#Global Diplomacy

[tmarshconnors]

Abe Shinzo: A Great Leader Two Years On

Two years have passed since the state funeral of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, an event that marked the end of a remarkable era for Japan and the world. As we reflect on his legacy, it’s clear that Abe was not only a transformative figure in Japan’s modern history but also a significant player on the global stage. His death in July 2022 was a tragedy that shook the nation and left an indelible mark on the international community.

Abe Shinzo: A Visionary Leader

Abe Shinzo served as Japan's longest-serving Prime Minister, holding office from 2006 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2020. His second term, in particular, was marked by a strong vision for Japan's future, rooted in a philosophy that combined economic revitalization with a more assertive global presence. Abe's economic policy, commonly referred to as "Abenomics," sought to pull Japan out of decades of stagnation through bold monetary policies, fiscal stimulus, and structural reforms. Although controversial at times, Abenomics reshaped Japan's economy, focusing on growth and international competitiveness.

Abe was also a leader with a strategic vision for Japan’s place in the world. His efforts to strengthen Japan’s military and revise its pacifist post-war constitution reflected his deep understanding of the evolving security dynamics in East Asia. He recognized the growing threats from North Korea and China, and his leadership ensured that Japan became a more active and respected player in international diplomacy. His work in cementing the U.S.-Japan alliance as a cornerstone of regional stability is perhaps one of his greatest foreign policy achievements.

The State Funeral: A Nation’s Farewell

Abe's state funeral, held on September 27, 2022, was a sombre and grand affair, attended by dignitaries and leaders from around the world. The ceremony, held at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, was a moment for Japan to bid farewell to one of its most significant post-war leaders. The funeral sparked intense public debate in Japan, with some questioning the cost and the very idea of holding a state funeral for Abe. Yet, the outpouring of grief and respect from world leaders underscored the global impact of Abe’s legacy.

For many Japanese citizens, the state funeral was an opportunity to reflect on the stability and prosperity that Abe’s leadership had brought to the country. His tenure was far from uncontroversial, yet there was a recognition that Abe had brought Japan through difficult times with a steady hand, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.

A Missing Presence on the World Stage

As we look back two years after his death, one cannot help but feel that Abe Shinzo’s absence is still felt on the global stage. In a world increasingly marked by geopolitical tensions, his diplomatic expertise and strategic thinking are sorely missed. Abe was a bridge-builder, known for fostering strong relationships with the West while maintaining open lines of communication with countries like Russia and China. He understood the delicate balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region and navigated these waters with skill.

One of Abe’s most lasting achievements was the creation of the Quad, a strategic security dialogue between Japan, the United States, Australia, and India. This alliance, aimed at countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific, is now a cornerstone of regional security and a testament to Abe’s foresight.

Remembering a Giant

As the world continues to face new challenges, from the rise of authoritarianism to the shifting global economy, the kind of leadership that Abe exemplified is sorely needed. His commitment to democracy, his respect for Japan’s rich history and culture, and his willingness to stand firm in the face of global challenges set him apart as a leader for the ages.

In remembering Abe Shinzo, we must not only reflect on what he accomplished but also on the values he stood for. He believed in a strong, independent Japan that was an active and engaged member of the global community. His leadership inspired both admiration and criticism, but there is no denying the lasting impact he had on Japan and the world.

Two years after his death, we miss Abe Shinzo not just as a leader but as a voice of reason and stability in a world that desperately needs both. His legacy lives on, not only in the policies he enacted but in the continued importance of Japan on the world stage. Abe’s Japan was a country that could look forward with pride and confidence, and that is the legacy we must carry forward.

[satireinfo]

UN's New Peace Plan

UN’s New Peace Plan: Distract World Leaders with a Never-Ending Scavenger Hunt! Because when diplomacy fails, it’s time to play hide-and-seek. UN Headquarters in New York  — In an unprecedented move that has left diplomats scratching their heads and late-night talk show hosts rejoicing, the United Nations has unveiled its boldest peacekeeping initiative yet: a global scavenger hunt. Forget…

[workersolidarity]

🇹🇷🇸🇾 🚨

ERDOGAN REACHES OUT TO ASSAD, TURKIYE AND SYRIA TO CAUTIOUSLY RE-ESTABLISH TIES, VLADIMIR PUTIN TO MEDIATE

In a tectonic shift in Euroasian geopolitics beginning on Friday, July 5th, when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced after returning from a trip to Kazakhstan, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the possiblity Turkiye would extend an inventation to hold talks with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, with Vladimir Putin acting as a mediator between the two leaders.

