http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/site/index/ en U.S. Department of State 2008-08-28T17:14:00-05:00 About the Author: Katie Speckart is the Collections Manager for the U.S. Diplomacy Center.

If only it were possible to outlaw war by decree. This large pen represents world leaders' hopes for peace when they signed the anti-war Kellogg-Briand Pact on August 27, 1928. The Pact never lived up to its expectations, and the pen is a reminder just how elusive the quest for peace can be.

The Pact originated with French Foreign Minister Aristide Briand, who convinced Secretary of State Frank Kellogg to join him in the peace effort in 1927. Ten years after the end of World War I (1914-1918), they agreed to condemn war as a solution to international disputes. Diplomats from 16 nations originally signed the agreement in 1928, and 62 ultimately ratified it. Although both Kellogg and Briand won the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts, the Pact failed since there were no provisions to enforce it.

Secretary Kellogg received this pen from the mayor of Le Havre, France while en route to the signing ceremony in Paris. Words in Latin on the pen read, "Si Vis Pacem Para Pacem," or "If You Want Peace Prepare for Peace." The signers dipped it in the ink holder that Benjamin Franklin used to sign the Treaty of Alliance with France in 1778, the agreement that helped gain the American colonies' independence from Britain.

Tell us what you think. Is it important to save the pens that sign treaties? Why do you think this pen was saved? What do you think about creating a pact for peace with no means to enforce it?

About the U.S. Diplomacy Center

The U.S. Diplomacy Center (USDC) collects artifacts that tell the story of all aspects of American diplomacy, its history, practice and challenges. The scope of the collections includes items that represent the activities, events and people who engaged in American diplomacy from the 18th century to the present.

The USDC is actively seeking artifacts for the collections that represent the range of work on global issues at American embassies and consulates overseas, including objects which represent the challenges and dangers diplomats sometimes face in simply trying to do their jobs.

Please contact USDC Senior Curator Priscilla Linn or Collections Manager Katie Speckart for more information.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/peace_pact/ 2008-08-28T17:14:00-05:00 NATO Ships in Black Sea Raise Alarms in Russia [NYT]

U.S. to Hand Over Security in Anbar to the Iraqis [NYT]

U.S.-Pakistani Brainstorming on Border Violence [NYT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0828_top_issues/ 2008-08-28T13:57:00-05:00 Rice Criticises Settlements but Sees Progress in Mideast Talks [AFP]

North Korea Says It Halts Nuclear Reactor Disablement [AP]

Russia Backs Independence of Georgian Enclaves [NYT]

Condoleezza Rice To Visit Libya Next Week [AFP]

U.N. Finds Airstrike Killed 90 Afghans [WP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0827_top_issues/ 2008-08-27T13:16:00-05:00 Israel Frees 198 Palestinians Before Rice Arrives for Talks [NYT]

Iraq, U.S. Agree No Foreign Troops After 2011: PM [AFP]

Russian Parliament Backs Regions in Georgia [WP]

Pakistan: Top US diplomat escapes gun attack [AP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0826_top_issues/ 2008-08-26T14:20:01-05:00 Rice in Longshot Bid for Mideast Peace Progress [AP]

Iraqi Prime Minister Demanding Changes to U.S. Military Deal: Ally [AFP]

EU Leaders To Discuss Georgia As Russia Flouts West [WSJ]

U.S. in Attack on Stifling of Dissent [FT]
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0825_top_issues/ 2008-08-25T14:25:00-05:00 Draft Accord With Iraq Sets Goal of 2011 Pullout [NYT]

Israeli Minister Warns Against Early Peace [NYT]

Suicide Bombers Kill 67 at Pakistan Arms Factory [WP]

Russians Dig In but Still Promise Georgia Pullout [AP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0822_top_issues/ 2008-08-22T15:04:00-05:00 Rice Visits Baghdad To Press for Security Deal [AP]

U.S., Poland Sign Pacts on Missile Defense [MCT]

Russian Troops Remain, But With Lighter Presence [WP]

U.S. Offers Aid to Pakistanis Displaced by Clashes [AP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0821_top_issues/ 2008-08-21T13:50:00-05:00 NATO Urges Russia To Withdraw but Will Say Little Else [WP]

Polish Government Approves Missile Deal [AP]

Rice Will Not Attend Olympic Closing Ceremonies [AP]

Refugee Program Halted As DNA Tests Show Fraud [WSJ]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0820_top_issues/ 2008-08-20T16:54:00-05:00 NATO Must Reaffirm Georgia's Bid To Join: Rice [AFP]

No Sign of a Russian Departure in Georgia [WP]

Musharraf Resigns, Leaving a Shaky Pakistan in His Wake [WSJ]

North Korea Says U.S. is Hampering Nuclear Disarmament [AP]

Iran Offers To Launch Satellites [NYT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0819_top_issues/ 2008-08-19T14:21:00-05:00 Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf To Resign [AP]

Russia Set To Leave a Battered Georgia [WSJ]

Iran Reports Test of Craft Able To Carry a Satellite [NYT]

Israel To Free 200 Prisoners as Rice Visits Mideast [AFP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0818_top_issues/ 2008-08-18T14:38:00-05:00 DipNote Editors' Note: Due to lingering crisis in Georgia, this entry will remain the "Question of the Week" for two weeks.

Last week, Russia attacked Georgia in response to a Georgian attempt to quell dissension in a breakaway province. On August 12, Russian President Medvedev met the President-in-Office of the European Union, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, and approved a six-point peace plan. Late that night, Georgian President Saakashvili agreed to the text. Since that time, tensions remain in the region. Secretary Rice met with the Georgian President and called for a cessation of military activities and respect for Georgian territorial integrity and independence and sovereignty.

What role should the international community play in the Russia-Georgia conflict?]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/q_georgia/ 2008-08-15T17:19:00-05:00 US trying to salvage gains in Mideast talks [AP]

Rice warns Iran against stalling on nuclear offer [AFP]

U.S., Iraq Move Closer To Reaching a Security Deal [WSJ]

After 7 Years, Talks on Trade Collapse [NYT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0730_top_issues/ 2008-07-30T14:30:00-05:00 About the Author: Sean McCormack serves as the Department Spokesman and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs.

If there is a well worn groove in American diplomacy, it is the flight path between Washington and Jerusalem (and more recently Ramallah), a path we have followed as well having just concluded our seventh trip to the "region" in about nine months. As with much in diplomacy, it is important to learn from the past but not be captive to it. In that regard, it is worth noting for you a few ways in which the current process differs with the past.

One lesson learned is that leaks to the media can kill ongoing negotiations. We've all seen it before, and I can tell you from first-hand experience that the well timed leak designed to place someone else at a disadvantage is an art form in the Middle East writ large, but most especially in Israel and the Palestinian territories. During the current political negotiations, however, we have had very few leaks to the media about the substance of what is being discussed between the two sides. There will come a time to speak in public about what has been agreed, but to talk about incomplete discussions would be premature and harmful to what the Israelis and Palestinians are trying to do. And, ultimately, any concerns about how they negotiate will be wiped away in the end by public judgment of what they negotiated. We, by the way, fully encourage continuation of the current news blackout as it helps the two sides build trust as they hammer away at the most delicate issues, such as borders, security, right of return for Palestinian refugees and Jerusalem.

