Major Stories

Diplomacy - A Priority For New U.S. Foreign Policy

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Diplomacy is yielding a lot of fruits for the new U.S. Administration led by President Obama. He received a warm welcome by world leaders during the G20 Summit, the visit to other European countries, as well as leaders from the Americas.

His approach to improving the United States´ international relations standing with other countries is new. The number of international issues that President Obama has to deal with is countless but the pace and effort has been commendable.

Some critics believe that the President may be doing too much too soon. But the President knows that there is so much work to do within his own country as well as internationally and a favourite campagne slogan rings a bell. ´We cannot afford to wait´.

In the above photo, President Obama is seen greeting his Venezuela counterpart Hugo Chavez as Uruguayan President Tabare Vazquez (L) looks on. This was just before the opening ceremony of the 5th Summit of the Americas in Port of Spain Apr 17, 2009.

Send your Message to President Obama and the other World Leaders

[Photo by By Mariamma Kambon]

Chris K Dankwa [ Published for DiplomacyWatch.Com on on 18 April 2009]

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Mia Farrow: Hunger Strike Highlights Darfur Crises

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Its well past a crisis in Darfur and Mia Farrow, the 64 year old famous actress, has begun a hunger strike to highlight the continued suffering of the people of Dafur. Its sad to note the woefully inadequate action being taken by world leaders. What will make them rise to their responsibilities as world leaders, many have wondered!

Ms Farrow is a well know UN Goodwill Ambassador, a humanitarian, a former fashion model and ex-wife of Mr Frank Sinatra and Woody Allen has previously campainged on the need for more to be done. Watch her video Hunger Strike For Darfur.

She is calling for an effective UN Peacekeeping force on the ground and the protection of women from the beating and raping by soldiers, the many children that are dying from malnitrition and hunger and, the beating and killing of many innocent civilians, particularly men. President Obama promised, during his presidential campaign, that ´as President of the United States, I will not abandon the people of Darfur´.

"Please don´t even try to talk me out of this," she said, "I´m just an actress. I´m not presuming anybody will care whether I starve to death or whether I go on a long hunger strike or what. But it´s a personal matter. I can´t be among those that watch - and I honestly couldn´t think of anything else to do." source. Well, Ms Farrow, many people care about what you are doing and admire and appreciate all your efforts to highlight this ongoing crisis.

Ms Farrow´s hunger strike begun on Monday 27 April 2009. She intends to fast for at least 21 days, and plans to drink only water. The question is, are world leaders being crippled by the power of diplomacy or simply failed to do more because they don´t really care about the crises? Send your Message to President Obama and the other World Leaders

Chris K Dankwa [ Published for DiplomacyWatch.Com on on 28 April 2009]

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Security Council President: Middle East Peace and Two Democratic States, Israel & Palestine

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S/PRST/2009/14
STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED
NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL ON THE SITUATION
IN THE MIDDLE EAST, INCLUDING THE
PALESTINIAN QUESTION
11 May 2009
The Security Council stressed the urgency of reaching comprehensive peace in the Middle East. Vigorous diplomatic action is needed to attain the goal set by the international community — lasting peace in the region, based on an enduring commitment to mutual recognition, freedom from violence, incitement and terror, and the two-state solution, building upon previous agreements and obligations.
 
In this context the Security Council recalls all its previous resolutions on the Middle East, in particular resolutions 242 (1967), 338 (1973), 1397 (2002), 1515 (2003), 1850 (2008), 1860 (2009), and the Madrid principles, and the Council notes the importance of the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative.
 
The Security Council encourages the Quartet´s ongoing work to support the parties in their efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East.
 
The Security Council reiterates its commitment to the irreversibility of the bilateral negotiations built upon previous agreements and obligations. The Council reiterates its call for renewed and urgent efforts by the parties and the international community to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East, based on the vision of a region where two democratic States, Israel and Palestine, live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders.
 
The Security Council further calls upon the parties to fulfill their obligations under the Performance-Based Road-map refraining from any steps that could undermine confidence or prejudice the outcome of negotiations on all core issues.
 
The Security Council calls on all states and international organizations to support the Palestinian government that is committed to the "Quartet" principles and the Arab Peace Initiative and respects the commitments of the Palestine Liberation Organization, and the Council encourages tangible steps towards intra-Palestinian reconciliation, including in support of Egypt´s efforts, on this basis. It calls for assistance to help develop the Palestinian economy, to maximize the resources available to the Palestinian Authority and to build Palestinian institutions.
 
The Security Council supports the proposal of the Russian Federation to convene, in consultation with the Quartet and the parties, an international conference on the Middle East peace process in Moscow in 2009.

Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 20 May 09 as copy from UN Security Council] DiplomacyWatch.Com  
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Diplomacy´s Most Powerful & Influential Man

President Barack ObamaApril 22ByMandelNgan.jpg

The story about his humble beginnings is not unique but the fast growing interest of world leaders and individuals from all over the world is unique.

The force that carried him, the campaign that he run to assume the role of the most powerful and most influential advocate for diplomacy is indeed unique.

His name is President Barack Obama. So, what makes him so unique and reportedly very good at the skills of diplomacy? Tell us what you think makes him unique.

In the coming weeks, Diplomacy Watch will be featuring some of the video clips that tell his story, his struggles, his perseverance, his family, his friends, his supporters, his understanding of the purpose of his life and his vision of what the world should be like.

Chris K Dankwa [ Published for DiplomacyWatch.Com on on 10 May 2009]

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Week 1 - From the White House
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

Barack H. Obama is the 44th President of the United States.

His story is the American story — values from the heartland, a middle-class upbringing in a strong family, hard work and education as the means of getting ahead, and the conviction that a life so blessed should be lived in service to others.

With a father from Kenya and a mother from Kansas, President Obama was born in Hawaii on August 4, 1961. He was raised with help from his grandfather, who served in Patton´s army, and his grandmother, who worked her way up from the secretarial pool to middle management at a bank.

