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

[Jake]

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. 

[The Duke]

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?

[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

[Jake]

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?

Private citizen on that one John. 

[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

[True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자)]

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?

[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

[Colin]

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?

[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

[Platypus]

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

[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.

[Platypus]

A short report on my discussions with Australian experts into terrorism in South East Asia.

Of special concern were the nations of Indonesia and the Phillipines, nations with known terrorist cells, and states reffered to as 'in need of significant assistance' to contain criminal and terrorist activity, such as Papua New Guinea.

The Phillipines is a location visited by millions of westerners every year, with approx. 2.3 million people visiting the country in 2003. Our nation has a strong historical link to the Phillipines and it's people, and we are responsible for many of the visitors there.

Recently, attacks in commercial centers and on the embassies of our allies in the country has reduced forecasts for tourism growth, and for western investment.

Whilst in Canberra, I met with the ambassador to Australia from the Phillipines, Ms. Christina Ortega. She said that she was working effectibvely with the Australian government in allowing for easier trade between the two countries, and was glad that Atlasia was also on friendly terms with her country. Although it was not her area of expertise, she commented that the people of the Phillipines felt 'great sorrow when our friends from overseas are attacked, and great pain when we are attacked ourselves."

I next visited the Australian parliament. It was quite nice to be formally introduced in the chamber (OOC: Probably the first and only tme ), and both the Prime Minister John Howard and Leader of the Opposition Kim Beazley welcomed any Atlasian to Australia as 'Our greatest allies, and our firm friends"-Howard, and 'The nation we need for defensive purposes, but more importantly, a nation we appreciate'-Beazley.

After talks with Australian bureaurats, I got a firm impression that a stable, democratic South East Asia is of critical importance to not only the people of Australia, but also of our own nation. Tens of millions of Atlasians visit the region every year, and we have already lost many to terrorism in the region.

I next had a brief chat with the Indonesian delegate superior to the Indonesian-Australian Anti-Terrorism Council, Mj. Pi Tharakano. He outlined the agreements between his nation and Australia on anti-terrorism and the significant steps taken forward. As the world's largest islamic nation, it is important that the new democracy continues to stabilised and flourish in it's efforts to modernise whilst keeping their culture intact. The Major said that one of the key reasons for Islamic fundamentalism was that some people felt that heir religious, national and cultural identity were being diminished, and that the west was just taking. He thanked the Atlasian people and government for it's significant aid assistance in response to the Boxing Day Tsunami, as they call it down under. He said he hoped 'the spirit of trust and friendships now goes both ways, to and from Atlasia in Indonesia. It is my hope that we can continue to strengthen our ties for many causes, including anti-terrorism agreements".

After my first round of talks, I've learnt that the most important thing for the region, in particular Indonesia and the Phillipines, is stable economic growth, with free trade but not too much westernisation and ownership. It seems that the best route to take is to get american products into shops owned by local businessmen. I would urge the President to begins talks with his colleagues in the region on open trade.

Also, Australia seems to be doing well in keeping terrorism under control in the region, with the significant and fully appreciated help of the countries in the region. Indonesia has come very far in a very very short time, and whilst there are parts of the government that aren't fully acceptable in Atlasian standards, it is much better then previously. The anti-terrorism efforts and not only well-funded by the Indonesian government, but embraced by almost all Indonesians, who want their country to develope a better economy and a safer and more democratic nation.

I urge that the Secreatary consider the significance of this area of the world, a huge economic market, a region undergoing rapid change, and a key battleground on the War on Terror.

Senator Hughento.

(Sorry if there are any typos. I sorta just did this in a rush off the top of my head, but I did look up the real Filipino ambassador to Australia )

[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.

[WMS]

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?

[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.

[WMS]

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.

Bhutan: Early 1990's ethnic cleansing...
Latest full report.

"Bhutanese cannot change their government through elections and enjoy few basic rights. King Wangchuk and a small group of elites make key decisions and wield absolute power, although the king did take several steps in 1998 to increase the influence of the National Assembly. He removed himself as chairman of Bhutan's Council of Ministers; in addition, he gave the National Assembly the power to remove the king from the throne and to elect cabinet members from among candidates nominated by the king. The proposed constitution is expected to formalize the separation of powers and to address the king's status...

Bhutanese authorities sharply restrict freedoms of expression, assembly, and association. The government prohibits criticism of King Wangchuk and Bhutan's political system...

Arbitrary arrest, detention, and torture remain areas of concern. According to Amnesty International, 15 political prisoners arrested during demonstrations in 1997, in addition to an estimated 50 prisoners arrested in southern Bhutan around 1990, continue to serve lengthy prison sentences. However, the government's human rights record has improved since the early 1990s, when soldiers and police committed grave human rights abuses against Nepali-speaking Bhutanese. These abuses included arbitrary arrests, beatings, rapes, robberies, and the destruction of homes.

Conditions for Nepali speakers living in Bhutan have somewhat improved, but several major problems remain. A September 2002 Amnesty International report noted that ethnic Nepalese are still required to obtain official "security clearance certificates" to enter schools, take government jobs, or travel abroad..."