We have also taken a slightly different tack in monitoring some of the practical, on the ground changes that need to occur in the process to bring about a Palestine and an Israel that are peaceful neighbors. Secretary Rice asked Lieutenant General Will Fraser (U.S. Air Force) to serve as the "Roadmap" monitor. You can Google "Middle East Roadmap" and get as much detail as you would like about the Roadmap. At its most basic, the document lists a series of obligations each side has agreed that will help lead to the two-state solution. These obligations include such things as removal of roadblocks, checkpoints, and illegal outposts by the Israelis and the building of an effective security force and legal processes by the Palestinians in order to fight terror effectively and to maintain security in Palestinians areas. Fulfillment of obligations by each side would not only improve the situation on the ground for Israelis and Palestinians, but by completing items on the list both sides help build an effective, peaceful, and mutually beneficial relationship necessary for them to live as neighbors. Almost as important as the role itself is the man selected to fill it. Lt. Gen. Fraser also serves as Assistant to the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff (his day job) and as an adviser to Secretary Rice. He travels with her on nearly every overseas trip and is an integral part of her team.

What Lt. Gen. Fraser has been able to accomplish in his "spare time" as Roadmap monitor is truly impressive. Through painstaking data collection and site visits, he has built an analytical process for measuring each side's compliance with its obligations. For example, he and his team have a built a database of roadblocks and checkpoints in the West Bank that did not previously exist. We, and the parties, now have a picture of how checkpoints and roadblocks function, how they got there, what each contributes to security, and how each affects movement of goods and people. Why is that important? Well, in order to gain maximum positive effect for any given action, all sides need to understand potential costs and potential benefits for any move. By quantifying these variables, we can move beyond mere assertions by both sides and have a more rational, productive conversation. While it might make for a better press release to say 50 roadblocks have been removed, the reality may be that removing the right 20 roadblocks may have more net benefit to both sides. In a process as fraught with emotion as this one, Lt. Gen. Fraser's contribution of placing these issues on a sound analytical foundation has been enormous. You should also know that he is a pilot with command experience in B-52, B-1, and B-2 aircraft, and he has been nominated by the President to serve as the next Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force. The patience and precision required of pilot have come in handy in the kinds of duties which Lt. Gen. Fraser has been charged with and succeeded in during his Roadmap responsibilities.

While these are a couple of ways in which we are trying to put the lessons of the past to good use, old fashioned deal-making, political will, and a bit of good fortune will be key ingredients in determining when the parties will succeed.

One other point, you should know that we are still pushing for a deal between the two parities by the end of 2008 -- the agreed goal at last November's Annapolis peace conference. Judging by some of the stories about Secretary Rice's trip, though, you would be forgiven for thinking that's not the case and that we had thrown in the towel because of uncertain politics in Israel and the Palestinians territories. After having sat in some of today's meetings between Secretary Rice and both the Israelis and the Palestinians, I can say firsthand that the Annapolis goal remains the goal.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/behind_the_scenes_israel_palestine/ 2008-08-27T14:13:00-05:00 About the Author: Daniel Fried is the Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs.

Russia's incursion into Georgia -- followed by the failure of Russian troops to withdraw from Georgian territory after Russian President Medvedev signed a Ceasefire agreement to do so -- has generated intense diplomacy and conceptual thinking over the past two plus weeks. Secretary Rice has led on both counts.

First, Secretary Rice helped seal the French-negotiated Ceasefire agreement by flying to Tbilisi and working with Georgia's leaders to get President Saakashvili to sign it. She worked with the French and Georgians to get clarifications of the ceasefire, without which the Georgians would not have signed. Her effort succeeded, appreciated by the French and Georgians alike. While the Russians have not yet adhered to terms of the Ceasefire, without her effort we would have no Ceasefire at all with which to push the Russians and achieve some stability.

Second, Secretary Rice focused the initial outrage and anxiety felt in Europe into a unified front at NATO in support of Georgia's territorial integrity and sovereignty, and the Ceasefire agreement. Anyone familiar with NATO's customary pace understands that we achieved a lot and achieved it fast.

Beyond these operational successes, Secretary Rice helped put Russia's invasion of Georgia into strategic context: Russia, she argued, was trying to behave like the Soviet Union toward Georgia (and other countries close to its borders), while still seeking the benefits of integration into the wider world. Her point, now increasingly accepted, is that Russia cannot have it both ways, and that Russia is in fact choosing a path of self-isolation due to its own actions, not punitive steps by others.

In any crisis, critics and pundits have a lot to say. Some argue the United States was too hard on Russia because we did not give Moscow a "sphere of influence" to dominate its neighbors. We plead guilty: the United States does not "give away" other countries, or sacrifice the freedom of other peoples for cynical calculation. That kind of thinking went out with the last century, and, to our credit, the United States never really embraced it.

Others say we have been too accommodating to Russia. But I would argue that the efforts of the last three Presidents to encourage and support Russia's integration into the world were certainly the right ones. If Russia has failed to make its own shift from imperial- and Soviet-style efforts to dominate its neighbors, that is Russia's choice, and Russia will have to live with the consequences: fear from its neighbors, suspicion from the world's advanced democracies, and isolation.

This crisis is not over. But Americans can be proud of the role their Secretary of State has played in responding to the most serious threat Russia has posed to European security and stability since the breakup of the Soviet Union.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/rice_negotiation_georgia/ 2008-08-25T20:54:01-05:00 About the Author: Alexander McLaren is a Public Diplomacy Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China.

Just hours before the opening ceremony, President Bush had a meeting with the entire U.S. Olympic team, and we were there. As you might expect, anything involving the President of the United States has to be planned in advance. There are security concerns, scheduling issues and just practical issues like where will he enter and where the cars in his motorcade can park. This was even more complicated than a "normal" Presidential visit because his father, the former President, his daughter Barbara, the U.S. Ambassador to China and many other VIPs were coming as well. Plus it was on the Olympic Green just before the opening ceremony. So we had meetings, and we drew maps and planned everything to the last detail.

And of course it was all in vain.

I watched the more than 500 young athletes file into the Olympic Fencing Hall wearing their team blazers and caps. It was an incredible sight. Everyone was smiling; they knew that this was one of the most important days in their lives.

The President arrived to cheers from the athletes and gave a rousing speech calling on the team to win as many gold medals as they could and to give it all they got.

After he spoke the plan was to assemble everyone by team in a big semi-circle. The President would walk up to each team, take one photo and move on. But once the President got moving, he was shaking hands and chatting with each athlete. They were throwing their arms around the Commander-in-Chief, and everyone had their own camera for a one-on-one shot. These young people weren't going to stand still and pose, and the President didn't want them to!

So instead we brought the teams to the President, giving each of them time to chat and joke around while cameras clicked and TV crews filmed. We'd give each team a few minutes and then politely ask them to move on to give the next team a chance.

In the case of the boxers and weightlifters, we asked VERY POLITELY.

Meanwhile former President George H.W. Bush, the first daughter Barbara, U.S. Ambassador to China Clark T. Randt, Jr., and other VIPs mingled with the athletes giving them all a chance to get to know each other. The President even took a minute to meet with the Chinese volunteers and staff who had worked so hard to make this possible.

The great thing is, although the plan didn't work, the event was wonderful. Everyone got time with the President, the team was happy and most importantly the President was thrilled to spend so much time with our Olympians.

It's always good to see that sometimes things do work out fine.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/merry_chaos_two_presidents_welcome_the_us_olympic_team/ 2008-08-25T12:47:00-05:00 About the Auhor: Sean McCormack serves as the Department Spokesman and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs.

I don’t want to talk about the state of the strategic framework agreement with Iraq or the status of forces agreement. I’ve heard enough about both today, and we’ll hear much more about them and what they mean for the U.S., Iraq, and our relationship in the days, weeks and months ahead. Instead, I want to talk about Blackberries and a wireless network in Baghdad.

