ahmad, Senior Fellow at the International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development, warned “stay away from the Doha Round”.  Mr Yeend argued the relevance today  of key elements discussed in the Doha Round, like market access, reducing subsidies, and development.

From the public the question was raised if the changing agricultural sector might lead to openings for concluding the Doha Round. Another member of the public said that negotiators seem to have maintained similar positions, even though the sector has changed. One member of the audience asked if biofuels had not relieved pressure to cut agricultural subsidies. These points were not extensively followed up. Mr Yeend agreed on the need to bring back pressure on the EU and US to lower subsidies. Panellists disagreed on the US or China and India being the main ’problem’ in concluding the Doha Round.

The concept of food security was discussed. Is food security the right concept to use? “Isn’t is too much linked to self-sufficiency?” was a question raised from the audience. This, however, was regarded as an old-fashioned concept. Nevertheless, food security appeared in the discussion to be addressed from two different angles: achieving food security through keeping food stocks or export restrictions (why export your own products as a developing country while having to buy back expensively in the world market and often facing a lack of foreign exchange to do so); or achieving food security, and to which everyone agreed, as a way to sustainably develop agriculture and agricultural trade. Producing where there is enough water and where the pressure on the environment is the least, producing in an environmentally friendly way. Or as Mr Yeend put it, “food security is providing food where it is most needed. In this last scenario, trade plays an important role.”

GMOs will provide a danger to human health and are expected to be further regulated in the future, argued Mr Sun Zenyu, former Chinese Ambassador to the WTO, whereas Professor Tim Josling,  Senior Fellow at Stanford University, predicted that GMOs will not be a big issue in the future. GMOs, it was agreed, raise concerns as well as provide opportunities for the development of healthy products. It was mentioned that rice with extra vitamins promoted the health of people in India. The use of GMOs should be considered on a case-by-case basis.

A main part of the discussion centred on the question of what causes food prices to rise. A growing population, climate problems, agricultural subsidies, biofuels, export restrictions and other trade-related issues were mentioned in this regard. The rising prices affect net food-importing countries and create social instability, which could create momentum in addressing this topic. Food reserves, flexible mandates on biofuels, and  restricting speculation on commodities were suggested as possible solutions, although only the flexible mandate on biofuels seemed to garner general agreement.

 

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Session 21: Does the Multilateral System Address Farmers’ Real Concerns?

The session brought together a wide variety of views on how agriculture has evolved from a largely excluded issue during the early GATT years to its explicit inclusion following negotiation of what would later become the Agreement on Agriculture during the Uruguay Round.

Ambassador John Adank, Permanent Representative to the WTO for New Zealand and Chair of the Doha Round negotiations on agriculture, reiterated that the multilateral system and international trade in agricultural goods will mean different things for different farmers as there is no such thing as a singular “global farmer”. He acknowledged that significant imbalances remain, particularly high tariff barriers, high levels of domestic support and export subsidies.

Ms Shelby Matthews from Copa-Cogeca, an organization representing EU farmers and cooperatives, stated the importance of multilateral negotiations to EU farmers, while recognizing the WTO’s limitations in addressing all of their issues.  She emphasized “green growth” as a means to tackle important challenges related to climate change, while also balancing the need for greater productivity.

Mr Charles Ogang, President of the Uganda National Farmers Federation, brought the perspective of farmers from his country and from Africa generally.  He focused primarily on the difficulties they face in competing in world markets, particularly in light of high levels of domestic support and export subsidies in the developed world.  He also highlighted the issues African farmers encounter in complying with phytosanitary measures, some of which he contends amount to protectionism.

The issue of food security featured prominently throughout the session.  Ambassador Adank expressed the need to differentiate between security and self-sufficiency, a goal he believes would decrease overall economic efficiency.  Ms Matthews emphasized the need to reconcile environmental concerns with productivity goals, ensuring that regulations do not become excessive.

Mr Enrique Dominguez Lucero, Agricultural Counsellor for the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the United Nations in Geneva, noted that Mexico has increased its focus on food security during its leadership of the G-20.  He emphasized the need to focus on key grains, such as rice, wheat and corn, as well as the needs of small and medium producers.

The discussions largely concluded that a multilateral approach to agriculture is important for helping to level the playing field, despite the fact that Doha remains stalled and will probably remain so for the near future. 

 

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Session 22: Global Value Chains: Implications for Trade Policy

Ms Arancha González,  Chief of Staff, Office of the WTO Director-General, said  global value chains are not a new issue, but they are a pattern of trade which has grown enormously in scale in the past few years to the point that today more than half of international trade is in intermediate goods and the import content of export is 40% . As moderator, she asked about implications of global value chains for trade policies and trade politics.

Costa Rica’s Trade Minister H.E. Ms Anabel Gonzalez looked at how trade policy — tariffs, non-tariff measures, red tape and trade facilitation, investment and services — can affect global value chains and vice versa. Plugging developing countries into global value chains can help growth and development. Raw materials or a strong manufacturing base are no longer essential for countries to become part of the chains. Today, Costa Rica exports more services than coffee and bananas. Trade policies can be important in enabling countries to participate in global value-added.

She identified five key drivers for her country’s success in global value chains:

• designing a long-term strategic vision on the importance of attracting foreign direct investment

• creating a sound business environment

• building a strong export platform including WTO agreements (e.g. the Information Technology Agreement) and free trade agreement

• a focus on logistical and supply management.

In a nutshell the key is addressing a country’s economic weaknesses.

Mr Ken Ash, Director of Trade and Agriculture at OECD, said that the measurement methods used to analyse trade flows are inadequate because they do not take into account the components of exports and imports that come from the value chain. It is important to measure how much value is added in the chain because as goods and services cross boarders multiple times, trade-related values are compounded. In this situation, protectionist policies make less sense. Everyone understands the benefit of trade opening on the export side. What is not fully understood is the benefit of trade opening on the import side. Businesses need access to high-quality inputs to be able to compete efficiently. He announced an OECD database on value-added trade among 57 countries by end 2012.

Mr Karan Bhatia, Vice President and Senior Counsel on International Law and Policy at General Electric (GE), said that for a company like GE, value chains are embedded in everything it does and are key to its comparative advantage. The factors that it takes into account when it decides to outsource are: the size and attractiveness of the market itself, human resources, physical infrastructure, and the legal and policy environment.  

He stressed two trends on GE investment policies: 1) low cost is not a deciding factor, in fact labour market flexibilities are getting some of GE activities back to the US for example; 2) the old tradition of innovation in the West and production in the West/South no longer holds, GE innovation is done through a network of excellence involving a mix of developing as well as developed countries.

Mr Peter Draper, Senior Research Fellow with the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), challenged the idea of an easy plugging into global value chains. He said that in sub-Saharan Africa the absence of industrial tradition seems to be a handicap. Many of these countries suffer from the resource curse as well, although the resources are the initial step in global value chains. African countries need to move up the ladder of global value chains and really capture value. Poor infrastructure is a real problem in many African countries and a deterrent for many multinational corporations (MNCs) when they make up their minds about investing somewhere. However, with labour costs rising in China, there is a niche to be captured by African countries if they get their trade and economic policy story right. Reducing transaction costs are key for MNCs. Therefore, trade facilitation in a broader sense is key. He raised a very interesting idea about some of the local industry lobbies not really welcoming policies aiming at connecting African countries to global value chains. They would rather push for protectionist policies to capture domestic and regional markets only. He wondered how to sell the global value chains story to these powerful lobbies.

Mr Bernard Hoekman, World Bank Trade Director, speaking about how to make trade policies relevant to global value chains, said  that we need to rethink how we go about discussing various trade policies. For example in the WTO, trade issues are often dealt with in silos, but from a business perspective, these issues cannot be disentangled. We need to connect the dots and give an integrated solution. Another way of making trade policy relevant to value chains is to try and identify what is not on the table. At the moment, there is a static, outdated Doha negotiating agenda — how can it be made more flexible and more relevant?

WTO Chief Economist Mr Patrick Low summed up the session by listing some of the questions that remain open:

• How do we align governments and firms in the trade policy discussion?

• Don’t we need more analysis of the role of services when for many types of global value chains, services are 75% of the story?

• Is the WTO doing the right thing in policy clustering?

• What kind of policies is more effective: enabling policies or assisting policies?

These and other issues will be food for thought in the months to come for global value chain analysts.

 

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Session 23: Water and Agricultural Trade

The panel focused on describing current challenges related to water resources and identified linkages between policies in the area of agriculture and trade and outcomes for water resources. The panel had an excellent balance of views represented, including an OECD subsidy analyst, a water scientist, a World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) environmental policy officer and a water expert from a water-stressed country, Morocco.  The main points raised were as follows:

• One of the main challenges for national water policies is that irrigation subsidies create distortions in the allocation of water. Since these subsidies are often deeply embedded in the national policy context, changing them will be difficult.

• The concept of “virtual water” can be useful to raise awareness regarding how much water is embedded in traded products, and what this implies about the movement of water around the world.  Virtual water advocates are looking to labelling strategies (like carbon footprint labelling) as one way to encourage sustainable water use.  Some critics of this approach argue that labels can be misleading.  For example, information is also needed regarding the water situation in the country of production.

• Sustainable water resource management requires a multi-stakeholder approach. This approach recognizes that upstream and downstream water users hold different positions along the value chain. Thus, successful management strategies must include effective coordination.  The private sector has an interest in ensuring the sustainability of water resources when these inputs are crucial to their production.  The multi-stakeholder approach ensures that all actors in the chain share both the risks and the opportunities.

• The direct link between available water resources and agricultural production implies that threats to water resources also create risks for food security. Trade can be an effective way to share water resources and to allow countries to manage food security risks.

 

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Session 24: Liberalization, Predictability and Trade Facilitation in 2012: What can the WTO Still Deliver to Economic Operators?

This session’s main message was a unified plea for a future agreement on trade facilitation. The panel comprised business representatives and government officials mostly from the European sphere.

Mr Ralph Kamphöner from EuroCommerce and Mr Pierre Michael Gröning from FTA introduced the topic of trade facilitation, stressing the benefits that trade facilitation can bring for both developed and developing countries. In this regard, the speakers cited a recent OECD study that found that further trade facilitation has the potential to reduce total trade costs by up to 10% and stressed that delivering on trade facilitation is a simple and efficient way to boost economic performance and enhance welfare. Accordingly, business advocates an early harvest on trade facilitation.

The Chair of the Committee on International Trade of the European Parliament,  Professor Vital Moreira, reinforced the business plea for a trade facilitation deal, citing a number of economic figures and highlighting the importance of trade facilitation for enhancing predictability and transparency as well as its potential to unblock the Doha Development Agenda. He said this is particularly relevant for developing countries as trade facilitation could help these countries move up the global value chain and attract more investment.

Mr Olivier Ganne,  Head of the International Customs Department at Oxylane Group, offered a practical insight into the importance of customs regulations for internationally operating enterprises. He highlighted two problematic areas: complicated customs classifications and border inspections.

The questions and comments from the audience diversified the debate on trade facilitation as participants cautioned that the EU should not force its agenda onto developing countries and said there was a need for a more honest dialogue, taking into account the priorities of developing countries.

Russia’s accession to the WTO was stressed as another topic of great interest to the business community. Mr Ruslan Kokarev from the Association of European Businesses in the Russian Federation stressed the importance of trade facilitation for Russia and particularly the establishment of the customs union with Belarus and Kazakhstan.

Concerning the interaction between trade liberalization and trade facilitation, the panellists stressed the importance of keeping the two issues separate as trade facilitation is an important goal in itself and should not be made conditional upon liberalization of particular sectors. This view was debated by some members of the audience.

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Session 25: The WTO: Staying Alive — The Quest for Coherence in Challenging Times

The session revolved around the issue of how to ensure the centrality of the WTO as the forum for multilateral rule-making in the context of the languishing Doha Round. The discussion in particular assessed whether preferential trade agreements (PTAs) and plurilateral agreements were  a hindrance or if  they could be coherently integrated into the multilateral trading system and used as viable mechanisms to keep the WTO alive. Panellists agreed that although the WTO  was more than the Doha Round, the failure to reach agreement would affect the functioning of other WTO pillars, such as the Dispute Settlement Mechanism and trade  monitoring. The panel was also of the opinion that  the rise of PTAs and plurilaterals was inevitable and what was necessary was to minimize their damage.

All panellists agreed that substantive challenges existed in the current multilateral trading system and reforms were needed. Some of the commonly identified problems  included: (i) the proliferation of PTAs and the need to maintain coherence with WTO rules; (ii) the inability to update WTO rules in line with 21st century issues, such as climate change and currency valuation; (iii) the need to improve monitoring and implementation of existing WTO agreements; (iv) the continued rise of protectionism; (v) the increased strain on the dispute settlement system from the increase in the number of complex cases.

A panellist mentioned the “paradox” of the dispute settlement system, whereby the enforceability of WTO agreements may in fact slow down negotiations. Another participant noted the imbalance between the dispute settlement system which was functioning rather well and the weak rule-making aspect of the WTO. She noted that this imbalance would not be sustained and inevitably rules would need to be updated to ensure the efficient working of the dispute settlement system. Another panellist noted that deep Economic Integration Agreements, such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership, could be a foreseeable threat to the WTO and the multilateral system. A question was also raised as to whether dispute panels should take PTAs into account.

Some of the ideas for reform put forward, particularly on how to keep the negotiating and rule-making aspects of the WTO moving, included: (i) revisiting the principle of the “single undertaking” (the possibility of separating market access from rule-making); (ii) revisiting the most-favoured nation principle (“discrimination may be necessary to move ahead”); (iii) negotiating and institutionalizing plurilateral arrangements within the WTO framework; (iv) reforming the decision-making process, particularly the consensus principle; and (v) engaging more proactively with PTAs and ensuring that the WTO remains at the core of the system.

The panel in general recommended not maintaining the status quo but rather delivering on what was possible.

 

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Session 26: How Can Trade Promote Development?

The session began with a viewing of the winning video submission for the Youth Ambassador video contest . Its director, Ms Karina Hehs, student of agricultural engineering at the University of São Paulo, reminded the audience how important it is for the idealistic voice of youth to be part of the discussion on trade. The process of developing new ideas should be advanced by ensuring all voices are heard so that we come up with the best ways forward for trade and development.

The Youth Ambassador essay contest winner, Ms Ankita Mishra, MBA student at the Institute of Business Management, explained her key concept of “soft trade”. It is her belief that the driving forces of trade should be changed. Instead of being driven by pure materialistic motives, trade should be a tool to lift up developing nations. The sharing of knowledge and capacity building could be paths to accomplishing this. Ultimately, bridging the gap between change-loving youths and decision-makers is a good way to progress.

Mr Andrew Bauer, student of land economics at Cambridge University, looked at economic history to understand the different stages of development and trade interest inherent in these stages. He used this to explain the many different positions within the WTO and the difficulty to reach consensus. Andrew looked towards regional blocs as a potential way forward in opening trade.

Ms Marina Murina, former student of the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies, offered an interesting perspective on Russia’s recent WTO accession. Regardless of the current global turbulence, the WTO is still the forum which countries strive to join. The organization itself provides an incentive for countries to make positive developments within their domestic policies. The WTO is neither good nor evil; it is a mechanism that is proven to work. We must ensure it continues to work for all.

Finally, Ms Eloise Johnston, student in international relations at Macquarie University, presented her preliminary research on trade and development between Australia and the Pacific islands. She offered a less optimistic view by indicating that the two concepts may be incompatible. Trade tariffs represented an important source of revenue for governments, and liberalization sometimes caused the provision of public goods to be unattainable.  Negotiations between the two parties showed an unfairness that is indicative of the global problem at large when large nations negotiate with smaller ones.

Questions from the audience offered interesting perspectives on a number of other issues. These included the use of information and transparency to encourage companies and the public to think globally instead of just in terms of their own interests, the inability of growth to be the sole indicator of development but the difficulty in identifying other metrics, the use of trading blocs and South-South co-operation to help least-developed countries, and the importance of including the environment and green economies in the trade discussion.

The panel closed with the two Youth Ambassadors explaining how they will use their positions to foster the programme’s goals. Both planned to spread information and awareness of the WTO and trade issues among the youth:  Ankita through forums and lectures with universities in India and Karina through a blog and discussion forum in Brazil.

 

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Session 27: ICC World Trade Agenda: Business Priorities for 21st Century Multilateral Trade Negotiations

A panel of transnational corporations’ top managers and international trade experts – all members of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) – presented the business world’s trade agenda before a lively debate took place. They affirmed their support for the conclusion of an agreement on trade facilitation and services as well as an expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA). The speakers also raised concerns about the complexity of rules of origin (ROOs) defined in preferential trade agreements (PTAs).

As stated by Mr Geoffrey Gamble, Chair of the ICC Commission on Trade and Investment Policy, an agreement on trade facilitation could lower average customs fees from 10% to 5% and would hopefully be signed at the next WTO Ministerial Conference in Bali in December 2013. He presented the benefits of this agreement for developing countries, recalling that the price of globalization is borne by consumers in developed countries. He added that transparent trade was all the more beneficial as it was an antidote to security measures.

Mr Ulf Pehrsson, Vice-Chair of the ICC Commission on Trade and Investment Policy, stressed  the need to extend the coverage of the ITA and to conclude an agreement on services. To illustrate the growth potential of the information and communication technology (ICT) sector, he pointed out that the number of mobile phone subscribers would grow from 6 billion today to 9 billion in five years. The ITA, signed in 1997 by 28 governments and now including 75, should cover more products and include new members, he said.

On services, he claimed there was an untapped source of possible agreements. He highlighted the need to address new sectors such as cloud computing and digital goods. Mr Pehrsson also expressed his attachment to multilateralism through global value chains, explaining to what extent the products of his company were “made in the world” as opposed to a specific country.

All the participants and more specifically Mr James Bacchus and Dr Jan Atteslander, members of the ICC Commission on Trade and Investment Policy, underlined the difficulties that companies and particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) meet in complying with the necessary ROOs to take advantage of the benefits of PTAs. The reason invoked was that goods now have multiple origins. However, this argument was vigorously countered by a participant, a ROOs expert, who said that big companies bore a share of responsibility on that point because they were unable to find common ground for negotiation on standards.

Dr  Atteslander also reported on the concerns of the business community regarding delays in the Doha Development Agenda. He referred to the Trans-Pacific Partnership as an example of how PTAs could re-energize multilateralism in the long term.

Questions were raised by the audience about sustainability, development issues and the food crisis. On development, the panellists suggested that imposing local contents in production in least-developed countries would be a disincentive for investors. On the topic of the food crisis, the panellists pleaded for the elimination of subsidies to agriculture. Some panellists also suggested the elimination of restrictions on the use of GMOs.

 

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Session 28: Investment Provisions and Agreements: What is the Right 21st Century Approach?

The session was about the effect that investment agreements and dispute settlement dispositions have on the economic, health, environmental and development perspectives of countries, and how the current investment framework can be modified to promote development.

Some of the points brought out in the discussions were:

• Treaties protect and grant rights to foreign investors, but no obligations are imposed on them. Fair and equitable dispositions can be used by foreign investors in an abusive manner; in most cases, where a violation is claimed, host countries are found to have violated their commitments.

• Expropriation dispositions impede host countries from enforcing their own laws, including their own constitution; exceptions for the protection of health and environment should be included in all bilateral investment treaties (BITs).

• The number of BITs has sky-rocketed in recent years as well as the number of investor-state disputes. These procedures are being used not only as a means to resolve disputes, but also as a coercion tool and many times even as a business model where companies do not wish to invest but to create a situation where they can claim compensation.

• Arbitral procedures allow annulment when the investor loses but do not allow for appeal when the investor wins the case; high amounts are being paid as compensation by host countries to foreign investors.

• Some countries are reviewing their BITs, with a view to terminating them as no evidence can be observed that BITs attract foreign direct investment into host countries. Arbitration dispositions tend to be fragmented and complex and there seems to be no consistency in rulings and interpretation by arbitral tribunals.

Technology transfer, and research and development dispositions need to be crafted into BITs and not taken for granted. UNCTAD is aware of the situation and has created tools to move from freedom of investment to investment for sustainable development.

 

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Session 29: Plurilateralism Against Multilateralism? A Multi-Stakeholder Perspective

The session involved a large panel of speakers offering different views about the benefits and disadvantages of plurilateralism in achieving the objectives of the WTO. Panellists were divided about whether plurilateral agreements supported or disrupted multilateralism and the role of plurilaterals in the context of the struggling Doha Round.

Some speakers outlined the argument that plurilateral negotiations fragment and disrupt the larger multilateral process, encouraging breakaway groups rather than members coming together to decide common issues. In particular, Mr Lu Xiankun, Permanent Mission of China to the WTO, said that to turn from the Doha process to plurilateral agreements was “like serving dessert before the main course”. Some speakers argued that plurilaterals were not new and represented a way to achieve welcome progress, citing in particular the successful renegotiation of the Government Procurement Agreement. Some speakers, such as H.E. Mr Yonov Frederick Agah, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the WTO, acknowledged the paradox these views represented. The general sense of the discussion was that multilateralism needs plurilateralism and that plurilateralism works best within the multilateral framework.

Professor Robert Wolfe, Queen’s University, Canada, said that plurilaterals were a solution in search of a problem, and that as in the medical world one should “first diagnose, then prescribe”. Other speakers noted key players’ lack of trust as a challenge to multilateralism rather than any disrupting effect of plurilateralism.

Those who spoke in favour of plurilaterals, including Mr Nicholas Niggli, former Chair of the WTO Committee on Government Procurement, considered that levelling blame at plurilaterals for disrupting multilateralism was directing criticism at the “wrong scapegoat”. Rather, plurilaterals were a reaction to an inability to achieve multilateral results with the whole membership.  They could help rather than hinder broader agreement, and while there may be few parties to plurilaterals in the beginning, membership tended to grow representing a gradual multilateralising effect. They were thus a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block.

 

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-2-amid-global-economic-problems-wto-reforms-urged/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-1-opening-day-speakers-say-yes-multilateralism-is-in-crisis/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-1-opening-day-speakers-say-yes-multilateralism-is-in-crisis/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:26:47 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-1-opening-day-speakers-say-yes-multilateralism-is-in-crisis/ Day 1: Opening-day speakers say yes, multilateralism is in crisis

World Trade Organisation

In welcoming participants to the Public Forum, Director-General Pascal Lamy said that “the rules of the game — whether in the trade sphere, in the economic sphere, in the environmental or food security spheres — a nd indeed across all areas of international policy making, are in need of adjustment.”

He said that “this year’s forum will deal with a vast array of challenges that you, yourselves, have brought to the house of trade. Over a three-day period, we will be hearing from you on issues as diverse as trade and the environment and the regional Free Trade Agreements.”

The former President of the Swiss Confederation, Ms Micheline Calmy-Rey, in the Forum’s inaugural speech, said that “multilateralism is failing on many fronts and is clearly unable to deliver in these very difficult times we are witnessing across the globe.”

As an example, she said that “the inability of the WTO Members to agree on the conclusion of the Doha Round is certainly a setback that is very difficult to understand particularly within the context of the current crisis.”

Ms Calmy-Rey commended “the excellent work done by WTO to monitor protectionist pressures,” adding that the multilateral trading system “can help (WTO Members) contain extreme protectionist measures.”

 

Session 2: Is Multilateralism in Crisis?

Director-General Lamy and Ms Calmy-Rey were also members of the inaugural panel session on “Is Multilateralism in Crisis?”

During the panel’s discussions, Mr Lamy said that multilateralism is not in good shape because it is 20 years outdated. With all the changes in the world and in globalization, the current system shows it cannot adjust to it and the present economic crisis does not help, he said.

Ms Calmy-Rey said that the international institutions do not reflect today’s realities and that there is a big need for reform.

H.E. Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of Trade of the United Arab Emirates, also considered that present day rules are not up-to-date and need upgrading.

But to the question from the moderator, Mr Andrew Harvey, former BBC presenter, on whether the panellists were optimistic or pessimistic for the future of multilateralism in about five years’ time, Chile’s Senator Ricardo Lagos, Ms Calmy-Rey and Mr Nicholas Staheyeff, Vice Chairman and CFO of eBay International, said they were optimistic.

Ms Al Qasimi said she was “carefully optimistic” and Mr Lamy said he was “carefully pessimistic”.

On his assessment for the future, Mr Staheyeff said that the future multilateral system will need to learn to cope with increased volatility in trade and economic conditions and be “ready for a bumpy ride”.

There were not many solutions given to the problem.

Mr Lagos mentioned that countries will have to learn to give up some sovereignty, and Ms Calmy-Rey said that because many issues are solved at the international level, if countries want to have more influence in the world they’ll have to play internationally.

Mr Lagos also made a passing reference to the fact that the five members of the UN’s Security Council do not reflect today’s realities.

The work of the WTO was discussed, in particular the importance of this institution to remove frictions, the negotiations on trade facilitation to facilitate customs procedures and to remove “trade obstructions”, the fight against protectionism through its monitoring mechanism and also its work to encourage more financing for trade.

Ms Calmy-Rey also said that the WTO system of common rules and disciplines is a good example for other international organizations.

 

 

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Session 3: The Trans-Pacific Partnership: A Quest for a 21st Century Trade Agreement

The panel of this book launch session included some authors and two of the editors. Each panel member elaborated a particular element of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement and offered hopes of what is achievable in a twenty-first century, high-quality agreement.

The moderator and one of the three editors, Dr Deborah Elms, explained that “twenty-first century, high-quality” means going beyond bilateral arrangements and addressing the “noodle-bowl problems” of overlapping preferential trade agreements (PTAs).

Mr Stuart Harbinson, former ambassador and WTO senior official, thought the jury was still out in terms of what the TPP can produce with respect to trade in services, but he saw it as a “pathfinder agreement”. Perhaps it might act as a catalyst that could work back into the WTO to re-energize services negotiations.

