State Department

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

State Department like to welcome the new Secretary of State Siege40.

Senate Recomendation #1

On the issue of recent events within Lebanon, it is the recommendation of the State Department to allow non-partisan election officials to aid in the new elections, given the acceptance of the Lebanese, similar in fashion to the Ukrainian election. Also, Canadian, and Western European advisors and observers should be included to aid in the process.

[Siege40]

Senate Recomendation #2

It is the advice that the Senate end the Anti-Canadian tarrifs on Soft Wood Lumber. Also, resume trade on beef, and remove authority over the food bans from the Senate to the Executive, or an objective committee based on science and not political gain. Take these moves, or NAFTA is meaningless. Or don't, just a suggestion from your friendly neighbourhood Secretary.

Siege

[Siege40]

Senate Recomendation #2

It is the advice that the Senate end the Anti-Canadian tarrifs on Soft Wood Lumber. Also, resume trade on beef, and remove authority over the food bans from the Senate to the Executive, or an objective committee based on science and not political gain. Take these moves, or NAFTA is meaningless. Or don't, just a suggestion from your friendly neighbourhood Secretary.

Siege

Do not remove tariffs on soft wood lumber, these tariffs are very important to the Atlasian lumber industry and we can't afford to start hurting our economy, just as it begins rebounding. 

Well, Mr. Secretary, averting a possible trade war with our biggest trading partner is a good idea. A trade war is likely to weaken our economy more even still.

Siege

[Siege40]

Clark Kent, Daily Planet.

Mr. Secretary, what do you have to say about the rift between your department and the Defense Deparmtent over the lumber tariffs issue?

Well Mr. Kent, I'm looking at an area that concerns my department, Foreign Relations, Mr. Secretary Jake is sticking his nose where it doesn't belong. Unless the Defense Department is planning to build catapults out of soft wood lumber, or invade Canada by gradually increasing tension, he can go ahead, but I'll fight him over it.

Siege

[Siege40]

Senate Announcement # 1

Secretary State and represenatives from the Defense Department are extending diplomatic overtures to the people of Lebanon and the government of Syria. This conference will ensure the future of an independent Lebanon.

(John GM a response from the Lebanese and Syrians if you don't mind.)

Siege

[Siege40]

Neil White, The Region
Has your department developed a policy on Turkmenistan?

If not, why not, given that it is widely regarded as second only to North Korea in its degree of Stalinesque totalitarianism?

If so, what is that policy?

Thank you Mr. White. The State Department is developing a policy on the Central Asian Republics. The problem is the remote nature of Central Asia, it is often viewed as the world's backwater, but the dangerous amounts of unguarded Plutonium is a serious risk. Democracy should be encouraged, but these are strong diehard regimes. Also, there is a problem in the southern Caucasus, we'll need to develop new strategies to protect Atlasia and the people in those nations.

Siege

[Siege40]

Mr. Wixted, National Atlasian.

Do you think you can come to an agreement with the Syrian government over Lebanon? Will you work with other Arab leaders in promoting a free and democratic Lebanon?

Also, Mr Secretary, what are you thoughts on the Iraqi Elections? I know this is rather belated but what do you think about the Shiites winning power?

First, the talks should remain three parties. If we bring in Israel, Jordan or Turkey, we may be outweighed in the talks. Lebanon is the one who's future who's in question. Atlasia wishes to ensure that no more interference is conducted within Lebanon by Syria, or Atlasia, or anyone else for that matter.

On the Iraqi elections? It was inevitable. The Shiites are the majority, they will win the majority. It'll take time before other transnational parties can form, outside of the communists. The Iraqis made their choice and it is not our right to interfere.

Siege

[Siege40]

Will you be undertaking any official tours in the next few weeks?

Currently arranging meetings in the Middle East, Lebanon comes to mind, also I want to hit up Columbia, but it'll be a while before anything concrete comes out.

Siege

[Siege40]

Having the Syrians and Lebanese rebuff the offers of mediation the Atlasian State Department will have to accept the terms. If, however, the Syrians aren't complacent with their announced military withdrawl, and any fraudulance in the election will result in forceful diplomatic and military action.

Siege

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

In accordance with tradition, I will begin writing the diplomatic policy for every nation on the face of the Earth. Since very little policy has been actually laid out, I will begin alphabetically.

So, here we go.

Foreign Policy Review [/u]

Abkhazia – Azerbaijan

Abkhazia, Republic of – See Georgia, Republic of.

Afghanistan, Islamic Republic of – At the current time, Atlasia supports the democratically elected government in Kabul. We are open to selling weapons to the Afghans in the form of small arms, artillery, vehicles and armour. The Afghan government may have access to loans from the Atlasian government, subject to approval from the Senate.