For as long as I have been going to Iraq, a bit more than three years now, Blackberries have not worked in Baghdad. Those of you with these electronic tethers know this state cuts both ways, but for us it cut mostly against being able to efficiently do our jobs in limited stays on the ground. I had just grown accustomed to taking the Blackberry from my belt, stuffing it securely in my bag in time for landing at Baghdad International Airport (BIAP), and staying up a few extra hours after leaving Iraq to deal with all the e-mails I had missed while in Iraq. I was about to do the same thing today, when one of my traveling companions let it be known that her Blackberry was working. (I don’t know if she was tipped or had merely forgotten to turn it off before we reached “combat airspace” around Baghdad -- only to make a discovery almost as important to the business traveler as the invention of frequent flyer miles). Much to my delight, I learned that my AT&T powered device also was able to send and receive data. “What happened,” I asked myself as the task of debarking, putting on body armor, and boarding a Blackhawk helicopter was intruded on by contemplating the ramifications of this new state of being.

After getting to the first meeting site at Prime Minister Maliki’s residence, I asked one of the embassy personnel with us what had happened. They said that IRAQNA (Orascom Telecom Iraq Corporation) had happened and that they now had the pleasure of having to answer yet another question from Washington at 2:30 AM in Baghdad just because their Blackberries worked at home. (My first thought was to mention that answering e-mails at obscene hours will only beget more such e-mails but quickly decided my colleague could either figure that out for himself or continue to live a sleepless existence). Baghdad Blackberries had worked for about two months. In celebration and cost savings, our embassy was getting rid of the ubiquitous cell phones with a U.S. area code that served as the only means of mobile communication for civilians. The second surprise awaiting me in Baghdad was a wireless network at the Prime Minister’s office building, which I used to send a blog post to my colleagues in Washington. The journalists traveling with us shared in the good fortune, using the network to file their initial stories from Baghdad without traveling either to our embassy or to a press filing center.

Neither of these small changes will change much in Iraq nor change many opinions for that matter. But for some reason, they struck me as worth sharing. Perhaps it was because the road in Iraq has been such a costly and difficult one, and maybe because progress on big issues has come only recently. However, both of these minor technological advances reinforced the perception formed during the past few trips there that Iraq is moving forward in large and small ways -- though there is a long way to go. ]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/behind_the_scenes_wireless_baghdad/ 2008-08-22T15:20:00-05:00 About the Auhor: Sean McCormack serves as the Department Spokesman and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs.

The two hour ride on the C-17 aircraft from Turkey into Baghdad was relaxed and uneventful. Shortly after we leveled off in flight, Secretary Rice came down from the flight deck to speak with the 13 reporters traveling with us for a short briefing to set up our four-hour (scheduled) trip to Baghdad. If you've ever been inside a C-17 in flight you'll know that it can be a bit hard to hear over the engine noise, but the reporters huddled around her in a tight enough circle so that they could all hear one another. After about 10 minutes with journalists, she went back up to the flight deck, and the journalists could be seen typing furiously on their laptops with digital recorders to their ears.

Landing at Baghdad International Airport (BIAP) was uneventful. But as soon as you emerged from the air-conditioned aircraft, the dry heat of Baghdad hit you between the eyes. We all quickly donned body armor (me over suit and tie -- not the best look) and helmet on our way to the waiting formation of Blackhawk helicopters, rotor blades whirring. We strapped in to the four-point harnesses for the short flight to the international zone ("Green Zone"), landing a few minutes later. With the windows open, body armor velcroed, and helmets strapped on we experienced Baghdad by air. I've made the same trip many times, but it was one of the first times that I had no anxiety about the flight, far different than flying the same route just a year ago. Looking down on Baghdad, I'm struck by how normal life on the street appears from the air. (I'll let others with time on the ground describe what they see). Kids are playing soccer, people are shopping in the market, cars are gassing up, laundry flutters from clotheslines.

As for the business of the trip, Secretary Rice is here to talk with Prime Minister Maliki about a Status of Forces Agreement and another strategic political agreement that, together, will serve a a set of guidelines for the evolving U.S.-Iraqi relationship in all its aspects, security, political, economic, and cultural. Negotiators have made a great deal of progress, but there are some end-game issues that require the attention of senior leadership. We'll see what progress she can make with the Prime Minister in nailing down an agreement.

From Baghdad, we leave for home via Turkey and Shannon airport only to leave again Sunday night for Jerusalem to discuss an entirely different set of issues.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/traveling_secretary_middle_east/ 2008-08-21T13:20:00-05:00 About the Author: Brenda Sprague serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services.

It was a dark and stormy night… no, actually, Monday was a dark and stormy day, and as Tropical Storm Fay roared toward southern Florida, I was preparing for a press conference. As the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services, I was in Miami to launch the Department of State's new passport product, the U.S. Passport Card. The press conference was held at the Port of Miami on August 18. With a cruise ships in the background, I addressed, in Spanish and English, print reporters about the newly-minted passport and its advantages for the traveler's wallet: its convenient size and affordable cost.

Below I’ve tried to answers a few of the questions you may have about this new passport product.

What is the U.S. Passport Card?

It is a wallet-sized travel document issued to U.S. citizens. When American citizens return to the United States by land or by sea from Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, or Bermuda, the U.S. Passport Card documents your citizenship and identity in one convenient-to-carry-and-use card.

What Is The Difference Between The Book And Card?

The two main differences deal with your wallet: One is size and the other is cost. The convenient pocket-sized format that will allow you to travel conveniently with a secure form of identification and proof of U.S. citizenship.

For adults, if this is your first U.S. passport, the Card will cost $45 and you must apply in person. Minors under the age of 16 must pay $35 for a U.S. passport card, even if they have previously been issued a U.S. passport. If you currently have a valid U.S. passport, you may be able to apply for a U.S. passport card by mail for only $20. By way of comparison, the passport book costs $100 for first-time adult applicants and $85 for children. Adults can renew their passport books for $75.

When you’re deciding which document you want, consider another important distinction: the passport book can be used for all international travel – land, sea or air anywhere in the world. The new U.S. Passport Card can be used only for land and sea travel returning to the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The one you choose will depend on your travel plans for the future.

I bet you want to now how can you get One?

Information on how to apply for a U.S. Passport Card or the traditional U.S. passport book can be found at the U.S. Department of State’s website, Travel.State.Gov.

Why Am I So Excited About this Card?

With the deadline for these new document requirements less than one year away, we urge U.S. citizens to apply today for their U.S. Passport Cards.

Don’t delay – be sure you have the document you need so you can continue traveling anywhere in the world you need to go. Apply for your U.S. Passport Card today!
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/new_passport_card/ 2008-08-20T15:01:00-05:00 About the Author: Salmah Y. Rizvi serves as the Truman Fellow in the Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism.

In regions where economic opportunities are few, access to fair education is limited, ethnic conflict influences everyday life, and religious zeal is manipulated for corrupt purposes, extremists leaders will exploit these conditions to create what the National Intelligence Council calls a "perfect storm" -- the most efficient breeding ground for terrorists.

These malevolent non-state actors will use a variety of techniques to create safe havens -- physical space, cyber space, and ideological space in order to brainwash the most vulnerable members of society. Their missions often transcend national boundaries and their campaigns become regional. In order to combat such multifaceted approaches to terrorist infiltration, the U.S. Counterterrorism Team, specifically Regional Affairs Officers (RAOs) from the Department of State's Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism (S/CT), must use all elements of national power to tactically implement the Regional Strategic Initiative (RSI) with the support of partner nations.

Planned in Washington, D.C., and hosted by U.S. embassies overseas, the RSI creates a flexible network of coordinated country teams, whose aim is to assist partner nations to eliminate terrorist safe havens. In Washington, S/CT RAOs interface with other intelligence and security agencies to properly assess terrorist threats in a particular region and develop a common strategic approach to counterterrorism. S/CT pools resources and tasks to generate a unified effort by the U.S. government while leveraging resources from international partners such as the G8, UN, etc. Department of State's regional bureaus and functional bureaus, such as INL, rely on S/CT's regional expertise in combating terrorism. Primarily, S/CT makes policy recommendations for various technical assistance programs which can be implemented on the ground.