Mr Aik Hoe Lim, a WTO official, reiterated the importance of focusing on benchmarks if the TPP is to be high quality — suggesting a template based on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). However, a twenty-first century trade agreement should also deal with twentieth-century issues. He believed there was a need to take a business-oriented approach which reflected the commercial reality.

Mr Sebastian Herreros of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) described how the TPP interacts with regional measures in Latin American countries. He warned that what the TPP has to offer them is still highly speculative and dependent on which other countries join.

With over 400 PTAs in existence, WTO Chief Economist Patrick Low revealed that each WTO member belonged to an average of 13 – which is hardly optimal. The question is what role could the WTO play in achieving greater coherence. He suggested looking at the possibility of taking what is out there and finding ways of “multilateralizing” it.

 

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Session 4: Book presentation: The Ashgate Research Companion to International Trade

The purpose of the session was to address different topics covered in the book with relation to the future of multilateralism.

First, there was an overview of advantages and challenges with regard to the multilateral trading system. The main challenges, such as national sovereignty and co-operation, national authorities and supply chains and macroeconomic imbalances as well as tensions within countries, were named.

Regarding difficulties concerning the conclusion of the Doha Round, panellists pinpointed tariffs, non-tariff barriers and improvement in rules regulating them. Notwithstanding the aforementioned challenges, it was also mentioned that despite the crisis of 2007-08 protectionist measures were triggered due to global supply chains.

The panellists also discussed responses to power shifts, the evolution of the dispute settlement mechanism, and suggested that the WTO should be more flexible responding to systemic challenges and proceed by legislation, not litigation.

Panellists also referred to institutional challenges with regard to the increased number of players and issues interacting with old issues of the political economy of trade.

The regional approach covered in chapters dedicated to China and South America was raised from a Latin American perspective and how political economy manages to overcome very important issues, such as job protection and distributional issues.

Explained through an historical perspective, trade liberalization of up to 100 per cent for many Latin American countries was highlighted as a way to reform their import substitution policies of the 1980s, eliminating balance of payments problems, monopolies and high exchange rates, diversifying the export base with value-added goods and services and providing better jobs.

Green protectionism was specifically addressed within the topic of protectionism as a powerful alliance to seek rents. An example was provided with regard to a labelling requirement determining the harvest method for all wood products including even recycled ones in order to stop illegal trade in wood proposed by some countries.

Even though the Doha Round is in crisis, the WTO works well,  the session concluded, with many countries wanting to accede and WTO members making effective use of the dispute settlement system.

 

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Session 5: Trade and Africa’s Agricultural Policy in 2025: Possible Ways out of a Debacle

The session examined the current challenges that African agricultural policy is facing, with a view to reflecting upon how trade policy could better address them, in particular the issue of food security. The conclusions revolved around the idea that Africa’s agricultural sector has potential, and yet it is not fully exploited.

All speakers converged on the idea that Africa holds the key to its own sustainable development due to diversity in resources and existing opportunities for regional trade agreements; and yet poverty, hunger and malnutrition persist, particularly in rural areas. Alongside the challenges due to natural disasters and climate change, Africa is said to be facing a democratic deficit combined with government inefficiencies and a lack of political will, leading to a policy vacuum. Future challenges were identified at both the macro and micro level.

The panellists called on African governments to rethink the process of production to adjust it to demand, to strengthen farmers’ capacities, and to invest massively in areas such as infrastructure in order to develop local industries.

At the international level, the question of global governance was touched upon by the speakers who called for increased market access for African products.

In this respect, the WTO has a critical role to play by further integrating the region into the multilateral system, through negotiations with other WTO members, and through the conclusion of the Doha Round.

However, one of the speakers remarked that the question of regional trade must first be addressed before even mentioning multilateralism. Another panel member stated that ultimately, the only viable route must be one of multi-stakeholder concerted action. 

 

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Session 6: Plurilaterals and Bilaterals: Guardians or Gravediggers of the WTO?

A panel of ambassadors to the WTO, representatives of the US and EU chambers of commerce plus the WTO’s Chief of Staff discussed the relevance of plurilateral agreements to the construction of multilateralism.

Speakers agreed that “bilateral, plurilateral and multilateral  agreements are like children, you have to like them all”. However, there was a discrepancy in the views over the necessity to advance the Doha Round.

A panellist recalled that there are different types of plurilateral agreements. First, Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs), and second coalitions of the willing like the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and the Government Procurement Agreement (GPA). As pointed out by the WTO Chief of Staff, the Tokyo Round was the golden age of plurilateral agreements. But the international community has felt the desire to go back to the Single Undertaking in the Uruguay Round for reasons of fairness and inclusiveness.

Plurilateral and bilateral agreements are building blocks for multilateralism

The main argument here is that the three types of agreements reinforce each other:

• First, they constitute an alternative to the multilateral negotiations in the WTO that are undermined by the slowness of the negotiations in the Doha Round.
• Second, regional agreements are particularly relevant to small developing countries which prefer step-by-step trade liberalization. An example was Costa Rica,  which progressively opened its telecommunications sector.
• Third, coalitions of the willing have proven to be great successes like the ITA. The Japanese representative proposed extending such agreements to the environmental goods sectors.
• Fourth, preferential trade agreements (PTAs) are not a threat to the WTO as only 16% of world trade is made under PTA regulation. The  rest is exchanged through Most Favoured Nation rules.

 

PTAs impede regulatory convergence of trade standards

PTAs undermine the development of an international playing field for negotiations, which would strengthen multilateralism. A recent report from the Asian Development Bank shows  that many firms are unable to adapt their standards to PTAs’ regulations. Moreover, plurilateral agreements threaten the multilateral trading system if they are designed for strategic purposes.

Going further

In the current situation, business sector representatives expressed their frustration and their willingness to go further on trade liberalization, outside of the Doha Development Agenda framework.  In their view, agreement on services and trade facilitation (TF) would be more than welcome. They also expressed willingness to have an agreement on import tariffs on machinery and chemical goods. Finally, they insisted on the need for transparency in future agreements and cited as a counter-example the ACTA agreement.

Questions

The WTO Chief of Staff stressed the need for countries to advance on multilateralism, pointing out that 40% of exports contain imported goods. The business sector representative called for BRICs to negotiate as they will in five years’ time rather than how they were five years ago.

A member of a French NGO denounced trade agreements between countries of different economic sizes, referring  specifically to the agreement on dairy products between EU and India. The Euro-Chamber answered that Indians were benefiting from the chemical goods agreements. Mexico added it had benefited a lot from NAFTA agreement.

 

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Session 7: The End of the North Atlantic Hegemony: Rise of New Global Economic Powers

Is the new balance of power the reason behind the impasse today?  This was the question that participants in Session 7 “The End of the North Atlantic Hegemony: Rise of New Global Economic Powers” tried to answer.

Economic multilateralism today confronts two opposing realities — globalization is moving the world to greater integration, but on the other hand, multilateral processes designed to facilitate integration in the past are deadlocked, said Mr Ujal Singh Bhatia, former Indian Ambassador to the WTO and member of the Appellate Body.

Dr Arthur Appleton, Partner at Appleton Luff International Lawyers, said that the trade machinery is not adequate to resolve problems when the trade reality is changing. The old system aimed at benefiting developing countries no longer works. New issues like investment, non-tariff barriers and the environment should be introduced.

Dr Shuaihua Cheng of the International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development (ICTSD) advocated the engagement of stakeholders in international policy making. What he calls “three horses” — governments, business community and non-governmental organizations — should all play an important role in multilateral solutions.

Dr Jean-Pierre Lehmann, Founder of the Evian Group @ IMD, said that the world has changed dramatically while the trade institution has not. The rise of China, the global supply chain, the telecommunication revolution called for a new WTO. The Doha Round should be buried, he said.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 8: LDCs at the Crossroads: Status Quo or Sustainable Development?

The session  revolved around the issue of how least-developed countries (LDCs) could address the challenges stemming from the need to restructure their economies with the view to promoting sustainable development  in the context of emerging shifts in trade and investment flows and changes in their  institutional arrangement.

The session in particular addressed two questions:  how LDCs could diversify their export base, and also create a predictable and transparent economic framework. The panel was generally of the view that  although export diversification remained a necessary ingredient for  development, it was not a sufficient component and needed to be assessed within the broader context of competitiveness,  structural transformation and  multilateral /bilateral policy coherence.

With regard to the question of  how LDCs could diversity their export base, the panel emphasised the heterogeneity of  LDCs and the need to look at  export diversification, both in products and process.  The panel agreed however,  that export diversification should be linked to the creation of a sustainable employment structure.

A  panellist  noted that the rise in African LDC exports was predominantly in commodities, such as minerals and oil,  with almost no processing and thus there was an opportunity  to move  to the next step in the value chain. He, however, cautioned against African LDCs being pushed into the “raw materials” corner via the enhanced partnership with emerging economies.

Some commonly identified constraints for export diversification were cited as being : i) a poor regulatory environment;  ii) supply-side constraints such as  an infrastructure deficit; iii) lack of private entrepreneurship; and iv) the global economic and financial crises. Some opportunities for promoting exports in LDCs were identified as being the growth of regional and sub- regional trade (particularly intra-African trade) and global value chains.  Panellists also noted the marginalisation of LDCs in services trade and stressed that for landlocked LDCs the focus should not be on improving market access but rather  on the  GATT Article 5 “ Freedom of Transit”  provision.

Discussing the creation of a predictable and transparent economic framework , panellists  stressed the importance of WTO accession for the remaining LDCs as this  would create a framework for a secure business and foreign investment climate and “lock-in” domestic reforms.  The panel also  agreed on the importance of developing a coherent and flexible policy framework not only at the WTO but also in other fora such as the UN (particularly in line with the Istanbul Programme of Action for Least Developed Countries) and the World Bank.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 9: Perspectives on Sustainability: Renewable Resources, Trade and WTO Governance

This session highlighted a number of issues that demonstrate the unsettled relationship between sustainability and trade in natural resources. The panel offered a multidisciplinary approach that, through its use of examples, crystalized into a discussion of the ability of the WTO system to address the challenges of sustainable development in a shifting global economy.

The panel observed that the manner in which the WTO governs trade in natural resources continues to develop, and is complicated by factors such as population growth, supply chain diversification, the planet’s bio-capacity and fundamental questions about the distribution of responsibility for sustainable development. Such factors are further complicated by the difficulties associated with identifying and measuring specific problems with trade in natural resources. For example, the panel referred to whether trade in natural resources could be treated as a homogenous topic, or whether a proper discussion mandates that such trade be identified in terms of the specific commodity or industry in question. It also recognized that existing WTO norms may not equip members with the regulatory autonomy to address issues of sustainability associated with trade in natural resources.

Keeping with the theme of the WTO Public Forum, panellists and attendees discussed how the multilateral system might address these difficulties. Some proposals considered the use of existing legal instruments, such as dispute settlement, which may encourage clarification of unsettled areas of law. Other proposals focused on reform of the WTO, through renegotiation and amendment of existing norms, or through institutional reform of the WTO according to which regional blocs would conduct multilateral negotiations.

 

> More on this session

Session 10: The Multilateral Trading System in the 21st Century: Interaction between Trade and Competition Policy

The panel addressed several issues arising from the link between trade and competition by stressing the beneficial effects that the implementation of competition rules provides.

Mr Pradeep S. Mehta (moderator of the session) pointed out that the Havana Charter already included competition provisions, which were not included in the GATT.

When analysing the implementation of competition rules by different countries, all panellists acknowledged the substantial improvement that has taken place in the last two decades. Back in 1995, only about 35 countries had implemented competition rules into their legal systems. The fact that currently 123 countries (including many developing countries) are members of the International Competition Network proves that there is an increasing awareness of the importance of competition law in relation to international trade.

Panellists stressed the need for developing countries to adopt competition law provisions in order to fight against the numerous international and export-based cartels, which usually target developing countries. The strongest argument in favour of the adoption of competition rules is the high cost that the lack of these rules entails for consumers.

Another issue that was raised was the role of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), which have been highly controversial.

It was further highlighted that bilateral and regional trade agreements are nowadays the instruments that have been more commonly used in order to enact competition rules at an international level.

Finally, despite advocating in favour of the trade-competition linkage, several panellists made clear that the WTO may not be the most appropriate forum for enforcing competition law provisions given the current difficulties. Nevertheless, it was suggested that the WTO could jointly work with UNCTAD, which has been highly active in promoting the interaction between trade and competition.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 11: How Can the WTO Dispute Settlement System Influence Dispute Settlement Within Regional Trade Agreements and Bilateral Investment Treaties?

The session focused on a discussion on whether modelling of dispute settlement provisions after the WTO dispute settlement (DS) mechanism in regional and bilateral agreements will help harmonize multilateral and bilateral/regional regulation, or might it generate more fragmentation and greater risk of conflicting outcomes that would create problems for governments and traders. The speakers provided their comments against different backgrounds and answered questions from the audience after their individual presentations.

Prof. Giorgio Sacerdoti moderated the discussion and set the tone of the afternoon by stressing that there are several ways in which the WTO DS mechanism could influence regional trade agreements (RTAs) and bilateral investment treaties (BITs). He then noted that there is scarcity in the number of cases that are brought under the ambit of jurisdiction of RTAs and BITs, and posed the question, “does this mean that there is no good system of dispute settlement under existing RTAs?”

Mr Fernando Pierola stressed that states are more inclined to bring disputes under the auspices of the WTO due to the following reasons: the WTO has a well-established jurisprudence; it has an excellent track record in dispute management; and considering the aspect of effective compliance, the WTO DS mechanism being multilateral in nature, is a more practical choice.

Mr James Baxter explained that among the reasons for Prof. Sacerdoti’s observation are that firstly, there is a conscious preference for maintaining an adherence to the primacy of the WTO system, and secondly, there is little practical incentive for exploring the full potential of dispute settlement under RTAs, especially among countries that rarely resort to formal dispute settlement. Mr Baxter stated however that overall experience to date suggests that the WTO’s dispute settlement system has actually influenced approaches to dispute settlement taken in RTAs in East Asia, including ASEAN.

Prof. Gabrielle Marceau provided examples of both where the WTO DS system could really be of help in RTAs and cited examples as well of instances where the WTO “borrowed” from existing RTAs. She stressed the importance for member states and negotiators to look into the need to address the relationship between RTAs and the WTO DS system, and also touched on why the WTO case law cannot just simply be exported into investment situations. Prof. Marceau summed up her arguments by stating that the bottom line is that what matters often when it comes to the choice of forum for disputes is the quality of adjudicators, and the quality of the dispute settlement system.

Prof. Anne van Aaken observed that is difficult to take away from investors what they have been using extensively, i.e., investor-state-dispute-settlement. But there are signs of the desire to align procedures, evidenced by the constant criticism of the lack of state-to-state DS, lack of use of local remedies and the partial incoherence in interpretation in investment law. Prof. van Aaken concluded by quoting Aristotle when he said, “virtue lies in the middle”.

 

> More on this session

 

Session 12: Agricultural Innovation for the 21st Century: Matching the Intellectual Property Framework with Farmers’ Needs
Sub-theme: Food Security

A major theme in this session was the interplay between the incentives for innovation created by intellectual property (IP) rights and concern that the benefits of such innovation be adequately disseminated. Any given seed, it was observed, represented many forms of value, including as a staple crop, commodity, or genetic resource for breeding and biotechnological transformation. This corresponds to various forms of access and ownership of such value, whether physical control of a chattel or patent rights on modifications. Likewise, there are a range of international legal instruments reflecting these differing aspects of values, such as the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) or, in the WTO context, the TRIPS Agreement. 

The panel addressed the difficulty of appropriating rights to living organisms that are self-reproducing, and the challenge of creating economic incentives to develop new crop varieties. The panel discussed patents and breeders’ rights as possible devices in this context, but undertook critical evaluation of the actual benefits that such IP rights have empirically yielded. There were indications that initially promising innovations were ultimately burdened by strict IP requirements, many “innovations” were merely cosmetic, and that limited crop flows suggested that innovations were not being diffused. Furthermore, arguments were made that traditional and local farmers achieve innovative benefits that are undermined by scientific plant breeding and IP regimes. For example, local storage of genetic crop diversity and traditional cultivation had produced plant varieties that might be more resilient to drought and pests yet were being displaced by potentially inferior hybrids. 

The panel drew attention to the need to give some form of participation to farmers in the design of legal frameworks and to utilize the innovations of farmers that may be uncoordinated with IP regimes. Further, a stated goal was that an ideal IP regime would foster diffusion rather than restriction of the innovations it generated in agricultural production. 

 

> More on this session

Session 13: TBTs on the Rise: The Future of Consumer Information Labels, Sustainability Standards and Product Bans in the Light of the Latest WTO Case Law

Following the “Talking Disputes” events hosted by ICTSD and WTI Advisors to allow for the discussion of WTO dispute settlement cases, this session raised the crucial question of the rise of technical barriers to trade (TBTs) and the current technical regulation and standard landscape.

The sharp decline of tariffs has been undermined by a shift towards a misuse of non-tariff measures (NTMs), including TBTs. These technical barriers often take the form of product labels and standards as a means of regulating consumer information and addressing undesired product characteristics.

Recent WTO disputes have involved the ’dolphin-safe’ labels for tuna products (“United States-Tuna II”), country of origin labels for meat (“United States-COOL”) and tobacco bans and regulations (“United States- Clove Cigarettes”).

With the ruling on these three disputes this year alone, the Appellate Body has set a precedent in terms of jurisprudence and has raised the legal aspect of the topic from “obscurity to centre stage”, according to Mr Hannes Schloemann, moderator of the session. 

Where do we stand on TBTs and where do we want to go from here?

Overview of the disputes in the TBT area:

• Among the 45 requests for completion, only four have gone to a “full-fledged dispute”;
• The main complainants: US, Canada, each with 10 cases, and the EU with only three cases;
• The main issues in the TBT area: discrimination (Art.2), necessity (Art. 2.2), labelling (Art. 6) and international standards (Art. 2.4).

The recent disputes, including the dispute regarding the ’dolphin-safe’ labels for tuna products ruled to  give less favourable treatment to Mexican products will contribute to informing future policy making in new areas, such as biofuels or animal welfare. 

 

> More on this session

 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/day-1-opening-day-speakers-say-yes-multilateralism-is-in-crisis/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-multilateralism-is-struggling/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-multilateralism-is-struggling/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:26:47 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-multilateralism-is-struggling/ Lamy: “Multilateralism is struggling”

World Trade Organisation

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> Pascal Lamy’s speeches

> WTO Public Forum 2012 — “Is Multilateralism in Crisis?”

Ladies and gentlemen,

Welcome to the WTO Public Forum of 2012.

This year, like last year, has been marked by extraordinary turbulence.  Sluggish economic growth rates, high unemployment, and newly released figures on world trade that are just as worrying.  In this slowdown, no one has been spared.

But the turbulence we witness this year goes beyond the economic sphere. Like last year, political turbulence is rampant across the globe, food prices are starting to rise once again, although not in the same alarming fashion, and the climate crisis is continuing to go unabated. 

As this kaleidoscope of problems plays out, we are also witness to a redistribution of the geopolitical deck of cards on a global scale. With the rise of the emerging countries, new and stronger voices from the developing world are making themselves heard. The poorest countries, once silent, are today much clearer and vocal about their priorities. What they are saying loud and clear is that the rules of the multilateral system must change.

The rules of the game — whether in the trade sphere, in the economic sphere, in the environmental or food security spheres — and indeed across all areas of international policy making, are in need of adjustment. Governments are not only struggling to cope with the vast panoply of domestic problems that they are confronted with, but they must do so against a landscape in which their relative powers have also changed. They must also do so in a world in which interconnections are greater and therefore global commons require stronger multilateral co-operation. And they must compete for spaces, for which previously no one had competed, like the Arctic or cyberspace.

In this challenging era that we live in, citizens are asking for the right to a decent living. They want jobs, they want human rights and they want dignity.   The question becomes “can multilateral co-operation live up to their expectation?” Will the international community be able to rise to the multiple challenges with which it is confronted today?

While multilateralism is struggling in almost all spheres of global co-operation, I stand here before you with some optimism. We are after all gathered in the “house of trade”. An international house that rose out of the ashes of two world wars and which took some 60 years to create. Across from this house is the seat of the United Nations, the International Labour Organization, the International Environment House that groups many environmental treaties, and many other symbols of successful international co-operation. This is ’la Genève internationale’ after all.

It is these organizations that teach us a very important lesson: progress in international co-operation is incremental, with some of our best episodes having been born of our worst excesses. Yes, the challenges we face today are multiple, and yes, multilateralism is struggling, but we have proven ourselves to be up to the task before, and we can be up to it again.

The WTO, in many ways, is one of the most successful examples of rules-based multilateralism at work. Its capacity to administer and enforce the global trade rules, including in the present crisis, is widely recognized as a major success in international co-operation. But our members’ difficulties to agree to update our rule book also demonstrates that the WTO is not immune to the geo-economic and geo-political transformations of our time. The WTO is both an organization and an institution. And I dare say that it is in a better shape as a member-driving institution than as a member-driven organization.

This year’s forum will deal with a vast array of challenges that you, yourselves, have brought to the house of trade. Over a three-day period, we will be hearing from you on issues as diverse as trade and the environment and the regional Free Trade Agreements. You will also meet with the ’WTO Panel on Defining the Future of Trade’ that I have established to advise me on the profound transformations in the global economy, and the drivers of today and tomorrow’s trade.

There are many innovations in this year’s Forum that I urge you to explore. Various ‘Ideas Workshops’ will be launched for the first time to help us generate solutions and benefit from our brainstorming with you. A Social Media Corner will interact with you and the broader world through Facebook and other social networks to allow for a reach-out of a much grander scale. And a fabulous Cartoon Exhibition is taking place in our Atrium and the Delegates Lounge throughout the Forum. In that exhibition, no less than 100 cartoons from about 20 artists from across the globe will tell the story of GATT and the WTO — so don’t miss it. You should never miss a good laugh!

We also have with us the winners of the contest for the WTO Youth Ambassador Programme. Please join me in congratulating Ankita Mishra from India and Karina Hehs from Brazil. We count on you to be strong advocates of multilateralism!

And, now, without further ado, let me welcome one of the main architects and visionaries of ‘Genève Internationale’, of which I have just spoken.  Micheline Calmy-Rey, you have the floor.

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/lamy-multilateralism-is-struggling/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/oecds-gurra-welcomes-budget-proposal-and-economic-reforms-announced-by-the-spanish-government/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/oecds-gurra-welcomes-budget-proposal-and-economic-reforms-announced-by-the-spanish-government/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:15:55 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/oecds-gurra-welcomes-budget-proposal-and-economic-reforms-announced-by-the-spanish-government/ OECD’s Gurría welcomes budget proposal and economic reforms announced by the Spanish Government

OECD

 

28/09/2012 – OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría welcomes the Spanish government’s budget and the economic policy measures announced yesterday. “These measures reveal Spain’s political decision to address short-term and structural challenges and represent a crucial step towards providing economic certainty. They also build on the comprehensive reform efforts already taken by the government in the last few months,” he said.

 

“The budget marks substantial progress in putting government finances on a sustainable path and shows the government’s firm commitment to fiscal consolidation. The economic policy strategy includes key measures to overcome the difficulties in the financial sector an presents an important structural reform agenda. It proposes a wide range of concrete measures to be introduced in coming months, which address the key structural weaknesses of the Spanish economy in product and labour markets. It also presents a wide range of measures to modernise the public sector, improve transparency in government finances, raise education outcomes, encourage entrepreneurship and foster research and development.”

 

“Appropriately, the government continues to put the labour market high up on the reform agenda, in particular tackling high joblessness among the youth. Indeed, it is important that labour market duality is gradually eliminated, that wages throughout the economy reflect economic conditions at the individual level and that young people have access to jobs. I also welcome the fact that, despite the overall reduction in public spending, some of the groups most vulnerable to the effects of the crisis are adequately supported through the improvement in pensions and scholarships.”

 

“We trust that the implementation of these measures will help restore full confidence in the Spanish economy and its fundamentals, as well as improve the wellbeing of Spanish citizens.”

 

 

 

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/oecds-gurra-welcomes-budget-proposal-and-economic-reforms-announced-by-the-spanish-government/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-leaders-must-stand-against-sexual-assault/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-leaders-must-stand-against-sexual-assault/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:31:05 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-leaders-must-stand-against-sexual-assault/ Panetta: Leaders Must Stand Against Sexual Assault

United States Department of Defense

Panetta: Leaders Must Stand Against Sexual Assault

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – Military leaders at all levels must take responsibility to stop sexual assault, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said.

In an interview with NBC’s Natalie Morales that aired yesterday, the secretary said, “Any sexual assault has no place in the military.”

He continued, “If we don’t take steps to deal with it — if we don’t exercise better leadership to confront it — it’ll get worse. And that’s why it’s really important that we take the responsibility to ensure that it doesn’t have a place in the military. I have men and women in the military who put their lives on the line … to protect this country. Surely we owe it to them to be able to protect them.”

Leaders know “that we have to do a better job at dealing with this,” the secretary said. “Look, we’ve got 200,000 women who are in the military. We’re trying to open up another 14,000 positions for women, to be able to fully participate.”

Those women want to have a career in the military, and have earned the right, he said.

“They’re putting their lives on the line,” he said. “We’ve lost 150 during the wars … 1,000 have been wounded. We owe them the respect, we owe them the honor, of being able to protect them.”

The military stands for and defends the values of good order and discipline, he said, which means, “we’ve got to make sure that women are protected from any kind of assault.”

The services have a clear superior-subordinate structure, Panetta noted.

“We can’t go to war, we can’t fight, we can’t protect this country without a strong chain of command,” he said. “But that chain of command means there have to be officers, there have to be [noncommissioned officers], there have got to be leaders who say, ‘Wait a minute.’”

Leaders must exercise good order and discipline, and speak out against and act to stop certain behaviors, he said.

Panetta noted the department has taken steps to strengthen sexual assault prevention. For example, he said, department policy now allows a sexual assault victim to rapidly transfer from an assigned unit where the assault happened.

