From the Desk of the Blogger

For years we have been hearing about the challenges for freedom in the face of globalism and conflict. This blog will explore the prospects of liberty and democracy in the context of immigration, education, diplomacy, philosophy and ideology among other interests and experiences of mine.

Cheers!

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Lawmakers eye Goldwater statue for U.S. Capitol

Barry Goldwater deserves his place at the U.S. Capitol.

http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0330goldwater-statue.html

The baton passes to Asia

Intriguing argument by Roger Cohen. Is the American eagle being replaced by China's dragon and India's tiger?

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/30/opinion/edcohen.php?page=1

McCain's Manifesto

Sen. McCain's foreign policy initiatives are far more appropriate to our own interests and relationships with our allies than either Democratic candidate.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/28/AR2008032802823.html

The World According to John McCain

The pragmatic crusader is what America needs to combat our challenges at home and abroad.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/129660/page/1

Clinton Vows To Stay in Race To Convention

In a departure from the usual praise of Sen. McCain, Hillary deserves her party's nomination far more than the idealistic and inexperienced Barack Obama. To Denver!

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/29/AR2008032901909.html?hpid=topnews

Hillary's Consolation Prize

This is an interesting idea. Hillary faces a tough return to the Senate, so perhaps the New York state capitol is a preferred return to politics if her presidential campaign ends.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/129399

Jindal's Progress

Gov. Jindal's governorship is what Louisiana politics need.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120675290699973527.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

One Missed Call

Attorney General Michael Mukasey makes a clear argument for phone call surveillance to protect Americans from terrorist threats.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120674959280273345.html?mod=opinion_main_review_and_outlooks

The Sunni-Shiite Terror Network

Though ideologically at odd, the hate of America unites radical Islamists in their armed Jihad against the Western values of democracy, freedom and justice.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120675195927473485.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

'Your turn is next,' Gadhafi warns Arab leaders after US toppling of Saddam

The eccentric Gadhafi is right about one thing: Arab countries hate each other and are their own enemy.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/29/africa/ME-GEN-Arab-Summit-Gadhafi.php

Russian ties, Afghan war at stake for NATO summit

NATO should move toward welcoming Georgia and Ukraine to send a clear message of the West's solidarity against a surreptitious Russia.

http://www.iht.com/articles/reuters/2008/03/30/news/OUKWD-UK-NATO-SUMMIT.php?page=1

The Republic Formerly Known as...

Greece must let go of this fickle issue and approve Macedonia's entry into NATO.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/30/opinion/30sun4.html?_r=1&ref=opinion&oref=slogin

Thursday, March 27, 2008

The new Diana? In Britain, Carla Bruni steals the show

Sometimes diplomacy is more subdued and elegant.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/27/europe/sarkozy.php?page=1

New divisions arise in NATO over 2 bids for membership

Ukrainian and Georgian membership in NATO is necessary to counter Russia's growing influence.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/27/europe/nato.php

On foreign policy, McCain draws contrast to Bush

The next presidency will be dominated with international affairs. A change in our foreign policy is in order. Sen. McCain presents the best option of maintaining our focus and leadership while embracing cooperation and progress.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/26/america/campaign.php

McCain renews calls for US to collaborate more with allies

Cooperation with our allies and friends is crucial to securing our dominant role in international affairs and ensuring that freedom is protected. This is a much needed contrast from our current foreign policy.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/26/america/McCain-Foreign-Affairs.php

U.S. has 'moral responsibility' in Iraq, McCain says

Iraq will continue to be a challenge for the next president, but the US commitment must not wane.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/27/america/26cndmccain.php

McCain promises personal engagement in Middle East

Peace in the Middle East is possible with the proper dynamic of diplomacy, pressure, engagement and investment. Sen. McCain offers all with his experience and determination.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/26/AR2008032601823.html

McCain eyes U.S. free trade deal with EU

This is long overdue.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/26/AR2008032602335.html

McCain Outlines Foreign Policy

Determined Collaborativism - the McCain foreign policy doctrine which upholds the principles of freedom and cooperation with our friends and allies in subverting the global challenges of tomorrow.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/26/AR2008032603208.html?hpid=topnews&sid=ST2008032603254

Candidate McCain criticizes decades of US policy on authoritarian rulers

America has always sustained questionable relationships with authoritarian regimes (Iran, Chile, China, Pakistan). Sen. McCain's position is clear and representative of a new direction in foreign policy. I appreciate how much he values trans-Atlantic cooperation.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/27/america/NA-POL-US-McCain-Foreign-Policy.php

U.S. Steps Up Unilateral Strikes in Pakistan

This is long overdue and simply augments the general laxity in going after al Qaeda in Pakistan. More time must not be lost.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/26/AR2008032603283.html?hpid=topnews

What Tata Tells Us

Foreign direct investment contributes to American economic growth as well as secures its role as a prime location for business.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120658030582967343.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Tata For Now

The acquisition of Land Rover and Jaguar by Tata Motors of India presents challenges and opportunities.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120658070588167359.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