Erdogan described the move as representing "the beginning of a new phase of Turkish-Syrian rapprochement."

Erdogan signaled a new diplomatic peace initiative, as it is being described by semi-official Anadolu News Agency, and "suggesting a potential invitation to Syria's Bashar al-Assad."

"We, together with Russian President Vladimir Putin, may have an invitation to Bashar al-Assad," Erdogan is quoted as telling a group of journalists on his return flight from the Kazakhstani capital Asana, where he spent two days attending Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.

“If Mr. Putin can visit Türkiye, this could be the beginning of a new process," Erdogan continued, adding that "The passing years in Syria have clearly shown everyone the need for establishing a permanent solution,” the Turkish leader is quoted as saying, referring to the 2011 Arab Spring attempted coups which led to brutal civil war in Syria, largely instigated by Western capitals, with the help of three-letter agencies, and during which, Erdogan lent support to Western narratives which aimed to depose the Syrian President.

Erdogan is quoted as saying "We are talking about mediation here, so why don't we communicate directly with our neighbor?"

Erdogan went on to tell reporters that Turkiye has "always extended and will continue to extend a hand of friendship to our neighbor Syria. We would stand by a prosperous, unified Syria based on a fair, honorable, and inclusive new social contract. All we ask is that Syria initiates this great embrace and achieves recovery in every aspect."

#source

@WorkerSolidarityNews

[ivygorgon]

AN OPEN LETTER to THE PRESIDENT & U.S. CONGRESS

Petition Against Israel's Forced Displacement and Threats of Violence

13 so far! Help us get to 25 signers!

Dear President Biden and Members of Congress,

We, the undersigned, express our deep concern and condemnation of Israel's ongoing acts of forced displacement and threats of violence against those who seek to return home.

The forced displacement of individuals from their homes is a violation of fundamental human rights and international law. It leads to immense suffering, loss of livelihoods, and perpetuates cycles of poverty and instability.

Furthermore, the threats of violence against those who seek to return home are reprehensible and undermine the basic principles of safety and security for all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs.

We call upon the international community to take immediate and decisive action to pressure Israel to cease these illegal and inhumane practices. We urge governments, international organizations, and civil society to:

1. Condemn Israel's actions in the strongest terms possible and demand an immediate halt to all forced displacement and threats of violence.

2. Provide support and assistance to those affected by forced displacement, including access to shelter, healthcare, and legal aid.

3. Ensure accountability for those responsible for perpetrating and enabling these violations of human rights and international law.

4. Work towards a just and lasting solution based on the principles of equality, justice, and respect for human rights.

We stand in solidarity with the victims of forced displacement and violence and call for justice and accountability for all those affected.

▶ Created on April 16 by Fatima

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Source

[medieval-elephants]

Remember, an elephant is not just for Christmas!

If you are a medieval ruler like Henry III who received an elephant from his brother-in-law (St) Louis IX of France in early December 1254, be prepared to spend:

£6 17 shillings 5 pence (refund to the sheriff of Kent for transporting the elephant from France to England) £22 20 pence on a multi-purpose elephant house at the Tower of London £24 14 shillings 3½ pence on food for the elephant every nine months

By comparison, a laborer might earn just 1-and-a-half pence per day, while a well-to-do knight might live on £15 per year. (For more, see Cassidy's and Clasby's article from the Fine Rolls of Henry III Project.) And don't forget, you will have to pay for the elephant's keeper, too! The monk-chronicler Matthew Paris helpfully depicted Henry III's elephants alongside one of its keepers for scale. The man is labelled as Henry de Flor, "mag[iste]r bestie" ("caretaker of the beast").