Albania, Republic of – We support efforts to clean up the Albanian government’s rife corruption, and aid in transparent democracy. In past elections fraud and increasing corruption have hindered development. The Atlasian government is open to economic and military aid to war ravaged Albania. Atlasia will oppose NATO entry until government reforms are made.

Algeria, People’s Democratic Republic of – The Civil War raging in Algeria since the 1990s is complicated. The Atlasian government would, in principle support a democratic system of government, however, after the election of the Islamic Salvation Front, and their subsequent removal from power, leading to civil war, the situation is not clear. The State Department suggests a pro-Algiers policy, however no economic, military etc. aid should be provided until the civil war ends, and the government in Algiers denounces all forms of terrorism.

Andorra, Principally of – The Atlasian government heartily supports the government in Andorra, for its transparency, success and diversity. Any military or economic aid is fine, pending support of the Senate. Tourism is popular there, and Atlasian tourists are treated well with respect.

Angola, Republic of – The Atlasian government insists that President dos Santos reinstates the democratic system in Angola. Having railed to do so in 7 years the Atlasian State Department suggests an end to aid and economic support. Atlasia advises a demilitarization of politics in Angola and the reinstatement of a parliamentary system.

Antigua and Barbuda – No economic or military restrictions shall be placed on Antigua and Barbuda. They’re democracy is thriving and their economy is largely based on tourism, where Atlasians are welcome.

Argentina, Republic of – Given the problems of Argentina’s economy, no economic restraints will be put on Argentina, nor military. Developments in Argentina’s governing system are positive and hopefully, the democratic establishment will remain.

Armenia, Republic of – Current democratic trends in Armenia is seen as positive by the Atlasian government. However, given the instability in the Caucasus region as a whole, arm sales are restricted, but trade is unhindered. The Atlasian government suggests UN mediation over the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute with Azerbaijan, in general though, the Atlasian government supports the Armenians in the dispute.

Australia, Commonwealth of – Atlasia supports the government in Australia and has full economic and military rights with Australia. Continued co-operation on the War on Terror is expected and appreciated.

Austria, Republic of - Atlasia supports the government in Austria and has full economic and military rights with Austria.

Azerbaijan, Republic of – Corruption and transparency is needed in the Azerbaijan government. No arm sales will be permitted with the government of Azerbaijan, until government reform is made. For the policy on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict see Armenia, Republic of.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]


Bahamas - Burundi


Bahamas, Republic of the – No sanctions is placed on the Bahamas. Atlasian tourists are not hindered in their travel there.

Bahrain, Kingdom of – The sale of arms shall be restricted until more democratic forms of governance are installed in Bahrain.

Bangladesh, People’s Republic of – No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Bangladesh.

Barbados, Commonwealth of – No economic or military restrictions are in placed.

Belarus, Republic of – The dictatorial style of the current President of Belarus is inexcusable. Full military and trade restrictions are to placed under the state until civil liberties and observed elections are held.

Belgium, Kingdom of – No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Belgium.

Belize, Commonwealth of - No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Belize.

Benin, Republic of – While promise has been shown, there is an air of corruption and scandal in Benin. Therefore, it is the request of Atlasia that the next election be supervised by the UN. Also, military sales are restricted, but trade may continue.

Bhutan, Kingdom of - No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Bhutan.

Bolivia, Republic of – Atlasia supports the preservation of democratic institutions in Bolivia. Because of problems in previous elections it is advised that UN observes be brought in. Suggestions for more peaceful transitions include term limits and a demilitarized political system. Military restrictions are placed on Bolivia.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republic of – Arm sales are banned, but the State department encourages economic aid to the war torn nation.

Botswana, Republic of - No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Botswana, its successful democracy should be an example to others in Africa.

Brazil, Federative Republic of – No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Brazil.

Brunei, Sultanate of – No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Brunei. Increased democratic institutions in Brunei are desired.

Bulgaria, Republic of - No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Bulgaria.

Burkina Faso, Republic of – Full economic and military restrictions are in force against Burkina Faso until democracy takes hold in that state.

Burundi, Republic of – Full restrictions are in place against Burundi and continued international monitoring of the ceasefire is advised. Demilitarization of politics is advised.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]
Benin, Republic of – While promise has been shown, there is an air of corruption and scandal in Benin. Therefore, it is the request of Atlasia that the next election be supervised by the UN. Also, military sales are restricted, but trade may continue.

Freedom House:
Civil Liberties - 2
Political Rights - 2
Free
!!!!!