NATO's Balkan Destiny

NATO must reform to meet the pressing needs of the Atlantic partnership and including the Balkans is crucial.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120658092416867333.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Bravo, Bhutan

Bhutan sets an example for an unstable region.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120656905982366705.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

McCain says no to Secret Service help in campaign

Although I agree with the principles behind Sen. McCain's decision, I urge him to reconsider it.

http://www.azcentral.com/news/specials/mccain/articles/0326secret-service0326.html

The Maverick and the Media

Sen. McCain's relationship with the media is appropriate to ensure his credentials, positions and initiatives are communicated with the American voter.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/26/opinion/26gabler.html?pagewanted=1&ref=opinion

International Law, and Order

This is a landmark decision upholding US sovereignty and limiting the influence of international institutions. The foresight of the Supreme Court is well-founded.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120649157469864165.html?mod=opinion_main_review_and_outlooks

Cross-Strait Opening

A new dialogue between China and Taiwan is a good step forward for each and the international community.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/26/opinion/26wed1.html?ref=opinion

Muslims in U.S. turn to home schooling

Concerns over education go far beyond the Muslim community. Still, it is important to note that the cultural differences and integration into American society should not come at a cost of self-exclusion.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/26/america/muslim.php

Islam and Free Speech

The outcry is there against Islam's backwards ways in the Western world. Now it is time to determine how to address them.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120649269618764219.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

McCain warns against hasty mortgage bailout

Sen. McCain's foresight is very keen. The government should play little, if any, role in resuscitating reckless firms.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/25/america/25cndmccain.php

Sarkozy leaves open possibility of boycott of Olympics ceremony

The French pressure on China is necessary to send a message before the Olympics. Other Western nations should consider a boycott.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/25/europe/boycott.php

France seeks a deeper Western commitment to Afghanistan

The French commitment to Afghanistan along with new goals for NATO are a model for other European allies.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/25/asia/nato.php

Saudi king calls for dialogue among different religions

Interreligious dialogue is key for global understanding and progress. This initiative by King Abdullah is a good step for the region.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/25/africa/ME-GEN-Saudi-Interfaith-Dialogue.php

Europe struggles to accommodate its growing Muslim minority

This is an issue that will plague European policy makers for years. The US should pay close attention.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/25/europe/letter.php?page=1

President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt visits Russia

The prospect of a Russian-hosted Mideast peace conference is intriguing.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/25/europe/EU-GEN-Russia-Egypt.php

Monday, March 24, 2008

The meaning of assurances given to Israel by European leaders

Support of Israel is paramount to a stable Middle East. European leaders must openly voice their opposition to terrorism and extremism.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/24/europe/politicus.php?page=1

A present for McCain as the other side fights

This is an excellent time for Sen. McCain to regroup his campaign and refocus on the general election.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/24/america/24caucus.php

The Democrats' Super Disaster

The Democratic party, which prides itself as the party of the common man, has turned its back on America's democratic tradition. Historically, it is interesting to note the parallels to previous elections (1824, notably). Too much is at stake to play with process and politics. The presidency is in the balance.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631654451858227.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Democrats' Obama Dilemma

Robert D. Novak underscores the schism in the Democratic party. It is now up to the superdelegates.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301400.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Both Obama And Clinton Embellish Their Roles

The Republican nominee, John McCain, need not engage in this. His Senate record proves his leadership and knowledge of the issues facing our country.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301706.html?hpid=topnews

Sarkozy’s bold European defence initiative

The French re-engagement in NATO is key for Atlanticism and the trilateral, historic relations among the US, UK and France.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/6a66b7bc-f8e3-11dc-bcf3-000077b07658.html?nclick_check=1

McCain, Traveling Along a Tightrope

Though Sen. McCain is a member of the Republican Party, the same party of President George W. Bush, it is important to note that Sen. McCain's conservatism is much different than the current commander in chief. McCain brings experienced leadership, courageous patriotism and reliable decision-making to the presidential campaign, and ultimately to the White House.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301550.html?hpid=topnews

Saddam's Terror Links

Though weapons of mass destruction were never found, the threat Saddam Hussein and his ruthless regime posed was and remains a legitimate concern for America and her interests.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631495290958169.html?mod=opinion_main_review_and_outlooks

After Putin

Sen. Joe Biden's commentary on how the US, and its new president come a year from now, should altery its dynamic with Russia is long overdue. It is concerning to see how Russia has quietly grown in influence.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631667357658263.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Bogotá Eyes the Irish Model

Congress must pass the Colombian Free Trade Agreement. Not only does this affirm our commitment to Colombia, but also, it provides a modernization model for Latin America. The Irish example is Europe's success story; Colombia can be Latin America's economic pioneer.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120631596510858221.html?mod=todays_columnists

Desperate Haitians nostalgic for dictators

Dictatorships in Latin America have provided stability, but what are the costs? Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, which is a model for economic progress through democratization.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/23/america/haiti.php

An Upsetting Development

I felt obliged to post something about the Georgetown Hoyas given I go to the school.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/23/AR2008032301973.html?hpid=topnews

Sunday, March 23, 2008

John McCain in the Middle East and Europe

Sen. McCain arrives in Iraq on Sunday, March 16, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki in Baghdad on Monday, March 17, 2008.
Sen. McCain and Jordan's King Abdullah II at the Royal Palace in Amman on Tuesday, March 18, 2008.