“Secondly, we’ve made clear that you can’t just have a unit commander handle this kind of situation; it’s got to be moved up to a senior commander … who will exercise greater responsibility in bringing that [sexual assault perpetrator] to justice,” he said.

Thirdly, he said, “We’ve got to improve the investigations … have special victims units. And we’re putting that in place.”

Training is also critical, the secretary said. “We’ve got to do better training for both the recruits and the commanders,” he added. “So that they’re aware that this is a real problem.”

What’s happening in the military is also a societal problem, Panetta said. “We see alcohol playing a role in these areas. We see … the abuse, the disrespect that’s involved — and the fact is, rape is rape. And it has to be dealt with in a serious manner, and sometimes that’s downplayed in the society.”

All of those factors lead to “a situation where you can have this kind of power game,” he said. “Where people are put into vulnerable positions, and it all plays out. It plays out in society, and it plays out in the military.”

He said the only way to prevent that abuse of power is to have strong leaders at every level who stand against it and say, “This has to stop.”

Punishing offenders is also important, Panetta said.

“It’s an outrage that we aren’t prosecuting our people involved here,” Panetta responded when Morales noted that 240 cases were prosecuted out of the more than 3,000 reported last year.

The secretary acknowledged assault prosecutions are “tough cases.”

“But the fact is we can do this,” he said. “We need to improve the investigations and … we need to ensure that we have [military] prosecutors who are willing to bring these cases to court and make sure that these people don’t get away.”

The secretary said he opposes turning military sexual assault cases over to civilian courts. “We have a military justice system. We have to enforce good order and good standards,” he said. “If somebody hits somebody, or somebody robs somebody, or somebody commits an act on a battlefield that’s wrong, we’ve got to prosecute those people. We have a responsibility to do that. The same thing is true of sexual assault.”

The “vast majority” of service members operate on a deep level of mutual trust, Panetta noted.

“Sexual assault can’t be a part of that,” he added. “We’re the ones who have to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

The secretary said from the top reaches of the Defense Department down to the platoon and squad level, his message is that leaders must take responsibility.

“Frankly, part of this is also moving women into command positions,” he added.

Panetta said he’s confident the department can make progress against sexual assault.

“This is an issue I, as secretary of defense, am committed to making sure we confront,” he said.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-leaders-must-stand-against-sexual-assault/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/face-of-defense-marine-combat-vet-wants-to-help-others/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/face-of-defense-marine-combat-vet-wants-to-help-others/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:31:05 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/face-of-defense-marine-combat-vet-wants-to-help-others/ Face of Defense: Marine Combat Vet Wants to Help Others

United States Department of Defense

Face of Defense: Marine Combat Vet Wants to Help Others

By Marine Corps Sgt. Richard Blumenstein
24th Marine Expeditionary Unit

USS GUNSTON HALL, Gulf of Aden, Sept. 28, 2012 – Marine Corps Cpl. Adrian Cuevas has experienced the horrors of war and its lasting effects.

Now he wants to spend the rest of his life helping others.

The 27-year-old South El Monte, Calif., native is an Afghanistan veteran on his third deployment there and is currently serving as a machine gun squad leader for Company C, Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Cuevas is a combat veteran who has been in more than a handful of fire fights, been hit by three improvised explosive devices, lost friends in battle, and experienced guilt from being sent home early from deployment.

His story serves as just one of hundreds or perhaps thousands of stories told, and retold, by infantry Marines from his generation. The details may differ — times, dates, locations, Marines, missions, but the theme remains the same — something bad followed by something heroic. There is loss, and there is the feeling that nothing will ever quite be the same.

Their stories are amazing and usually resemble a scene from an action movie. According to most Marines who tell them, there is no way to understand what they have been through without having experienced something similar.

Marines who’ve seen combat must contend with recovering from the mental anguish of the battlefield. Many Marines are uncomfortable reliving those events.

Cuevas’ end of active service date is fast approaching and he has decided he wants to dedicate his life to helping people work through that anguish — the trauma he himself has endured.

“I am going back to school,” he said. “I want to be a counselor to help people out who have gone through what I have gone through.”

Cuevas’s journey into the Marine Corps began like many other Marines — by meeting a Marine.

After graduating from El Monte Adult School, he spent years working regular jobs. One of his co-workers was a former Marine and prior infantryman who regaled him with stories of his service and Cuevas found himself longing to enlist.

“I felt like it was something I had to do,” he said. “I had already started my adult life and I figured I would do it before I got too old.”

At 24, Cuevas enlisted in the Marine Corps to become an infantryman on March 16, 2009. At Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, he met another Marine who inspired him and shaped his life’s path — his drill instructor.

“He seemed like he was always squared away,” Cuevas said. “He was really hard on everyone, but fair. He inspired me to choose the machine-gunner path.”

Those decisions ultimately landed Cuevas in harm’s way during a deployment to Afghanistan in 2010. During the deployment, Cuevas said he made it a point to always ride in the lead vehicle.

“I didn’t like to be anywhere else,” he said.

The first time an improvised explosive device struck his convoy was also was the first time he engaged the enemy. The IED detonated three meters away from him and showered him with dirt and debris. While waiting for the wrecker to transport the disabled vehicle, Cuevas and the other Marines began taking fire from a nearby tree line.

The engagement lasted 50 minutes.

“That was the first time I got to shoot back and see them, see the rounds impact and everything,” Cuevas said. “You don’t think at all. Training takes over. It is not something people just say. It really does happen. If you think, you are probably really going to die.”

But that engagement was not the last Cuevas would experience.

The last IED that hit him came at the end of his deployment and destroyed his Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected All-Terrain Vehicle, a large tactical vehicle specifically designed to withstand explosive blasts, and severely injured him. He received the Purple Heart Medal for his injuries.

“It destroyed the whole back end of it [the vehicle],” Cuevas said. “I got launched, I don’t know how high, like 30, 20 feet in the air. I had cuts on my face. I had three compression fractures in my lower back.”

Despite his wounds, Cuevas said he felt guilty from being sent home early because the rest of his unit continued to operate in harm’s way.

“I went through so much guilt,” he said. “From the time I was hurt, wounded, all the way until the time I got back to Camp Lejeune. Really bad depression … I went from having ten other guys, my squad, every day, to being completely by myself in my own room.”

Cuevas said he found comfort in talking to other Marines with similar experiences, and in time, he recovered from his wounds. That comfort, he said, is why Cuevas wants to now spend his life helping others. He intends to use his Post 9/11 GI Bill to earn a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences after he completes his enlistment.

“Actually, just talking to people has helped a lot,” he said. “I am not [feeling] as guilty as I was before. A little bit of guilt, but not as much. That’s why I want to help people who have gone through exactly what I went through.”

Cuevas, along with 2,300 other Marines and sailors with the 24th MEU, is presently deployed with the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group as a theater reserve force for U.S. Central Command and is providing support for maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/face-of-defense-marine-combat-vet-wants-to-help-others/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-officials-call-for-stronger-global-measures-to-counter-nuclear-terrorism/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-officials-call-for-stronger-global-measures-to-counter-nuclear-terrorism/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:26:02 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-officials-call-for-stronger-global-measures-to-counter-nuclear-terrorism/ UN officials call for stronger global measures to counter nuclear terrorism

United Nations

28 September 2012 The consolidation of strong international mechanisms is vital to combat nuclear terrorism, senior United Nations officials stressed today, warning that countries must urgently act to tackle one of today’s most serious global threats.

“The prospect of terrorists acquiring nuclear materials is one of the most unnerving threats imaginable. Yet some have already stated their hopes of obtaining nuclear weapons. Still others may be working in the shadows to achieve this goal,” Mr. Ban told the high-level meeting on countering nuclear terrorism, held on the margins of the 67th session of the General Assembly.

“We must use all our tools to contain this nuclear genie. As we confront other challenges relating to nuclear disarmament, we cannot allow these arms to proliferate to non-State actors or terrorists.”

Mr. Ban noted that countries have already taken steps to address this threat, namely through the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism and Security Council resolution 1540.

The Convention, which has been ratified by 82 States, enhances international cooperation to prevent nuclear terrorism and to prosecute and punish perpetrators of such acts. Resolution 1540 imposes binding obligations on all States to establish controls preventing the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, and their means of delivery.

Mr. Ban urged all countries that have not done so to become party to the Convention and fully comply with resolution 1540, and emphasized that nations must build on these foundations by adhering to international instruments and a rigorous review mechanism, as well as by increasing their capacity to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and related materials.

The Director General of the UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Yukiya Amano, underlined that international cooperation is vital, and reiterated the IAEA’s readiness to help countries improve nuclear safety and its role in coordinating international efforts on nuclear security.

“Terrorists will exploit the weakest link in any security system. The challenge is global, so the response must be global. Continued shortcomings in nuclear security need to be addressed urgently,” Mr. Amano said.

While there are mechanisms in place to make it more difficult for criminals to traffic nuclear and radioactive material, there are still key risks such as the possibility of terrorist detonating a dirty bomb using conventional explosive and a quantity of nuclear material, which would have serious consequences, Mr. Amano said.

“This would not be a fully-fledged ‘nuclear bomb’, but such an attack could lead to mass panic and cause considerable economic disruption. We must therefore maintain the utmost vigilance in protecting nuclear and other radioactive material and nuclear facilities.”

Mr. Amano encouraged countries to work with the IAEA to establish networks of nuclear security support centres and improve nuclear security. In addition, he urged countries to take part in the International Conference on Nuclear Security, which will take place in Vienna next July.

“The IAEA is committed to intensifying cooperation with all of you in this room to help make the world safer from nuclear terrorism,” he said.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-officials-call-for-stronger-global-measures-to-counter-nuclear-terrorism/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/undp-and-league-of-arab-states-join-hands-for-development-in-the-arab-region/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/undp-and-league-of-arab-states-join-hands-for-development-in-the-arab-region/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 15:25:56 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/undp-and-league-of-arab-states-join-hands-for-development-in-the-arab-region/ UNDP and League of Arab States join hands for development in the Arab region

United Nations

28 September 2012

New York – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the League of Arab States signed today a cooperation agreement, creating a framework for joint work in support of human development across the Arab region.  The partnership, which calls for cooperation on the wide range of development areas which are central to the two institutions’ respective mandates, is intended to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of development cooperation, and enhance development results across for the peoples of the Arab region.

The agreement was signed today at UNDP headquarters by UNDP Administrator Helen Clark and Nabil El-Araby, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States.

“Arab countries have broad and critical development agendas, especially at this time,” said Dr. El Araby. “This renewed partnership will allow UNDP and the League of Arab States to boost and strengthen our work together to help realize the aspirations of the Arab people.”

The agreement further calls on UNDP to support the Arab countries’ implementation of development-related resolutions of the annual Arab Summit on Social and Economic Development.

While not the first agreement between UNDP and the League of Arab States, the cooperation framework represents an upgrade of previous arrangements and allows for enhanced cooperation on key areas of development— such as poverty reduction and job creation, governance, and women’s empowerment —which are increasingly seen by Arab countries as central to the region’s overall progress.

“This agreement comes at a time when close cooperation between UNDP and LAS is much needed to support the transformation process underway in the region, to advance socio-economic progress and to deepen human development across the region in its fullest sense,” said Sima Bahous, Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States of UNDP.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/undp-and-league-of-arab-states-join-hands-for-development-in-the-arab-region/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/combined-force-kills-multiple-insurgents/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/combined-force-kills-multiple-insurgents/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:30:22 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/combined-force-kills-multiple-insurgents/ Combined Force Kills Multiple Insurgents

United States Department of Defense

Combined Force Kills Multiple Insurgents

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 28, 2012 – An Afghan and coalition security force killed multiple armed insurgents during an operation to arrest a senior Haqqani facilitator in the Gelan district of Ghazni province today, military officials reported.

As the security force approached the Haqqani facilitator’s suspected location, armed insurgents attacked the Afghan and coalition troops with heavy machine gun fire, officials said. The coalition troops returned fire, killing several armed insurgents. No civilians were harmed in the exchange.

The sought-after Haqqani facilitator is believed to be directly involved in several attacks throughout the region, many involving improvised explosive devices, and suicide bombers, resulting in civilian casualties, officials said.

The security force also detained two suspects and seized multiple assault rifles, a heavy machine gun and several explosives, including rocket-propelled grenades, officials said. The weapons and explosives were destroyed.

In other operations today:

– A combined force detained a number of suspects during an operation to arrest a Taliban leader in the Maiwand district of Kandahar province. The sought-after Taliban leader is suspected of facilitating the movement of weapons throughout the region and reported directly to senior Taliban leaders in order to coordinate insurgent attacks.

– A combined force detained one suspect and seized several pounds of illegal narcotics during a search for a Taliban leader in the Washer district of Helmand province. The sought-after insurgent leader is alleged to serve as a link between senior Taliban leaders and local attack cells, directing insurgent activity throughout the district.

– A combined force arrested one Haqqani network leader and detained two suspects in the Sharan district of Paktika province. The arrested Haqqani leader is suspected of being directly involved in the planning of insurgent attacks and acquiring weapons and explosives for Haqqani fighters.

– An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force arrested a Haqqani explosives facilitator, detained one suspect and seized IED-making equipment in the Bak district of Khost province. The arrested facilitator is alleged to be directly involved in the acquisition and emplacement of improvised explosive devices and rockets for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

– A combined force arrested a number of suspects and seized several firearms during a search for a senior Haqqani leader in the Sayyid Karam district of Paktiya province. The sought-after Haqqani leader is suspected of directing attacks and coordinating the acquisition of weapons and funding for insurgent activity.

– A combined force detained a number of suspects and seized multiple firearms during a search for a Haqqani IED attack leader in the Sharan district of Paktika province. The sought-after Haqqani leader is believed to be directly involved in the acquisition and emplacement of IEDs for insurgent attacks.

In Sept. 27 operations:

– An International Security Assistance Force patrol rescued three Afghans who were being held hostage by Taliban insurgents in the Panjwa’i district of Kandahar province. The ISAF unit, Task Force Arrowhead, observed a number of insurgents load three men, bound and blindfolded, onto a trailer towed by a tractor. The ISAF patrol pursued and stopped the tractor, at which point the insurgents attempted to flee. Task Force Arrowhead troops freed the hostages and detained three of their captors, who were later identified as Taliban members. ISAF learned the three captives had been held by the Taliban for up to six days. The freed men were released by ISAF to Panjwa’i district officials.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/combined-force-kills-multiple-insurgents/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-nsc-spokesman-tommy-vietor-on-assistant-to-the-president-for-homeland-security-and-counterterrorism-john-brennans-meeting-with-yemeni-president-abdo-rabu-mansour-hadi/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-nsc-spokesman-tommy-vietor-on-assistant-to-the-president-for-homeland-security-and-counterterrorism-john-brennans-meeting-with-yemeni-president-abdo-rabu-mansour-hadi/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:26:02 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-nsc-spokesman-tommy-vietor-on-assistant-to-the-president-for-homeland-security-and-counterterrorism-john-brennans-meeting-with-yemeni-president-abdo-rabu-mansour-hadi/ Statement by NSC Spokesman Tommy Vietor on Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism John Brennan’s Meeting with Yemeni President Abdo Rabu Mansour Hadi

United States White House Statements

The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 28, 2012

Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism John Brennan met yesterday with Yemeni President Abdo Rabu Mansour Hadi during President Hadi’s first official visit to Washington.  Vice President Biden joined the meeting to welcome President Hadi to the White House and thank him for his efforts to secure our diplomatic personnel and embassy in Yemen.  The Vice President assured President Hadi of the Administration’s commitment to supporting Yemen during its historic political transition, commended Hadi for his efforts to organize an inclusive National Dialogue and to restructure the military, and expressed appreciation for the Yemeni government’s strong and sustained counterterrorism cooperation with the United States.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/statement-by-nsc-spokesman-tommy-vietor-on-assistant-to-the-president-for-homeland-security-and-counterterrorism-john-brennans-meeting-with-yemeni-president-abdo-rabu-mansour-hadi/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/princess-royal-meets-young-zambians-during-visit-to-commonwealth-youth-centre/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/princess-royal-meets-young-zambians-during-visit-to-commonwealth-youth-centre/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 14:25:28 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/princess-royal-meets-young-zambians-during-visit-to-commonwealth-youth-centre/ Princess Royal meets young Zambians during visit to Commonwealth youth centre

Commonwealth Secretariat

Princess Anne presented Gold and Silver Duke of Edinburgh International Awards and met with Commonwealth Youth Programme staff, young people, and student leaders

 

Anne, the Princess Royal, underscored the need to advance work in creating sustainable livelihoods for young people during a tour of the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP) Regional Centre for Africa on 27 September 2012.

Her Royal Highness paid a special visit to the centre in Lusaka during her four-day tour of Zambia to mark the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth.

The Princess Royal said sustainable livelihoods were not just about skills and jobs, but the long-term ability for people to take care of their communities and continue to regenerate employment.

CYP Regional Director for Africa, James Odit, said: The Commonwealth Youth Programme helps to create enabling environments so that young people can influence, shape and participate fully in the development of their communities. As Africas population is very youthful, we believe young people are critical in promoting sustainable development in the continent. To achieve this, we advocate for significant investments in the youth development sector in Commonwealth Africa.

Princess Anne was received at the centre by the Dean of the Commonwealth group of high commissioners in Zambia, (also Botswanas High Commissioner and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps) Dithlabi Tuelonyana Oliphant; Commonwealth high commissioners; the Dean of Students at the University of Zambia, Lastone T. Ziyambo; and senior government officials from the Zambian Ministries of Youth and Sport.

During her visit, Princess Anne presented Gold and Silver Duke of Edinburgh International Awards and met with CYP staff, young people supported by the centre, the Scouts and Girl Guides, and student leaders from the University of Zambia.

The programme included a special royal welcome dance performed by Nomakanjani, a youth cultural group that uses theatre, dance and music to teach Zambian youth about the issues that affect their lives and communities. The group is Zambias most celebrated traditional dance troupe, and has performed on local and international stages.

Princess Anne is the second child and only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh.

There are four CYP Regional Centres located in Zambia, India, Guyana and Solomon Islands.

Last week, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited the CYP Pacific Regional Centre in Honiara, Solomon Islands, as part of their tour to mark the Diamond Jubilee.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/princess-royal-meets-young-zambians-during-visit-to-commonwealth-youth-centre/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officials-discuss-cybernet-transformation-efforts/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officials-discuss-cybernet-transformation-efforts/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 13:30:32 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officials-discuss-cybernet-transformation-efforts/ Officials Discuss Cybernet Transformation Efforts

United States Department of Defense

Officials Discuss Cybernet Transformation Efforts

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – Defense officials gathered at the National Press Club yesterday discussed DOD efforts to transform its cyber operations into cloud computing technology that’s envisioned to provide added agility, security and cost effectiveness.

Robert J. Carey, DOD’s principal deputy chief information officer; Grant M. Schneider, Defense Intelligence Agency deputy director for information management and CIO; and Air Force Lt. Gen. Ronnie D. Hawkins Jr., Defense Information Systems Agency director, comprised the discussion panel at the 3rd Annual Billington Cybersecurity Summit here.

The discussion included presentation of the DOD’s cloud computing strategy that transforms the department’s redundant and costly current network applications silos to an end state that ideally fosters a more agile, secure, and cost effective service environment.

Cloud computing is a converged infrastructure that allows greater application set-up and speed with improved manageability and reduced maintenance, enabling technicians to more quickly adjust to and protect against threats, officials said. DISA has been named enterprise cloud service broker maintaining mission assurance and information interoperability within the strategy.

The speakers agreed that an enterprise cloud environment offers tangible benefits.

“There’s a great recognition in the importance of this space in our business,” Carey said. “Going to cloud computing is a product of consolidating and standardizing the infrastructure and [enables us to] really thrive off those savings.”

Though developed in an era of fiscal constraint, the strategy also offers a roadmap to the creation of department core data centers, he said, and future budget cycles should include appropriate funding for ongoing cybersecurity growth and training.

“The resources are drawing down and drying up,” Hawkins said of current budget concerns. “The true issue … is that there is … an initial start-up cost to get there.”

Both a consumer and provider of infrastructure services across the intelligence community and DOD, Schneider examined what will likely be required in years to come in order to optimize cloud computing and data consolidation.

“As we drive towards more standardization and more normalization … at a very tactical level [with] more interconnectivity … doing it in ways that [are] generally headed in the same direction from enterprise architecture is absolutely critical,” Schneider said.

Equally important are the people who will be implementing these strategies and methods, Hawkins said.

“[We’ve got to] look at standing up the right academic setting,” Hawkins said. “We are trying to build that capability from a joint perspective within the cyber workforce.”

In training, the overall goal is to teach people to react in what Carey calls “internet speed” with a sharper focus on skill sets rather than rank or professional origin.

“We’re moving toward proficiency-based training,” Carey said. “Training a defender like an attacker and an attacker like a defender is a really important skill set. It works in football and it’ll work in this game too.”
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officials-discuss-cybernet-transformation-efforts/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/the-power-of-knowing-whats-in-your-water/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/the-power-of-knowing-whats-in-your-water/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:45:55 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/the-power-of-knowing-whats-in-your-water/ The power of knowing what’s in your water

Non Government Organisations (NGOs)

The Citarum River in West Java, Indonesia, supports agriculture, water supplies, fisheries, industry, sewerage and electricity. It’s the lifeblood of the community around it. 

But like so many other waterways in Southeast Asia, the Citarum is sick. Toxic pollution from manufacturing and industry is strangling the river.

This month, across Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand, Greenpeace activitsts worked with communities to highlight the powerful role they play in the future of their water – and put a stop to toxic water pollution. These communities have a right to know what is in their water, what is being pumped into it and a right to not have it contaminated by hazardous chemicals.

Through water patrols, actions on local polluters and even zombie parades in The Phillipines, communities are taking the message to authorities that toxic water pollution is not on.

• In Indonesia, to coincide with Right to Know Day, Greenpeace and other NGO activists delivered 11 bottles of water and industrial waste water samples taken from six areas of Citarum River to the West Java Environmental Management Agency, urging the government to analyse it for presence of hazardous chemicals. The activists have challenged the agency to announce the findings to the public, to fulfill the public’s right to know what is in their environment.
• In the Philippines, zombies with speech bubbles joined Greenpeace at the Philippines’ Department of Environment and Natural Resources to deliver the petition with close to 2837 signatures collected during recent water patrols asking the department to expand the priority chemicals list, speed up the elimination of priority chemicals with specific timelines, and establish a Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (PRTR) -  a register that provides easily accessible key environmental data.
• In Thailand, Greenpeace activists oversaw community meetings and facilitated community water patrols. Activists also conducted waste water sampling on factory discharges.

 

Water pollution is not just a problem in far off countries. We all share the same water and our research shows, for example, that clothes washed around the world flush toxic chemicals into our rivers from China to the USA.

The first step is giving communities the right to know what is being discharged into their rivers and other water bodies. It’s a simple demand that can go a long way. Disclosing environmental information is credited for having helped many industrialized countries achieve significant reduction in toxic releases. Systems such as the US Toxics Release Inventory or EU Pollutant Release and Transfer Register help the public to hold the polluters accountable for their acts.

We need stronger legislation in certain countries to protect communities and their environments and we need industry to stop treating our public water like their private sewers and switch to clean production.

Together, we can demand that companies and governments act NOW. Get involved.

Source

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/the-power-of-knowing-whats-in-your-water/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/marine-missing-in-action-from-korean-war-identified/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/marine-missing-in-action-from-korean-war-identified/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:30:46 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/marine-missing-in-action-from-korean-war-identified/ Marine Missing in Action from Korean War Identified

United States Department of Defense

            The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors. 

            Marine Pfc. Richard S. Gzik, of Toledo, Ohio, will be buried today, at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, DC.  On Dec. 2, 1950, Gzik and the other Marines of M Battery, 11th Artillery Regiment, 1st Marine Division, came under attack on the west side of the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea.  It was during this battle that Gzik was killed in action and his remains were buried alongside the road leading to Hagaru-ri.  Later that month, the withdrawal of U.N. forces from the Chosin Reservoir region made it impossible to recover Gzik’s remains. 

            In 1954, United Nations and Communist Forces exchanged the remains of war dead in what came to be called “Operation Glory.”  All remains recovered in Operation Glory were turned over to the Army Central Identification Unit for analysis.  Those which were unable to be identified, given the technology of that time, were interred as unknowns at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii — the “Punchbowl.”  

            In 2012, analysts from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) re-examined the case records and determined that advances in technology could likely aid in the identification of the unknown remains as Gzik.  Once the remains were exhumed, scientists from JPAC used circumstantial evidence and forensic identification tools, including dental records and radiographs, to validate Gzik’s identification.   

            Using modern technology, identifications continue to be made from remains that were previously buried as unknown.  Today, 7,947 Americans remain unaccounted for from the Korean War.  

            For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, call 703-699-1169, or visit the DPMO web site at http://www.dtic.mil/dpmo .

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/marine-missing-in-action-from-korean-war-identified/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airman-missing-from-wwii-identified/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airman-missing-from-wwii-identified/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:30:45 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airman-missing-from-wwii-identified/ Airman Missing from WWII Identified

United States Department of Defense

            The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors. 

            Army Air Forces 2nd Lt. Samuel E. Lunday, of Marianna, Fla., will be buried today, at Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, DC.  On April 24, 1943, Lunday and four other U.S. servicemen were flying a C-87 Liberator Express aircraft over the Himalayan Mountains, from Yangkai, China, to their home base in Chabua, India.  After losing radio communications following take-off, the crew was never heard from again.  Eleven aerial search missions were unable to locate the aircraft or crew due to intense snows on the mountains at high altitudes, and dense jungle growth at lower altitudes.  

            As part of the war effort against the Japanese, U.S. Army Air Forces cargo planes based in India continually airlifted critical supplies over the high mountain ranges that comprise the Himalayas — known as “The Hump” — in support of American airbases in China.  The amount of materiel flown over the Himalayas was a logistical achievement unparalleled at the time. 