One example of the RSI concept is the Southeast Asia RSI which includes Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Southeast Asia RAO, Daniel Mahanty, cited the combination of the U.S. Embassy Manila Country Team's holistic approach using the "three D's" (Diplomacy, Development, and Defense) and capacity building for other regional partners as critical to the Southeast Asia RSI concept. Mahanty elaborated: "the southern Philippines, a loosely governed area with extensive coastline access to the Sulawesi Sea, was in the throes of civil conflict and vulnerable to economic hardship, criminal activity, and natural disasters -- the kinds of conditions that transnational terrorist groups were taking advantage of to establish safe haven. Terrorists could easily transit the Sulawesi sea between the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The U.S. provided military assistance to help train the Philippines national army to root out Abu Sayyaf Group and Jemaah Islamiya Organization terrorists, which allowed Philipines military and police to provide security and gain the trust of the local population. More than 80% of the Embassy strategy, however, involved supporting the peace and reconciliation process between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and providing multi-sectoral development assistance to the people of the southern Philippines as areas become devoid of terrorists and supporters. At the same time, we looked for ways to support and build the capacity of other Southeast Asian nations in their own efforts to secure their borders and maintain maritime domain awareness. This regional strategy went a long way to help create an area less amenable to terrorist causes and deprived terrorists of significant safe haven and training areas -- a development with significant impact on the entire region. The idea of the RSI is to acknowledge through policy development and resource allocation that a comprehensive approach to terrorism will require all elements of national power and a regional perspective to address the conditions that terrorists exploit."

The RSI embodies a regional perspective for many of the tools of U.S. counterterrorism assistance, such as assistance to law enforcement, countering terrorism finance, building legal capacity, and promoting counterterrorism cooperation in multilateral organizations. The implementation of the RSI not only counters terrorism, but also builds credibility, good governance, and increased economic capability.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/diplomacy_development_defense_the_focus_of_the_regional_strategic_initiativ/ 2008-08-15T17:49:00-05:00 U.S. Warns Russia on Georgia but Readies Concessions [AP]

Musharraf Set To Resign in Days, Officials Assert [NYT]

Libya, U.S. Settle All Terror-Related Lawsuits [AP]

U.S. Warns Turkey Over Energy Deal With Iran [FT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0815_top_issues/ 2008-08-15T15:21:03-05:00 About the Author: Jonas Stewart is the Director of the Nagoya American Center and Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Consulate in Nagoya, Japan.

Earlier this summer, Masaichi and Mieko Hattori paid a courtesy visit on the U.S. Consulate in Nagoya in Central Japan. They wanted to introduce us to their friends, Holley and Richard Haymaker, as well as update us on the U.S.-Japan exchange program they founded to honor the memory of their son, Yoshi.

After the customary business card exchange, Mieko Hattori introduced the Haymakers, a friendly couple from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, then quietly explained the progress of their program. After casual small talk and discussion about how to work together on future programs, the Hattoris and their friends took their leave.

But this was no routine meeting about a cultural exchange program. The Hattoris were the center of a tragic episode in U.S.-Japan relations, and in the years since have used their heartrending experience to enhance U.S.-Japan relations via student exchange.

Their son, Yoshi Hattori, was a gregarious boy who was interested in sports and teenage life in America. At the age of 16, he seized the opportunity to participate in a student exchange program allowing him to live in the Haymaker's Baton Rouge home and attend a local high school during the fall of 1992.

Two months into his stay, Yoshi and the Haymaker's teenage son were invited to a Halloween party. While looking for the party, they unknowingly approached the wrong house. Yoshi and the Haymaker's son were mistaken as trespassers with criminal intent, and the homeowner shot Yoshi, who died shortly afterwards.

Back in Nagoya, Yoshi's parents received the horrible news of their son's death. In most cases, parents going through such a tragedy would understandably elect to have nothing to do with the country and other circumstances surrounding their child's death. Yet, after their initial shock and sadness the Hattoris decided to honor their son by using his death as a cause to strengthen U.S.-Japan relations.

Since 1994, the Hattoris have hosted American students in Japan for 11-month homestay programs. The Hattoris introduce the students to Japanese culture and encourage them to meet with community groups. These meetings include discussions about how to make the world a safer and more peaceful place.

When we think about bilateral relationships, we usually consider politics and human relations on the macro level. We think about treaties, press events, and armed conflict. When it comes to the U.S.-Japan relationship, and many other bilateral relationships throughout the world, foundations instead often consist of occasionally tragic but often inspiring personal stories like the one shared by the Hattoris and the Haymakers. Thanks to the courage and vision of the Hattoris, Yoshi's tragic death has become a vehicle for stronger relations between the people of America and Japan.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/honoring_yoshis_memory/ 2008-08-14T19:11:00-05:00 Despite Truce, Russians Take Georgian City [WP]

Lebanon, Syria Agree To Open Diplomatic Relations [WP]

Talks in Zimbabwe Adjourn Without Any Deal in Sight [NYT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0814_top_issues/ 2008-08-14T14:15:03-05:00 Rice: Russia Must Halt Operations in Georgia [AFP]

U.S. Diplomat Travels to China for Talks With North Korea [AP]

U.S. Imposes Sanctions On Iranian Companies [WP]

Al-Qaeda Said To Use Regional Strife To Tighten Grip in Pakistan [WP]

Polish Leader Optimistic on Missile Defense Talks [AP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0813_top_issues/ 2008-08-13T13:49:03-05:00 About the Author: Kathleen Eagen works in the State Department's Bureau of Oceans, Environment and Science.

Today is International Youth Day, and this year's theme is appropriately titled, "Youth and Climate Change: A Time for Action."

A few weeks ago the Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of Oceans, Environment and Science, Claudia A. McMurray, spoke to a group of about 400 high school students. These kids were from a number of different countries, as well as throughout the United States, and were one of several groups this summer that have come to the State Department to hear policy speeches on the U.S. government's top issues. Assistant Secretary McMurray highlighted our Bureau's work on climate change, illegal wildlife trafficking and illegal logging. She spoke about the U.S. commitment to developing a global solution to climate change that is both environmentally effective and economically sustainable, an agreement that would include participation from all major economies, including the United States.

She also spoke about U.S. efforts to stop the illegal trade in wildlife trafficking, through the promotion of strong law enforcement and stopping the demand of these products. Finally, she addressed U.S. government's efforts to preserve the vast biodiversity of the world's forests through a number of initiatives aimed at preventing deforestation and preserving the natural environment of the world's "lungs."

When the Assistant Secretary concluded her remarks, I wondered how the students would respond. I soon learned that they were not only interested in the issues -- asking tough, probing questions -- but they also weren't afraid to voice their opinions on how the United States and the world were doing on tackling the difficult environmental questions of the day. These kids weren't just savvy about the issues, they were concerned about how the issues would create an impact on the world around them. From questions about illegal logging, to the possibilities of the future of space exploration, no environmental topic lay unturned. But perhaps the question that struck me the most was a basic one, "What can we do to help stop global warming?"

I was heartened by the questions posed by the coming generation to our Assistant Secretary. The mere fact that these students are actively engaged in thinking about the issue answers the question posed above. It's the first step. What can we do to stop global warming? Think about your impact on the world, ask tough questions, become engaged in the debate, and never stop striving to find a way forward. Perhaps it's as simple as making the decision to walk instead of driving a car or installing energy efficient lightbulbs in your home. All these small efforts can add up when the world works together to tackle this global issue.