Sen. McCain and Israeli President Shimon Peres in Jerusalem on Tuesday, March 18, 2007.


Sen. McCain and Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak in Sderot on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain with Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni in Jerusalem on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert in Jerusalem on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

Sen. McCain and British Conservative Party leader David Cameron in London on Thursday, March 20, 2008.

Sen. McCain and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown at Number 10 Downing Street in London on Thursday, March 20, 2008.

Sen. McCain and French Prime Minister Francois Fillon meet in Paris on Friday, March 21, 2008.
Sen. McCain and French President Nicolas Sarkozy at Elysee Palace in Paris on Friday, March 21, 2008.

McCain reaches out to U.S. allies, but Iraq is an obstacle

Sen. McCain's trip to the Middle East and Europe proves he is not only prepared to handle foreign policy, but also, that he has the knowledge and tact to work with our allies, rebuild relationships and restore our image abroad.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/23/america/mccain.php?page=1

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

EU anxiety as Sarkozy prepares to take helm

France's upcoming EU presidency is an opportunity for President Nicolas Sarkozy to refocus his international (and national) image and agenda. It will also serve as a revitalization in the EU.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/19/europe/letter.php

Saturday, March 15, 2008

The Conservative Case for McCain

As the nation faces an uncertain economic future, John McCain's efforts to end earmarks and limit federal government spending are the policies the US taxpayer needs and deserves.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120553936399438277.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Opposition Party May Tone Down Radical Voice

This will definitely be interesting to watch. Mexico's internal politics have a direct correlation on its efficiency to deliver to its 108.7 million population and also work with the US on immigration.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120553313572037761.html?mod=hpp_us_inside_today

HUZZAH!

I do not think any commentator, television host or administration official could have put it best than this courageous soldier from the battlefront.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/14/AR2008031403231.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

'Magic is over' for the U.S., says foreign minister of France

The new president will undoubtedly face challenges in rebuilding America's image abroad. This is why we need experience, cooperation and innovation in the White House.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/12/europe/france.php

Friday, March 7, 2008

Britain lays out details of national ID card program

The British model will be interesting to monitor as the immigration and national security debates continue in the US.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/06/europe/brits.php

China's envoy to Sudan defends policy on Darfur

China must revise its policy toward Sudan and carry its responsibilities in Darfur. There is no doubt that with Chinese ambivalence and ignorance the crisis has only worsened. If the US was in China's position, there would be massive outcry from the international community and human rights activists. Why not with the Chinese?

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/africa/darfur.php

Thais seize notorious arms-deal suspect

Capturing weapons suppliers is a critical component of defeating terrorism and religious/ethnic extremism. Perhaps what is most interesting is that the laptop that was recovered by Colombian forces after the killing of FARC commandant Raul Reyes led to this arrest.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/06/asia/dealer.php

Europe's leaders warned of big rise in migration

There is no doubt that Europe and other industrialized nations of the West (US and Canada for example) will face increasing migration trends. I am skeptical that climate change will be the major catalyst.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/europe/migrate.php

Serbian prime minister says he no longer trusts his pro-EU ministers

The situation in Serbia and Kosovo is in a precarious state. Unfortunately, turning against the West, specifically the European Union, does not behoove Serbia.

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/03/07/europe/EU-GEN-Serbia-Government.php

Arab leaders threaten to boycott Damascus summit

Moderate Middle Eastern nations such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan should encourage their neighbors to also isolate Syria and its ruthless regime.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/africa/syria.php

Terrorism again intrudes as Spain heads to the polls

This is a cowardly act. I am not sure, however, how the Spanish people will react. Last time they voted out the government of Jose Maria Aznar only to be replaced by the lackluster and incompetent Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/07/europe/spain.php

The Great Non Sequitur

Again, excellent piece by Charles Krauthammer.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/03/06/AR2008030603113.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

McCain clinches race as Huckabee concedes

Congratulations to Sen. John McCain, a courageous patriot, experienced politician, and trusted leader.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/05/america/05repubs.php

Monday, March 3, 2008

Ecuador pulls diplomat from Bogota

Chavez and Correa order troops to respective borders with Colombia. This is definitely a situation to monitor.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/americas/03/02/chavez.colombia/index.html

Sunday, March 2, 2008

Vienna meeting on arms data reignites Iran nuclear debate

Though December's NIE affected the perception of Iran's threat, this proves it is still a dangerous situation.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/03/africa/03nuke.php?page=1

Election in Russia confirms Putin's chosen successor

This is a disgrace. I am sure the Russian people would prefer a struggling democracy that is their own rather than the hand-picked successor of Vladimir Putin.

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/03/europe/02cndrussia.php