            Almost 60 years later, in 2003, an American citizen discovered the wreckage of the C-87 aircraft while trekking in the mountains, approximately 100 miles from Chabua, near the Burmese border.  He recovered the aircraft’s identification plate, military equipment and human remains.  The artifacts and remains were turned over to U.S. officials for analysis.  Attempts to excavate the site are being negotiated with the Indian government. 

            To determine the identity of the remains, scientists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory used circumstantial evidence and mitochondrial DNA — which matched that of Lunday’s nephews. 

            Of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II, more than 400,000 died.  Today, more than 73,000 are unaccounted-for from the conflict. 

            For additional information on the Defense Department’s mission to account for missing Americans, call 703-699-1169 or visit the DPMO Web site at www.dtic.mil/dpmo .

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/airman-missing-from-wwii-identified/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/pro-nuclear-mudslinging-in-lithuanias-nuclear-referendum/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/pro-nuclear-mudslinging-in-lithuanias-nuclear-referendum/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:45:42 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/pro-nuclear-mudslinging-in-lithuanias-nuclear-referendum/ Pro-nuclear mudslinging in Lithuania’s nuclear referendum

Non Government Organisations (NGOs)

On 14 October, the people of Lithuania go to the polls to vote in a referendum on whether the country should build new nuclear reactors in the town of Visaginas. Will they join the people of Austria who gave a resounding “NO!” in 1978 and the people of Italy who said “NO!” not once but twice in 1987 and 2011?

The end of Visaginas

Lithuania’s referendum campaign has begun but instead of a lively debate about energy strategies and the risks of nuclear power, the country’s ruling party, along with several others, have decided that their strategy to get support for nuclear will be mud-slinging. Everyone critical of nuclear power is basically accused of being an agent for Russia.

Mud-slinging and smear campaigns. It’s a very familiar tactic. In Russia, critics of the government are called “foreign agents”. In Belarus, anti-nuclear activists are jailed under accusations of “hooliganism” Is Lithuanian’s Prime Minister Kubilius trying to match Presidents Putin and Lukashenko?

In October and in alliance with local anti-nuclear campaigners, Greenpeace will join an “Ask the Expert” tour to some of the largest towns in Lithuania. You’ll find us in Klaipeida on October 9, Siauliai on October 10, Kaunas on October 11, and Vilnius on October 12.

Our Executive Director Kumi Naidoo has sent a letter to Lithuania’s Prime Minister to ask him to use his influence to create a more civil and factual debate.

There are many compelling reasons why there is no need for nuclear reactors in Lithuania and the wider region:

-        The region depends entirely on the Russian electricity grid for its stability of supply. Building yet more large centralised electricity sources, such as nuclear reactors, only increases that dependence. Lithuania has far cheaper and more stable alternatives that can deliver electricity faster, are independent from Russia, and will create sustainable and skilled local jobs: energy efficiency, wind, biomass, solar, and inter-linkage projects like NordBalt with Sweden to create a stable independent grid. It’s a no-brainer and yet Lithuania’s Prime Minister Kubilius calls this kind of common sense a “vote for Russian and Belarussian nuclear power stations” and influential Parliament Member Žilinskas says it will “support the forces that mean no good for Lithuania”.

-        GE Hitachi want to build Lithuania’s new reactors but we know that weaknesses in the company’s reactor designs played a role in the nuclear catastrophe in Japan last year. Why should they be trusted again?

-        Lithuania knows first hand about nuclear catastrophe. In 1986, over 7,000 Lithuanians volunteered or were forced to become “liquidators”, putting out the fires at the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. Why should they risk a repetition of that terrible event?

-        With 3.2 million inhabitants, Lithuania is a small country. VATESI, its nuclear regulator, has more than its hands full with the decommissioning of the old Ignalina nuclear reactors that were closed in 2009, and dealing with their nuclear waste. It isn’t familiar with GE Hitachi reactors and the European Commission sees no other way to mend this than having Hitachi train VATESI – talking about keeping the regulator independent… Japan is learning to its cost what happens when nuclear watchdogs are too close to the nuclear industry.

The now closed Ignalina nuclear power station

-        New nuclear is an enormous financial risk. While official statements say that construction will cost €5 billion, costs are already rocketing way past that. Given the fact that a reactor of this design has never been build in Europe, that the after-Fukushima stress test results from the EU and Japan still need to be implemented into the design, and that VATESI has no experience with it, it is almost certain that those costs will increase massively. And someone will have to foot that bill.

-        Lithuania is frantically looking for a solution to the nuclear waste produced by the closed Ignalina reactors. It has as little idea what to do with nuclear waste as the rest of the world. Should this dangerous burden be doubled?

There is no need for spies and subterfuge when the evidence against new nuclear power in Lithuania is clear. There are no secrets here. Why is the Lithuanian government playing this game?

I hope the people of Lithuania will vote for their future, not for their ghosts of the past.

(Jan Haverkamp is Greenpeace’s expert consultant on nuclear energy and energy policy in Central Europe)

Source

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/pro-nuclear-mudslinging-in-lithuanias-nuclear-referendum/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcr-responds-to-public-health-threats-in-dadaab-refugee-camps/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcr-responds-to-public-health-threats-in-dadaab-refugee-camps/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:27:35 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcr-responds-to-public-health-threats-in-dadaab-refugee-camps/ UNHCR responds to public health threats in Dadaab refugee camps

United Nations

Briefing Notes, 28 September 2012

This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 28 September 2012, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

Following indications of an outbreak of acute jaundice (largely caused by hepatitis E virus) among refugees in Dadaab camp complex in northern Kenya, UNHCR is running a comprehensive public health response focusing on improving sanitation facilities and promotion of good hygiene practices. With more than 473,000 inhabitants, the overcrowded Dadaab refugee complex – now comprising five camps – is the largest refugee settlement in the world.

As of last week, 223 cases of acute jaundice were reported across all five camps in Dadaab. Four fatalities have been confirmed, all of them women who had just given birth. The first case of jaundice was detected in Ifo 2 refugee camp six weeks ago. Most of the hepatitis-E cases have been registered in camps with inadequate number of latrines and among new arrivals with poor hygiene habits. There is no vaccine for Hepatitis E virus although one is in an initial phase of development in China.

The incubation period for jaundice is one month and we fear that the number of cases may continue to grow. In addition to raising the health, water and sanitation standards and awareness about the importance of hand-washing, use of latrines, food and water hygiene, refugee health workers are also being trained in active search for new cases and surveillance.

Meanwhile, the Kenyan authorities have reported some 80 cases of cholera in Kenya’s North Eastern Province, mainly in a settlement close to the border with Somalia. It is reported that 12 deaths have occurred on the Somalia side. There are no deaths in Dadaab camps where 18 cases have been identified among refugees who had contacts with affected communities near the border. UNHCR has established a response team involving health, water and sanitation partners and daily coordination is maintained at the camp level. A cholera isolation ward has been opened at Hagadera camp hospital and additional staff have been trained to handle cases. At present, there are adequate resources to manage 100 cholera patients. Cholera treatment centres have been set up at the camp hospitals.

We are concerned that water-borne diseases could spread with the arrival of the rainy season in October and November. Forecasts for the region are for heavier than average rainfall. This could adversely affect the sanitation situation in Dadaab as parts of the camp complex are prone to flooding. However, bad hygiene is the major cause of infection for both diseases and our public health efforts in Dadaab camps are addressing this issue in particular. In addition, construction of a further 6,000 latrines has started this week.

Despite a difficult security situation and restrictions on movements of staff in Dadaab, all essential services and provision of aid to refugees continue uninterrupted.

For further information on this topic, please contact:

• In Kenya (Dadaab): Mans Nyberg on mobile +254 704 807 205
• In Kenya (Nairobi): Emmanuel Nyabera on mobile +254 733 995 975
• In Geneva: Andrej Mahecic on mobile +41 79 200 7617

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcr-responds-to-public-health-threats-in-dadaab-refugee-camps/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcrs-annual-governing-body-meeting-starts-next-week/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcrs-annual-governing-body-meeting-starts-next-week/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:27:35 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcrs-annual-governing-body-meeting-starts-next-week/ UNHCR’s annual governing body meeting starts next week

United Nations

Briefing Notes, 28 September 2012

This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 28 September 2012, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

The 63rd annual session of UNHCR’s governing body, the Executive Committee, begins this coming Monday, October 1st, in the Assembly Hall of the Palais des Nations in Geneva. The Executive Committee, comprising 87 states this year, reviews global and regional refugee protection issues and endorses UNHCR’s annual programmes and budgets.

The Chairman of the Executive Committee, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the UN Ambassador Jan Knutsson, will open the five-day meeting at 10 a.m. on Monday. The Executive Director of the World Food Programme, Ertharin Cousin will deliver a keynote speech, followed by the address of High Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres.

A press release covering the High Commissioner’s opening remarks will be issued on Monday morning. Speeches will be available on UNHCR’s website www.unhcr.org. All addresses on Monday morning are open to accredited Palais-based media.

From 2-5 October, the Executive Committee session will take place in Room XIX.

Our annual report on international refugee protection – a global review of refugee and asylum challenges and achievements – will be presented on Wednesday afternoon by Assistant High Commissioner for Protection Erika Feller. A separate press release will be issued on her report.

UNHCR’s revised annual budget for 2013 of US$ 3.92 billion will be presented on Thursday, 4 October.

Throughout next week’s meeting of the Executive Committee, a number of side events looking into specific issues and operations will be held in room XXIII. Among these, Norway and Switzerland will launch a new state-led initiative on climate change and displacement called the Nansen Initiative.

At the end of the Executive Committee annual meeting, the High Commissioner is scheduled to give his traditional press conference in the Press Room III at 12.30 p.m. on Friday, 5 October. We will advise any changes to this time.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/unhcrs-annual-governing-body-meeting-starts-next-week/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nansen-refugee-award-ceremony/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nansen-refugee-award-ceremony/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:27:34 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nansen-refugee-award-ceremony/ Nansen Refugee Award Ceremony

United Nations

Briefing Notes, 28 September 2012

This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 28 September 2012, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

UNHCR and its partner the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) are organizing the Nansen Refugee Award ceremony on Monday evening (October 01). This year’s award winner is Somalia’s Hawa Aden Mohamed, founder and director of the Galkayo Education Centre for Peace and Development (GEPCD). She is being honoured for transforming the lives of thousands of displaced women and girls in Somalia, many of whom are victims of rape.

The ceremony will be held at the Batiment des Forces Motrices in Geneva on Monday at 20.15, thanks to the support of the Geneva, Swiss and Norwegian authorities and the IKEA Foundation. Press are invited to attend this ceremony.

UNIGE and UNHCR panel discussion

Also on Monday, University of Geneva (UNIGE) and UNHCR will be organizing a conference in honour of the Nansen laureate at 12. 15 p.m. (Uni Mail, Salle MR380). The event includes a lecture by Bruno Geddo (UNHCR Somalia Representative) on Hawa Aden Mohamed’s experiences followed by a panel discussion with 2011 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Leymah Gbowee, UNHCR Honorary Lifetime Goodwill Ambassador Barbara Hendricks, and Elisabeth Rasmusson, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council. The debate will be chaired by Paola Gaeta (professor at UNIGE).

For further information on this topic, please contact:

• In Geneva: Adrian Edwards on mobile +41 79 557 91 20

Women

Women and girls can be especially vulnerable to abuse in mass displacement situations.

2012 Nansen artists line-up

Singer, songwriter, campaigner, activist, and UNAIDS International Goodwill Ambassador Annie Lennox, OBE will perform at this year’s United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Nansen Refugee Award being held in Geneva on October 1st and broadcast internationally.

The line-up, which also includes classical singer and UNHCR Lifetime Goodwill Ambassador Barbara Hendricks, Swiss star Bastian Baker and 2011 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Madam Leymah Gbowee, will pay tribute to this year’s Nansen Refugee Award laureate.

TV presenter Isabelle Kumar will be the Master of Ceremonies on 1st October. The winner of this year’s Nansen Refugee Award will be announced in advance of the award ceremony at 10:30 am on September 18 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

2012 Nansen artists line-up

2008 Nansen Refugee Award

The UN refugee agency has named the British coordinator of a UN-run mine clearance programme in southern Lebanon and his civilian staff, including almost 1,000 Lebanese mine clearers, as the winners of the 2008 Nansen Refugee Award.

Christopher Clark, a former officer with the British armed forces, became manager of the UN Mine Action Coordination Centre-South Lebanon (UNMACC-SL) n 2003. His teams have detected and destroyed tons of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and tens of thousands of mines. This includes almost 145,000 submunitions (bomblets from cluster-bombs) found in southern Lebanon since the five-week war of mid-2006.

Their work helped enable the return home of almost 1 million Lebanese uprooted by the conflict. But there has been a cost – 13 mine clearers have been killed, while a further 38 have suffered cluster-bomb injuries since 2006. Southern Lebanon is once more thriving with life and industry, while the process of reconstruction continues apace thanks, in large part, to the work of the 2008 Nansen Award winners.

2008 Nansen Refugee Award

2007 Nansen Refugee Award

The UN refugee agency’s Nansen Awards Committee has named Dr. Katrine Camilleri, a 37-year-old lawyer with the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) in Malta, as the winner of the 2007 Nansen Refugee Award. The Committee was impressed by the political and civic courage she has shown in dealing with the refugee situation in Malta.

Dr. Camilleri first became aware of the plight of refugees as a 16-year-old girl when a priest visited her school to talk about his work. After graduating from the University of Malta in 1994, she began working in a small law firm where she came into contact with refugees. As Dr. Camilleri’s interest grew in this humanitarian field, she started to work with the JRS office in Malta in 1997.

Over the last year, JRS and Dr. Camilleri have faced a series of attacks. Nine vehicles belonging to the Jesuits were burned in two separate attacks. And this April, arsonists set fire to both Dr. Camilleri’s car and her front door, terrifying her family. The perpetrators were never caught but the attacks shocked Maltese society and drew condemnation from the Government of Malta. Dr. Camilleri continues to lead the JRS Malta legal team as Assistant Director.

2007 Nansen Refugee Award

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/nansen-refugee-award-ceremony/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/work-together-to-achieve-common-security-and-development/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/work-together-to-achieve-common-security-and-development/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:00:40 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/work-together-to-achieve-common-security-and-development/ Work Together to Achieve Common Security and Development

Peoples Republic of China latest news

Work Together to Achieve Common Security and Development

Statement by H.E. Yang Jiechi
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China
At the General Debate of the 67th Session of the UN General Assembly

New York, 27 September 2012

Mr. President,

I wish to congratulate you on your election as president of the 67th Session of the General Assembly. I am confident that with your ability and experience, you will successfully fulfill this lofty mission. I also wish to thank Mr. Al-Nasser for his positive contribution as president of the last session.

Mr. President,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The world is undergoing major and profound changes. The trend towards multi-polarity, economic globalization and the application of information technology are gaining momentum. Countries have never been so interconnected and interdependent as they are today; emerging markets and developing countries have never had such strong influence, and cross-civilization dialogue and exchanges are flourishing as never before. To promote peace, development and cooperation has become the shared aspiration of people across the world and the common pursuit of the international community.

On the other hand, the world is still far from being peaceful. The underlying impact of the international financial crisis and the European debt crisis remains strong. Destabilizing factors and uncertainties affecting global growth have increased. Regional turbulence persists, hotspot issues keep emerging and traditional and non-traditional security issues are entwined. The international security environment is highly complex.

Facing both unprecedented opportunities and challenges, we must not allow the outdated Cold War mentality and zero-sum game theory to stand in our way. We should act like passengers who stick together in a boat when crossing a torrential river and seek win-win progress through cooperation. This is the only option for countries around the world. To ensure one’s own security, a country should respect and accommodate the security of other countries. To realize one’s own development, a country should actively promote common development; and in pursuing one’s own interests, a country should take into account the interests of other countries. Only by promoting common security and development for all of its members can the international community effectively address complex and multiple security threats and global challenges, resolve increasingly serious difficulties facing development and ensure durable peace and sustainable development of the world. With this in mind, China, believes that it is important that we do the following:

We should promote equality and democracy in international relations. Mutual respect and equality are basic norms governing international relations. All countries, big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community. Respect for each other’s sovereignty, core interests and choice of social system and development path is a fundamental principle guiding state-to-state relations. We should vigorously promote greater democracy in international relations. The internal affairs of a country should be handled by itself, and issues involving the interests of various countries should be handled by them through consultation. We should remain true to multilateralism and uphold the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the central role of the United Nations in international affairs. China endeavors to strengthen political mutual trust and address problems and differences with other countries through dialogue and exchanges. China does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries or impose its will on others, and China does not allow outside forces to interfere in its internal affairs.

We should seek win-win progress through cooperation in the course of development.As economic globalization deepens, all countries have a high stake in each other’s success. We should therefore enhance cooperation and expand common interests to achieve win-win and all-win progress. We should tap the potential for cooperation in all countries, expand and enrich cooperation, improve cooperation mechanisms and work together to make economic globalization balanced, inclusive and beneficial to all. We should accelerate the development of developing countries and narrow the North-South gap. We should enhance global cooperation on development to ensure that the benefits of development reach every one. Since the outbreak of the international financial crisis, China has, while maintaining its own robust growth, significantly increased contributions to international financial institutions, extended a helping hand to other developing countries and increased purchase of bonds of some developed countries. All this has helped stabilize the international economic and financial situation and maintain economic and social development of relevant countries.

We should ensure fairness and effectiveness in conducting global governance. Facing growing global challenges, the international community should strengthen coordination and cooperation, establish a fair, equitable, flexible and effective system of global governance, properly address various global issues and promote the common well-being of mankind. China supports the United Nations in enhancing its authority and efficiency and the ability to address new threats and challenges through proper reform as called for. It is important to advance the building of a global system of economic governance with a focus on reforming the international financial system, speedily implement the quota and governance reform plans of the IMF and other financial institutions and increase the representation and voice of emerging markets and developing countries. We should fully implement the outcome and consensus of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development, make new progress in international cooperation on sustainable development and discuss the formulation of a post-2015 international development agenda on the basis of actively implementing the UN MDGs. We should launch a process of open, transparent and democratic intergovernmental consultation with development and poverty reduction as the core objectives. We should also fully leverage the role of the civil society and private sector in this endeavor. Together with all other parties, China is ready to take an active part in the reform of the international system and in global governance and jointly meet various global challenges.

We should pursue common progress by embracing diversity of civilization.According to ancient Chinese philosophy, the world will be a great place when“all things thrive without hurting one another, and various endeavors are pursued in parallel without collision among them.“We should encourage exchanges and mutual learning between different civilizations and social systems, draw on each other’s strength through competition and comparison and make joint progress by seeking common ground while reserving differences. We should respect the diversity of the world and the right of all countries to independently choose their development paths. China encourages cross-civilization dialogue and exchanges. We should replace confrontation with dialogue and bridge differences with inclusiveness so as to make the world a more harmonious place and ensure common progress for mankind.

We should seek common security amid growing interdependence.No country is immune to the complex and multiple security threats and challenges in the world. We should foster a new thinking on security featuring mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality and coordination, take a holistic approach to address both the symptoms and root causes of diverse security challenges and build a peaceful and stable international and regional security environment. The United Nations should fully play its role in safeguarding world peace and security and establishing a fair and effective mechanism for common security. We must resolve disputes through dialogue and negotiation and oppose willful use or threat of force. We must oppose terrorism, separatism and extremism in all forms.

West Asia and North Africa is undergoing profound changes. China respects and supports efforts by countries in this region to independently handle their internal affairs and respects the aspirations and calls of people in this region for change and development. The unique features of this region, in terms of religion, civilization, history and ethnicity should be respected. We hope that the relevant parties will settle differences through inclusive and constructive political dialogue and resolve problems peacefully. Safeguarding peace and stability in the region, upholding the fundamental and long-term interests of Arab countries and ensuring the growth of friendly China-Arab relations will remain a central goal of China’s policy towards this region. We will continue to make unremitting efforts with countries in the region to promote peace and development in keeping with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.

China is deeply concerned about the stalled Palestinian-Israeli peace talks and the economic and humanitarian difficulties facing the Palestinian people. The turbulence in the region should not divert international attention from the Palestinian issue. China supports the Palestinian people in establishing, on the basis of the 1967 borders, an independent Palestinian state that enjoys full sovereignty with East Jerusalem as its capital. China supports Palestine’s membership in the United Nations and other international organizations. China urges both Palestine and Israel to take concrete measures to remove obstacles and work for the early resumption and substantive progress of the peace talks.

China is deeply concerned about the persistent tension and worsening humanitarian situation in Syria. We call on all relevant parties in Syria to put an immediate end to fighting and violence, implement the relevant Security Council resolutions, Mr. Kofi Annan’s six-point plan and the communiqué of the foreign ministers’ meeting of the Action Group for Syria, and launch an inclusive political dialogue and a Syrian-led political transition as soon as possible. China is open towards any political plan that is acceptable to all parties in Syria. The relevant parties of the international community should play a positive and constructive role in this regard, support with credible steps Mr. Lakhdar Brahimi, the UN-Arab League Joint Special Representative, in conducting impartial mediation, and endeavor to set in motion and advance the process of political transition in Syria.

The Iranian nuclear issue has reached a new crucial stage. The relevant parties should remain committed to a diplomatic solution and begin a new round of dialogue as soon as possible. We should, acting in the spirit of respecting each other’s concerns, showing flexibility and pragmatism, expanding common ground and overcoming differences, seek early progress in dialogue and negotiation and, over time, achieve a comprehensive, long-term and proper solution to the issue. China has always supported efforts to uphold the international nuclear nonproliferation regime and will continue to work with parties concerned and play a constructive role in seeking a peaceful solution to the Iranian nuclear issue through dialogue and negotiation.

The Asia-Pacific region has maintained general stability and rapid growth for many years, thus making important contribution to global stability and prosperity. Given the growing downward risks in the global economy and increasing volatilities in the international situation, to maintain peace, stability and sound growth in the Asia-Pacific is crucial to ensuring the well-being of people in the region. This also meets the broader interests of the international community. We should fully respect the reality of a diverse and interdependent Asia-Pacific and continue to follow an approach for regional cooperation that has proved effective over the years, namely, building consensus, making incremental progress and accommodating each other’s comfort level. We should promote regional development with greater determination, advance regional cooperation with increased resources and handle differences with longer-term interests in mind so as to uphold peace, stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr. President,

As an important participant which has contributed to building the international system, China is committed to sharing development opportunities with other countries and working with them to overcome various challenges and realize security and development for all.

China will stay on the track of peaceful development. We seek a peaceful international environment in which China can develop itself. By developing itself, China will contribute to global peace and common development. China is firm in upholding its core interests. At the same time, it respects the legitimate right of other countries to protect their interests. We seek to expand common interests with other parties for the sake of common good. China has contributed a total of about 21,000 personnel to UN peacekeeping missions and taken an active part in international cooperation on counter-terrorism, anti-piracy and nonproliferation. In our efforts to resolve major international and regional hotspot issues, we have urged parties concerned to seek peaceful solutions through negotiation and thus played an important and constructive role in easing tensions and achieving political resolution of these issues. China has made remarkable progress in pursuing peaceful development and will continue to follow this path in the years to come.

China will enhance friendly relations and cooperation with all other countries on the basis of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and strive to build a new type of relations between major countries based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation.

Following a policy of building good-neighborly relationships and partnerships with neighboring countries, China has actively expanded exchanges with countries in its neighborhood. China has contributed to over 50 percent of Asia’s growth for many consecutive years. We have endeavored to build political mutual trust and cooperation mechanisms with other Asian countries and properly handle differences and frictions with relevant countries. On the basis of firmly upholding China’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, we have worked with our neighbors to maintain sound relations and overall stability in the region.

China treats other developing countries as good friends and good partners, and we support each other and seek common development on the basis of equality. By the end of 2011, the Chinese government had built over 2,200 projects in relevant countries which are important to local economy and people’s lives. We have cancelled debts owed to China by 50 heavily indebted poor countries and least developed countries. We have trained over 60,000 personnel in various sectors for 173 developing countries and 13 regional and international organizations. All of this has contributed to economic and social development of other developing countries.

China has taken an active part in reforming the international system and in global governance, and assumed its due share of international responsibilities and obligations as its capability permits. We are working to build a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory global trading system and a more equal and balanced new global partnership for development. We support the G20 in playing a greater role as the premier forum for international economic cooperation and the efforts of emerging markets represented by BRICS countries to explore a new model of global cooperation.

The global economy is in a crucial stage and achieving full recovery and sustained growth remains a long and difficult task. Last year, despite a challenging economic environment both at home and abroad, China registered a GDP growth rate of 9.3 percent and made good progress in adjusting the economic structure and improving people’s lives. Since the beginning of this year, to address some new problems in economic performance, the Chinese government has stepped up anticipatory fine-tuning of the economy and introduced a series of targeted policy measures. This has boosted market confidence and ensured steady growth. China’s GDP grew by 7.8 percent in the first half of the year and the country has enjoyed sound economic and social development. China is still in an important period of strategic opportunities for development. Industrialization, urbanization, application of information technology and the agricultural modernization will continue to unlock great potential of development. We have the confidence, means and ability to maintain steady and robust growth and achieve long-term, sound and sustainable development. During the 12th Five- Year Plan period (2011-2015), China’s domestic market will be one of the largest in the world, its total imports are expected to exceed US$10 trillion and direct outbound investment is expected to exceed US$500 billion. This will create enormous business and job opportunities for the world and provide good opportunities for other countries’ development.

Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands have been an integral part of China’s territory since ancient times. China has indisputable historical and legal evidence in this regard. Japan seized these islands in 1895 at the end of the Sino-Japanese War and forced the then Chinese government to sign an unequal treaty to cede these islands and other Chinese territories to Japan. After the Second World War, the Diaoyu Dao islands and other Chinese territories occupied by Japan were returned to China in accordance with the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation and other international documents. By taking such unilateral actions as the so-called “island purchase”, the Japanese government has grossly violated China’s sovereignty. This is an outright denial of the outcomes of the victory of the world anti-fascist war and poses a grave challenge to the post-war international order and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The moves taken by Japan are totally illegal and invalid. They can in no way change the historical fact that Japan stole Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands from China and the fact that China has territorial sovereignty over them. The Chinese government is firm in upholding China’s territorial sovereignty. China strongly urges Japan to immediately stop all activities that violate China’s territorial sovereignty, take concrete actions to correct its mistakes, and return to the track of resolving the dispute through negotiation.