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Freedom House:
Civil Liberties - 5
Political Rights - 6
Not Free
Also committed ethnic cleansing against Nepalese in 1990s.

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Freedom House:
Civil Liberties - 5
Political Rights - 6
Not Free

Is there an overarching foreign policy goal which explains the divergent recommendations?

OK Senator, allow me to elaborate, all the history is taken from recent events, so if there was a genocide in the 1970s we try not to hold it against the current government, if it is different.

You'll have to explain to me the scoring system from Freedom House.

Benin has been showing some democratic reforms, but there's been problems. Burnei and Bhutan are under the influence of Britain. Especially Burnei, and the United Kingdom's continued co-operation with Atlasia is strongly desired. Bhutan has a parliament, under their King, if the parliament disagrees with the King power can be moved to the cabinet. Though it's not perfect, it is better than some.

[Siege40]

Very Well Senator, you've made your point.

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]


Bahamas - Burundi

Benin, Republic of – No military or trade restrictions will be placed on Benin.

Bhutan, Kingdom of - Full trade and military restrictions are to be placed on Bhutan.

Brunei, Sultanate of – Full trade and military restrictions are to be placed on Brunei. Increased democratic institutions in Brunei are strongly desired.

[Siege40]

Thanks guys. I'm currently working on C, I've finished the first 6 of 17. Next is Chile. I'll probably finish by Saturday, but I'm not promising anything.

Secretary of State Siege

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]


Cambodia - Czech Republic


Cambodia, Kingdom of - No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Cambodia. Increased civil liberties are desired.

Cameroon, Republic of – While elections have been held in Cameroon their truthfulness is in question. It is a desire of the State department of Atlasia to provide democratic aid to Cameroon in their next election. Military restrictions are in place but no trade restrictions.

Canada, Dominion of – No trade and military restrictions shall be placed on Canada. Free trade is encouraged and the removal of all trade barriers.

Cape Verde, Republic of – No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Cape Verde.

Central African Republic – Full trade and military restrictions are to be placed on CAR, until democratization begins and leaders of the coup are removed from power.

Chad, Republic of – Military restrictions, but no trade restrictions are to placed on Chad, there is has been problems in the past with military insecurity, until problems are resolved military restrictions will remain.

Chile, Republic of – No military or economic restrictions are to be placed on Chile.

China, People’s Republic of – The government of Atlasia requests that civil liberties are opened. Democracy is strongly desired, and the end of one party rule. However, given the current economic dependence on China, it is suggest that selected goods are tariffed. Full military restrictions are in place against China.

Colombia, Republic of – The democratic movement in Colombia is greatly encouraged. However, the large influence of cartels and militants concerns the State Department and it is the suggestion that aid is provided to put the rebels down.

Comoros, Union of the – The Atlasian government advises that the conflict over the sovereignty conflict of two islands be settled, if not be the African Union, than the United Nations. No economic restrictions will be placed on Comoros, but full military restrictions due to the conflict.

Congo, Democratic Republic of – Full military and trade restrictions are to be placed on Congo. Settlement of the conflict between the two Congos are suggested to be diverted to the African Union or the United Nations.

Congo, Republic of – Full military and trade restriction are to be in place. Democracy is encouraged and the removal of corrupt militant leaders. For views on the Second Congo War see Democratic Republic of Congo.

Costa Rica, Republic of – No economic or trade restrictions shall be placed on Costa Rica.

Côte d'Ivore, Republic of – Full military and trade restrictions are in place.

Croatia, Republic of – No military or trade restrictions are in place on Croatia.

Cuba, Republic of – Full trade and military restrictions are in place against Cuba. The removal of Castro and the set up democracy in Cuba.

Cyprus, Republic of – No military or trade restrictions are in place on Cyprus.

Czech Republic – No trade or military restrictions are in place on the Czech Republic.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]


Denmark - Dominican Republic

Djibouti, Republic of – The strong presence of France and the weakness of local government and the lack of social and civic rights is disturbing, especially the lack of political protest. Full economic and military restrictions are in place against Djibouti. French actions in Djibouti should be noted as a blemish on their own record.

Dominica, Commonwealth of – No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Dominica.

Dominican Republic – No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on the Dominican Republic.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]


Cambodia - Czech Republic

Cambodia, Kingdom of - No trade or military restrictions are to be placed on Cambodia. Increased civil liberties are desired.

Cameroon, Republic of – While elections have been held in Cameroon their truthfulness is in question. It is a desire of the State department of Atlasia to provide democratic aid to Cameroon in their next election. Military restrictions are in place but no trade restrictions.

Central African Republic – Full trade and military restrictions are to be placed on CAR, until democratization begins and leaders of the coup are removed from power.