There is no magic bullet for addressing the climate change issue. It is, by nature, complex and difficult. But that doesn't mean we can’t work to find a solution. Now, more than ever, the global community has the opportunity to work together to tackle the problem of environmental degradation and climate change. We owe it to ourselves, and the next generation, to save and preserve this Earth.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/youth_questions_environmental/ 2008-08-12T18:44:00-05:00 Russia's Medvedev Halts Military Action in Georgia [AP]

U.S. Keeps North Korea On Terrorism Blacklist [WSJ]

Zimbabwe: Power-Sharing Talks Go On [NYT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0812_top_issues/ 2008-08-12T13:38:03-05:00 About the Author: Todd Pierce is the Public Affairs Officer for the State Department's Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration. He interviewed colleague Amy Wendt, a program officer who recently returned from a visit to Afghanistan where she inspected various refugee assistance projects funded by the United States. Wendt, who has served in Africa, told him about what the United States is doing for Afghans returning home and how people can help.

UPDATE: Since this entry was written, there has been another attack on humanitarian aid workers in Afghanistan. On Wednesday, August 13, three international staff and one Afghan driver with the International Rescue Committee, a U.S.-based NGO, were killed by the Taleban in Logar Province outside of Kabul. We strongly condemn this attack, and extend our condolences to the families and friends of those killed.

QUESTION: So, you just got back from Pakistan and Afghanistan. What were you doing there?

AMY WENDT: I traveled with my colleague Nancy Iris for a two-week monitoring and evaluation visit. We joined up with our Refugee Coordinators -- Allison Areias in Kabul and Linda Hoover in Islamabad -- to review work being conducted by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and a number of our non-governmental organization partners. The U.S. government, through the State Department's Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, financially supports these organizations to provide protection and assistance to refugees, returnees, internally displaced persons, and victims of conflict in the region.

QUESTION: Was this your first trip there?

AMY WENDT: Yes. But while it was my first trip to the region, the Bureau has been supporting refugees and victims of conflict in these countries for decades.

QUESTION: Decades? Wow. What sort of projects is the US funding for Afghan refugees? Were you able to visit any of these projects?

AMY WENDT: The United States Government funds approximately 25% of UNHCR's Afghanistan refugee program, which covers support in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran.

Since September 1, 2007, we have contributed slightly over $20 million to UNHCR for this program. The United States also supports a number of non-governmental organizations to provide reintegration support within Afghanistan and basic services to refugees and host communities in Pakistan. We have committed over $10.4 million for NGO projects this year and plan add additional support before the year ends.

Our Refugee Coordinators and locally employed Refugee Specialists visit the project sites regularly to monitor progress and oversee the work these partners are doing. During our visit to Afghanistan, we spent considerable time at a number of Land Allocation Scheme (LAS) sites that the Government of Afghanistan has set aside for returning refugees. Many of those who left Afghanistan in the late 1970s and early 1980s no longer have a claim to land. The LAS system is meant to provide land and a community for returnees who find themselves in this situation. The U.S. Government is working with the Government of Afghanistan, UNHCR, and NGOs like CARE, United Methodist Committee on Relief, International Rescue Committee, and International Medical Corps to provide additional support with shelter, water, primary education, and livelihoods programs to make these more viable communities.

QUESTION: What is happening in the photo you provided for DipNote?

AMY WENDT: We were visiting the Bari Kab land allocation scheme, which is located in Kabul Province. Many of the people now residing there had been living in public buildings or tent sites in Kabul city after returning in 2002. They had to pay a fee to gain title land after being approved for residence at this site. The international community is working with the government, UNHCR, UNDP, and NGOs to help provide additional support to the community. Although Bari Kab is located near a series of dry, river beds which can channel water to the site during spring and the rainy season, it still needs additional year-round water sources. One source was being put in place during our visit, and the boys are checking out some of the construction work that is underway. There is still a lot of work to be done on water and other support projects. We are working with USAID's Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance on how the USG might be able to provide additional support at this and other land allocation schemes.

QUESTION: Earlier, you mentioned that the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was also working in Afghanistan. Tell me about the work they are doing there.

AMY WENDT: Yes, the United States also supports the ICRC in Afghanistan. ICRC devotes 60% of its country operational budget to support six orthopedic centers and four non-ICRC prosthetic workshops throughout Afghanistan. During the visit, we monitored the work being done by ICRC at its main orthopedic center in Kabul. ICRC sees about 6,000 patients a year at this center, with 1,000 presenting as war victims or survivors of mine or ordinance accidents, and others the result of health care issues like polio. Through a physical rehabilitation program, the center also teaches patients how to walk using the new prostheses that have been made for them. ICRC manufactures over 15,000 artificial legs and arms every year to assist Afghans seeking rehabilitation assistance.

QUESTION: What did it feel like to be there?

AMY WENDT: Amazing. Both Afghanistan and Pakistan are challenging environments dealing with complex issues of governance, reconstruction, development, and counter-terrorism. Sometimes its difficult for people to remember that millions of Afghans remain in countries of asylum while hundreds of thousands are still returning to their homes. They will need a great deal of support in both countries to ensure refugees and returnees continue to receive protection and have the best start possible if they choose to come home at this time. One of the great parts of conducting a monitoring visit is that we get to spend time with incredibly dedicated staff like Allison and Linda, members of the U.S. forces who are working with the International Security Assistance Force and the Afghans on trying to improve security, and humanitarian workers who often put themselves at great personal risk to help communities rebuild after decades of war.

QUESTION: What did you wear?

AMY WENDT: Now there's a question you don't get every day after a monitoring trip, Todd. We spent a lot of time in the field reviewing project sites and interviewing refugees and returnees about the services they are receiving. Let's just say that Afghanistan is a "dry heat" and Peshawar in Pakistan brings "humidity" to a whole new level -- which is why I'm so glad I found a bunch of kurtas and tunics in Kabul that served me well throughout the trip. Even under Kevlar.

One of the NGOs that the United States will be supporting this year specializes in increasing market support for clothing and textiles made by Afghan women. The group started years ago in Peshawar with Afghan refugee women specializing in embroidered items for sale in both countries. Now that many have returned, they have registered as a NGO in Afghanistan and are specializing in high end clothing for weddings, special occasions, and the expatriate community. If they can work out an agreement to start exporting items for sale, they will look to expand business opportunities and increase the product line. I hope the next time we do a blog entry, we'll be able to put up a website so more people can learn about this group and consider supporting it.

QUESTION: How many Afghan refugees are there? How many internally displaced persons (IDPs)?

AMY WENDT: There are approximately 2 million Afghans registered as refugees in Pakistan and slightly over 1 million registered as refugees in Iran.

Over 5 million refugees have returned home to Afghanistan since 2002, making this the largest and most successful return operation conducted by UNHCR in its history. IDP figures often fluctuate, but, at the moment, UNHCR estimates there are approximately 132,000 IDPs in Afghanistan.

QUESTION: What would you say life is like for refugees in Afghanistan? Is it getting better or worse?

AMY WENDT: It depends on each individual returnee. For some that we met during our visit, the return home offers a chance for a new start, reuniting with family members, and safety in their home country. We met one man who had been running a shoe factory in Pakistan for years. He had been able to work with family to get another factory set up in his area of origin in Afghanistan and was now returning with his entire family. Their prospects were quite high for a successful reintegration. For others, especially those without a claim to land and limited education, there is no question that they will have many difficulties ahead in reestablishing themselves again. The last thing we want to see are high numbers of returnees who cannot reintegrate and who then turn around and go back to Pakistan or Iran.

QUESTION: How can we help Afghan refugees who are struggling with higher prices for food and fuel?

AMY WENDT: The most efficient and effective way to help those affected overseas is to make a monetary donation to a humanitarian organization that is implementing relief programs in the affected region. There are several different ways to go about identifying such organizations.

The Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) will often have links to various lists of organizations that are responding to a disaster.

InterAction, an association of non-profit development and humanitarian organizations, may have a list of responding members on its website.

Global Giving may have specific recovery projects listed that can be supported.

Other organizations that may also have information on responding organizations include The Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance, The American Institute of Philanthropy, GuideStar, and Charity Navigator.

