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UNITED NATIONS — At the onset of the Bush Administration, I'm taking the liberty to offer the President and his foreign policy team some pointers which may enhance discussion and refocus the national debate. As Secretary of State Colin Powell and National Security Advisor Dr. Condi Rice believe in the term national interest rather than the Clintonian mantra of commercial interest, hopefully we shall see the State Department reemerge as the lead player in American policy.
Here are some suggestions for a few regions.
Close to home — There's no question that America's close and exceedingly cordial relationship with Canada should be improved upon. Former President Reagan invigorated the U.S./Canadian relationship in the 1980's, and may I say that the ensuing NAFTA trade deal was good for both sides of the border.
As to Mexico — Coming from Texas, President George W Bush understands the need for close and friendly ties to Mexico--the new government of Vincente Fox in Mexico City will be uniquely poised to improve the relationship which has to put it politely never been too good on the political level during the decades of the PRI's rule. Don't take North America for granted and strive to improve the links with Canada and Mexico.
Europe — There's no question that reinforcing the Atlantic alliance and key American bonds with Britain, Germany and France are planned. But don't forget the new democracies in the fomer East Bloc--especially the new NATO members the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland. Be fair and focused, but firm with Russia
The tough part comes in the Balkans where a political maelstrom is far from settled. Be very careful about any statements regarding troop redeployments or pullouts from Bosnia or Kosovo although we know the Europeans can do more as its in their direct national interest.
Africa — Reinforce and celebrate Ghana's new democratic government as an example that change does not have to mean a coup, conflict or a civil war. English speaking Ghana (the old Gold Coast) can serve as an example of the New Africa. Similarly, keep close ties South Africa; this country is too important, too resource rich and too much a regional power as to overlook.
East Asia — While the intricate relationship with Communist China bears a separate column, don't forget Free China on Taiwan nor South Korea. While American trade booms with both places, the tea leaves argue for more defined political ties with both Taipei and Seoul. While in Asia, work towards a new relationship with the Philippines-- a region which while in political chaos, looks to the USA as an old friend.
American links to the Philippines have been in a curious state of limbo and this drift should not be allowed to continue. Japan should not be viewed merely as a trading partner nor taken for granted as a regional ally, but increasingly integrated into East Asia's socio/economic fabric.
Middle East — Don't force feed a diplomatic photo/op Peace "deal" on Israel nor assume that all the Palestinians are part and parcel to the sleazy Arafat leadership style. A key element here is keeping a close link to the Kingdom of Jordan whose moderation, good sense, and strategic location makes it a vital player in a genuine MidEast peace accord.
Likewise, take Turkey more seriously--the country remains one of the key geopolitical pieces on the regional chessboard and a close American ally. Go the extra mile to let the Ankara government know that America cares.
United Nations — here in the U.N. there's a keen desire for a new relationship with Washington. Now that Senator Jesse Helms of the Foreign Relations Committee has wisely opened the coffers to pay past financial arrears, the U.S. can get on a better footing with the world organization.
During the Clinton years, U.S. foreign policy was seemingly directed by the Commerce Department more than by the State Department. Furthermore policy initiatives often resembled a weathervane in a storm, spinning but without real direction! With Colin Powell as Secretary of State and Dr. Condi Rice as National Security Advisor, Washington will hopefully proceed beyond the commercial confines of trade promotion to a refocused definition of the national interest.
John J. Metzler is a U.N. correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He writes weekly for World Tribune.com.