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The full explanation.
In short: "Calculation of political rights and civil liberties ratings—A country or territory is assigned a numerical rating on a scale of 1 to 7 based on the total number of raw points awarded to the political rights and civil liberties checklist questions. For both checklists, 1 represents the most free and 7 the least free; each 1 to 7 rating corresponds to a range of total raw scores (see Tables 1 and 2).

Assigning of the status of Free, Partly Free, Not Free—Each pair of political rights and civil liberties ratings is averaged to determine an overall status of “Free,” “Partly Free,” or “Not Free.” Those whose ratings average 1-2.5 are considered Free, 3-5.5 Partly Free, and 5.5-7 Not Free (see Table 3). The dividing line between Partly Free and Not Free falls at 5.5. For example, countries that receive a rating of 6 for political rights and 5 for civil liberties, or a 5 for political rights and a 6 for civil liberties, could be either Partly Free or Not Free. The total number of raw points is the definitive factor that determines the final status. Countries and territories with combined raw scores of 0-33 points are Not Free, 34-67 points are Partly Free, and 68-100 are Free."

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Benin

"Benin held its first genuine multiparty elections in 1991 and now has more than 100 political parties. Presidential elections in 2001 were marred by technical and administrative problems, as well as by a boycott by the second- and third-place finishers in the second round of voting...

Freedom of assembly is respected in Benin, and requirements for permits and registration are often ignored. Human rights are largely respected, although concern has been raised about the operation of anticrime vigilante groups and the failure of the police to curb vigilantism. Prison conditions are harsh, marked by poor diet and inadequate medical care. Numerous nongovernmental organizations and human rights groups operate without hindrance...

Harsh libel laws have been used against journalists, but constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression are largely respected in practice. An independent and pluralistic press publishes articles highly critical of both government and opposition leaders and policies...

The right to organize and join unions is constitutionally guaranteed and respected in practice. Strikes are legal, and collective bargaining is common."

Bhutan I covered above.

Brunei

"Citizens of Brunei cannot change their government through elections. The sultan wields broad powers under a state of emergency that has been in effect since 1962, and legislative elections have not been held since 1965. One of the few formal channels for citizens to convey concerns to their leaders is a traditional system under which elected village chiefs meet periodically with senior government officials. The sultan promotes local culture and the primacy of the monarchy as the defender of Islam through an ideology called "Malay Muslim Monarchy." Critics say that the ideology is in part a ruse to ward off calls for democratization.

The government occasionally detains suspects under the tough Internal Security Act. Recent detainees included seven Christians, for alleged subversion; a leader of the 1962 rebellion after he returned from exile in Malaysia; and several citizens who distributed allegedly defamatory letters about the royal family and senior government officials regarding the collapse of the Amedeo company. All were released by the end of 2001...

The government further restricted press freedom in 2001 with legislation that allows officials to shut down newspapers without showing cause and to fine and jail journalists who write or publish articles considered "false and malicious."...

The government restricts religious freedom for non-Muslims by prohibiting proselytizing, banning the import of religious teaching materials or scriptures such as bibles, and ignoring requests to expand or build new temples, churches, and shrines, the U.S. State Department report said. The government has voiced concern over Islamic fundamentalism, and one Islamist group, Al-Arqam, is banned."

If geopolitics is why we're friendly to Brunei, then so be it, but let's not fool ourselves about them. Same for Bhutan. And Benin does not deserve to be treated so harshly.

[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.

[Platypus]

I must protest full trade restrictions against Brunei. As stated in my report, we need to be OPENING and expanding trade with the area, whilst at the same time influencing the government towards a more democratic goivernm,ent.

If the Secretary will only use the basis of democratic freedoms to just our interaction with a country, he is not service Atlasia's best interests.

I know it may sound inhumane and uncaring, but democracy shouldn't be our first priority-and Bhutan isn't really that bad compared to many nations we currently trade with. Whilst you can't vote for the Sultan, education and healthcare are free and of good quality, the international community is free to nmove within the country, and it has not turned against the west. But as an extremely rich nation with a strong muslim Sultan, if it turns against us the results could be very negative not only to our trade and economy, but to our national safety.

[Jake]

I must protest full trade restrictions against Brunei. As stated in my report, we need to be OPENING and expanding trade with the area, whilst at the same time influencing the government towards a more democratic goivernm,ent.

If the Secretary will only use the basis of democratic freedoms to just our interaction with a country, he is not service Atlasia's best interests.

I know it may sound inhumane and uncaring, but democracy shouldn't be our first priority-and Bhutan isn't really that bad compared to many nations we currently trade with. Whilst you can't vote for the Sultan, education and healthcare are free and of good quality, the international community is free to nmove within the country, and it has not turned against the west. But as an extremely rich nation with a strong muslim Sultan, if it turns against us the results could be very negative not only to our trade and economy, but to our national safety.

I echo Hughento's points on Brunei

[WMS]

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I left this option open, people!

If it is in Atlasia's geopolitical interests to support Brunei and/or Bhutan, then do so.

But I do applaud the Secretary's actions on Benin.