News and search engine websites sometimes have lists of responding organizations. Check CNN, MSN, Google, Yahoo, or the website of your local newspaper or television station.

The United Nations maintains a website called ReliefWeb, which is a repository of information, listed by situation, submitted by responding humanitarian organizations. ]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/qa_afghan_refugees/ 2008-08-11T17:28:00-05:00 Russians Push Past Separatist Area to Assault Central Georgia [NYT]

Don't Fear Religion, Bush Tells China [AFP]

Iraq Demands 'Clear Timeline' for U.S. Withdrawal [AP]

Iran Says It's Ready To 'Confront' New Sanctions [AP]

Immediate Withdrawal of North Korea From Terror List Unlikely: U.S. [AFP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0811_top_issues/ 2008-08-11T13:36:03-05:00
To what extent are the Olympic Games more than an athletic competition?
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/q_olympic_games/ 2008-08-08T17:18:00-05:00 China Rebuffs Criticisms As Bush Arrives in Beijing [WP]

Iraqis: Deal Close On Plan For US Troops To Leave [AP]

Study Cautions Against Strike on Iran's Nuclear Facilities [WP]

Musharraf and Allies Plan Impeachment Fightback [AFP]

Anger Over Plan To Govern With Mugabe Acolytes [FT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0808_top_issues/ 2008-08-08T13:26:03-05:00 Full Text

From DipNote Editors: Yesterday, Secretary Rice spoke with Mike Allen of The Politico and Yahoo! News, and we thought that the DipNote crowd would also like to take a look. Their conversation covered a range of topics, including Iran, Iraq, North Korea, the Olympics, Russia and U.S. foreign policy over the last eight years. Here's the beginning of the interview:

QUESTION: Madame Secretary, thank you for sitting down with The Politico and Yahoo! News to talk about your accomplishments, the last eight years, and what lies ahead. You’re one of the few people who’s been along for the whole ride, so we have a lot to talk about.

We’ll start with Iran. A big deadline has passed. They were supposed to tell us if they were going to stop enriching uranium. If they don’t, they could build a bomb. Now what’s the latest on what’s going to happen? We understand that there are some new sanctions that are being considered.

SECRETARY RICE: Well, yesterday, the P5+1, the group that has offered Iran this very generous package but has also demanded that Iran stop its enrichment and reprocessing, the political directors met. They agreed that the Iranian answer is not adequate, that it is not a really serious answer. And so we’re now going to begin to consult on how to get back on the second track, which is to move again toward Security Council – toward a Security Council resolution. We’ve always said Iran has a way out if they ever wish, but we will seriously pursue sanctions if they don’t.

QUESTION: Madame Secretary, the time is running. Both the National Intelligence Estimate and the Israelis have said that at this rate, by 2010, they could have a nuclear weapon. Do you think that the time is coming when sanctions won’t be enough? What other sort of diplomatic, military options might we have to consider?

SECRETARY RICE: Well, the President keeps all of his options on the table, but we still believe that the diplomatic option can work and that there is time for it to work, because not only --

QUESTION: How much time?

SECRETARY RICE: Well, I don’t want to try to get into timelines. The fact is that we’re working at it every day. There is a coalition of states as well as Security Council resolutions that show the Iranians what they have to do. And we have to remember that it’s not just the Security Council resolutions, but a number of other financial measures that the United States, Europe, and others have taken, and a number of companies and banks that have gotten voluntarily out of Iran because of the reputational risk and because of the investment risk. And you have to hope that there are reasonable people in Iran who see this as not the way to run a country.

Read the continuation of the Secretary's interview with Mike Allen of The Politico and Yahoo! News.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/rice_interview_politico_and_yahoo/ 2008-08-07T18:10:00-05:00 Rice Warns of More Iran Sanctions [POL]

U.S. in 'Firm Opposition' to Chinese Human Rights Policies, Bush Says [WP]

Rice Condemns Military Coup in Mauritania [AFP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0807_top_issues/ 2008-08-07T13:58:03-05:00 US: Iran Reaction to Nuclear Offer Not Acceptable [AP]

In South Korea, Mixed Reaction to Bush [NYT]

Iraq Banks Billions in Surpluses, GAO Says [WP]

Iraqi Army Is Willing, but Not Ready, to Fight [NYT]
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0806_top_issues/ 2008-08-06T14:27:03-05:00 Iran Set To Respond to Offer of Incentives in Nuclear Dispute [WP]

Bush Is Bound for Beijing as a Sports Fan, Not a Crusader [NYT]

Bush Seeks Measures To Save Trade Deal With South Korea [WSJ]

U.S. Nixes Visas for Gaza Fulbrighters [WSJ]
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0805_top_issues/ 2008-08-05T14:39:03-05:00 Truck, Grenade Attack in China Kills 16 Policemen [WP]

IOC Chief Strives to Deflect Criticism of Chinese Censorship [WSJ]

Iran's Leader Says Diplomacy Key to Atomic Dispute [AP]

Kenyan Police: US Embassy 'Bomber' Escaped Raid [AP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0804_top_issues/ 2008-08-04T14:25:03-05:00 About the Author: Carlos A. DeJuana is on a Presidential Management Fellow rotation at the State Department’s Office of Iranian Affairs.

July 20 marked the 500th day since Robert "Bob" Levinson went missing in Iran. The Florida native and father of seven disappeared on March 9, 2007, while visiting Iran's Kish Island. Levinson, a retired FBI agent, was investigating cigarette counterfeiting for a private company when his family lost contact with him.

According to Bob's son, Daniel, the last man who saw Levinson said security officials on Kish Island had detained him. Weeks later, the Iranian government's Press TV also reported that Levinson was in the hands of Iranian security forces. However, to date, the Iranian government has said little else about the case.

Daniel and his mother Christine -- Bob's wife -- traveled to Iran in December last year in search of information. The Iranian government said it was investigating and promised to report back. They have yet to do so.

On July 14, 2008, Bob's wife Christine met with Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs William Burns to discuss her husband's case. Although the investigation is being led by the FBI, the State Department has advocated on the family's behalf and assisted with the family's trip to Iran in December.

The State Department has urged Tehran to share any information it has on the case. We have also reached out to allies who can press the issue with Iranian officials. Because the United States does not have diplomatic relations with Iran, we work with the Swiss Embassy in Tehran to advocate on behalf of issues concerning U.S. citizens.

The State Department remains committed to determining the whereabouts and welfare of Robert Levinson, and returning him home to his family. Protecting the welfare of American citizens is a fundamental mission of the State Department.

After her meeting with Under Secretary Burns, Christine Levinson also announced she hoped to return to Tehran in the coming weeks to follow up on the case with Iranian authorities.

"They said their religion requires them to help all people and they would continue to investigate," she said after the meeting, according to Reuters.

"That was over seven months ago and we still have not heard anything."

It is deeply frustrating that after 16 months we do not have definitive information about Bob's welfare and whereabouts. This case is ultimately a humanitarian one. Bob Levinson is the father of seven children and grandfather of one, with another grandchild on the way. His family misses him desperately.

News Reports About the Trip and Current Status of the Case

In Iran, Search for American Yields Little [NYT]
Missing a Father in Iran [WP]

Video Interviews With Christine Levinson

Interview With Voice of America
Interview With WTOP Radio National Security Correspondent JJ Green
YouTube: Help Bob Levinson

More information on Robert Levinson or if you have information that can help the family.
We'd all like to see him come home soon.
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/robert_levinson/ 2008-08-01T18:44:00-05:00
How will a change in Israeli leadership affect the prospects for peace in the Middle East?]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/q_change_affect_middle_east/ 2008-08-01T18:37:01-05:00 Israel’s Political Situation Dims Hopes for Peace Deal [NYT]

Iran Again Rejects Nuclear Deadline [AFP]

US Says Delisting North Korea from Terror List Conditional [AFP]

Senate Passes Libya Settlement Bill [AP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0801_top_issues/ 2008-08-01T13:13:03-05:00 About the Author: Salmah Y. Rizvi serves as the Truman Fellow in the Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism (S/CT).