Mr. President,

The Communist Party of China will soon hold its 18th National Congress. We are confident that this important meeting will lead China’s reform, opening-up and modernization drive to a new stage. Facts have shown and will continue to prove that China’s development is peaceful, open, cooperative and win-win in nature. We will work with the international community to follow the trend of history and the call of the times and build a harmonious world of enduring peace and shared prosperity.

Source

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/work-together-to-achieve-common-security-and-development/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/remarks-by-assistant-foreign-minister-le-yucheng-at-symposium-marking-the-40th-anniversary-of-the-normalization-of-relations-between-china-and-japan/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/remarks-by-assistant-foreign-minister-le-yucheng-at-symposium-marking-the-40th-anniversary-of-the-normalization-of-relations-between-china-and-japan/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 11:00:39 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/remarks-by-assistant-foreign-minister-le-yucheng-at-symposium-marking-the-40th-anniversary-of-the-normalization-of-relations-between-china-and-japan/ Remarks by Assistant Foreign Minister Le Yucheng At Symposium Marking the 40th Anniversary of The Normalization of Relations Between China and Japan

Peoples Republic of China latest news

St. Regis Hotel, 28 September 2012

President Yang Wenchang,
Distinguished Senior Diplomats,
Experts and Scholars,
Dear Friends,

Good afternoon!

I wish to thank the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs and the China Institute of International Studies for inviting me to this symposium.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the normalization of relations between China and Japan. Forty years ago, in a display of extraordinary vision and political courage, the Chinese and Japanese leaders at the time made the far-sighted decision to normalize the relations between the two countries and terminate “the abnormal state of affairs that has hitherto existed between Japan and the People’s Republic of China”, thus opening a new chapter in the history of China-Japan relations. The 40th anniversary should have been an occasion of joy and jubilation. However, the illegal act of the Japanese government to “purchase” Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands not long ago in total disregard of China’s repeated stern representations has not only grossly violated China’s territorial sovereignty and undermined the foundation of China-Japan friendship, causing a severe retrogression in China-Japan relations, but also deprived the anniversary celebration of its necessary atmosphere. What should have been a season of happiness has turned into a period of troubles. So much so that the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the China-Japan Friendship Association have been compelled to announce the postponement of the commemorative activities for the 40th anniversary of the normalization of China-Japan relations.

Today, at the symposium jointly organized by the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs and the China Institute of International Studies, we are to take a hard look at both the experience and lessons of China-Japan relations in the past 40 years and explore how we can best safeguard the political foundation of this relationship and keep to its right orientation. Today’s symposium is both timely and pertinent given the severe challenge facing China-Japan relations right now. Some present here today are participants in or witnesses to the normalization process and the signing of the Sino-Japanese Treaty of Peace and Friendship, and others are senior experts in Japanese studies and regional issues, all well-versed in China-Japan relations. I look forward to hearing your views. Since I have also been thinking about China-Japan relations more recently, let me take this opportunity to share with you some of my observations.

The normalization of relations between China and Japan was a major event of historic impact. It laid down the political foundation for China-Japan friendship, defined the orientation of growing bilateral ties and ushered in a new era in East Asian history. Over the past 40 years, the two countries have issued four political documents, steadily enriching the principles and spirits upon which the relations are based. Bilateral cooperation across the board has made substantial progress. Two-way trade has topped US$340 billion, up by over 340 times. China has become Japan’s largest trading partner and Japan, China’s fourth largest. Personnel exchanges have swelled from merely 10,000 a year to over five million people-visits now. Twinning of sister provinces and cities of the two countries has grown from zero to 250 pairs now. A look at the 2,000-odd-year history of China-Japan relations reveals that the past 40 years stood out as the period of the fastest growth and biggest changes and the period that delivered more benefit than ever before to both peoples and other Asian countries.

Much can be learnt from the extraordinary journey China-Japan relations have traversed in the past 40 years. One is of paramount importance. Namely, we must abide by the key principles and consensus that the two sides reached by profoundly summarizing the experience and lessons in the relations. China-Japan relations will grow only when these principles and consensus are strictly abided by. Should they be violated, the relations will encounter frictions, fluctuations or even setbacks. The current difficulties in China-Japan relations are the result of Japan’s violation and sabotage of the understanding and consensus reached by the older generation of Chinese and Japanese leaders on “leaving the issue of Diaoyu Dao to be resolved later” and of Japan’s calculation to change the status quo unilaterally. It is beyond any doubt that if the two sides had not acted in the above spirit on the issue of Diaoyu Dao, China-Japan relations would not have enjoyed relative stability in the past 40 years, not to mention making such big strides. The important consensus reached by the older generation of leaders of the two countries, therefore, is the essential guarantee for China and Japan to grow their relations steadily in the past 40 years by removing one obstacle after another.

It must be pointed out that the current tension over Diaoyu Dao was provoked single-handedly by the Japanese side. Since the beginning of this year, Japan has gone out of its way to make repeated provocations against China on the issue of Diaoyu Dao, such as naming some of Diaoyu Dao’s affiliated islands, landing on its main island, purchasing the islands, holding “inspection” tours around the islands, organizing a “survey”, staging a so-called “ceremony to mourn the wardead” and putting up an “angling” gathering in the waters of Diaoyu Dao, etc. etc. Japan has indeed racked its brains in this regard and stopped at nothing to achieve its aims. Finally the Japanese government came out from hiding to execute the so-called “purchase”. Its goal is to strengthen Japan’s “actual control” of Diaoyu Dao which will lead ultimately to its complete occupation. What the Japanese government has done constitutes an outright challenge to the outcomes of the victorious World Anti-Fascist War and the post-war international order and encapsulates Japan’s attempts in recent years to turn back the wheels of history. Japan’s actions have seriously undermined the political foundation of China-Japan relations and are bringing both China-Japan relations and the entire region down to an extremely dangerous direction. Given lessons from the past, people cannot but follow Japan’s strategic movement with concern and cannot but be watchful of its strategic intentions.

The relations between China and Japan, the world’s second and third largest economies with important global influence, bear directly on peace, stability and prosperity of the region and the world as a whole. To keep such a relationship on track takes wisdom, courage, sound judgement and far-sightedness, and calls for a capacity to see the large picture, think long-term and strategically and have a strong sense of responsibility. Here, I wish to make a three-point observation to the Japanese side, bearing in mind the current situation between the two countries.

The first point, we need to ensure that good faith will prevail in bilateral relations. This is the very precondition for China-Japan relations to get out of the current predicament and move forward. “I do not know what use a man can be put to, whose words are untruthful.” Honesty and credibility are as important to a nation as to an individual. The Diaoyu Dao Islands belonging to China is an ironclad fact. Yet Japan has brazenly violated the understanding and consensus reached between the older generation of Chinese and Japanese leaders on leaving the Diaoyu Dao dispute to be resolved later and flatly denied the existence of territorial disputes between China and Japan over the islands. What Japan is doing, as a matter of fact, amounts to shaking China-Japan relations to their foundation, which is an out and out perfidy. The responsibility for escalating tensions over the issue of Diaoyu Dao lies entirely with Japan. So does the responsibility for the standstill in China-Japan relations. The Japanese side must stop immediately its lurching down the erroneous path, look squarely at the reality, correct its mistakes and take concrete steps to return the Diaoyu Dao Islands and their adjacent waters to calm and bring China-Japan relations to their normal track.

The second point, we need to remove disturbances to peace and friendship. China and Japan are close neighbours separated only by a strip of water. Since none of us can move to another planet, the two peoples must live together and amicably from generation to generation. The Japanese government must take a serious look at the modern history in which Japan preyed on its Asian neighbours, and recognize that China and Japan stand to gain together in peace and stand to lose together in conflicts, with peaceful coexistence being the only right option for both. For China and Japan to enjoy lasting peace and friendship, it is vital for Japan to pursue a path of peaceful development and prevent its right-wing forces from leading the country astray. For China and Japan to enjoy lasting peace and friendship, it is vital for some quarters in Japan to give up the Cold War mentality and come to terms with China’s development instead of trying to contain it. It is vital for Japan not to make any more mistakes on the issue of Diaoyu Dao, for such mistakes can bring harm to itself while hurting others. China has committed itself to peaceful development. Yet no one should view this as a sign of weakness or as an opportunity to grab China’s territory. No one should have the illusion that China will barter away its territories or sit idly by when its territorial sovereignty is violated. Keeping China-Japan relations peaceful and friendly is a common responsibility for both countries and not a matter involving only the Chinese side.

The third point, we need to remove obstacles to development and cooperation. Development and cooperation are the central task for China and Japan in the 21st century. The 21st century is a century of peace, development and cooperation. Friendship, win-win cooperation and common development serve the fundamental interests of the Chinese and Japanese peoples and those of other Asian countries. They also accord with the trend of the times. Whoever undermines the larger interest of China-Japan cooperation and blocks the path for closer China-Japan cooperation is to be condemned by history. There are still quite some public figures in Japan who live in the 21st century but with a mindset lingering in the 20th century, full of Cold War trappings. It is high time that they changed it. China has always attached importance to its relations with Japan and worked hard to promote China-Japan cooperation. Yet we will never put up with a Japan that talks about friendship and cooperation while doing harm to China at the same time.

Forty years after the normalization of their relations, China and Japan once again find themselves at a crossroads. The decision of the Japanese government to “purchase” Chinese islands, like an atomic bomb dropped on China, has aroused the anger of all Chinese and rallied the 1.3 billion people of China closely together. I want to make it as clear as possible to Japan: never expect China to accept the so-called “nationalization” of the Diaoyu Dao islands, never cherish the illusion for continued occupation of the islands, and never assume that the matter will simply disappear or be explained away by some kind of envoys. If Japan insists on having its own way and lurches down on its erroneous path, then the big ship of China-Japan relations may strike a rock and sink like the Titanic.

Lastly, we want to urge the Japanese government to respect history, act responsibly for China-Japan relations and for peace and stability in East Asia, size up the situation clearly, make a profound self-examination of its past mistakes, show political courage in making a resolute political decision to defuse the un-time bomb of the issue of Diaoyu Dao through credible measures, and call off all moves that jeopardize China’s territorial sovereignty so as to bring China-Japan relations back to their correct track toward peace and friendship.

Source

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/remarks-by-assistant-foreign-minister-le-yucheng-at-symposium-marking-the-40th-anniversary-of-the-normalization-of-relations-between-china-and-japan/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/director-general-condemns-killing-of-two-syrian-journalists-reporter-maya-nasser-and-citizen-journalist-abdelkarim-al-oqda/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/director-general-condemns-killing-of-two-syrian-journalists-reporter-maya-nasser-and-citizen-journalist-abdelkarim-al-oqda/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:26:39 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/director-general-condemns-killing-of-two-syrian-journalists-reporter-maya-nasser-and-citizen-journalist-abdelkarim-al-oqda/ Director-General condemns killing of two Syrian journalists: reporter Maya Nasser and citizen journalist Abdelkarim Al-Oqda

United Nations

<h2>“Once again, I call on all those involved in the conflict in Syria to respect the civilian status of journalists, including citizen journalists, to exercise and their right to freedom of expression. Journalists must also be able to exercise their professional duties. I therefore call for an investigation into the killing of TV reporter Maya Nasser and citizen journalist Abdelkarim Al-Oqda.”</h2> <h2>Maya Nasser, a correspondent for Iran’s English-language Press TV, was shot by a sniper on 26 September while reporting on a twin bomb attack on the military command headquarters in central Damascus. He died shortly afterwards in hospital.</h2>

            Abdelkarim Al-Oqda, a citizen journalist for Sham News Network (SNN), was reportedly killed during an assault by government forces on Arbaeen, a neighbourhood in Hama, on 19 September. According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), he died when security forces attacked his home and set it on fire.

<h2>Al least 30 journalists and citizen journalists have been killed in Syria since the start of the uprising in the country in May 2011. They are remembered on the dedicated page: UNESCO Condemns the killing of journalists.</h2> <h2>                                ****</h2> <h2>Media contact: Sylvie Coudray, s.coudray@unesco.org  +33 (0)1 45 68 24 12</h2>

 UNESCO is the United Nations agency with a mandate to defend freedom of expression and press freedom. Article 1 of its Constitution requires the Organization to “further universal respect for justice, for the rule of law and for the human rights and fundamental freedoms which are affirmed for the peoples of the world, without distinction of race, sex, language or religion, by the Charter of the United Nations.” To realize this the Organization is requested to “collaborate in the work of advancing the mutual knowledge and understanding of peoples, through all means of mass communication and to that end recommend such international agreements as may be necessary to promote the free flow of ideas by word and image…”

 

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Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/director-general-condemns-killing-of-two-syrian-journalists-reporter-maya-nasser-and-citizen-journalist-abdelkarim-al-oqda/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fukushima-nuclear-crisis-update-for-september-25th-to-september-27th-2012/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fukushima-nuclear-crisis-update-for-september-25th-to-september-27th-2012/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:46:00 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fukushima-nuclear-crisis-update-for-september-25th-to-september-27th-2012/ Fukushima Nuclear Crisis Update for September 25th to September 27th, 2012

Non Government Organisations (NGOs)

Here’s the latest of our news bulletins from the ongoing crisis at Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Newly Established Nuclear Regulation Authority

The head of Japan’s newly-created Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA), Shunichi Tanaka, announced this week that the NRA plans to completely rewrite nuclear safety guidelines. He emphasized that controversial so-called “stress tests,” computer simulations conducted by nuclear power operators themselves, will be discarded and the new regulations drawn from scratch. Tanaka hopes to submit a draft outline by the end of the fiscal year in March; by law, the new regulations must be completed by July. “Such tasks as drawing up countermeasures against severe nuclear accidents and determining how to deal with possible active faults beneath nuclear facilities will take a lot of time. I think the timeline is very tight.” Tanaka has not said when some of the nation’s 48 idled reactors might be restarted, although he clarified it would not be before next summer at the earliest. And, he pointed out that if reactors do not meet new guidelines, technical upgrades and retrofitting might mean that it could be years before they are approved for restart. Two reactors at the Oi power plant in Fukui Prefecture–#3 and #4—were restarted under the direction of Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, and Tanaka said he has no plans to reverse that decision, in spite of the fact that they are sitting on a seismic fault that scientists believe may be active. If so, operating those reactors would be a violation of Japanese law.  
 
The new standards will reportedly include guidance on evacuating areas surrounding nuclear reactors in the event of a major nuclear disaster. Evacuation areas called “urgent protective action planning zones” (UPZ) will be increased from an 8-10 km radius around a reactor to 30 km; those within a 5 km radius will be forced to evacuate immediately. Municipal officials, who will need to create new evacuation and disaster management plans by March for up to three times as many people as before have complained that the central government is not providing nearly enough guidance or technical support. In some areas, there are not enough roads and vehicles to perform such a wide-scale evacuation if a nuclear crisis occurs. Tanaka said that if surrounding areas do not submit appropriate evacuation and emergency plans, reactors will not be restarted.
 
Japan’s Nuclear Energy Policy

Yukio Edano, head of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), has announced that the government will ask operators of nuclear power plants who have not yet begun construction on planned new reactors to rescind those plans. Although the recently revealed national energy plan stated, “no new or additional nuclear reactors will be constructed,” nine new reactors are currently in the works, with three under construction. However, work has not yet begun on the remaining six, including reactors #3 and #4 at Fukui Prefecture’s Tsuruga Power Station and reactors #1 and #2 at Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Kaminoseki Nuclear Power Plant. Edano said, “The government’s Innovative Strategy for Energy and the Environment has a certain binding force on nuclear power and the energy industry. We will examine whether the government will have power companies take voluntary responses in light of the government strategy, or if any legislative measures are necessary.”

Edano is currently doing interviews with major media outlets in anticipation of the release of his new book, entitled, “What I Must Say Even If I Were To Be Criticized,” scheduled to come out today. In the book, he writes that the government should take control of all of the nation’s nuclear power plants, out of concern for unmanageable liability on the part of power companies if a nuclear disaster occurs, and in order to facilitate the nation-wide decommissioning of nuclear reactors. “Practically speaking, I see no alternative but to have nuclear plants run by the state,” which would provide “unilateral power to decide on the operation of reactors and the timing of decommissioning them,” he said.
 
Nuclear Politics in Japan

Hirofumi Hirano, head of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) said this week that the government currently has no plans to disable the controversial Monju fast breeder reactor in Fukui Prefecture, in spite of Japan’s recent announcement that it will eradicate nuclear power by the 2030s. The Monju reactor was designed to produce plutonium in order to fuel other reactors around the country, and was long considered a linchpin in the Japanese nuclear cycle. Proponents argued it would allow Japan to make nuclear fuel without importing uranium from the United States. However, the project has been plagued with technical problems, cover-ups, and accidents, and over the course of 25 years, at a cost of $13 billion, the Monju reactor has produced electricity for a grand total of one hour. In addition, the reactor lies directly adjacent to a fault line, raising concerns about what would happen if a massive earthquake struck. Greenpeace Japan’s Kazue Suzuki, a Nuclear and Energy Campaigner, is alarmed about the possibility of a Monju-related disaster: “What’s frightening is that once it starts running out of control, it can’t be stopped, just like any other reactor, and it would load 60 times the explosive power of the Nagasaki nuclear bomb. Ultimately, it will end in failure.”

METI officials said that renewable energy sources in Japan produced power equivalent to that created by one nuclear reactor, or 1.3 million kilowatts, in just three months since a new feed-in tariff program was started in July. Under the program, nuclear power companies are required to purchase power produced by renewable energy sources, including solar and wind, at pre-established rates.

Japan’s Meteorological Society said this week that much of Japan will experience either average or warmer than normal temperatures this winter. That prediction could have a positive effect on the nation’s ability to make it through yet another season without electricity blackouts. This summer was hotter than normal, but despite dire warnings from the nuclear industry, no power shortages occurred, thanks to power-saving efforts by citizens. Electricity use in Japan ranged between 8% and 16% less during this summer than in 2010.

State of the Fukushima Reactors

TEPCO officials are saying that spent and unused fuel rods being stored in the spent fuel pool of reactor #3 at the crippled Fukushima Daiichi power plant appear to have sustained no visible damage and are not, to their knowledge, releasing radiation into the environment. The announcement came after workers accidentally knocked a 470 kg, seven-meter long beam into the pool as they were trying to remove it using a remote-controlled crane. TEPCO said it used an underwater camera to examine the fuel rods, which are submerged in an 11.5-meter deep pool. The utility admitted that an object weighing more than 300 kg could potentially damage the fuel rods stored there. The pool is home to a total of 40,752 nuclear fuel rods, stored in 514 spent fuel assemblies and 52 unused fuel assemblies, each containing 72 rods.

TEPCO

TEPCO officials announced that as of October 3, they will begin accepting claims from victims of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, including evacuees and those suffering psychological damage, for the period beginning June 1 and after. Those eligible may request up to five years’ worth of compensation in one lump sum. Payments will begin at the end of October.

Contamination, Including Human Exposure

Starting next Monday, October 1, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare will begin enforcing new regulations requiring that beef and rice contain less than 100 Bq/kg of radioactive cesium. The previous limit, established immediately after the Fukushima nuclear disaster, was 500 Bq/kg, but standards were changed in April of this year for water, milk, and most foods. New standards for soybeans will take effect in January.

Waste Disposal

Japan’s central government continues to encounter stiff opposition from local communities as it struggles to find places to deposit 42,000 tons of radioactive waste from nine prefectures, including ash and sewage sludge. That number is expected to rise sharply as decontamination efforts ramp up across the country. By law, waste containing 8,000 Bg/kg or more of radioactive cesium must be stored in sites with roofs; reinforced, leak-proof floors and walls; and nearby wells where groundwater contamination levels can be monitored. This week, Katsuhiko Yokomitsu, Senior Vice Minister of the Environment, met with municipal and prefectural leaders of Takahagi City, which is in Ibaraki Prefecture. The government wants to build a new waste repository in a state-owned forest there next summer, but residents are expressing concern about radiation and the fact that they received so little advance notice. Last week, the Environment Ministry was harshly criticized for informing Tochigi Prefectural officials that a waste facility would be built in Yaita Forest just one hour before it formally announced the decision to the public. The Ministry said it has no plans to change the way it communicates with local officials.

Other Nuclear News

Source

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/fukushima-nuclear-crisis-update-for-september-25th-to-september-27th-2012/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/thousands-flee-homes-in-northern-myanmar-as-fighting-intensifies/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/thousands-flee-homes-in-northern-myanmar-as-fighting-intensifies/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:26:06 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/thousands-flee-homes-in-northern-myanmar-as-fighting-intensifies/ Thousands flee homes in northern Myanmar as fighting intensifies

United Nations

News Stories, 28 September 2012

© UNHCR/A.Kirchhof

A UNHCR-supported camp for internally displaced people near Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin state in northern Myanmar.

MYITKYINA, Myanmar, September 28 (UNHCR) – Fighting in northern Myanmar has forced some 10,000 people to flee their homes in the last month. UNHCR is concerned that more families may be trapped in conflict zones plagued by landmines and food shortages.

In recent weeks, fighting in Kachin state between the Myanmar army and the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) and its armed wing, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has displaced more than 8,000 people in the Hpakant area and over 1,000 in Chipwe. The conflict started when a 17-year truce broke down in June 2011, and continues despite regular meetings between the parties to negotiate a peaceful solution in Kachin state.

“We had to flee because there was fighting next to our village,” a new arrival told UNHCR staff. “We could not use the road, because it was totally mined. So we had to pass across the mountains and climb over rocks. We could not carry any property with us.”

Many of the newly displaced are assisted in UNHCR-supported camps for internally displaced people (IDP), which are mostly situated on church-owned territory or next to Buddhist monasteries. Others are believed to be living with host families.

The UN refugee agency is worried about reports of families trapped in the combat zones. Many civilians are believed to be cut off from food supplies as their livestock has been killed and they have no access to their fields.

“Some families in our village have stayed behind. They are in a very difficult situation,” said one of the new arrivals.

“They have little food left, but they cannot go to their fields anymore because of mines. There is still fighting in the area,” said another displaced man.

Due to the extensive use of landmines, the IDPs say they have little hope of returning home in the near future. This applies even to those who fled in mid-2011 and whose villages are not directly affected by fighting anymore.

The recent return of Myanmar citizens from China may further add to the displacement problem. Between mid-August and early September, some 5,000 ethnic Kachins who had fled to China in the preceding months were sent back to Kachin state. More may come back on their own.

“There were maybe 200 families in the region where we stayed,” explained one man who recently left China. “Life is very difficult for them. They are hiding, they do not have documents and are treated as illegal migrants. They would come back to Kachin [state] by themselves, but lack the money.”

The UN refugee agency has been unable to access these groups on the Chinese side of the border. On the Myanmar side, UNHCR has distributed relief items to 1,200 of the recent returnees in four camps in Lwe Je, near the border. An estimated 1,000 returnees have moved on to try to return to their villages in Kachin or northern Shan states. The others remain displaced within Kachin state, unable to go home.

Under the inter-agency response in Kachin state, UNHCR leads protection efforts for internally displaced people and works with local organizations to provide shelter, support the management of the IDP camps and distribute basic items such as cooking sets, plastic sheeting and blankets. The agency is also reaching out to IDPs in the territories held by the KIO/KIA, but access is so far limited. In the government-held areas, the displaced people receive basic humanitarian assistance from UNHCR and other organizations as well as free health care and schooling under government policy.

“We are concerned that the humanitarian situation may deteriorate as more and more people move to the camps and as winter approaches, which will be harsh in some mountainous areas of Kachin,” said Hans ten Feld, UNHCR’s representative in Myanmar. “Together with our partners, we request all parties to the conflict to grant humanitarian actors full access to all the displaced populations in Kachin state.”

In all, more than 88,000 civilians are believed to have fled their homes since June 2011.

UNHCR’s emergency response in Kachin state will need to address these growing needs, and will need more donor support to do so. In 2012, the operation received support from the European Union’s Humanitarian Aid department (ECHO), the United States and through the United Nations’ Central Emergency Reserve Fund.

By Andreas Kirchhof in Myitkyina, Myanmar

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/thousands-flee-homes-in-northern-myanmar-as-fighting-intensifies/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/buses-join-anti-corruption-campaign/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/buses-join-anti-corruption-campaign/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 08:15:28 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/buses-join-anti-corruption-campaign/ Buses Join Anti-Corruption Campaign

Pacific Islands Governments

Written by Administrator

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28 September 2012

 

Visual aids on buses have been the latest form of promoting the anti-corruption message by FICAC.

FICAC’s Organisations Against Corruption Campaign entered a brand new phase with stickers on the back of buses.

Tacirua Transport Co. Limited, Tebara Buses, Central Transport Limited, Kadar Buksh, Lautoka General and Sunbeam have been swift in their response on an anti-corruption operation.

Now the anti-corruption messages which features the effects of corruption and FICAC’s toll free line would go as far as the buses take them, from the paved roads of the CBD’s to the sugar cane fields of the West and even to the rugged terrains of Tailevu and Naitasiri.

 

The Commission is pleased to stand with entrepreneurs from the transport industry to educate people on curbing this development-hindering problem called corruption.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/buses-join-anti-corruption-campaign/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/assessors-find-rizwan-guilty/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/assessors-find-rizwan-guilty/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 07:16:13 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/assessors-find-rizwan-guilty/ Assessors find Rizwan Guilty

Pacific Islands Governments

Written by Administrator

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28 September 2012

 

Mohammed Rizwan was found Guilty by Assessors in the Lautoka High Court this afternoon.

 

The Assessors were unanimous in their decision on all the five counts against Rizwan.