After working his way through college with the help of scholarships and student loans, President Obama moved to Chicago, where he worked with a group of churches to help rebuild communities devastated by the closure of local steel plants.

He went on to attend law school, where he became the first African—American president of the Harvard Law Review. Upon graduation, he returned to Chicago to help lead a voter registration drive, teach constitutional law at the University of Chicago, and remain active in his community.

President Obama´s years of public service are based around his unwavering belief in the ability to unite people around a politics of purpose. In the Illinois State Senate, he passed the first major ethics reform in 25 years, cut taxes for working families, and expanded health care for children and their parents. As a United States Senator, he reached across the aisle to pass groundbreaking lobbying reform, lock up the world´s most dangerous weapons, and bring transparency to government by putting federal spending online.

He was elected the 44th President of the United States on November 4, 2008, and sworn in on January 20, 2009. He and his wife, Michelle, are the proud parents of two daughters, Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7.

[sourced directly from the White House]


Pope Benedict´s Middle East Diplomacy Tour

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His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI is in Tel Aviv, Israel, as part of his diplomacy tour of the Middle East to improve relations with Jews and Muslims.

The Pope´s call for an establishment of an independent Palestinian state, soon after his arrival may not be well received by his Israeli hosts. This is clearly a delicate subject and the views expressed by any highly respected and influential world leader, such as the Pope, could be seen as an unwelcome plunge into Middle East politics.

The Pope has already been to Jordan, which was also his first visit to an Arab country. His key message was about a greater need to respect women, which was also an appropriate message for mother´s day, which is celebrated all over the world.

It is reported that some Muslim religious groups have called for a public apology since the controversy that was caused by the Pope´s address at the University of Regensburg on September 12, 2006. Other sources have, however, indicated that majority of Muslim groups appreciate the efforts being made by the Pope to improve relations.

Despite the need to tread carefully to prevent critism from either or both sides, it is clear that the Pope´s five day visit is also aimed at improving interfaith ties. In Jordan, he told Christian to build bridges to people of all religions. He emphasised the need for improved relations between people of different faiths through dialogue and forgiveness.
 
His message also touched on the need to avoid the use of religion for political or selfish purposes. In other words, anyone who thinks that they can use religion or thinks that God is telling them to use religion to kill innocent people is just not listening to the right God, according to Father Jonathan Ross.

The Father also pointed out the Pope´s unique style of encouraging cultural dialogue instead of religious dialogue as a way of improving relations among inter-faith communities.

Chris K Dankwa [ Published for DiplomacyWatch.Com on on 11 May 2009]

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Abdullah to Israel: 57- state Peace And Diplomacy Plan Is Best For All

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King Abdullah of Jordan is working hard for a 57-state peace plan which, if accepted by all sides, could signify an epoch in the Middle-East peace efforts. 

The King is hoping that the new Obama Administration will, through diplomacy efforts, help get the plan accepted by Israel. It is reported that he has also been discussing and hoping to win over Arab leaders to embrace the plan. King Abdullah has urged American leaders to back a two-state solution, which is outlined in the Arab Peace Initiative.

The King´s meeting earlier in the month with President Obama in Washington is said to have touched on the 57-state plan in line with the Saudi Arabia 2002 Peace Initiative.

The plan is said to offer Israel normalized ties with all Arab states. If the plan is accepted, Israel will in return withdrawal from the lands that it seized in the 1967 war, agree to the creation of a Palestinian state and co-operate in the provision of a ´just solution´ for Palestinian refugees.

The 57-state solution seeks to commit all Arab countries to recognize the State of Israel. Negotiations are well-progressed and it is reported that the King has already met with some Middle-East leaders including President Mubarak of Egypt and President Assad of Syria.

Watch President Obama´s Speech in Cairo on Diplomacy & Achieving Peace in the Middle East
 

Chris K Dankwa [ Published for DiplomacyWatch.Com on on 15 May 2009]

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Netanyahu to Obama: Israel Wants Immediate Middle East Peace & Diplomacy Talks

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Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel met US President Obama at the White House for talks on the Middle East conflict, Israel´s security, a two-state Israeli Palestinian solution and improving relations between Israel and Arab countries.

The Prime Minister gave a strong signal that his new administration is ready to engage in immediate talks with Palestinians and the Arab Governments. The talks are expected to primarily focus on Israel´s security, improving relations with its Arab neighbours and a separate Palestinian state sitting side-by-side with an Israeli state that is recognised by its Arab and Muslim neighbours.

Israel will want guarantees that it can live safely with its neighbours and that Iran does not pose a threat to its security. A 57-state plan which was earlier discussed by King Abdullar of Jordan and President Obama on how to improve relations with all of Israel´s Arab neighbours will also be high on the agenda.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said at the meeting with President Obama that Israel wants the Palestinians to govern themselves.

Arab countries want a two-state solution to the Israeli Palestinian issue, a stop to Israel´s building of Jewish settements in the West Bank. According to a statement issued by Mr Saeb Erekat, a top Palestinian negotiator, the Palestinian Authority would like to ask Mr. Netanyahu, ´How can I govern myself while your occupation continues everywhere in the West Bank and Gaza, and how can I govern myself under your wall, roadblocks and settlement activities?´

Despite the statements from the Israeli and Palestinian quarters on what needs to happen, it is expected that both parties will have to show a great deal of goodwill and compromise on some of their previous positions on how a solution may be reached. 

There has also been a lot of optimism expressed by experts on the Middle East conflict and the Israeli Palestinian issues that much will be achieved from the efforts of the new US Administration and its diplomacy efforts to bring about a solution that is good for all parties involved.

Watch President Obama´s Speech in Cairo on Diplomacy & Achieving Peace in the Middle East
 

Chris K Dankwa [ Published for DiplomacyWatch.Com on on 19 May 2009]

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China Calls For Diplomacy in North Korea Nuclear Test

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Beijing has condemned North Korea´s testing of a nuclear bomb but called for calm and the need to use diplomacy to deal with the consequences of such a test. North Korea conducted the test a few days ago.