Sadly, Henry did not have these expenses for long: although many medieval legends emphasized elephants' longevity, this elephant only lived until 1257 in the inhospitable northern climate. When it died, it was initially buried in the tower, but Henry later had its bones transferred to Westminster Abbey.

Despite these difficulties and costs, elephants had a notable history as diplomatic gifts in the Middle Ages, even in regions where elephants did not naturally live. Charlemagne's elephant Abul Abbas is a very early example of the phenomenon, and by the eleventh century Byzantine emperors were receiving elephants in Constantinople. In 1228, the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II received an elephant from al-Kamil, the ruler of Egypt, and King Louis IX probably also received his elephant from an Egyptian ruler before regifting it to Henry III.

Side note: although the "white elephant" gift exchange claims to be based on a southeast Asian ruler's practice of punishing courtiers with a gift that would cost them a lot of money, there is not much historical evidence for this before the story was shared in the Anglo-American world in modern era. Some elephants fought back over being passed around as gifts, though. In the early 15th century an elephant and other rare animals arrived in Japan. (Martha Chaiklin has suggested that they were intended as a diplomatic gift for someone else, but were blown off course and ended up with the Ashikaga shogun.) The elephant was extremely grumpy and trampled some courtiers, so the shogun regifted it to Taejong, ruler of Korea. The elephant continued to trample courtiers in Korea and was expensive to feed, so Taejong exiled it to its own private island, where it continued to live.

Materials: parchment, ink, and pigments Contents: Matthew Paris's Chronica Maiora Origin: St Albans Abbey (made by the scribe-illuminator-chronicler-monk Matthew Paris) Now Cambridge, Corpus Christi College, MS 16 I, f. ii r

[veronicayoseph]

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[lunammoon]

Learning that not every highschool level us history class had a unit about the guilded age, robber barons, and laissez-faire capitalism connected so many dots for me.

[xtruss]

70 Years After WWII, Japan Brings New Disaster To The World

— Chen Yang | August 24, 2023

Illustration: Liu Rui/Global Times

Japan kick starts discharging the Nuclear-Contaminated Water Stored at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear ☢️ Power Plant into the sea on Thursday afternoon. This move, prioritizing Japanese government's own interests over the common interests of all humanity, will ultimately lead to Japan's isolation and leave another indelible permanent stain on human history.

On March 11, 2011, a magnitude-9 earthquake struck off the coast of northeastern Japan, triggering a towering tsunami that caused a nuclear leak at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear ☢️ Power Plant. As of now, the amount of nuclear-contaminated wastewater stored in Japan has exceeded 1.3 million tons, and it is increasing by 100 tons per day. In April 2021, the Japanese government decided to dump the nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, choosing the most convenient and irresponsible method among various methods of treating the contaminated water. Since the Japanese government plans to discharge the nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean over a period of 30 years, the impact on the global marine ecosystem and human health and well-being is not temporary, but long-term and enduring.

Since deciding to dump nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, Japan has consistently faced strong opposition from domestic and international public opinion. On Tuesday, the chairman of the National Federation of Fisheries Co-operative Associations in Japan, Masanobu Sakamoto, reiterated during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, "Nothing will change in our opposition to the release of water into the ocean without the understanding of fishermen and the public."

On July 1, South Korea's main opposition Democratic Party, held a rally in Seoul condemning the Japanese government's plan to dump nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean, urging the South Korean government to clearly oppose it.

Cooperation Needed to Minimize Economic Risk Brought by Fukushima Nuclear ☢️ Contaminated Water Dumping — Hu Weijia! August 23, 2023. Japan's reckless dumping of nuclear wastewater poses a grave danger to Earth. Cartoon: Carlos Latuff

Despite the continuous doubts and opposition to the discharge of nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean from Japan domestically and internationally, the Japanese government has turned a deaf ear and insisted on pushing forward with the discharge process. This fundamentally reflects that discharging nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean is a selfish act that sacrifices the public health and well-being of its own country and neighboring countries and regions in exchange for short-term benefits.

In fact, one of the main reasons why Japan has insisted on dumping nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean is the tacit approval and tolerance of the US, which has long claimed to be a "defender of human rights."