During a typical work day, the Operations Directorate (Ops) of the Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism is involved in the interagency coordination of international counterterrorism crises, including terrorist hostage crises. During his stint as former Director of the Hostage Working Group in Baghdad, S/CT Ops employee Erik Rye found himself in some unlikely situations. After having been rescued by U.S. forces, one hostage returned to his home, not to be welcomed with hugs, kisses, and relief, but skepticism and doubt about his story. Having not seen their husband and father for seven months, the hostage's wife and family didn't believe his sensational story of being an al-Qaida captive. The family soon took a trip to the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad to visit Rye. During the conversation with the Iraqi family, Rye reassured them that the hostage had indeed been rescued by the U.S. government. Rye knew his job would present challenges, but he never would have imagined himself assuming the role of marriage counselor!

Rye spent over 13 months in Baghdad managing hostage situations, and several other members of S/CT Ops staff have also done rotations there -- and elsewhere in the world. Over 450 foreigners have been kidnapped in Iraq since 2004, with over 60 nationalities represented. "We had a new case everyday in Iraq and at any given time I was working on at least a dozen cases. To resolve cases, we would do everything from coordinating with military and intelligence entities to just taking a report from an Iraqi civilian," Rye explained.

Because the United States does not make concessions to terrorist demands, these and other techniques are used to alleviate hostage situations. The most daunting cases are those in which there are not adequate leads. We do what we can to provide the families with information without compromising sensitive information that could allow us to solve the case. Nevertheless, we understand that it is difficult for family members, because they have limited visibility of the case (since most of the information we collect is classified).

The overall approach to hostage crisis management involves recovering the victims, bringing the criminals to justice, and using lessons learned to prevent future hostage situations: Recovery, Justice, Prevention. This method, coupled with the policy of no concessions to terrorist demands, has ultimately increased the security of American civilians overseas, making them less vulnerable to hostage crises. International cooperation with governments and local law enforcement has also proven beneficial. The recent Colombian hostage release is an example. There were hundreds around the world who touched this case. As explained by Rye, "It was a five-year-old case, and that is huge." Plan Colombia is a wonderful success story as it highlights the return of hostages, the justice brought to insurgents and numerous lessons learned to help U.S. government officials in future occurrences.
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/counterterrorism_recovery/ 2008-07-31T16:34:00-05:00 Rice Says Talks With Israel, Palestinians Fruitful [AP]

Despite Calls To Halt, Iran Says It Will Continue Its Nuclear Program [NYT]

Northwest Pakistan Clashes Intensify; Peace Deals at Risk, Taliban Says [WP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0731_top_issues/ 2008-07-31T13:20:00-05:00 About the Author: Heather Hwalek works in the State Department's Office of Sudan Programs Group.

Members of the State Department's Office of Sudan Programs Group are frequently sought out to participate in conferences held in Washington to discuss the situation in Sudan and the conflict in Darfur. But rarely is there an opportunity to travel halfway around the world -- all the way to Beijing -- to engage Chinese scholars and a diverse group of international actors on the topic.

In June, Sudan Programs Group Deputy Director Jason Small and Desk Officer Kemi Yai boarded a 14-hour flight to China's capital city to attend the country's first public forum on Darfur. A government-affiliated think tank, the China Institute of International Studies (CIIS), hosted a two-day conference on "Peace and Development" in Darfur. Academics and NGO representatives from various African, Middle Eastern and European countries joined Chinese academics and government officials from Sudan to discuss the root causes of the conflict, the current situation and trends, possibilities for a peace settlement, and the responsibility of the international community. The conference was an avenue for China to detail for the international community their policy towards Sudan and efforts to end the violence in Darfur. The conference was especially timely given the media hype over China hosting the Summer Olympics next month.

Chinese representatives detailed the Darfur conflict as a fight over resources that could largely be resolved by development assistance. Jason highlighted the challenges to achieving peace in Darfur and the U.S. government's efforts to help meet this goal, such as the contribution of over $5 billion in humanitarian, peacekeeping, and development assistance, financial and logistical support to help train and equip African peacekeeping troops, and continuous engagement in the political process. Kemi Yai spoke on obstacles to the Darfur political process, namely fragmentation of rebel groups and the tenuous relationship between the governments of Chad and Sudan. Jason and Kemi also met with the Chinese Special Envoy to Sudan.

The international community has widely recognized China's strategic importance in addressing Sudan issues. The U.S. government has specifically encouraged China to help pressure the Sudanese government to facilitate the deployment of the joint UN/African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), end the flow of conventional arms to belligerent parties in Darfur, and support humanitarian groups operating in the region. Although China is often criticized for its relationship with the Government of Sudan, it is important to realize that the Chinese have supplied personnel to both UN missions in Darfur, including vitally-needed engineers for UNAMID. This contribution constitutes the first and only major non-African units deployed to Darfur to be accepted by the Government of Sudan.

Though the United States and China may differ at times on the best course of action in Darfur, the Chinese were gracious hosts during the conference. In a display of Chinese hospitality, guests were afforded a visit to the Great Wall and treated to a Farewell Reception in the courtyard of the CIIS building, a beautiful former foreign embassy. The Sudan Programs Group looks forward to continuing its role in building relationships with international partners to address the conflict in Darfur.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/sudan_policy_china/ 2008-07-29T21:48:01-05:00 Ahmadinejad cites `common ground' with West [AP]

Missile strike strains US-Pakistan relations [AP]

Olmert: No Accord on Jerusalem This Year [WP]

Rice meets Chinese FM on Bush's trip to Olympics [AFP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0729_top_issues/ 2008-07-29T13:38:00-05:00 Statement on Nelson Mandela's 90th Birthday

About the Author: Mary Deane Conners is the Public Affairs Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa.

Nelson Mandela turned 90 on July 18, 2008. Affectionately known as Madiba -- the clan name given to him at the "initiation ceremony" during his teenage years -- former South African President Mandela began receiving birthday wishes from the entire nation and the world for weeks prior to his birth date. From the "46664" (his number in prison) concert held in London, to the birthday party in the village of his youth, Qunu, in the rural Eastern Cape Province, there has been an outpouring of local and international respect and goodwill.

The print and electronic media have been particularly active in reporting on the many events related to Mandela's birthday and in facilitating the conveying of goodwill messages. The national broadcaster (SABC) aired many times daily its "Happy Birthday" message on all its television channels and radio stations for two weeks prior to July 18. All South Africa's most important newspapers carried multiple articles, full-scale inserts, editorials and opinion pieces, covering Madiba's life and times. The Independent Newspapers Group published a 16-page insert with the title "Happy 90th Madiba" for its various newspapers throughout the country. Articles, pictures and messages of goodwill filled each page. The Times featured a full page, front cover photograph of Madiba on July 18 with the message "Happy 90th birthday NELSON MANDELA." The Mail & Guardian featured a cartoon on the front page depicting a smiling Madiba with one of his famous shirts featuring the number "90" and many faces, young and old. Title: "Madiba @ 90: His greatness, his presents, his letters, the cartoons" and followed with an insert of nine pages in the main body of the paper.

It is difficult to overestimate the role Nelson Mandela plays in the South African psyche. He is the man, released from decades of unjust imprisonment, but without bitterness, who came to lead a nation and embody all of its finest hopes and aspirations. He brought South Africa together to create a better future.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/ninety_mandela/ 2008-07-28T21:57:01-05:00 India carries out raids after bombings kill 45 [AP]

Israeli defence minister to visit US [AFP]

Rights Issue Looms as Bush Heads to China [WP]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0728_top_issues/ 2008-07-28T13:32:00-05:00 More on Secretary Rice's Travel to the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific
Sean McCormack: Away from the Podium

About the Author: Sean McCormack serves as Department Spokesman and Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs.