US President Barak Obama and other world leaders have condemned the actions of North Korea and called on the UN Security Council for stronger sanctions against North Korea.

It goes without saying that the already difficult efforts at engaging North Korea in diplomacy talks about its nuclear ambitions will be made even more difficult after such an action. Its neighbours have expressed serious concerns about North Korea´s actions. South Korea has called it a disappointed and a threat to regional peace whilst Japan described it as absolutely impermissible.

The UN Security Council is said to be deliberating on what will be an appropriate action to take against North Korea.

Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 25 May 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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Obama to Abbas: Israel´s Security, Palestinian Israeli States, All Key to Diplomacy Solution

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President Obama used his meeting with Palestine´s President Abbas at the White House to emphasise his full support for a two-state, Israeli and Palestinian states, as his preferred route to ensure a safe and peaceful Middle East which will also ensure the security of the state of Israel. 

President Obama acknowledged and praised the hard work of President Abbas in efforts to bring about a Palestinian unity government that will also include Hamas. He pointed out the US Administration´s commitment to working to bring about peace between Israel and Palestine.

He stated that not only is the absence of peace not  in the interest of all parties including the United States, but it is also an impediment to so many other peace and diplomacy inititiatives in the Middle East as a whole. 

President Abbas welcomed and praised the rekindled diplomacy efforts by the new US Adminstration. He said that Palestine is fully committed to every part of the Road Map, ´from A to z´.

President Abbas also stated his wish to start discussions with the Israeli Government but also pointed out that it will be a welcome start on the part of the Israeli Government to withdraw from occupied lands and stop all settlement activities or the building of settlements in the West Bank.
Watch video of their press conference

Watch Commentary on Mahmoud Abbas´ Two-State Peace Plan to President Obama

Watch President Obama´s Speech in Cairo on Diplomacy & Achieving Peace in the Middle East


Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 25 May 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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[Photo source: www. imemc . org]


President Obama´s New Beginning For Diplomacy Speech in Cairo

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President Barack Obama - ´If we choose to be bound by the past, we will never move forward.... We should choose the right path, not the easy path. There is one rule that lies at the heart of every religion...That we do unto others as we would have them do unto us.

This truth transcends nations and peoples. A believe that isnt new, that isnt black or white or brown, that isn´t christian or muslim or jew....Its the faith in other people. And that´s what brought me here today. We have the power to make the world we seek but only if we have the courage to make a new beginning. Keeping in mind what has been written.

The holly Quran tells us,  oh mankind, we have created you, male and female, we have made you into nations and tribes that you may know one another. The Talmud tell us that the whole of the Tora is for the purpose of promoting peace. The holly Bibble tells us, blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be called the sons of God´.

President Obama has delivered a speach which has significant implications in the direction to be used for a new Middle East peace initiative. It seeks to pave a new path in resolving issues through diplomacy. Although there have been some mixed responses, there has been an overwheling positive response by majority of Muslims from all over the world.

It has been received, it appears, with cautious optimism in Israel. The road to peace, according to all parties, will not be straighforward nor smooth. But it could be rapidly advanced by a good dose of goodwill and a commitment to diplomacy in resolving each other´s differences.

Clearly, the new US Administration has begun repairing the damage and deep wounds that have been bourne, over the years, by Muslims as well as both Israelis and Palestinians. President Obama has offered a hand of friendship to all nations that would normally be seen as enemies of the United States. 

The President has re-stated the bond that the US has and will continue to have with the state of Israel. He has also promised the US Administration´s unyielding commitment to Israel´s security as well as stating the need for a two-state solution to the Israeli Palestinian conflict and a stop to the building of settlements in the West Bank. 

President Obama acknowledged that his speech is not meant to erase the difficulties, the mistrust that have been built up over the years, the wounds that have been inflicted and the problems that have accrued over the years between the Muslim world and the United States and the West in general.  He wishes that this will be a new beginning of friendship.

Watch President Obama´s full speech in Cairo

Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 4 May 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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Highlights

 President Obama Speech in Cairo 4 May 09.jpg´If we choose to be bound by the past, we will never move forward...We should choose the right path, not the easy path. There is one rule that lies at the heart of every religion...That we do unto others as we would have them do unto us. This truth transcends nations and peoples...We have the power to make the world we seek but only if we have the courage to make a new beginning. 

...The holly Quran tells us,  oh mankind, we have created you, male and female, we have made you into nations and tribes that you may know one another. The Talmud tell us that the whole of the Tora is for the purpose of promoting peace. The holly Bibble tells us, blessed are the peace makers, for they shall be called the sons of God´.


Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei´s Friday Prayers Speech

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Watch Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei´s Friday Prayers Speech.

Diplomacy Watch hopes that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei will use diplomacy to bring about a peaceful resolution in the crises in Iran.
Watch President Obama´s message to Iran
 
Watch President Obama´s Speech in Cairo on Diplomacy & Achieving Peace in the Middle East
 


Zadari and Singh Promote High Level Diplomacy Talks Between Pakistan and India

Indian PM Manmohan Singh and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari.jpg

The tension following the Mumbai terrorists attacks and killings of innocent people drew a bigger wedge between India and Pakistan. Although Washington has continued to push for a thawing of relations and more co-operation between the two countries in the fight against terrorism, the difficult history between the two nuclear countries have not been easy to thaw.

It was therefore a huge boost for improved relations when Indian PM Manmohan Singh and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari met in Egypt this July. Such a meeting has been seen as huge in terms of its significance. It is a new beginning in the move to use diplomacy to resolve the grudges and differences between the two countries.

It is expected that such a high level meeting between the two leaders will help bridge the gap in Indian and Pakistani relations. Although it is expected that the journey ahead will be difficult and rough, the humility and goodwill shown by both leaders, their governments and their citizens is a new beginning that is welcome by all peace-loving nations and people around the world.

Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 22 July 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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Summary From Home Page


The meeting in Egypt between Prime Minister Singh and President Zardari is a catalyst in the use of diplomacy to improve relations between the two nuclear countries and to work together in the fight against terrorism. The terrorist attacks and killings of innocent people in Mumbai, India, earlier this year brought up the difficult history that they have had. The goodwill and humility shown by both leaders, their governments and people are therefore significant and welcome by all peace-loving people around the world.

 

 


Putin and Obama Meeting A Significant Achievement in Russia US Diplomacy

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin courtesy Cuba Headlines dot com.jpg

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin and US President Barack Obama met in Moscow this week. This was the first time the two men had met and their discussions were no doubt an important step forward in Russian US diplomatic relations.

The President and the Prime Minister both expressed optimism in relation to improving relations between their two countries. Prime Minister Putin was gracious in indicating faith in President Obama´s efforts in the road ahead. The President praised the Prime Minister for the significant achievements that were made under his leadership as President of Russia as well as what he continues to do as Prime Minister.

In view of the fact that Russian US relations had not been as warm as it could be a few years ago, there is no doubt about the general significance of such a meeting and, particularly, the degree of humility shown during the meeting. 

 Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 9 July 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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Medvedev and Obama Move Russia US Diplomacy Relations Forward

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They do get on well, both in public and private meetings, despite some of the really difficult issues such as the US ´missile defence system´ planned to be stationed in Europe and Russia´s views on Georgia, which will not be resolved overnight.

President Obama and President Medvedev met in Moscow this week and among some of the issues discussed were the improvement of trade between their two countries, a reduction of both country´s nuclear weapons, how best to deal with Iran´s nuclear ambitions, whether current sanctions on North Korea´s provocative tesing of missiles as well as its nuclear programme, the Afghanistan war, global warming, how best to help poor third world countries and the world economy.

The President, who is travelling with first lady Michelle Obama and their two daughters Malia and Sasha, has praised the warm hospitality of President Medvedev and the Russian people. 
 
Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 9 July 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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Summary

President Obama and President Medvedev They do get on well, both in public and private meetings, despite some of the really difficult issues such as the US ´missile defence system´ planned to be stationed in Europe and Russia´s views on Georgia, which will not be resolved overnight.

US President Obama and Russian President Medvedev met in Moscow this week. Their meetings, both in public and in private, have been described as positive and a significant way forward in inproving US Russia relationship, especially in the areas of diplomacy.

President Obama praised President Medvedev and the Russian people for the warm hospitality during his visit. Full story.


President Obama, Nobel Peace Price Winner 2009

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President Barack Obama has today been awarded the Nobel Peace Price for 2009 for his ´extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples´. 

Some have questioned the timing of such an award and the Institute´s decision since the President has only been in office for nine months.

The Director of the Norwegian Nobel Institute, Geir Lundestad, defended the Institute´s decision and emphasised that it was also a unamimous decision, with all five members agreeing on the award.

He listed reasons such as, the President´s unique style and ability to bring about change in international politics, his emphasis on multi-lateral diplomacy in tackling world problems and crisis, his encouragement to achieve peace through the use of dialogue and negotiations among international institutions, his vision of a world without nuclear arms, the new policy and direction taken by the United States in relation to climate change, among other reasons, for the Institute´s unanimous selection of President Obama for this year´s Nobel Peace Price award.

Diplomacy Watch congratulates President Obama and indeed his Administration and all those world leaders and diplomats who have supported his vision and his efforts in the use of diplomacy in resolving world conflicts.

Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 9 October 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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Israel´s Raid On An Aid Flotilla To Gaza Attracts Strong International Protests

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a meeting at the Knesset, Israel´s parliament in Jerusalem. Photo by Sebastian Scheiner (AP) 2.jpg

ISRAEL HAS SUFFERED STRONG INTERNATIONAL PROTESTS FROM THE LOSS OF CIVILIAN LIVES FOLLOWING ITS RAID ON AN AID FLOTILLA TO GAZA. 

PRIME MINISTER NETANYAHU, IN CANADA AT THE TIME, EXPRESSED REGRET FOR THE LOSS OF LIVES AND CANCELED A PLANNED MEETING WITH US PRESIDENT OBAMA, IN WASHINGTON, TO HEAD BACK HOME.

ISRAEL HAS TO WORK VERY HARD TO REPAIR THE DAMAGE DONE TO ITS FRIENDLY RELATIONSHIP WITH TURKEY. IT WILL ALSO HAVE TO SHOW A LOT OF GOODWILL TO HELP HEAL ANY MAJOR SETBACKS IN THE US´ MIDDLE EAST DIPLOMACY EFFORTS AS A RESULT OF THIS UNFORTUNATE INCIDENT.

The loss of civilian lives when Israeli forces intercepted 6 ships carrying humanitarian aid to the impoverished Gaza strip has not only received international condemnation, but has also highlighted the hardships facing the people of Gaza as a result of Israeli blockades with the support of Egypt.

Diplomacy Watch hopes that the issues will be resolved quickly and amicably. We urge all parties that seek peace and security of all nations and peoples of the Middle East to please show a lot of goodwill and maintain efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution of the issues about the sad loss of lives, the blockade and other matters at hand.
Chris Dankwa - Mon 31 May 2010.

Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 2 June 2010 for DiplomacyWatch.Com 
First published under ´ Diplomacy: Tough but Necessary Choice ´]
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US Achieves Significant Diplomacy Success in Iran Nuclear Issue

Iranian Chief Negotiator Saeed Jalili and US Under Secretary of State and Chief Negotiator William Burns.jpg

The Obama Administration has made significant progress through its diplomacy efforts to pressurise Iran to open up its new nuclear plant to international inspectors and to prove that building nuclear bombs are not part of its nuclear ambitions.

A Separate and very rare one-on-one meeting between US Under Secretary of State and Chief Negotiator William Burns and Iran´s Chief Nuclear Negotiator, Saeed Jalili, has taken place. The talks are expected to have yielded good progress in the US´ efforts to use diplomacy to resolve issues at hand and avoid any potential confrontation with Iran.