 

Rizwan who was represented by Iqbal Khan faced one count of Endeavoring to Obtain Property on Forged Documents, one count of Uttering Forged Document and three counts of Forgery.

 

Vinsent Perera together with Henrietta Matakitoga appeared on behalf of FICAC.

 

Justice Sithambrampillai Thurairaja then adjourned the matter to 1 October 2012 for Judgment.

 

Background

On the First Count – Endeavoring to obtain property on forged documents – it is alleged that between or about 1 July Rizwan endeavored to obtain $15,055.92 as VAT refund from Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority by a forged document named Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority VAT return in the name of Forzana Zurin Nisha dated 13 October 2008, though knowing it to be forged.

 

On the Second Count – Forgery – it is alleged that between or about 1 July 2008 and 17 November 2008, Rizwan made a false document named Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority VAT Return dated 13 October 2008 in the name of Forzana Zurin Nisha in order that it maybe used as genuine.

 

On the Third Count – Forgery – it is alleged that between or about 1 July 2008 and 17 November 2008 at Ba in the Western Division with intent to defraud made a false document – a VAT Supplementary Registration form dated 13October 2008, in the name of Forzana Zurin Nisha, by making false entries in the VAT Supplementary Registration form, in order that it may be used as genuine.

 

On the Fourth Count – Forgery – it is alleged that between or about 1July 2008 and 17November 2008, Rizwan with intend to defraud made a false document, namely a Provisional Tax Calculation for New Sole Trader Businesses form dated 13 October 2008, in the name of Forzana Zurin Nisha, by making false entries in the said Provisional Tax Calculation for New Sole Trader Businesses form, in order that it may be used as genuine.

 

On the Fifth Count – Uttering a forged Document – it is alleged that on or about the 17 November 2008 at Suva in the Central Division knowingly and fraudulently uttered forged documents which was a Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority VAT Return dated 13October 2008 in the name of Forzana Zurin Nisha; a VAT Supplementary Registration form dated 13^th October 2008 in the name of Forzana Zurin Nisha and; a Provisional Tax Calculation for New Sole Trader Businesses form dated 13 October 2008 in the name of Forzana Zurin Nisha to the Fiji Islands Revenue and Customs Authority Office, knowing the same to be forged.

 

 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/assessors-find-rizwan-guilty/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officer-charged-for-bribery/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officer-charged-for-bribery/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 06:15:38 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officer-charged-for-bribery/ Officer Charged for Bribery

Pacific Islands Governments

Written by Administrator

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28 September 2012

 

Bribery charges were filed this morning at the Suva Magistrates Court against Rudra Maharaj, a public relations officer at the Prime Minister’s Office.

 

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge which was brought under section 5 (2) (a) of the Bribery Promulgation by FICAC.

 

The counsel for the accused submitted that bail be granted for his client as the accused is still employed at the prime minister’s office and is involved in various official duties including the constitutional council.

 

FICAC Senior Legal Officer, Rashmi Aslam objected to the bail being granted to the accused and submitted that the accused is being charged with a serious allegation of bribery. He informed the Court that considering that the accused is employed in an office of higher standards and who deals with the public – allegations of this nature would lead to loss of public confidence in such an office.

 

Aslam also mentioned that granting bail to the accused would jeopardize ongoing investigations that focused on other higher officials who are allegedly involved. He said that the investigators are after the mobile phone, which has gone missing since his apprehension, and therefore the conduct of the accused may cause further hindrances to the ongoing investigations, if bail is granted.

 

Magistrate Janaka Bandara in his ruling said that granting bail to the accused in this juncture would directly affect ongoing investigations and remanded the accused in custody.

 

The Prosecution is directed to file a report regarding the status of the investigation on 12October 2012.

 

Background

It is alleged that being the information officer – public relations at the strategic framework for change coordination officer at the office of the Prime Minister, Maharaj accepted an advantage of $2000 cash and two cheques amounting to $10,000 as a reward from Avin Prakash on account of using influence in procuring the contract pertaining to tender number WSC 177-182/2012.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/officer-charged-for-bribery/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/west-wing-week-092812-or-a-common-heartbeat-to-humanity/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/west-wing-week-092812-or-a-common-heartbeat-to-humanity/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 05:26:08 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/west-wing-week-092812-or-a-common-heartbeat-to-humanity/ West Wing Week 09/28/12 or "A Common Heartbeat to Humanity"

United States White House blog

Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that’s happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. This week, the First Lady spoke at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Dinner, We the People turned one-year old, and the President addressed the UN General Assembly and the Clinton Global Initiative.

 

 

Saturday, September 22nd:

 

 

 

Monday, September 24th:

 

• The President traveled to New York City and joined the First Lady for a taping of “The View.”

 

 

Tuesday, September 25th: 

 

 

Wednesday, September 26th:

 

• Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes took a look back at the President’s trip to the UN for “The Rhodes Traveled.”
• The Vice President and Dr. Biden hosted their fourth annual reception and fiesta,  in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month at the Naval Observatory.

 

Thursday, September 27th:

 

• The White House hosted a Google+ Hangout for anyone who wanted to learn more about the Obama Administration’s efforts to combat human trafficking at home and abroad.

 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/west-wing-week-092812-or-a-common-heartbeat-to-humanity/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/least-developed-countries-need-more-international-support-bangladeshi-premier-tells-un/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/least-developed-countries-need-more-international-support-bangladeshi-premier-tells-un/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 04:25:54 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/least-developed-countries-need-more-international-support-bangladeshi-premier-tells-un/ Least developed countries need more international support, Bangladeshi premier tells UN

United Nations

28 September 2012 The world’s poorest countries need more international support to help them alleviate the consequences of rising food and energy prices, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, told the United Nations General Assembly today.

Linking the price increases to climate change, Prime Minister Hasina said they had “dangerous implications” for UN-designated Least Developed Countries.

“They need greater international support for socio-economic security,” she said, adding that what is important to them is gaining duty-free and quota-free market access for their products, seeing donor countries fulfil their official development assistance commitments, being given an “equal voice” in institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, and being allowed free international movement of labour for their respective workforces.

“We should also ensure documentation and safe migration, and protection of the rights of migrant workers, especially women and children, as a shared responsibility of sending and receiving states within the WTO (World Trade Organization),” she said.

The Prime Minister said Bangladesh’s progress on development had been “hindered by the unjust climate change developments like increasing poverty, property loss, human displacements, and consequent terrorism.”

“The inevitable sea level rise would create mass movements of displaced migrants,” she said. “A new legal regime ensuring social, cultural and economic rehabilitation of climate migrants… must be put in place.” She noted that she had called for such a regime during the 64th session of the General Assembly three years ago.

Prime Minister Hasina stated that her country had managed to advance economically despite the obstacles before it, citing a 10 percent reduction in poverty, in addition to other favourable economic statistics. “Our achievements have earned us global recognition,” she said.

In her statement to the Assembly, the Bangladeshi premier also mentioned the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, terrorism and the need for UN reform.

Prime Minister Hasina is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/least-developed-countries-need-more-international-support-bangladeshi-premier-tells-un/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/chinas-foreign-minister-stresses-principle-of-non-interference-at-un-debate/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/chinas-foreign-minister-stresses-principle-of-non-interference-at-un-debate/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 04:25:53 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/chinas-foreign-minister-stresses-principle-of-non-interference-at-un-debate/ China’s Foreign Minister stresses principle of non-interference at UN debate

United Nations

27 September 2012 Taking the podium at the United Nations General Assembly today, China’s Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi stressed the need to ensure that international relations are based strictly on the principle of non-interference in each other’s affairs.

“Mutual respect and equality are basic norms governing international relations. All countries, big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community,” Mr. Yang said at the 67th Assembly’s General Debate at UN Headquarters in New York. “Respect for each other’s sovereignty, core interests and choice of social system and development path is a fundamental principle guiding state-to-state relations.”

He added, “China endeavours to strengthen political mutual trust and address problems and differences with other countries through dialogue and exchanges. China does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries or impose its will on others, and China does not allow outside forces to interfere in its internal affairs.”

On the issue of the disputed ownership of a small group of islands located in the East China Sea – known as the Diaoyu Dao in Chinese and the Senkaku in Japanese – Mr. Yang said Japan’s recent private purchase of the islands “grossly violated” China’s sovereignty and described the act as posing “a grave challenge to the post-war international order and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations.”

“The moves taken by Japan are totally illegal and invalid,” he said. “They can in no way change the historical fact that Japan stole Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands from China and the fact that China has territorial sovereignty over them.”

The Foreign Minister said China supports the United Nations in enhancing its authority and efficiency and the ability to address new threats and challenges through proper reform.

“Facing growing global challenges, the international community should strengthen coordination and cooperation, establish a fair, equitable, flexible and effective system of global governance, properly address various global issues and promote the common well-being of mankind,” he stated.

“It is important to advance the building of a global system of economic governance with a focus on reforming the international financial system, speedily implement the quota and governance reform plans of the IMF (International Monetary Fund) and other financial institutions and increase the representation and voice of emerging markets and developing countries,” he said.

In his speech, Mr. Yang called for respect for the diversity of the world and the right of all countries to independently choose their development paths. “We must oppose terrorism, separatism and extremism in all forms,” he said.

Turning to international crisis points he called on all relevant parties in Syria, where over 18,000 people have been killed since an anti-government uprising erupted 18 months ago, to launch an inclusive political dialogue and a Syrian-led political transition as soon as possible. “China is open towards any political plan that is acceptable to all parties in Syria,” he said.

On Iran’s nuclear programme, which Tehran says is for the peaceful purpose of producing energy but which the United States, Israel and other countries say could be aimed at producing a nuclear weapon, Mr. Yang said the issue had “reached a new crucial stage.

‘The relevant parties should remain committed to a diplomatic solution and begin a new round of dialogue as soon as possible,” he added. “We should, acting in the spirit of respecting each other’s concerns, showing flexibility and pragmatism, expanding common ground and overcoming differences.”

The Chinese Foreign Minister is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/chinas-foreign-minister-stresses-principle-of-non-interference-at-un-debate/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/asg-promotes-open-government/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/asg-promotes-open-government/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 04:16:16 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/asg-promotes-open-government/ ASG Promotes Open Government

Pacific Islands Governments

ASG Promotes Open Government

Details

Wednesday, 26 September 2012

(UTULEI: Wednesday, September 26, 2012) – “Open Government highlights what we do for the people and with the people. . .” said Governor Togiola, at the Open Government celebration that was hosted by the Information Technology Department—under the direction of Chief Information Officer, Sinaoali’i Easter Bruce.

The celebration was filled with almost the entire government cabinet, members of the community and special guests which included; Governor Togiola, Lt. Governor Faoa Sunia, President Edward Lotulelei of Pago Pago Samoa Central Stake, and the ASCC Samoan Institute Dancers who provided entertainment for the crowd.

“The star of the event was the new face of the Government Newsletter—Tapuitea”, Said Sinaoali’i during her opening remarks. She also informed the public about the IT department’s role in revamping the newsletter and how it coincides with the vision of Open Government.

Honorable Governor, Togiola Tulafono offered the special remarks and encouraged the members of his cabinet to use the newsletter as a medium that would inform the public of all the excellent projects the government is doing for the people of American Samoa.

The celebration would not have been possible without the help of: Office of the Governor, DOC, Medicaid, KSBS, KHJ, KVZK, V103, Godinet Rentals, PRIMO, USOMONI Screen Printing, The Late Tavita Tapa Iuli Foundation, Off-Campus Books and Supplies, Kang Sevao of DOC, Margie Fitu of MarSons Productions and more.

For information about Open Government, subscribe to the Tapuitea Newsletter at www.americansamoa.gov or call 633-3648.

—americansamoa.gov—

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/asg-promotes-open-government/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-west-center-welcomes-new-diplomat-in-residence-nicholas-papp/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-west-center-welcomes-new-diplomat-in-residence-nicholas-papp/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 02:55:38 +0000 36th Parallel http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-west-center-welcomes-new-diplomat-in-residence-nicholas-papp/ East-West Center Welcomes New Diplomat-In-Residence, Nicholas Papp

Pacific Regional Bodies

HONOLULU (Sept. 27, 2012) – – Nicholas Papp, a 13-year veteran of the U.S. Foreign Service, has joined the East-West Center as Diplomat-in-Residence. He will be posted at the Center until June 2013 with a research focus on the current democratic reform movement in Burma.

Specializing in public diplomacy, Mr. Papp’s overseas work has focused on cross-cultural relations, public-private partnerships, and strategic communications programs.  He recently returned to the U.S. from Baghdad, where he served as an Energy Officer promoting energy security issues related to Iraq’s growing oil and gas sector. Prior to that, he served at the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the American Institute in Taiwan, and at the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, Thailand.  He began his foreign service career at the U.S. Embassy in the United Arab Emirates after working in the financial services industry. 

The Department of State has recognized his work with several awards, and in 2008 he received the prestigious Award for Achievement in Public Diplomacy for his innovative marketing and information outreach for the EducationUSA program in Taiwan.

Originally from Connecticut, Nick speaks Thai, Malay, Mandarin, and French.  He holds a BA in Economics and Government from Cornell University and an International MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management.

He is available for public speaking engagements and can be reached at +1 (808) 944-7198 or via email at PappN@EastWestCenter.org.

A press photo of Nicholas Papp can be downloaded at:

www.eastwestcenter.org/lLp

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-west-center-welcomes-new-diplomat-in-residence-nicholas-papp/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/speech-to-export-new-zealand-and-asean-new-zealand-combined-business-council/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/speech-to-export-new-zealand-and-asean-new-zealand-combined-business-council/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 02:40:06 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/speech-to-export-new-zealand-and-asean-new-zealand-combined-business-council/ Speech to Export New Zealand and ASEAN-New Zealand Combined Business Council

New Zealand

Selamat pagi. Good afternoon.

It’s a pleasure to be here at this forum and I’d like to acknowledge the organisers – the ASEAN-New Zealand Combined Business Council and Export New Zealand.

As you know, I took a trade delegation to Indonesia earlier this year.

Some of you were on that trip, and I hope you found it valuable.

I had the pleasure of having Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan as my host Minister, meaning we got to spend a lot of time together.

Gita is coming over to New Zealand in October and I’m looking forward to catching up with him again.

For today, I am very pleased that Mr Gusmardi Bustami is able to be here to represent the Indonesian Ministry of Trade.

I understand that Mr Gusmardi has visited New Zealand a number of times in his previous role as Director-General of International Trade.

It is my pleasure to welcome him today, not only in his new role as Director-General for National Export Development, but as a member of the Indonesia-New Zealand Friendship Council.

My visit to Indonesia in April was the first time I’d been back in the country since the late 1990s. There have certainly been many changes.

Indonesia has been growing consistently at over 6 per cent a year, despite the global financial crisis.

It is the fourth-biggest country in the world by population, and is one of the 20 biggest economies in the world.

Democracy is flourishing in Indonesia. The political and economic transformation over the last decade has made many millions of Indonesians better off.

Indonesia is central to the stability and prosperity of Southeast Asia, and to the economic well-being of Asia more generally.

And it’s our nearest neighbour in Asia.

So our relationship with Indonesia is extremely important.

I was very pleased during my visit to Jakarta when President Yudhoyono described our relationship as one of “kawan dekat” or “close friends”.

Our trade links are growing.

And our governments work together very well.

We have a great deal of contact at the highest level through forums such as APEC and the East Asia Summit.

The Indonesian Government last year made a generous contribution of US$500,000 to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal, for which we are very grateful.

New Zealand, for its part, was a strong supporter of post-tsunami recovery efforts in Aceh, and has contributed to recovery efforts after more recent earthquakes.

And the New Zealand development programme in Indonesia is our biggest outside the Pacific.

But there are plenty of opportunities for New Zealand and Indonesia to develop even closer and deeper ties.

As economies, we have complementary strengths.

There are huge opportunities for New Zealand and Indonesia to increase our two-way trade and to do a great deal more business together.

To help facilitate that trade, I am happy to announce that the Government has appointed a new Trade Commissioner, Tim Anderson, to Indonesia.

Previously, we’ve had one Commissioner covering Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei.

But given our growing relationship with Indonesia, we felt it was important to have a Trade Commissioner based full-time in Jakarta.

Tim is fluent in Bahasa Indonesia, has previously been a business advisor in Indonesia, and is involved in the Friendship Council.

His appointment is a clear sign that the Government wants to step up our trade engagement with Indonesia, building on the ASEAN–Australia–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.

This is an FTA of the highest quality.

As I said when I was in Jakarta, I congratulate Indonesia, and the other members of ASEAN, for having the courage and foresight to sign up to such an ambitious agreement.

New Zealand’s experience is that FTAs are mutually beneficial, help foster longstanding business relationships, and lead to increased prosperity for all the countries involved.

The ASEAN FTA offers the prospect of greater commerce between our two countries.

That has certainly been our experience with China.

Since the China FTA was signed in 2008, we have seen trade expand exponentially.

New Zealand’s goods exports to China have trebled in only four years, and China is now our second-largest export market.

It is also now New Zealand’s biggest source of imported goods.

I would be delighted to see this sort of expansion in trade between New Zealand and Indonesia, and between New Zealand and ASEAN more generally.

The rapidly-expanding middle classes in Asia present opportunities for New Zealand businesses producing high quality goods and services.

Our exporters will benefit from the progressive elimination of tariffs by 2020 on 99 per cent of New Zealand’s current exports to ASEAN markets.

Looking forward, the important thing is for businesses in both Indonesia and New Zealand to take advantage of the free trade agreement.

Having an agreement is simply the first step.

Businesses need to put time and effort into understanding each other’s countries.

Many of them already are. We’ve seen that, for example, through participation in the Indonesia-New Zealand Friendship Council.

And we need to ensure that informal, or behind-the-border, trade barriers don’t arise to replace the formal trade barriers we are carefully taking down.

That would be a backward step. The reality is that protectionism of any shade doesn’t help anyone in the longer term, including the industries it aims to protect.

Looking further forward, New Zealand hopes to see the ASEAN FTA used as a benchmark for the new Regional Closer Economic Partnership – an FTA process that Indonesia has been instrumental in getting under way.

It is easy for New Zealanders to think of Indonesia solely in terms of a rapidly-expanding consumer goods market, and the FTA as a way of getting into that market.

But there is much more to our growing economic relationship than that.

We see the FTA as a means of developing, for example, business partnerships, two-way investment, and a vibrant trade in services.

In that sense, New Zealand has a lot to offer Indonesia.

We are a reliable, competitive and high-quality source of food.

We have technical knowledge and expertise that can help Indonesia develop, build infrastructure and add value to the natural resources that Indonesia has in such abundance.

We can continue to work with Indonesia, for example, in harnessing its large geothermal energy resources.

We can contribute in other niche areas like air services.

We can be a high-quality, cost-effective partner in educating the next generation of Indonesian leaders.

And we are a great place to visit, see our wonderful scenery and play a few rounds of golf.

What New Zealand can offer is a good fit with Indonesia’s own aims.

Minister Gita emphasised to me that Indonesia is focusing on food security, energy security and educating its people to ensure they are well-placed to succeed.

So I want to talk about these things in turn.

First, on food security, it is clear that Indonesia has a rapidly-growing population that wants to be fed and, increasingly, wants to be fed well.

We would stress to Indonesia that we see food security there, as for any country, as having two main elements – increasing domestic agriculture production, and securing a reliable and complementary supply of imports.

New Zealand can contribute to both these objectives.

When I was in Jakarta I witnessed the signing of a bilateral agreement on agriculture cooperation.

Among other things, this commits New Zealand to assisting Indonesia with a range of capacity-building activities in dairy, beef, horticulture and quarantine.

But if food security is about more than just the bare minimum for sustenance, it has to also be about trade.

So, for example, Indonesia’s consumption of protein is set to increase strongly in coming years, as incomes continue to rise.

Meeting such demand calls for an increase in domestic dairy and beef production, but also for an increase in dairy and beef imports.

It’s not one or the other, but both.

Minister Gita has said he wants to see Indonesian beef consumption rise from around two kilograms per capita per year, to 20 kilograms per year.

As with dairy, this is as much a development issue as a consumer demand issue.

A society aspiring to better levels of health and nutrition needs more sources of protein.

Availability of beef at an affordable price is an essential element of achieving that objective.

New Zealand can help with that supply.

And imports of New Zealand’s high-quality beef will always complement, not challenge, Indonesia’s own beef production.

The same applies to our other food products, as it does in all our markets.

Even if all New Zealand were turned into farmland, we could only supply a small fraction of the rapidly expanding demand from markets in East Asia and Southeast Asia.

For that reason New Zealand wants to encourage Indonesia, and other ASEAN countries, to keep their markets as open as possible, and to limit any constraints to doing business.

I’m delighted that our senior-level contacts are ramping up after my visit to Jakarta.

In November we hope to host Indonesia’s Minister of Agriculture, and our own Minister of Agriculture, David Carter, will in turn be making a visit to Indonesia later in the same month.

And I’m pleased to see that New Zealand producers, including Fonterra, are making the decision to invest in Indonesia, ensuring they will be part of the Indonesian story.

So there are undoubtedly significant opportunities for both Indonesian and New Zealand businesses to help meet Indonesia’s food security goals and, in particular, for new partnerships between businesses in both countries.

The same can be said in the energy sector.

Through the geothermal industry, New Zealand has a particularly important place in helping Indonesia achieve its aim of energy security.

Together, using New Zealand development funding, we built Indonesia’s first commercial geothermal plant, and we’ve remained closely involved in other geothermal developments since then.

We continue to educate many of Indonesia’s leading geothermal engineers at the Geothermal Institute at the University of Auckland.

There is now a large group of geothermal businesspeople and engineers in Indonesia who are very comfortable working with New Zealand.

This network, and the establishment of Geothermal New Zealand, give us the contacts and the scale to take part in Indonesia’s most significant projects.

We see New Zealand as the natural partner for Indonesia in geothermal development.

That’s why we signed a bilateral Geothermal Cooperation Arrangement during my visit to Jakarta.

As Indonesia scales up its infrastructure, it is also looking to increase the skills of its population.

New Zealand universities and other institutions can offer Indonesian students qualifications that are highly valued and transferable throughout the world.

We are relatively close to Indonesia and we provide a safe and welcoming environment.

We would like to see more Indonesian students come to New Zealand and our new government agency, Education New Zealand, is increasing its focus on Indonesia.

We need to be ambitious. Last year, Australia hosted 17,000 Indonesian students, compared to 600 in New Zealand.

Australia is, of course, a lot closer to Indonesia, which explains a good deal of that difference.

But New Zealand can do better, so we’re working towards a target of attracting 4,000 Indonesian students to study in New Zealand by 2017.

New Zealand can also assist Indonesia in raising the quality of its own institutions.

Our countries can be academic partners. New Zealand tertiary institutions are accelerating their interaction with Indonesian counterparts, looking at joint courses and other programmes.

The number of MOUs between tertiary institutions is increasing. And I’m pleased to hear that no fewer than three New Zealand university delegations led by Vice-Chancellors will be visiting Indonesia in the next two months.

Education and trade benefit, of course, from better connectivity between countries and more people-to-people contact.

Physical connections count. I’m delighted that Air New Zealand restarted its service between Auckland and Bali in June this year, and I understand the service has been very successful.

I look forward to Garuda Indonesia opening a direct link with New Zealand in 2013.

A direct link to Jakarta would be a great boost to business relationships between our two countries.

Needless to say, it would also benefit tourism.

As the number of wealthy and middle-class Indonesians continues to grow, we want to encourage them to holiday here, as well as to trade and study.

For the moment, Indonesia is less of a tourist source than some other countries in the region.

However, in my capacity as Tourism Minister I can see this changing.

The number of Indonesian holiday-makers coming to New Zealand grew 11 per cent in the last year.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am very optimistic about the relationship between New Zealand and Indonesia, on a whole lot of levels.

It’s a relationship that will be characterised by mutual partnership.

And it’s in that vein that New Zealand sees the future of its ties with Indonesia.

I think that the Indonesia-New Zealand Friendship Council, together with the links between the ASEAN-New Zealand Combined Business Council and KADIN, the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce, will keep that relationship prominent in the eyes of the private sector.

A common thread in what I’ve been saying is potential.

The Government has a sound relationship with Indonesia, and many New Zealanders are already doing business with Indonesia.

But we could all be doing a lot more.

We need to be bold in our ambitions and pragmatic and practical about addressing any issues that might arise along the way.

I believe bold ambitions on each side can realise the huge business potential of this relationship.

I wish you an enjoyable and profitable forum.

Thank you.
 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/speech-to-export-new-zealand-and-asean-new-zealand-combined-business-council/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting-2/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting-2/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 01:30:35 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting-2/ East Asia and the Pacific: Remarks at the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting

United States Department Of State

SECRETARY CLINTON: Well good afternoon everyone, and welcome to New York. Thank you for joining us here. It’s a pleasure to welcome all of you to New York, and I want to offer a special greeting to my co-chair. Thank you so much, Foreign Minister. Not very long ago, it would have been impossible to imagine we would be sitting here together working so closely to advance a shared agenda, but it is a testament to the progress your country has achieved and to the promise that the future holds.

Since my first meeting with this group over three years ago, when I signed the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Thailand, the United States has made a sustained all-out effort to build an enduring multifaceted relationship with ASEAN. Over the summer I led a large delegation of American business executives and senior government officials to the first ever U.S.-ASEAN Business Forum, reflecting the increasingly important economic dimension of our partnership. And this year, we are expanding our cooperation on education to the U.S.-ASEAN Fulbright Initiative, and the Brunei-U.S. English Language Enrichment Project. We’ve also committed substantial new resources to the Lower Mekong Initiative, which is helping narrow ASEAN’s development gap. And we welcomed in our colleagues from Nay Pyi Taw to the meeting.

Earlier this month, I had the chance to visit the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta for the second time, and I thank the Secretary General for his warm and gracious hospitality. I’m pleased that the ASEAN committee of permanent representatives is visiting the United States this week for discussions on a wide range of issues.