Chad, Republic of – Military restrictions, but no trade restrictions are to placed on Chad, there is has been problems in the past with military insecurity, until problems are resolved military restrictions will remain.

I suggest these four countries be treated similarly. In particular, I think military restrictions on Cambodia (Political Rights 6, Civil Liberties 5) are in order, especially given the level of insecurity and Vietnamese and Chinese influence in Cambodia - but no trade restrictions. Also, the CAR is no worse than any of these three, so perhaps we could lift the trade restrictions here?

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I didn't realize the two Congos are at war with each other. I thought everyone and their dog was once embroiled in DRCongo's meltdown. In any event, RCongo (Political Rights 5, Civil Liberties 4) isn't as bad as DRCongo (6 each), so perhaps we could lift the trade restrictions on RCongo?

Your servant, Senator WMS

Speaking specifically on the case of the two Congos, the formal war has ended, but continued conflict rages on. Lifting trade restrictions on one would show a favouritism in the conflict, and given the nature of the two adversaries, I'd rather favour neither.

As for the first Cs, I'll change policy based on Cambodia, but the others I think I will keep as they are.

Siege

[Siege40]

Canada, Dominion of – No trade and military restrictions shall be placed on Canada. Free trade is encouraged and the removal of all trade barriers.

What's this!?  Canada is clearly a totalitarian communist dictatorship; just ask the authority on the matter, AuH2O.

Indeed, but angering Kim Il Martin is not advised at this time, and advocacy of a live and let live policy is advised.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]


Cambodia

Cambodia, Kingdom of - Full military and trade restrictions are in place against Cambodia.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]


East Timor - Ethiopia

East Timor, Republic of – See Timor.

Ecuador, Republic of – Full military restrictions are to put in place, but no trade restrictions. Assistance in the removal of corruption should be provided, if the Ecuadorian so requests. 

Egypt, Arab Republic of – Full military and trade restrictions shall be placed on Egypt until there is a liberalization and democratization of Egypt.

El Salvador, Republic of – Some military restrictions, but no trade restrictions are in place. It is hoped that increased civil liberties and political rights will increase in El Salvador.

Equatorial Guinea, Republic of - Full trade and military restrictions are to be in place against Equatorial Guinea.

Eritrea, State of – Full trade and military restrictions are to be in place against Eritrea.

Estonia, Republic of – No economic or military restrictions are to placed on Estonia.

Ethiopia, Federal Democratic Republic of – Full military and most economic restrictions are to be placed on Ethiopia.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]

Denmark, Kingdom of – No trade or military restrictions are in place on Denmark.

Eritrea, State of - No economic restrictions are in place, but partial military restrictions, only personal ordanance is advised.

Ethiopia, Republic of - Full military restrictions are in place, but not economic.

Side note, it is my personal policy that Atlasia should not align itself with non-democratic governments, i.e. Egypt.

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]

F

Fiji Islands, Republic of the – No trade or economic restrictions are in place.

Finland, Republic of – No trade or economic restrictions are in place.

France, Republic of – It is advised that partial economic and partial military restrictions are put in France. The denial of certain religious freedoms and poor treatment in ‘Colonial Africa’ is a stain on France’s record and must be in some way punished. Select tariffs are suggested.

[Siege40]

I've decided since it usually takes me way too long to complete a letter, and that G, L, M, N, and S are really long, that I'll do them in integrals of 3-5. It should speed things along and make editing quicker.

Siege

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]

Denmark, Kingdom of – No trade or military restrictions are in place on Denmark.

Eritrea, State of - No economic restrictions are in place, but partial military restrictions, only personal ordanance is advised.

Ethiopia, Republic of - Full military restrictions are in place, but not economic.

Side note, it is my personal policy that Atlasia should not align itself with non-democratic governments, i.e. Egypt.

No change on Ecuador?

Sorry Senator, if you want to introduce a resolution into the Senate I'll be forced to change tactics.

Siege

[Siege40]

State Department of Atlasia[/b]

Foreign Policy Review [/u]

Gabon - Georgia

Gabon, Republic of – Full military and partial economic restrictions are to be placed on Gabon. End of the one party state is desired, as is the opening of civil liberties.

Gambia, Republic of the – Partial economic and full military restrictions are to be placed on the Gambia.

Georgia – It is the position of the Atlasian government to not sell arms to the Georgian government given the instability of the nation, and the corrupt nature of it and past regimes. Any efforts to bring democracy and more transparent government are, in theory supported by the Atlasian government. On the issue of Abkazia, the Atlasian State Department supports the creation of a democratic republic for the region that has been fighting for independence for the last 20 years.