Russia and China are also key players and are watching events closely. Russia is reported to have indicated its displeasure, fairly recently, with the Iranian Government on Iran´s nuclear ambitions. Further pressure was placed on Iran following the discovery of Iran´s new nuclear facility.

The P5 plus 1 group, led by the U.S. and five other world powers, China, Russia, France, Germany and the UK are demanding a freeze of Iran´s nuclear activities. Its diplomats and representatives attended the opening of the Geneva nuclear talks on Iran´s atomic programme in Geneva, Thursday, 1st October 2009. Iran is expected to open its new nuclear facility to international inspectors as well as prove to the inspectors that its nuclear ambitions are only for energy production and not for the building of a nuclear bomb.

[Photo courtesy of EPA/Dominic Favre].
European Union foreign policy Chief Javier Solana, was present at the meeting.
 
Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 1 October 09 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]
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US and Russia Close to New Nuclear Nonproliferation Deal

US President Obama and Russian President Medvedev move towards new nuclear pact - photo by AP.jpg

US President Obama and Russian President President Medvedev are close to a new
deal on cutting down on their stockpile of nuclear missiles to about 1500 each. In their
telephone conversation today, the two Presidents ironed out issues that will help ensure
that an agreement is reached to allow a new treaty to be signed when they meet in April.

Although the deal lessens the deterrent role that nuclear weapons play especially
during the cold war, it does not weaken either the US or Russia´s defence capabilities.
It will, according to defence experts and the White Wouse,  strengthen the US´ hand
in obtaining stiffer UN resolutions that prevents nations such as North Korea and Iran
in obtaining nuclear weapons.
 
This is a step in the right direction in the need for a nuclear-free world or a world where 
the power of diplomacy is favoured over the power of arsemals, in particular, nuclear 
bombs. The move is also an important strategic move on the part of the two nuclear
power leaders as it gives them an edge to persuade others on the need to cut down
their own stockpiles. This argument will be made during the April Nuclear Security 
Summit in Washington this month.


Chris K Dankwa 
[Published 6 April 10 for DiplomacyWatch.Com ]


UPDATE

US President Obama and Russia´s President Medvedev have signed a new
deal to reduce their stockpile of nuclear missiles to about 1500 each. 

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Front Page Summary
US President Obama and Russia´s President Medvedev have signed a new
deal to reduce their stockpile of nuclear missiles to about 1500 each. In a telephone conversation today, they ironed out outstanding issues to pave the way for a new treaty to be signed when they meet in Washington later this month for the April Nuclear Security Summit.

Diplomacy Watch believes that this is a step in the right direction for a nuclear-free world and, a world where the power of diplomacy is favoured over the power of arsemals, in particular, nuclear bombs. This is an important strategic move on the part of the two nuclear powers, in particular the US, as it provides an edge to persuade others on the need to cut down their own stockpiles as well as gain China´s help in preventing North Korea and Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. 
 


President Hu Jin Tao´s influence on Kim Jong-Il

Chinese President Hu Jintao. Published by Heart Aid - Photo courtesy of china-embassy dot org site..jpg

CHINESE PRESIDENT HU JIN TAO PERSUADE´S KIM JONG-IL
TO RETURN TO SIX PARTY TALKS

Chinese President Hu Jin Tao Meets North Korea´s Leader Kim Jong Il on May 06 2010 About North Korea Returning To the Six Party Talks

President Hu Jin Tao has persuaded North Korean´s Leader Kim to return to the Six Party Talks on disarmament. Its a year and a half since Kim boycotted the talks. The warm reception that he received from China is an indication that the talks will begin soon.

Although no details of discussions about the tragic loss of 46 South Koreans following the alleged sinking of one of its navy ships near their common border was given to the media, it is highly likely that the matter was raised by China. There is no doubt that both Japan and South Korea´s governments have made very significant contributions towards the huge international diplomacy efforts to keep the peace with North Korea. China´s success in bringing back optimism in the re-starting of the Six Party talks is therefore a welcome change and an important achievement in its international diplomacy efforts.


Obama´s Warm Welcome in Ghana And His Tough Love Message To Africa´s Leaders And Governments

President Barack Obama walks with Ghana President John Atta Mills, right, at the Presidential Palace in Accra, Ghana, Saturday, July 11, 2009. In his first visit to sub-Saharan Africa 2.jpg



THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

[President Obama & President Atta Mills]
[Photo courtesy of AP Photos]
______________________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release                                                                  July 11, 2009

REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
TO THE GHANAIAN PARLIAMENT
Accra International Conference Center
Accra, Ghana


12:40 P.M. GMT

 

THE PRESIDENT: (Trumpet plays.) I like this. Thank you. Thank you. I think Congress needs one of those horns. (Laughter.) That sounds pretty good. Sounds like Louis Armstrong back there. (Laughter.) 
 
Good afternoon, everybody. It is a great honor for me to be in Accra and to speak to the representatives of the people of Ghana. (Applause.) I am deeply grateful for the welcome that I´ve received, as are Michelle and Malia and Sasha Obama. Ghana´s history is rich, the ties between our two countries are strong, and I am proud that this is my first visit to sub-Saharan Africa as President of the United States of America. (Applause.)
 
I want to thank Madam Speaker and all the members of the House of Representatives for hosting us today. I want to thank President Mills for his outstanding leadership. To the former Presidents -- Jerry Rawlings, former President Kufuor -- Vice President, Chief Justice -- thanks to all of you for your extraordinary hospitality and the wonderful institutions that you´ve built here in Ghana.
 
I´m speaking to you at the end of a long trip. I began in Russia for a summit between two great powers. I traveled to Italy for a meeting of the world´s leading economies. And I´ve come here to Ghana for a simple reason: The 21st century will be shaped by what happens not just in Rome or Moscow or Washington, but by what happens in Accra, as well. (Applause.)
 