Our increasing engagement with ASEAN is part of a broader effort by the United States to deepen our commitment to the Asia Pacific region. We want to work with all of you to build a stable and just regional order that will benefit every nation. And that means supporting mature and effective institutions that can mobilize common action and settle disputes peacefully. It means working toward rules and norms that help manage relations between peoples, markets, and nations and safeguard universal rights. And it means establishing security arrangements that provide stability and build trust.

Our relationship with ASEAN is at the heart of all these efforts, including our participation in the East Asia Summit. As President Obama made clear at last year’s meeting, the United States supports the East Asia Summit as the Asia Pacific’s premier institution for political and strategic issues, and we believe it is the capstone of increasingly mature and effective regional architecture.

We are pleased to see that the East Asia Summit is making progress across an expanding range of issues, from the energy ministerial in Brunei to the education ministerial in Indonesia. As we head toward the November leaders meetings, it is important we stay focused on pursuing a clear agenda and producing concrete results. We continue to support the priorities put forward in the Bali Declaration last year. And in particular, the areas that President Obama stressed should be at the top of our agenda together: disaster relief, nonproliferation, and maritime security. Now let me just say a quick work about each of those, and then a fourth we hope to elevate.

First, disaster relief. From the tsunami in Aceh in 2004 and on the islands off of Thailand and in Sri Lanka and so much else in the region, to the floods in the Philippines and Thailand again last year, to the triple disaster in Japan, to a cycle of storms and flooding, we have seen a lot of natural disasters in this region. But we also have seen a coordinated international response. The United States has been eager to work with our partners in the ASEAN Regional Forum and to participate in and help lead disaster relief exercises. We continue to believe it is imperative to develop a regional, legal framework to support the delivery and acceptance of emergency relief supplies, services, and personnel following major disasters. So we would urge all nations to endorse the Rapid Disaster Response Agreement as a first step.

The second priority is nonproliferation. Let me underscore it’s essential for all ASEAN and East Asia Summit nations to remain firm and unified in pursuit of the peaceful, verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. We also look to all ASEAN members to universalize the additional protocol and further strengthen domestic export control laws.

And I think it’s also fair to say that our responsibilities cannot end with the immediate neighborhood. Unfortunately, yesterday the President of Iran provided another reminder of why the international community continues to have serious concerns about his country’s nuclear program. As President Obama told the General Assembly, America wants to resolve this issue through diplomacy. We believe there is still time and space to do so, but that time is not unlimited and that’s why the United States will do what we must to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

The best way to achieve a diplomatic solution we all see is for the international community, including ASEAN, to stay united. If we ease the pressure or waver in our resolve, Iran will have less incentive to negotiate in good faith or take the necessary steps to address the international community’s concerns.

The third priority is maritime security, and we look forward to the expanded ASEAN maritime forum next week in Manila. All 18 East Asia Summit states have been invited for in-depth discussions on how to improve safety on the region’s waterways, combat piracy, protect the environment, and we are encouraged by the recent informal dialogue between ASEAN and China as they work toward a comprehensive code of conduct for the South China Sea as a means to prevent future tension in the region.

As I have said many times, the United States does not take a position on competing territorial claim over land features, but we do have a national interest in the maintenance of peace and stability, respect for international law, freedom of navigation, and unimpeded lawful commerce in the South China Sea. The Untied States continues to support ASEAN’s Six-Point Principles, which we believe will help reduce tensions and pave the way for a comprehensive code of conduct for addressing disputes without threats, coercion, or use of force.

Finally this year, we hope to focus our EAS partners on the challenge of wildlife trafficking and the related issues of protecting biodiversity and preventing the emergence of pandemic diseases. The illegal trade in protected and endangered species is now estimated between $7- and $10 billion dollars a year. It is increasingly intertwined with other illicit activities that undermine regional security and prosperity, including organized crime. Earlier this month, APEC economies agreed to take steps to stop poachers and the United States is eager to work with our partners in ASEAN as well, developing new initiative, building on the good work of the ASEAN Wildlife Enforcement Network.

So we have a full plate in front of us, but that’s no surprise. ASEAN is a dynamic and crucial institution in a dynamic and crucial region of the world. The United States is committed to working with you very closely as we head toward the East Asia Summit in Phnom Penh in November. I thank you very much, and please let me now turn to the Foreign Minister.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting-2/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 01:30:35 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting/ East Asia and the Pacific: Remarks at the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting

United States Department Of State

SECRETARY CLINTON: Well good afternoon everyone, and welcome to New York. Thank you for joining us here. It’s a pleasure to welcome all of you to New York, and I want to offer a special greeting to my co-chair. Thank you so much, Foreign Minister. Not very long ago, it would have been impossible to imagine we would be sitting here together working so closely to advance a shared agenda, but it is a testament to the progress your country has achieved and to the promise that the future holds.

Since my first meeting with this group over three years ago, when I signed the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Thailand, the United States has made a sustained all-out effort to build an enduring multifaceted relationship with ASEAN. Over the summer I led a large delegation of American business executives and senior government officials to the first ever U.S.-ASEAN Business Forum, reflecting the increasingly important economic dimension of our partnership. And this year, we are expanding our cooperation on education to the U.S.-ASEAN Fulbright Initiative, and the Brunei-U.S. English Language Enrichment Project. We’ve also committed substantial new resources to the Lower Mekong Initiative, which is helping narrow ASEAN’s development gap. And we welcomed in our colleagues from Nay Pyi Taw to the meeting.

Earlier this month, I had the chance to visit the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta for the second time, and I thank the Secretary General for his warm and gracious hospitality. I’m pleased that the ASEAN committee of permanent representatives is visiting the United States this week for discussions on a wide range of issues.

Our increasing engagement with ASEAN is part of a broader effort by the United States to deepen our commitment to the Asia Pacific region. We want to work with all of you to build a stable and just regional order that will benefit every nation. And that means supporting mature and effective institutions that can mobilize common action and settle disputes peacefully. It means working toward rules and norms that help manage relations between peoples, markets, and nations and safeguard universal rights. And it means establishing security arrangements that provide stability and build trust.

Our relationship with ASEAN is at the heart of all these efforts, including our participation in the East Asia Summit. As President Obama made clear at last year’s meeting, the United States supports the East Asia Summit as the Asia Pacific’s premier institution for political and strategic issues, and we believe it is the capstone of increasingly mature and effective regional architecture.

We are pleased to see that the East Asia Summit is making progress across an expanding range of issues, from the energy ministerial in Brunei to the education ministerial in Indonesia. As we head toward the November leaders meetings, it is important we stay focused on pursuing a clear agenda and producing concrete results. We continue to support the priorities put forward in the Bali Declaration last year. And in particular, the areas that President Obama stressed should be at the top of our agenda together: disaster relief, nonproliferation, and maritime security. Now let me just say a quick work about each of those, and then a fourth we hope to elevate.

First, disaster relief. From the tsunami in Aceh in 2004 and on the islands off of Thailand and in Sri Lanka and so much else in the region, to the floods in the Philippines and Thailand again last year, to the triple disaster in Japan, to a cycle of storms and flooding, we have seen a lot of natural disasters in this region. But we also have seen a coordinated international response. The United States has been eager to work with our partners in the ASEAN Regional Forum and to participate in and help lead disaster relief exercises. We continue to believe it is imperative to develop a regional, legal framework to support the delivery and acceptance of emergency relief supplies, services, and personnel following major disasters. So we would urge all nations to endorse the Rapid Disaster Response Agreement as a first step.

The second priority is nonproliferation. Let me underscore it’s essential for all ASEAN and East Asia Summit nations to remain firm and unified in pursuit of the peaceful, verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. We also look to all ASEAN members to universalize the additional protocol and further strengthen domestic export control laws.

And I think it’s also fair to say that our responsibilities cannot end with the immediate neighborhood. Unfortunately, yesterday the President of Iran provided another reminder of why the international community continues to have serious concerns about his country’s nuclear program. As President Obama told the General Assembly, America wants to resolve this issue through diplomacy. We believe there is still time and space to do so, but that time is not unlimited and that’s why the United States will do what we must to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

The best way to achieve a diplomatic solution we all see is for the international community, including ASEAN, to stay united. If we ease the pressure or waver in our resolve, Iran will have less incentive to negotiate in good faith or take the necessary steps to address the international community’s concerns.

The third priority is maritime security, and we look forward to the expanded ASEAN maritime forum next week in Manila. All 18 East Asia Summit states have been invited for in-depth discussions on how to improve safety on the region’s waterways, combat piracy, protect the environment, and we are encouraged by the recent informal dialogue between ASEAN and China as they work toward a comprehensive code of conduct for the South China Sea as a means to prevent future tension in the region.

As I have said many times, the United States does not take a position on competing territorial claim over land features, but we do have a national interest in the maintenance of peace and stability, respect for international law, freedom of navigation, and unimpeded lawful commerce in the South China Sea. The Untied States continues to support ASEAN’s Six-Point Principles, which we believe will help reduce tensions and pave the way for a comprehensive code of conduct for addressing disputes without threats, coercion, or use of force.

Finally this year, we hope to focus our EAS partners on the challenge of wildlife trafficking and the related issues of protecting biodiversity and preventing the emergence of pandemic diseases. The illegal trade in protected and endangered species is now estimated between $7- and $10 billion dollars a year. It is increasingly intertwined with other illicit activities that undermine regional security and prosperity, including organized crime. Earlier this month, APEC economies agreed to take steps to stop poachers and the United States is eager to work with our partners in ASEAN as well, developing new initiative, building on the good work of the ASEAN Wildlife Enforcement Network.

So we have a full plate in front of us, but that’s no surprise. ASEAN is a dynamic and crucial institution in a dynamic and crucial region of the world. The United States is committed to working with you very closely as we head toward the East Asia Summit in Phnom Penh in November. I thank you very much, and please let me now turn to the Foreign Minister.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/east-asia-and-the-pacific-remarks-at-the-asean-ministerial-meeting/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/what-you-missed-white-house-hangout-on-combating-human-trafficking/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/what-you-missed-white-house-hangout-on-combating-human-trafficking/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 01:26:14 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/what-you-missed-white-house-hangout-on-combating-human-trafficking/ What You Missed: White House Hangout on Combating Human Trafficking

United States White House blog

This week, President Obama spoke at the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting about his administration’s efforts to combat human trafficking. “Our fight against human trafficking is one of the great human rights causes of our time and the United States will continue to lead it,” the President said.

We continued the conversation today by hosting a live video chat with administration officials, including Executive Director of the White House Council on Women and Girls Tina Tchen and Senior Director for Multilateral Affairs Samantha Power. Participating leaders from the NGO and faith community included:

• Malika Saada-Saar, Executive Director, Human Rights Project for Girls
• Natalie Grant, Christian music artist and, Founder, Abolition International
• Randy Newcomb, President and CEO, Humanity United
• Kaitlyn Ruhland, Student, International Justice Mission
• Kay Buck, CEO and Executive Director, Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking (CAST)

Joshua DuBois, Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, moderated the Hangout and thousands of you joined the discussion online. During the event, the hashtag #WHHangout was even trending nationwide on Twitter.

If you missed the live event, you can watch the full video right here. And be sure to check out the President’s speech at CGI and learn more about the Administration’s efforts to combat human trafficking at home and abroad.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/what-you-missed-white-house-hangout-on-combating-human-trafficking/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/new-chevening-scholarships-website-launched/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/new-chevening-scholarships-website-launched/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 01:15:52 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/new-chevening-scholarships-website-launched/ New Chevening Scholarships website launched

British Foreign Office (Pacific Posts)

The new website brings together the worldwide achievements of the Chevening scheme, providing a central source of information for current, past and future award holders.

Fiji has its own page at www.chevening.org/fiji where potential applicants can register their interest to receive alerts about application opening dates and candidate guidance, and find out about Fiji’s priority subjects for Chevening Scholars.

Potential applicants from Kiribati, Nauru, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu can register their interest to receive alerts about application opening dates and candidate guidance, and find out about their respective country’s priority subjects for Chevening Scholars at www.chevening.org/southpacific/

In addition to giving details of the Chevening application process, the website provides updates about latest developments in the scheme worldwide, and important information on applying for higher education courses in the UK more generally.

If you have the potential to be a future leader and a desire to study in the UK, then sign up for alerts now!

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/new-chevening-scholarships-website-launched/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/southland-disability-enterprises/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/southland-disability-enterprises/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:40:27 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/southland-disability-enterprises/ Southland disAbility Enterprises

New Zealand

E kui mā, e koro mā, e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi māhana ki a koutou.  Kia ora tātou katoa.  Ladies and gentlemen, warm greetings to you all.

I want to specifically acknowledge: Shona Richardson, Patron, and Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Thursa Kennedy, Chairman of the Board of Southland disAbility Enterprises Ltd, and Ian Beker, General Manager—tēnā koutou katoa.

Thank you for inviting me and my party to Southland disAbility Enterprises this morning, and thank you for the tour of your amazing facilities.

First of all, I want to congratulate Patricia Henery on her 30 years’ of service to Southland disAbility Enterprises.  Patricia, your award rightly recognises your passion and commitment to this organisation, and its work and mission in the community.

I am aware that Southland disAbility Enterprises is a special organisation.  It is a commercial business, and a registered company, and it is an enterprise with a social purpose.  It is special because it promotes the values that New Zealanders hold dear—respect and compassion for, and providing a helping hand to, some of the most vulnerable members of our community – those living with disabilities.

Having been established 39 years ago, Southland disAbility Enterprises has enriched the lives of people with disabilities.  It has provided meaningful employment.  It has encouraged personal development. In that time, it has evolved, but it has never lost sight of its fundamental mission.

By giving people with disabilities the opportunity to work and to contribute to society, Southland disAbility Enterprises transforms the lives of those its serves for the better.  Its commitment to those living with disabilities reminds me of the words of former South African President Nelson Mandela, who once said: “A democracy is an order of social equality and non-discrimination.  Our compatriots who are disabled challenge us in a very special way to manifest in real life those values of democracy.”

Southland disAbility Enterprises is also special because it makes a significant contribution in so many other ways.

I congratulate those of you who have taken it from a sheltered workshop into a successful industrial business, providing recycling processing for the whole of Southland in collaboration with the region’s three territorial local authorities.

By recycling materials that would otherwise go to the landfill, it is making a fantastic contribution to improving the environment, while also heading on sustainable financial path. 

I understand you’ve also taken on a number of Limited Service Volunteers—of which I’m the Programme Patron—giving young unemployed people the opportunity to work is something that adds to their dignity and resonates with those values I mentioned before:  compassion and respect.

To conclude, I want to congratulate the board, the management, funders, supporters and most importantly the staff of Southland disAbility Enterprises for your work.  You are making our country and our society a better place.   Thank you. Kia ora huihui tātou katoa.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/southland-disability-enterprises/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-elections-needed-to-consolidate-democracy-maldives-president-tells-un/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-elections-needed-to-consolidate-democracy-maldives-president-tells-un/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:25:34 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-elections-needed-to-consolidate-democracy-maldives-president-tells-un/ More than elections needed to consolidate democracy, Maldives President tells UN

United Nations

27 September 2012 “Holding elections itself is not a sufficient condition for consolidating democracy”, President Mohammed Waheed of the Maldives told the UN General Assembly today, noting that that patience, hard choices and compromises were as important as “cultivating and nurturing democratic values.”

The Maldivian President, in his address to the 67th Assembly’s General Debate, said that the road to liberal democracy is always “rocky and long” and has to be navigated by a political leadership “with unshakable commitment to the principles and values of democracy.”

Nations must be allowed to resolve their problems on their own, the President added, as he reiterated his country’s commitment to creating a democratic and free society, and spoke of the transition from an authoritarian system “purely by peaceful means.”

Multi-party presidential elections were held in the Maldives for the first time in 2008, ending 30 years of one-party rule.

A political crisis broke out in February 2012 following the resignation of the then-President Mohammed Nasheed. He was succeeded by his former deputy, Mohammed Waheed Hassan. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called for a national process based on dialogue and consensus to resolve the political impasse peacefully and to diffuse tensions.

The Government set up a National Commission of Inquiry to probe the events leading to the regime change, with the Commission presenting its findings in August 2012.

Mr. Ban subsequently called on the parties to respect the Constitution, create a peaceful and transparent environment conducive to dialogue and to take steps to strengthen democratic reform and institutions.

Reviewing the progress made since 2008, President Waheed asked whether the lives of his country’s citizens were better.

“The answer, regrettably, would be ‘not yet,”” he stated, noting that the experience of democracy in his country was “deeply divisive,” and lamenting that centuries old values of respect and tolerance had been replaced with intolerance and hatred.

Going on to speak of the challenges facing the Maldives, he said that the Government currently spends more than 27 per cent of its national budget on building resilience to combat the effects of climate change. Some of the problems faced by his country include coastal erosion, ocean acidification, variability of precipitation and the threat of sea-level rise.

President Waheed informed the Assembly that his country was one of the first to eradicate chlorofluorocarbons and by converting to solar or hybrid sources, the Maldives was redoubling efforts to transform the economy into a low-carbon one.

As one of the smallest island economies in the world, the Maldives leaders reiterated a call for a binding agreement to reduce global carbon emissions. He called upon larger States, endowed with more resources to reduce their carbon footprint by showing political commitment and making difficult choices.

In his speech, the Maldivian President also drew attention to the ongoing democratization processes in the Middle East and Africa, applauding Tunisia and Egypt for pursuing democratization processes; but expressed concern about the violence and human rights violations in Syria.

President Waheed is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/more-than-elections-needed-to-consolidate-democracy-maldives-president-tells-un/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/economic-development-strategies-must-put-people-first-thai-leader-says-at-un-debate/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/economic-development-strategies-must-put-people-first-thai-leader-says-at-un-debate/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2012 00:25:33 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/economic-development-strategies-must-put-people-first-thai-leader-says-at-un-debate/ Economic development strategies must put people first, Thai leader says at UN debate

United Nations

27 September 2012 Economic development must go hand in hand with political advancement, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra of Thailand told the United Nations General Assembly today, while adding that any strategy to promote growth must put people first.

“During this period of economic uncertainties, we must not consider economic growth alone. It is important to put people at the front and centre of the development agenda,” she said in an address to the Assembly’s General Debate, taking place at UN Headquarters in New York.

“This is what every government should do: putting people at the heart of the country’s economic development strategy,” she said. “Because we believe that the greatest asset of any country is its people, and how much a country can excel depends on how much its people can fully realize their potential.”

The Thai leader noted added that an inclusive regional development is the way forward and would strengthen the fabric of regional peace and security, adding that Thailand and its neighbours in the region have a shared destiny.

“We have a shared interest in fostering common peace and prosperity. We should, therefore, strive to prosper together because only by working together can we create much-need synergy that would support our common development,” she said. “And by prospering together, chances of conflict can be limited.”

This spirit, Prime Minister Shinawatra noted, is driving the 10 member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to establish an ASEAN Community by the year 2015.

“As ASEAN moves towards greater integration, great efforts are being made to close development gaps and expand connectivity across South-east Asia and beyond to the wider East Asia and South Asia,” she said. “This would help spread the fruits of development and growth wider across the continent.”

In addition, the Prime Minister highlighted the need for an inclusive process at the global level as the international community considers the development agenda beyond 2015, the target date for achieving the anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

The Thai Prime Minister is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/economic-development-strategies-must-put-people-first-thai-leader-says-at-un-debate/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/high-commissioner-to-ghana/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/high-commissioner-to-ghana/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 23:45:24 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/high-commissioner-to-ghana/ High Commissioner to Ghana
Australian Government News – Australian Entities

Media release

28 September 2012

Foreign Minister Bob Carr today announced Ms Joanna Adamson as Australia’s next High Commissioner to Ghana, with non-resident accreditation to Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo. Ms Adamson will take up her appointment in January 2013, replacing Mr William (Billy) Williams.

Ms Adamson is a career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and has previously served as Deputy Head of Mission in Ghana, Acting High Commissioner to Nigeria, and Deputy Head of Mission in Rome.

Ms Adamson has also worked as Counsellor in the Australian High Commission in Wellington, Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission in Pretoria, and Senior Policy Analyst with New Zealand’s Ministry of Economic Development.

Ms Adamson, who speaks French, holds a Bachelor of Arts/Law degree from the University of Tasmania, and a Graduate Diploma in Foreign Affairs and Trade from Monash University. She has been admitted as Barrister and Solicitor in Tasmania and Western Australia.

Australia and Ghana are active partners on Commonwealth matters, and cooperate on security issues such as anti-piracy and peacekeeping. Around 20 Australian companies have mining or exploration projects in Ghana, primarily in gold mining.

Australian exports to Ghana include civil engineering equipment, meat, specialised machinery and hand tools. Imports from Ghana to Australia include cocoa and wood products.

• Minister’s office: (02) 6277 7500
• DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/high-commissioner-to-ghana/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/ambassador-to-croatia/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/ambassador-to-croatia/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 23:45:24 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/ambassador-to-croatia/ Ambassador to Croatia
Australian Government News – Australian Entities

Media release

28 September 2012

Foreign Minister Bob Carr today announced Ms Susan Cox OAM as Australia’s next Ambassador to Croatia. Ms Cox is expected to take up her appointment in December, replacing Ms Beverly Mercer.

Ms Cox is a career officer with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. She has previously served as Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, Deputy High Commissioner in Vanuatu, and Australian Vice Consul in New Caledonia.

Departmental positions include Director of Passport Communication and Training, Director of the Post Security Taskforce and Director of the Consular Policy and Crisis Management Section.

Ms Cox holds a Bachelor of Arts (Administration) from the University of Canberra, and is currently completing an Executive Masters in Public Administration at the Australian New Zealand School of Government. She was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for her role in the response to the 2002 Bali bombings.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Croatia. Australia and Croatia have extensive trade and tourism links, with Australia recently extending ‘e-tourist’ visas to Croatian citizens to encourage tourism and facilitate family reunions.

Two-way trade between Australia and Croatia is worth approximately A$42 million a year. Australian exports to Croatia amounted to A$17 million, while imports from Croatia totalled A$25 million. Principal imports from Croatia include machinery and parts, food and preserved meats, while Australia’s principal export to Croatia is coal.

• Minister’s office: (02) 6277 7500
• DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/ambassador-to-croatia/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/protecting-hospitals-and-health-workers-in-syria/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/protecting-hospitals-and-health-workers-in-syria/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 23:45:23 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/protecting-hospitals-and-health-workers-in-syria/ Protecting hospitals and health workers in Syria
Australian Government News – Australian Entities

Media release

27 September 2012

This week I’ve been meeting with Foreign Ministers from the European Union and the Middle East on the issue of Syria.

Based on these discussions, Australia will now bring forward a plan to protect and respect access to hospitals and medical care in Syria, which has been severely interrupted by the ongoing conflict.

The plan would involve securing a commitment from all sides:

• Not to target medical personnel
• Not to block access to doctors, hospitals or emergency care; and
• Not to attack medical facilities

This would not be a military or political intervention in Syrian affairs.

It would be simply designed to protect the lives of ordinary Syrians caught in conflict zones.

I’ll be seeking broad international support for this humanitarian goal – to reduce the toll of dead and wounded in Syria by respecting access to medical care.

Support would be required from Middle Eastern and European states, and from Russia.

Implementation could be monitored by a neutral third party, such as a non-government organisation.

More than 30,000 Syrians have died in this conflict.

The United Nations has estimated more than 2 ½ million Syrians are in need of humanitarian care and up to 500,000 are homeless.

We remain committed to any action that would bring this conflict to an end

But we need also to care for those caught in the fighting right now.

This proposal could assist tens of thousands of Syrians in need of medical aid and unable to reach it as fighting continues in their cities or towns.

In addition to this plan, Australia will also provide another $4 million for the delivery of medical aid to Syrians.

• $2 million for medical supplies and emergency food aid in Syria; and
• $2 million for food, shelter and health care in Syrian refugee camps in Jordan and elsewhere.

This is what Australians do – helping those in need in global conflicts, with humanitarian aid and basic food and medical support.

This $4 million additional contribution lifts our total commitment to the Syrian humanitarian crisis to $24.5 million.

Australia is now the third largest national contributor to humanitarian aid for Syria, behind the United States and the United Kingdom.

• Minister’s office: (02) 6277 7500
• DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/protecting-hospitals-and-health-workers-in-syria/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-east-river-walk-unhq/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-east-river-walk-unhq/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 23:45:22 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-east-river-walk-unhq/ Press Conference East River Walk, UNHQ
Australian Government News – Australian Entities

New York

Transcript, E&OE, proof only

26 September

Senator Carr: Ladies and gentlemen, some of the responses to the Prime Minister’s speech around the General Assembly were delegates saying, “You’ve made your point. You are not America. You are not Europe. You are Australia. You have got your own perspective. You are in the Pacific, in the Indian Ocean. We like that sense of independence about the Australian world view.” It is nice to have that confirmed because we have been underlining it in recent months.

The attention to issues like getting rid of malaria from the world, the upcoming malaria conference we’ve got, that aspect of Australian aid, Australia development assistance is very welcome because it is so practical. The Prime Minister of the Solomons came round to congratulate our Prime Minister and malaria is a living reality, a real danger in that island country, that island state. Those themes have got a real echo.

And I am very pleased she raised Syria. I was in a meeting on Syria today. The humanitarian crisis is escalating. You’ve got a situation where even the World Food Programme is under attack in Damascus. They are crouching in their offices. They can’t get out and about. When an aid organisation is getting food to people and can’t do its job, that is one measure of how desperate the situation in Syria is becoming. Meanwhile we’ve got this deadlock in the forums of the UN that prevents much needed, vigorous intervention that will get the parties to abandon weapons and come together. I deliberately say the parties. It is a message directed at both sides of this sad and savage conflict.

Journalist: Mr Carr can I ask you about the case of an Australian woman who is being detained in Libya at the moment. What can you tell us about her?