Thursday, we left the permanent summer of Singapore for Australia, where we landed with enough time left in the day to attend a dinner in Secretary Rice's honor at the Western University of Australia in Perth. Foreign Minister Smith had invited Secretary Rice for a "home" visit during their first meeting about six months back, and this trip to "the region" for ASEAN provided the opportunity to fulfill a promise. People from a cross-section of western Australian political, civil society, arts, and sport communities attended the dinner, which included a welcome performance by a Noongar dance group. I was lucky enough to be seated up front and had the chance to speak with Perth's Mayor, City Council members and representatives from the business community. It's certain that I profited from the conversation more than my table companions, as I had hit a "wall" of jet lag and accumulated sleeplessness that made stringing together simple, declarative sentences a challenge. By the time we left for the hotel, the small group of protesters (no more than 15 people) present outside the university on arrival had left.

Friday, we began with a stop at the Foreign Minister's local coffee shop, where he and Secretary Rice sat down for a cup with the Foreign Minister's parents who still live in the neighborhood. I had a much needed "flat white," local coffee talk for coffee with milk, and watched while cameras and our traveling press corps took in the stop. Other stops included remarks at Mercedes College, where the Foreign Minister's daughter attends high school. Read the transcript for an example of one effective way to conduct retail public diplomacy. At root, I see it as allowing the individual to connect with a sense for who we are and our values, and we take away a better sense for how they see us. These types of visits are one way to accomplish that goal.

The Foreign Minister and Secretary also laid a wreath at Perth's memorial to those who had fallen in combat, originally erected after WWI, and also later held a press conference. After the press conference, both the Foreign Minister and Secretary walked past the area to where the motorcade was staged (if you've seen us blow into town, we don't arrive anywhere unnoticed) to shake hands with a group from a local boys’ high school -- equal time, as Mercedes College is an all girls’ school.

In between time, we visited the Campbell Defense Barracks, where Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) troops hosted the Foreign Minister and Secretary in the Sergeants' Mess. Press was not at the event. Lt. Gen. Ken Gillespie (Australian Chief of the Army) and Lt. Col. Dan McDaniel (SASR Commanding Officer) greeted the Foreign Minister and Secretary at the entrance to the Sergeants’ Mess. We walked down a hallway lined with photos of former Australian army chiefs, SASR officers, and fallen SASR members. We walked into the mess, where soldiers were assembled in three lines -- all of whom looked as though they could hike up a mountain, bench press a grizzly bear, and come back down without breaking a sweat. Both the Foreign Minister and Secretary made brief remarks from a podium and then spent the next 30 minutes talking with the soldiers individually and in small groups. Also present were some families of regiment members who lost their lives in combat. This group had lost several members to combat in Afghanistan over the past several years. This was meant to be a private moment, so I'll not violate that for the sake of a blog post, but I was struck by how brave these family members were who had lost a son, brother, husband, or father.

After a six hour flight from Perth, we landed last night in Auckland. After a good night's sleep (the first in three days) I’m ready for the day's program, though the news is reporting that we should brace this afternoon for an afternoon of torrential rain and gale force winds. More later.
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/land_down_under/ 2008-07-25T23:57:00-05:00
How would the opening of diplomatic relations between Lebanon and Syria affect the Middle East?
]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/q_relations_lebanon_syria/ 2008-07-25T20:47:00-05:00 Iraq banned from Beijing Olympics amid feud [AP]

Rice drops security union push [WT]

State Department Inspector To Investigate Texas Oil Company's Deal In Kurdistan [NYT]

Battle In Southern Afghanistan Leaves 35 Dead [NYT]]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/08_0725_top_issues/ 2008-07-25T13:08:00-05:00 Secretary Rice recently wrote this Op-Ed on U.S.-Colombian relations for Real Clear Politics.

In any partnership, the coin of the realm is trust and responsibility -- in other words, saying what you mean and doing what you say. In the dramatic rescue on July 2 of 15 hostages, including three Americans, held captive for many years by guerrillas and terrorists, deep in the Colombian jungles, we saw a powerful reminder that the United States has no better partner in South America than the government and people of Colombia.

Colombia's leaders, especially President Uribe, had promised us that our three abducted citizens would be treated no differently than the many Colombian men and women who shared their fate. Colombia never wavered in this promise, and never cut any side deals with the guerrillas that could have freed their citizens at the expense of ours. This was not an easy act of solidarity, but Colombia remained true to its word.

In the breathtaking rescue mission, carried out with the utmost skill and professionalism (and without a shot being fired) by the Colombian Armed Forces, our partners did great honor to themselves -- and a great service to us. We will never forget that. Nor will we forget the many Colombians who still have not found rescue from their guerrilla captors.

That our Colombian partners made good on their promise in this instance is important enough, but this is not the exception; it is the norm.

More than a decade ago, with its country wracked by the worst insurgency in the hemisphere, with its economy contracting, and with its democratic state on the brink of failure, Colombia resolved to turn the tide. Its government and people set out an ambitious plan to secure and expand their country's democratic development, and they asked for our support -- political, economic, diplomatic, and military. Starting under President Clinton, expanding under President Bush, and with bipartisan support in Congress all along the way, the United States has fully backed Colombia in meeting its bold promises of success. And the results speak for themselves.

Our Colombian partners said that they would win their fight against domestic terrorism and reclaim their country. Today they are.

They said they would combat social exclusion in Colombia by building the capacity and expanding the reach of their democracy. Today they are.

They said they would open their markets, trade freely and fairly, fuel economic growth, and create opportunities for social justice for all of their citizens. Today they are.

And our Colombian partners said they would protect the lives of all of their citizens, including trade unionists, and bring murderers and criminals to justice. Today violent crime has plummeted, law and order is expanding, and President Uribe's government has taken the courageous step of extraditing 15 major drug traffickers and paramilitary leaders to the United States to stand trial in our courts for their crimes against our citizens.

Colombia has done all of this -- and more. And the United States has supported them every step of the way. With the momentum of more than a decade's worth of shared progress at our backs, with Colombia on the cusp of self-sustained and lasting stability, and with Democrats and Republicans having shown that they can implement a long-term bipartisan strategy to achieve a critical national interest -- the success of a democratic Colombia -- now is the last time that we should begin going back on our word to Colombia. And yet that is exactly what we risk doing if Congress fails to pass the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement.

In addition to being a slap in the face to our Colombian partners, sacrificing this trade agreement at the altar of domestic politics would be no favor to U.S. workers. More than 90 percent of Colombian goods now enter the United States duty-free, while our exports to Colombia face tariffs of up to 35 percent. This agreement would level the playing field for our workers, so they could send the products of their labor to Colombia on the same terms that Colombians now send theirs to us.

Passing this trade agreement will be a culmination and realization of our partnership with Colombia. It will help the Colombian government and people to lock in their democratic and economic reforms. It will signal that Colombia, like a growing number of our fellow democracies in the Americas today, is a reliable place to invest and poised to compete effectively in the global economy. It will affirm that the future of our hemisphere belongs to democratic citizens, of the left and the right, who want their elected leaders to govern justly and lawfully, to expand economic freedom and trade, and to invest in their people. And it will send a message across the world that the United States will honor the promises we make to our friends and allies.

Colombia has stood by us. We have stood by them. And we have succeeded together. Now is not the time to jeopardize the fruits of our partnership, but to consolidate them. Now is the time to keep our word to Colombia, just as they have kept their word to us. Anything less is no way for a great nation to conduct itself - and no way to repay a faithful partner.]]> http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entires/promises_among_partners/ 2008-07-24T15:25:00-05:00 In First Meeting, Rice Presses North Korean on Nuclear Effort [NYT]