This is the simple truth of a time when the boundaries between people are overwhelmed by our connections. Your prosperity can expand America´s prosperity. Your health and security can contribute to the world´s health and security. And the strength of your democracy can help advance human rights for people everywhere.
 
So I do not see the countries and peoples of Africa as a world apart; I see Africa as a fundamental part of our interconnected world -- (applause) -- as partners with America on behalf of the future we want for all of our children. That partnership must be grounded in mutual responsibility and mutual respect. And that is what I want to speak with you about today.
 
We must start from the simple premise that Africa´s future is up to Africans.
 
I say this knowing full well the tragic past that has sometimes haunted this part of the world. After all, I have the blood of Africa within me, and my family´s -- (applause) -- my family´s own story encompasses both the tragedies and triumphs of the larger African story. 
 
Some you know my grandfather was a cook for the British in Kenya, and though he was a respected elder in his village, his employers called him "boy" for much of his life. He was on the periphery of Kenya´s liberation struggles, but he was still imprisoned briefly during repressive times. In his life, colonialism wasn´t simply the creation of unnatural borders or unfair terms of trade -- it was something experienced personally, day after day, year after year.
 
My father grew up herding goats in a tiny village, an impossible distance away from the American universities where he would come to get an education. He came of age at a moment of extraordinary promise for Africa. The struggles of his own father´s generation were giving birth to new nations, beginning right here in Ghana. (Applause.) Africans were educating and asserting themselves in new ways, and history was on the move.
 
But despite the progress that has been made -- and there has been considerable progress in many parts of Africa -- we also know that much of that promise has yet to be fulfilled. Countries like Kenya had a per capita economy larger than South Korea´s when I was born. They have badly been outpaced. Disease and conflict have ravaged parts of the African continent.
 
In many places, the hope of my father´s generation gave way to cynicism, even despair. Now, it´s easy to point fingers and to pin the blame of these problems on others. Yes, a colonial map that made little sense helped to breed conflict. The West has often approached Africa as a patron or a source of resources rather than a partner. But the West is not responsible for the destruction of the Zimbabwean economy over the last decade, or wars in which children are enlisted as combatants. In my father´s life, it was partly tribalism and patronage and nepotism in an independent Kenya that for a long stretch derailed his career, and we know that this kind of corruption is still a daily fact of life for far too many.
 
Now, we know that´s also not the whole story. Here in Ghana, you show us a face of Africa that is too often overlooked by a world that sees only tragedy or a need for charity. The people of Ghana have worked hard to put democracy on a firmer footing, with repeated peaceful transfers of power even in the wake of closely contested elections. (Applause.) And by the way, can I say that for that the minority deserves as much credit as the majority. (Applause.) And with improved governance and an emerging civil society, Ghana´s economy has shown impressive rates of growth. (Applause.)
 
This progress may lack the drama of 20th century liberation struggles, but make no mistake: It will ultimately be more significant. For just as it is important to emerge from the control of other nations, it is even more important to build one´s own nation.
 
So I believe that this moment is just as promising for Ghana and for Africa as the moment when my father came of age and new nations were being born. This is a new moment of great promise. Only this time, we´ve learned that it will not be giants like Nkrumah and Kenyatta who will determine Africa´s future. Instead, it will be you -- the men and women in Ghana´s parliament -- (applause) -- the people you represent. It will be the young people brimming with talent and energy and hope who can claim the future that so many in previous generations never realized.
 
Now, to realize that promise, we must first recognize the fundamental truth that you have given life to in Ghana: Development depends on good governance. (Applause.)  That is the ingredient which has been missing in far too many places, for far too long. That´s the change that can unlock Africa´s potential. And that is a responsibility that can only be met by Africans.
 
As for America and the West, our commitment must be measured by more than just the dollars we spend. I´ve pledged substantial increases in our foreign assistance, which is in Africa´s interests and America´s interests. But the true sign of success is not whether we are a source of perpetual aid that helps people scrape by -- it´s whether we are partners in building the capacity for transformational change. (Applause.)
 
This mutual responsibility must be the foundation of our partnership. And today, I´ll focus on four areas that are critical to the future of Africa and the entire developing world: democracy, opportunity, health, and the peaceful resolution of conflict.
 
First, we must support strong and sustainable democratic governments. (Applause.)
 
As I said in Cairo, each nation gives life to democracy in its own way, and in line with its own traditions. But history offers a clear verdict: Governments that respect the will of their own people, that govern by consent and not coercion, are more prosperous, they are more stable, and more successful than governments that do not.
 
This is about more than just holding elections. It´s also about what happens between elections. (Applause.) Repression can take many forms, and too many nations, even those that have elections, are plagued by problems that condemn their people to poverty. No country is going to create wealth if its leaders exploit the economy to enrich themselves -- (applause) -- or if police -- if police can be bought off by drug traffickers. (Applause.) No business wants to invest in a place where the government skims 20 percent off the top -- (applause) -- or the head of the Port Authority is corrupt. No person wants to live in a society where the rule of law gives way to the rule of brutality and bribery. (Applause.) That is not democracy, that is tyranny, even if occasionally you sprinkle an election in there. And now is the time for that style of governance to end. (Applause.)
 
In the 21st century, capable, reliable, and transparent institutions are the key to success -- strong parliaments; honest police forces; independent judges -- (applause); an independent press; a vibrant private sector; a civil society. (Applause.) Those are the things that give life to democracy, because that is what matters in people´s everyday lives.
 
Now, time and again, Ghanaians have chosen constitutional rule over autocracy, and shown a democratic spirit that allows the energy of your people to break through. (Applause.) We see that in leaders who accept defeat graciously -- the fact that President Mills´ opponents were standing beside him last night to greet me when I came off the plane spoke volumes about Ghana -- (applause); victors who resist calls to wield power against the opposition in unfair ways. We see that spirit in courageous journalists like Anas Aremeyaw Anas, who risked his life to report the truth. We see it in police like Patience Quaye, who helped prosecute the first human trafficker in Ghana. (Applause.) We see it in the young people who are speaking up against patronage, and participating in the political process.
 