Senator Carr: What I have been advised in the case of Alexandra Bean at Tripoli airport. I’m advised that it relates to no charges against her but as part of an investigation of a senior Libyan official. She was not arrested; she is not the target of the inquiry. She has now been released but she is unable to leave the country while police investigations are underway. She’s spoken with Australian officials in Cairo and our consul is assisting her in liaison with the Libyan authorities and naturally she will continue to be a focus of our work and we are ready to make further representations to the Government of Libya about her capacity to leave the country.

Journalist: Are you concerned about her wellbeing?

Senator Carr: I think she ought to be in the position to leave the country as she wants and we will continue to make representations about that. They’re pursuing an inquiry into another matter.

Journalist: Can you explain that association between her or the alleged association between her and the man that they are pursuing?

Senator Carr: No, I can’t. I’m not going to venture to define that, but a police investigation into an official. They are obviously seeking to question her and they’ve got some questioning to continue. They don’t want her to leave the country, out of the concern that she won’t return. We will protect her in these circumstances as we protect any Australian in this sort of position.

Journalist: Minister, Australia, in the speech in the General Assembly and in the last few days Australia’s been emphasising a lot of the issues that, say, some of the smaller states might be concerned about. Are we positioning ourselves as the voice of the little guy? Is that the pitch you’re making for the Security Council bid?

Senator Carr: I spoke to the Caribbean nations today. Fourteen members in CARICOM. All but two of them in the Commonwealth of Nations. We’ve had a lot of interaction with them over climate change, over the health of the oceans, environmental health of the oceans, over our support of the arms trade treaty, the attempt to rein in the growth in small islands of light weapons, and they like that agenda. And they’ve endorsed us. They told me at this meeting today that their 14 votes will be behind Australia.

And that represents our outreach to this part of the world, where in the past Australia hasn’t had any intensive diplomacy. Now that is good feedback to get. They see Australia as a defender of vulnerable states, small states and small island states which have got a stake in this big environmental question of the health of the oceans – an issue I addressed in my inaugural speech in the Senate.

Our rivals will attempt to do as well as we’re doing in that space. I’m quietly proud that Australia is seen as an advocate for small countries, and for small island states, in particular. The Foreign Minister of Seychelles is very supportive of Australia, as is the Solomons. And they look at this – I just use them as two examples, I could take others – they see Australia as an advocate and as a champion.

Journalist: So based on this commentary that you’ve been receiving and on the Prime Minister’s address today, where would you place Australia’s chances as we move…

Senator Carr: I can’t pin it down because of the variables in this. The fact that it’s a secret ballot, it’s a decision that involves the Ambassador of a country here, … [inaudible] the view of the foreign minister or the government in the capital. There are a lot of political cross currents in all of this. I would find it even harder to tip than a hard fought Labor Party branch rank and file pre-selection. Which brings us of course to the subject on everyone’s lips – over to you, Simon.

Journalist: On that issue, before you became Foreign Minister you were a strong advocate of the release of a report you co-authored yourself into the Labor Party’s problems after the election. Do you still hold the view that that report should be released now, maybe it might bring an end to the introspection and the flagellation that the party seems to be engaged in at the moment?

Senator Carr: Yeah, I can’t retreat from that view. I held the view at the time and actually I hold it now.

Journalist: Senator you said in your opening remarks that it has become apparent to other people that we are not America and we are not England. Has that been a perception that we’ve had to fight from the outset, that we’re some sort of extension of the United States and England and that we’ve had a different policy?

Senator Carr: It could be a perception. When we engage with Africa, and we’ve got 50 or by some estimates 70 billion dollars of mining investment either there in the ground or about to be approved, or about to be constructed in Africa. When we talk about that and we talk about our 1000 Australian Award scholarships to Africa, it is nice to remind them that we’ve got our own perspective when we talk about these things. We approach Africa not as Europeans and not as Americans.

And that’s got a resonance. It’s used by Prime Minister Gillard, it’s used by Kevin Rudd and it is used by me. It’s got a resonance. Therefore, any sense that we’re returning to whatever’s meant by the Anglosphere undercuts this outward looking and confident Australia engaged with all corners of the world. That’s the point I’ve been trying to make in the last few days.

Journalist: The Prime Minister has made a big deal of the Millennium Development Goals and the outward support for them. In the context of a tight budget, do you as a government guarantee that there will be no further slippage in honouring our commitments under the MDGs or as made?

Senator Carr: Kieran I won’t speculate about budget measures. I’ll just say that I’m proud that in tight budget circumstances in May, we increased and didn’t reduce the aid budget. And there aren’t many countries that can say that.

Journalist: Do you expect that the Mid Year Economic Forecast, as well that that will be the same?

Senator Carr: Look I am not going to speculate about that. I’m just going to say again that I am proud that Australia is a very generous donor – that is appreciated by the countries here. The Prime Minister talking about our programs on education, on gender and on malaria referred to what Australia does to help poorer countries. It’s in our interest to do that, it’s in our interest to do that.

Journalist: Can I put it another way? Will you be a strong advocate, even though you’re not on the ERC, but will you be a strong advocate for [inaudible] of that nature?

Senator Carr: All ministers advocate strongly for their own portfolios and I would be no exception.

Journalist: Senator during your time here in New York have you had the opportunity to or has the topic of Julian Assange arisen from any international…

Senator Carr: No. I think my program has gone out each day. You’ve seen my program. I think today, by the end of today I will have had meetings with 26 foreign ministers, probably more if you count the corridor discussions – so called pull-asides. No one has raised it.

Journalist: Any plans of meeting Ecuador?

Senator Carr: No.

Journalist: Why not?

Journalist: We heard from President Ahmadinejad in the General Assembly earlier today. Did you hear any of the speech that he made?

Senator Carr: No I didn’t. Neither I nor the Prime Minister were there for his speech. When it comes to his speeches there are certain red lines that if crossed result in the walking out of the Australian delegation. I will not tolerate Holocaust denial from him or anyone else. I will not tolerate that from him or anyone else and were Australians to be in any forum where he says the murder of 6 million Jews did not take place, we’re on our feet, out of there before anyone else hits the door. He didn’t say that so a walk out wasn’t called for today.

Journalist: So are you saying that you actively chose not to be in the chamber because of his attitude towards Israel?

Senator Carr: No, no I had other engagements. You have seen my program, you’ve seen the meetings I’ve had. That was the reason I was not there.

Journalist: Were there any other Australian representatives in the chamber at the time?

Senator Carr: I think there were, yes.

Journalist: So you’re saying that…

Senator Carr: Our policy is not to be absent when he’s there. Our policy is to walk out when he crosses what we see as the red lines.

Journalist: And to clarify, that was the instruction that those officials had?

Senator Carr: It’s our practice, it’s our practice, it’s our practice.

Journalist: Senator, Canada as well as the United States and Israel withdrew their entire delegations. You don’t think in the current circumstances that a stronger gesture is called for?

Senator Carr: No, we adhere to that position, we adhere to that position. That’s our policy, and I don’t think that there can be any serious objection taken to it.

Journalist: Is that a reflection of Australia’s changing attitudes or a reflection of how Mahmoud Ahmadinejad didn’t really deliver on some of the firebrand speeches that he has delivered in the past?

Senator Carr: You’d have to ask him. I’m sure he’d be happy to sit down and give you a long and candid interview.

Journalist: Perhaps because it wasn’t the right forum. The one thing we haven’t heard much about of if at all, to be honest, is climate change.

Senator Carr: Well, it certainly was when I met the Caribbeans. I spoke about how we, how I have been a passionate advocate of the reality of anthropogenic climate change, manmade climate change, and they live with the consequences of that as small island states. And climate change figures in our aid, both prevention…

Journalist: In the general discussion here at the UN, it appears to have slipped down the rankings quite a bit since last time.

Senator Carr: That could be the case. Overtaken, probably, by concerns with the difficulties of world economic management.

Journalist: Senator, have any of the developing countries expressed concerns about the collapse of the CDM, the UN Carbon Market?

Senator Carr: No, no.

Journalist: Senator, the Prime Minister this morning specifically commended the Palestinian President and Prime Minister, I think one of whom is a member of Hamas, and didn’t give any commendation to Binyamin Netanyahu. Was that a deliberate snub?

Senator Carr: Which one is a member of Hamas?

Journalist: I thought the Prime Minister was.

Senator Carr: That’s not my understanding. I’ve met the Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, I’ve met the Foreign Minister in Ramallah and I’ve met the President. I’ve met the Foreign Minister here and I’ve met Ambassador Mansour, their Ambassador to the UN, on several occasions.

Journalist: So why would the Prime Minister mention those two with a specific commendation about progress they’ve made and not give any encouragement to the Israeli Prime Minister?

Senator Carr: Well, I didn’t see those comments, but let me re-state our position on Israel and the Palestinians. We want, as the Prime Minister said in the speech, a two-state solution. You won’t have security for Israel, you won’t have fulfilment for the Palestinians without a two-state solution. And a two-state solution is most likely to be arrived at through negotiations between, direct negotiations between the two sides without threats and without provocations and with mutual recognition of the security of the other. That’s the Australian position. I visited the Middle East and I’ve spoken along these themes candidly to both the Israeli and the Palestinian leadership. Thank you.

• Minister’s office: (02) 6277 7500
• DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-east-river-walk-unhq/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-following-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-initiative-ministerial-meeting/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-following-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-initiative-ministerial-meeting/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 23:45:21 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-following-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-initiative-ministerial-meeting/ Press Conference following Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Initiative Ministerial Meeting
Australian Government News – Australian Entities

New York

Transcript, E&OE, proof only

26 September

Senator Carr: Ladies and gentlemen, I am honoured to open comments from my distinguished colleagues here. Might I say at this meeting we resolved to move forward with practical steps that will advance the implementation of the 2010 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference Action Plan and to pursue the goal, the noble goal, of a world free of nuclear weapons. We acknowledge the efforts of many states towards achieving these objectives. Much needs to be done. We renewed our commitment to contribute to the realisation of a regime across the three pillars of the NPT and, as agreed to at our meeting in Istanbul in June, review our progress and identify future prospects. We, all of us, committed to seeing the entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and an end to nuclear test explosions for all time. We endorsed the Friends of the CTBT and join in urging the remaining eight Annex 2 states to ratify the treaty as soon as possible. I don’t wish to go into more detail because I have got three very distinguished colleagues here who can take up the themes from here. Foreign Minister Gemba from Japan who was co-chair of the meeting.

Other speakers

Senator Carr: Thank you. Time for questions.

Journalist: Senator and Excellencies, what can you point to about this meeting (inaudible) … to allay suspicions that the attention of world leaders is really on financial issues … on direct dealings with Iran and North Korea … on the Middle East and … top leadership tensions … this process at the moment.

Senator Carr: I’ll make a stab at that and say something about this before handing over to my colleagues. The challenge is very real. There are immediate crises and the choice here is between the urgent and the necessary. And our work is to labour hard at these tasks to see that in grappling with the immediate challenges, the urgent crises of North Korea and Iran, attention is not wrenched altogether from the longer-term background work. For example, to get that Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, have the controls on fissile material, to have nuclear weapon states honour their obligations, honour their obligations to the ideals of the Non-Proliferation Treaty. As the 2009 report of the International Commission said, as long as any state has nuclear weapons, others will want them. The work is hard, I agree. But the work is steady and the work has got to be done.

Journalist: Minister, this is something the Netherlands talked about – North Korea and Iran nuclear. I’m wondering what, if any, direct engagement is there with those regimes. Is direct engagement possible on these issues? Have they shown any inclination towards any dialogue and how great a threat do they really pose?

Senator Carr: I would just say there are the P5 plus six talks with Iran and the world has backed that, large parts of the world have backed that, with sanctions. You’ve got relevant UN Security Council resolutions on the subject. Certainly, the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran is very, very real and that of North Korea is real to us but real to no more country than that represented by our respected colleague the Foreign Minister of Japan who has Australia’s support in all the expressions of concern that his country has made about the prospect of a nuclear-armed North Korea. Again, what North Korea has done is in violation of UN Security Council resolutions.

• Minister’s office: (02) 6277 7500
• DFAT Media Liaison: (02) 6261 1555

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/press-conference-following-non-proliferation-and-disarmament-initiative-ministerial-meeting/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/climate-change-micronesias-biggest-and-continuing-challenge-president-tells-un-debate/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/climate-change-micronesias-biggest-and-continuing-challenge-president-tells-un-debate/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 23:25:41 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/climate-change-micronesias-biggest-and-continuing-challenge-president-tells-un-debate/ Climate change Micronesia’s biggest and continuing challenge, President tells UN debate

United Nations

27 September 2012 With climate change representing the “biggest challenge” to his country, the President of Micronesia, Emanuel Mori, speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, today urged UN Member States to confront the phenomenon “more urgently, and more creatively.”

“Our very existence depends on it,” President Mori said in his address to the 67th Assembly’s General Debate, taking place at UN Headquarters in New York. “Without international cooperation and assistance, we are helpless against the adverse impacts of climate change.”

President Mori called for closure of what he termed the “ambition gap.” In reference to the Kyoto Protocol’s rolling emission-reduction commitment periods, the first of which will expire at the end of 2012, ¬ he called on major emitters to “step up their level of commitment under the second commitment period.”

“How do I tell my people that their plight and their future lie in the hands of those most responsible for greenhouse gasses?” he asked.

The President said his country was pleased with the agreements – reached at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), held in Brazil in June – for cooperation to begin on globally reducing the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons, noting that Micronesia had in 2009 proposed such an amendment to the Montreal Protocol on ozone depletion substances.

But he urged leaders to recognize that Micronesia, despite appearing to occupy a “pretty empty” part of the world, is to its inhabitants “as much a homeland as any continental landmass.”

“We must defend it just as strongly,” President Mori said. To that end, he outlined additional problems that threaten the “ocean environment” on which islanders depend for their livelihoods. In addition to rising tides and temperatures, and ocean acidification, he cited destructive fishing practices and pollutants such as mercury, oil and waste from “unsustainable” human activity.

“Urgent actions to reduce by-catch, fish discards and post-harvest losses must be taken,” he said.

He added that his country welcomed the decision in Rio to hold a global conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in 2012, and called for it to be located in one of the Pacific SIDS countries.

Beyond Micronesia, other topics touched upon in the Micronesian leader’s speech included reform of the Security Council and the crisis in Syria.

The President is one of scores of world leaders and other high-level officials presenting their views and comments on issues of individual national and international relevance at the Assembly’s General Debate, which ends on 1 October.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/climate-change-micronesias-biggest-and-continuing-challenge-president-tells-un-debate/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/media-release-national-police-remembrance-day-honouring-lives-lost-in-the-line-of-duty/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/media-release-national-police-remembrance-day-honouring-lives-lost-in-the-line-of-duty/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 22:45:09 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/media-release-national-police-remembrance-day-honouring-lives-lost-in-the-line-of-duty/ Media Release: National Police Remembrance Day – Honouring lives lost in the line of duty
Australian Government News – Australian Entities

Release Date: Friday, September 28 2012, 08:34 AM

Police across Australia and the Southwest Pacific will today pay tribute to the officers who have lost their lives while on duty, marking this year’s National Police Remembrance Day.

Sadly, this year the name of New South Wales (NSW) Police officer Senior Constable David Rixon will be added to the National Police Memorial wall in Canberra.  Senior Constable Rixon was tragically shot and killed on 2 March 2012 after a traffic stop in Tamworth, NSW.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) will host a dusk service in Canberra this evening to commemorate those fallen police officers.

The National Police Memorial was completed in 2006 and honours all Australian police killed on duty since 1803. At the conclusion of today’s service, it will carry the names of 754 police officers.

AFP Commissioner Tony Negus said National Police Remembrance Day is an important day to reflect, remember and honour those officers who have dedicated their lives to duty.

“These fallen officers have put their lives on the line for the safety and protection of others, as do thousands of police across Australia every day.

“Today we pay tribute to the memories of these brave men and women and show that the sacrifices these officers have made will never be forgotten,” Commissioner Negus said.

The names of three officers identified from historical records will also be added to the National Police Memorial wall today.

• First Constable James Norman Brewis suffered injuries following a vehicle accident near Derrinallum in Victoria in 1954.
• Superintendent Joseph James McCluskey drowned in 1896 following a boating accident at Tasmania’s Spring Bay.
• Chief District Constable William Bennett suffered a spear wound in 1827 while defending a homestead at St Peter’s Pass in Tasmania.

The memorial service will begin at 5:00pm today at the National Police Memorial in Kings Park and the public is encouraged to attend.

Media enquiries:
AFP National Media (02) 6131 6333

Additional information

NPRD Website: www.npm.org.au

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/media-release-national-police-remembrance-day-honouring-lives-lost-in-the-line-of-duty/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-at-the-naval-observatory/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-at-the-naval-observatory/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 22:26:01 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-at-the-naval-observatory/ Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at the Naval Observatory

United States White House blog

Posted by Jose Cerda and Carlos Elizondo on September 27, 2012 at 05:46 PM EDT

On Wednesday evening at the Naval Observatory, Vice President and Dr. Biden hosted their fourth annual reception in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which began on September 15  and continues through October 15. In the past and upcoming weeks, communities across the country will celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans with ancestors from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

We’re proud to serve Vice President Biden and this Administration, which has continued to push to “widen the circle of opportunity for the Hispanic community and keep the American dream within reach for all who seek it,” as President Obama said in his proclamation this year.

Vice President Joe Biden speaks at a Hispanic Heritage Month reception with Dr. Jill Biden and high school senior Ashley Guzman, at the Naval Observatory Residence in Washington, D.C., September 26, 2012. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann)

Among the guests were national, state and local Hispanic community leaders, including Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, Domestic Policy Director Cecilia Munoz, Colorado Lt. Gov. Joseph Garcia and Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto, White House, and two Hispanic Olympians, each of whom represented the United States in competition this past summer.

In his remarks, Vice President applauded the incredible contributions Hispanic Americans have made to build a more perfect union and looked to the future. He said, “Everyone with a Latino background, they’re vastly different…And so the contributions that are about to be made I think are almost incalculable.”

“So I want to say thank you to all of you… What you have done in giving a window into the soul, the capability, ambition, commitment and patriotism of Hispanic Americans is going to change this country, and change it all for the better,” said the Vice President in closing. “You are going to be part of the Renaissance of the 21st century.”

Vice President Joe Biden talks to Mariachi Halcon on the front porch of the Naval Observatory Residence, before a Hispanic Heritage Month reception, September 26, 2012. (Official White House Photo by David Lienemann)

The uncharacteristically warm September evening set the tone for a cheerful celebration, and a talented group of high school students from Zapata, Texas, provided the lively soundtrack for the evening. “Mariachi Halcon,” the 18-student ensemble from Zapata High School, boasts an impressive list of accomplishments: they have won the state mariachi competition for the past two years and starred in a PBS documentary that will open National Geographic’s “All Roads Film Festival” on September 27, 2012. Listing those feats hardly does justice, however, to the energy and excitement they brought with them to Washington.

Jose Cerda is a Deputy Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the Vice President. Carlos Elizondo is the Social Secretary to the Vice President and Dr. Biden.

 

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-at-the-naval-observatory/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-launches-guidance-to-ensure-effective-conflict-mediation/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-launches-guidance-to-ensure-effective-conflict-mediation/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 22:25:50 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-launches-guidance-to-ensure-effective-conflict-mediation/ UN launches guidance to ensure effective conflict mediation

United Nations

27 September 2012 The United Nations today launched new guidance to assist mediators as they help settle disputes and conflicts peacefully, outlining eight key fundamentals to ensure an effective process.

The UN Guidance for Effective Mediation draws extensively from the Organization’s own experience, as well as the insights of Member States and others, and is considered a foundational document for UN mediation efforts and for all interested in the peaceful resolution of disputes.

It outlines eight key “mediation fundamentals” that require the mediator’s consideration for an effective process: preparedness, consent, impartiality, inclusivity, national ownership, international law and normative frameworks, coherence, coordination and complementarity among mediation efforts, and the development of quality peace agreements.

“This Guidance is a relevant reference document not just for mediators but for all actors involved in mediation,” Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson said at the high-level launch held in New York City on the sidelines of the General Debate of the 67th session of the General Assembly.

“This includes the conflict parties themselves, as it is important to generate a common understanding of the parameters of mediation and what is potentially involved,” he added.

The launch was organized in cooperation with the Group of Friends of Mediation – a grouping of UN Member States co-chaired by Finland and Turkey who have taken an active and supportive interest in developing the UN’s conflict mediation capacities.

“The launch of the UN Guidance for Effective Mediation could not come at a more opportune moment,” Vuk Jeremic, President of the General Assembly, said at the launch.

Given the current global realities, the danger of new conflicts erupting, the challenge of preventing those which are gathering, and the difficulties of resolving existing ones, are “pervasive,” he noted.

“I believe this Guidance can be put in the service of efforts to strengthen international peace and security, as mediation offers a legitimate, democratic and consensual instrument for conflict prevention and resolution,” said Mr. Jeremic.

The Guidance was initially released in August 2012 by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as an annex of a broader report on trends and capacities in conflict mediation issued at the request of the General Assembly.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/un-launches-guidance-to-ensure-effective-conflict-mediation/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/empowering-women-is-key-to-building-a-future-we-want-nobel-laureate-says/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/empowering-women-is-key-to-building-a-future-we-want-nobel-laureate-says/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 22:25:46 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/empowering-women-is-key-to-building-a-future-we-want-nobel-laureate-says/ Empowering women is key to building a future we want, Nobel laureate says

United Nations

27 September 2012

New York — Empowering women and girls with more choices and more freedoms is crucial to achieving a better future for all, Amartya Sen, Nobel laureate and a founder of UNDP’s Human Development Index, said Thursday.

Women agency and freedom are among the crucial means for enhancing development,” Sen, professor of economics and philosophy at Harvard University, told a panel on “Securing the Future We Want: Gender Equality, Economic Development, and Environmental Sustainability” alongside the 67th UN General Assembly.

The way in which economic progress is judged in the contemporary world … tends to give a much larger role to men’s needs and demands despite all the progress that has been achieved in enhancing the voices of women in the last half-century,” he said, calling for  stepped-up efforts to make women’s lives “more free, more robust, and more empowered.”

Sen was a seminal contributor to the first Human Development Reports (HDRs), UNDP’s flagship publication, and Human Development Index—which were developed in collaboration with the Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq.

The HDI aims to measure national progress beyond gross domestic product through indices such as gender equality, child survival rates, and educational attainment.

Countries that have expanded opportunities for women and girls in education and work in recent decades have largely achieved greater prosperity and moderated population growth while limiting child mortality and achieving social progress for all, Sen said. “These greater opportunities and freedoms…have had truly astonishing results,” he said. “There is an overwhelming need to pay attention to the needs of girls and women.”

Bangladesh, written off as a basket case” in recent memory, has achieved tremendous strides since the 1970s in reducing child mortality, increasing life expectancy, and reducing fertility from seven children per woman to 2.2 children per woman, Sen said. “In contrast with India, in each area Bangladesh has come from behind and surpassed it. And the moving force has been the rapid development of women’s empowerment,” he said, adding, “Bangladesh is the only country I know of in which the number of girls in school exceeds the number of boys.”

“Women’s empowerment is catalytic and central” to achieving social and environmental goals, UNDP Associate Administrator Rebeca Grynspan said. “Women are central actors making the case for the sustainable development triple-win strategy”—meaning economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability.

The panel included former Finnish president Tarja Halonen and Amina Mohammed, founder of the Center for Development Policy Solutions and Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Post-2015 Development Planning.

Winnie Byanyima, Director of UNDP’s Gender Team, moderated the discussion, which marked the launch of a new publication, Powerful Synergies: Gender Equality, Economic Development, and Environmental Sustainability.

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

]]> http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/empowering-women-is-key-to-building-a-future-we-want-nobel-laureate-says/feed/ 0 http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-discusses-syria-libya-asia-pacific-issues/ http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-discusses-syria-libya-asia-pacific-issues/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 21:31:17 +0000 36th Parallel - Media Release http://36th-parallel.com/2012/09/panetta-discusses-syria-libya-asia-pacific-issues/ Panetta Discusses Syria, Libya, Asia-Pacific Issues

United States Department of Defense

Panetta Discusses Syria, Libya, Asia-Pacific Issues

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta told reporters today that unilateral U.S. military intervention in Syria would be “a serious mistake.”

The secretary and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, focused on Afghanistan but touched on other areas as they briefed Pentagon reporters here today.

In Syria, Bashar al-Assad’s forces have battled rebel fighters for a year and a half, with the death toll rising sharply since early spring and violence increasingly focused on the capital of Damascus.

Panetta said reports that the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, advocated Arab intervention in Syria don’t change his belief that the best approach remains international “diplomatic and economic pressure on Assad to step down.”

However, he added, if the international community decides military action is required, “then, obviously, we would be part of that.”

Panetta noted the United States is working with other nations to help opposition forces and provide humanitarian aid to those affected by Syria’s violence. U.S. officials also are closely monitoring chemical and biological weapons sites, he added.

Dempsey, who met earlier today with Saudi Arabia’s chief of the general staff, Lt. Gen. Huseen ibn Abdullah al-Gubayel, said his counterpart had expressed concern about Syria “based on what they assess as Iranian influence, which they also assess to be a factor to their south, in Yemen.”

Most of the meeting concerned the U.S.-Saudi partnership and “how we can continue to partner with them to build their capability – in particular, in air defense and the maritime domain,” Dempsey added.

Reporters also questioned recent reports that characterize the Sept. 11 attack in Benghazi, Libya, which killed Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and three other Americans, as a terrorist attack. Panetta said he is convinced by what he has learned since the attack that it was carried out by terrorists, but whether al Qaida or an affiliate was involved remains under investigation.

Noting that several terrorist groups operate in the region, Panetta emphasized, “We are not going to let people who deliberately attack and kill our people get away with it.”

Dempsey noted a “thread of intelligence” before the attack had warned of terrorist groups in the region “seeking to coalesce,” but it didn’t include specific threats.

The secretary turned to the Asia-Pacific region in response to a question on China’s view of U.S. arms sales to India. The military’s strategic rebalance to