Across Africa, we´ve seen countless examples of people taking control of their destiny, and making change from the bottom up. We saw it in Kenya, where civil society and business came together to help stop post-election violence. We saw it in South Africa, where over three-quarters of the country voted in the recent election -- the fourth since the end of Apartheid. We saw it in Zimbabwe, where the Election Support Network braved brutal repression to stand up for the principle that a person´s vote is their sacred right.
 
Now, make no mistake: History is on the side of these brave Africans, not with those who use coups or change constitutions to stay in power. (Applause.) Africa doesn´t need strongmen, it needs strong institutions. (Applause.) 
 
Now, America will not seek to impose any system of government on any other nation. The essential truth of democracy is that each nation determines its own destiny. But what America will do is increase assistance for responsible individuals and responsible institutions, with a focus on supporting good governance -- on parliaments, which check abuses of power and ensure that opposition voices are heard -- (applause); on the rule of law, which ensures the equal administration of justice; on civic participation, so that young people get involved; and on concrete solutions to corruption like forensic accounting and automating services -- (applause) -- strengthening hotlines, protecting whistle-blowers to advance transparency and accountability.
 
And we provide this support. I have directed my administration to give greater attention to corruption in our human rights reports. People everywhere should have the right to start a business or get an education without paying a bribe. (Applause.) We have a responsibility to support those who act responsibly and to isolate those who don´t, and that is exactly what America will do.
 
Now, this leads directly to our second area of partnership: supporting development that provides opportunity for more people.
 
With better governance, I have no doubt that Africa holds the promise of a broader base of prosperity. Witness the extraordinary success of Africans in my country, America. They´re doing very well. So they´ve got the talent, they´ve got the entrepreneurial spirit. The question is, how do we make sure that they´re succeeding here in their home countries? The continent is rich in natural resources. And from cell phone entrepreneurs to small farmers, Africans have shown the capacity and commitment to create their own opportunities. But old habits must also be broken. Dependence on commodities -- or a single export -- has a tendency to concentrate wealth in the hands of the few, and leaves people too vulnerable to downturns.
 
So in Ghana, for instance, oil brings great opportunities, and you have been very responsible in preparing for new revenue. But as so many Ghanaians know, oil cannot simply become the new cocoa. From South Korea to Singapore, history shows that countries thrive when they invest in their people and in their infrastructure -- (applause); when they promote multiple export industries, develop a skilled workforce, and create space for small and medium-sized businesses that create jobs.
 
As Africans reach for this promise, America will be more responsible in extending our hand. By cutting costs that go to Western consultants and administration, we want to put more resources in the hands of those who need it, while training people to do more for themselves. (Applause.) That´s why our $3.5 billion food security initiative is focused on new methods and technologies for farmers -- not simply sending American producers or goods to Africa. Aid is not an end in itself. The purpose of foreign assistance must be creating the conditions where it´s no longer needed. I want to see Ghanaians not only self-sufficient in food, I want to see you exporting food to other countries and earning money. You can do that. (Applause.)
 
Now, America can also do more to promote trade and investment. Wealthy nations must open our doors to goods and services from Africa in a meaningful way. That will be a commitment of my administration. And where there is good governance, we can broaden prosperity through public-private partnerships that invest in better roads and electricity; capacity-building that trains people to grow a business; financial services that reach not just the cities but also the poor and rural areas. This is also in our own interests -- for if people are lifted out of poverty and wealth is created in Africa, guess what? New markets will open up for our own goods. So it´s good for both.
 
One area that holds out both undeniable peril and extraordinary promise is energy. Africa gives off less greenhouse gas than any other part of the world, but it is the most threatened by climate change. A warming planet will spread disease, shrink water resources, and deplete crops, creating conditions that produce more famine and more conflict. All of us -- particularly the developed world -- have a responsibility to slow these trends -- through mitigation, and by changing the way that we use energy. But we can also work with Africans to turn this crisis into opportunity.
 
Together, we can partner on behalf of our planet and prosperity, and help countries increase access to power while skipping -- leapfrogging the dirtier phase of development. Think about it: Across Africa, there is bountiful wind and solar power; geothermal energy and biofuels. From the Rift Valley to the North African deserts; from the Western coasts to South Africa´s crops -- Africa´s boundless natural gifts can generate its own power, while exporting profitable, clean energy abroad.
 
These steps are about more than growth numbers on a balance sheet. They´re about whether a young person with an education can get a job that supports a family; a farmer can transfer their goods to market; an entrepreneur with a good idea can start a business. It´s about the dignity of work; it´s about the opportunity that must exist for Africans in the 21st century.
 
Just as governance is vital to opportunity, it´s also critical to the third area I want to talk about: strengthening public health.
 
In recent years, enormous progress has been made in parts of Africa. Far more people are living productively with HIV/AIDS, and getting the drugs they need. I just saw a wonderful clinic and hospital that is focused particularly on maternal health. But too many still die from diseases that shouldn´t kill them. When children are being killed because of a mosquito bite, and mothers are dying in childbirth, then we know that more progress must be made.
 
Yet because of incentives -- often provided by donor nations -- many African doctors and nurses go overseas, or work for programs that focus on a single disease. And this creates gaps in primary care and basic prevention. Meanwhile, individual Africans also have to make responsible choices that prevent the spread of disease, while promoting public health in their communities and countries.
 
So across Africa, we see examples of people tackling these problems. In Nigeria, an Interfaith effort of Christians and Muslims has set an example of cooperation to confront malaria. Here in Ghana and across Africa, we see innovative ideas for filling gaps in care -- for instance, through E-Health initiatives that allow doctors in big cities to support those in small towns.
 
America will support these efforts through a comprehensive, global health strategy, because in the 21st century, we are called to act by our conscience but also by our common interest, because when a child dies of a preventable disease in Accra, that diminishes us everywhere. And when disease goes unchecked in any corner of the world, we know that it can spread across oceans and continents.
 
And that´s why my administration has committed $63 billion to meet these challenges -- $63 billion. (Applause.) Building on the strong efforts of President Bush, we will carry forward the fight against HIV/AIDS. We will pursue the goal of ending deaths from malaria and tuberculosis, and we will work to eradicate polio. (Applause.) We will fight -- we will fight neglected tropical disease. And we won´t confront illnesses in isolation -- we will invest in public health systems that promote wellness and focus on the health of mothers and children. (Applause.)
 
Now, as we partner on behalf of a healthier future, we must also stop the destruction that comes not from illness, but from human beings -- and so the final area that I will address is conflict.
 
Let me be clear: Africa is not the crude caricature of a continent at perpetual war. But if we are honest, for far too many Africans, conflict is a part of life, as constant as the sun. There are wars over land and wars over resources. And it is still far too easy for those without conscience to manipulate whole communities into fighting among faiths and tribes.
 
These conflicts are a millstone around Africa´s neck. Now, we all have many identities -- of tribe and ethnicity; of religion and nationality. But defining oneself in opposition to someone who belongs to a different tribe, or who worships a different prophet, has no place in the 21st century. (Applause.) Africa´s diversity should be a source of strength, not a cause for division. We are all God´s children. We all share common aspirations -- to live in peace and security; to access education and opportunity; to love our families and our communities and our faith. That is our common humanity.
 
That is why we must stand up to inhumanity in our midst. It is never justified -- never justifiable to target innocents in the name of ideology. (Applause.) It is the death sentence of a society to force children to kill in wars. It is the ultimate mark of criminality and cowardice to condemn women to relentless and systemic rape. We must bear witness to the value of every child in Darfur and the dignity of every woman in the Congo. No faith or culture should condone the outrages against them. And all of us must strive for the peace and security necessary for progress.
 
Africans are standing up for this future. Here, too, in Ghana we are seeing you help point the way forward. Ghanaians should take pride in your contributions to peacekeeping from Congo to Liberia to Lebanon -- (applause) -- and your efforts to resist the scourge of the drug trade. (Applause.) We welcome the steps that are being taken by organizations like the African Union and ECOWAS to better resolve conflicts, to keep the peace, and support those in need. And we encourage the vision of a strong, regional security architecture that can bring effective, transnational forces to bear when needed.
 
America has a responsibility to work with you as a partner to advance this vision, not just with words, but with support that strengthens African capacity. When there´s a genocide in Darfur or terrorists in Somalia, these are not simply African problems -- they are global security challenges, and they demand a global response.
 
And that´s why we stand ready to partner through diplomacy and technical assistance and logistical support, and we will stand behind efforts to hold war criminals accountable. And let me be clear: Our Africa Command is focused not on establishing a foothold in the continent, but on confronting these common challenges to advance the security of America, Africa, and the world. (Applause.) 
 
In Moscow, I spoke of the need for an international system where the universal rights of human beings are respected, and violations of those rights are opposed. And that must include a commitment to support those who resolve conflicts peacefully, to sanction and stop those who don´t, and to help those who have suffered. But ultimately, it will be vibrant democracies like Botswana and Ghana which roll back the causes of conflict and advance the frontiers of peace and prosperity.
 
As I said earlier, Africa´s future is up to Africans.
The people of Africa are ready to claim that future. And in my country, African Americans -- including so many recent immigrants -- have thrived in every sector of society. We´ve done so despite a difficult past, and we´ve drawn strength from our African heritage. With strong institutions and a strong will, I know that Africans can live their dreams in Nairobi and Lagos, Kigali, Kinshasa, Harare, and right here in Accra. (Applause.) 
 
You know, 52 years ago, the eyes of the world were on Ghana. And a young preacher named Martin Luther King traveled here, to Accra, to watch the Union Jack come down and the Ghanaian flag go up. This was before the march on Washington or the success of the civil rights movement in my country. Dr. King was asked how he felt while watching the birth of a nation. And he said: "It renews my conviction in the ultimate triumph of justice."
 
Now that triumph must be won once more, and it must be won by you. (Applause.) And I am particularly speaking to the young people all across Africa and right here in Ghana. In places like Ghana, young people make up over half of the population. 
 
And here is what you must know: The world will be what you make of it. You have the power to hold your leaders accountable, and to build institutions that serve the people. You can serve in your communities, and harness your energy and education to create new wealth and build new connections to the world. You can conquer disease, and end conflicts, and make change from the bottom up. You can do that. Yes you can -- (applause) -- because in this moment, history is on the move.
 
But these things can only be done if all of you take responsibility for your future. And it won´t be easy. It will take time and effort. There will be suffering and setbacks. But I can promise you this: America will be with you every step of the way -- as a partner, as a friend. (Applause.) Opportunity won´t come from any other place, though. It must come from the decisions that all of you make, the things that you do, the hope that you hold in your heart.
 
Ghana, freedom is your inheritance. Now, it is your responsibility to build upon freedom´s foundation. And if you do, we will look back years from now to places like Accra and say this was the time when the promise was realized; this was the moment when prosperity was forged, when pain was overcome, and a new era of progress began. This can be the time when we witness the triumph of justice once more. Yes we can. Thank you very much. God bless you.  Thank you. (Applause.) 
 
END                            1:10 P.M. GMT
 
 

Source: courtesy of The White House, Washington

Summary

President Obama and President Atta Mills of Ghana
President Obama was given a very warm 
welcome by President Atta-Mills and the people
of Ghana. He expressed admiration for Ghana´s 
unique achievements such as good governance,
democratic and peaceful elections, and its
well run economic recovery programmes. Photo

He also sent a strong message to all African
leaders and governments that the United States
will support those who adhere to the rule of law,
good governance and, that Africa´s future is in
the hands of Africans. Obama´s full speech at
Ghana´s Parliament to Africa´s Leaders & Govts