The US is Japan's ally and has had a wide range of influence on Japanese politics, diplomacy, culture and other aspects. It can even influence Japan's domestic and foreign policies to some extent. In theory, the US should exert its influence to prevent Japan from adopting irresponsible practices in dumping nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean. However, unfortunately, regarding this public issue that poses a threat to the global marine ecosystem and human health and well-being, the US did not criticize or condemn it, worse, it praised the Japanese government for its "transparent efforts" in dealing with the issue and considered Japan's dumpingplan to be "safe."

Fishers Against Fukushima Nuclear ☢️ Contaminated Water Dumping! Fishers of the South Korea's National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives hold a rally on August 16, 2023, in the coastal area of in Goheung county in South Jeolla Province, to protest against the dumping of nuclear-contaminated wastewater from Japan as Japanese government reportedly is eyeing dumping the contaminated water in late August. Photo: VCG

Perhaps it is precisely because of the support and "double standards" from the US that Japan has the confidence to push forward with the process of discharging nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the ocean without any scruples until a specific date is determined and the discharge is implemented.

During World War II, Japan launched aggressive wars against neighboring countries, bringing great disasters to neighboring countries and regions. Today, the discharge of nuclear-contaminated wastewater can be said to be a new disaster that Japan, which has gone through defeat and surrender for more than 70 years, has brought to neighboring countries and regions.

The ocean is the common property of all humanity, not a dumping ground for Japan's arbitrary disposal. Regarding the issue of nuclear-contaminated wastewater, Japan should recognize its own responsibility, adopt a scientific attitude, fulfill its international obligations, and respond to the serious concerns of its own citizens, neighboring countries and the international community. If it simply ignores these concerns, it will ultimately leave an indelible permanent stain on Japan in human history.

— The Author is a Guest Research Fellow at the Centre for Japanese Studies, Liaoning University.

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

A US attorney is reviewing a handful of classified documents found at President Joe Biden's former office in Washington, CBS News reported Monday.

In a statement, Richard Sauber, the special counsel to President Biden, said the White House was cooperating with the National Archives and Records Administration and the Justice Department on the matter.

"The documents were discovered when the president's personal attorneys were packing files housed in a locked closet to prepare to vacate office space at the Penn Biden Center in Washington, DC," Sauber said.

Biden held a position at the center, run by the University of Pennsylvania, from 2017 to 2019.

The documents "were not the subject of any previous request or inquiry by the Archives," Sauber said, adding that they were immediately handed over to the record-keeping agency.

The Washington Post on Monday evening reported roughly 10 documents were found at the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy & Global Engagement, citing a person familiar with the investigation. The Office of the General Counsel notified the archives upon the discovery, and the agency quickly took control of the records, Sauber told the outlet.

The documents were found shortly before Attorney General Merrick Garland named the former federal prosecutor Jack Smith as special counsel in mid-November to oversee two investigations related to former President Donald Trump.

Trump immediately pounced on the story.

"When is the FBI going to raid the many homes of Joe Biden, perhaps even the White House?" he posted on his social-media network.

Bradley P. Moss, a national security lawyer, told Insider that this looked like a routine matter with no allegation of criminal wrongdoing. He contrasted what we know about the case with that being built against Trump, who held boxes of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago resort even after their return had been demanded by the National Archives.

"Biden's team did exactly what you're supposed to do," Moss said. "When you find improperly stored classified documents, you immediately notify the government — and you turn it over immediately."

Classified documents are routinely misplaced, and this looks to be a routine investigation, perhaps motivated in part by a desire from the Justice Department to show it's impartial, Moss said. The nature of the investigation would change if the US attorney in charge of reviewing the documents, John Lausch, a Trump appointee, uncovered any evidence that Biden or his staff misled the National Archives.

"The reason Donald Trump is in criminal jeopardy right now isn't just because of the documents being improperly stored. It was the obstruction," Moss said. "That is why it has gotten to the point it has, where we're looking at the real possibility of a criminal indictment."

[tmarshconnors]

STOP HELPING UKRAINE!

The war between Russia and Ukraine has dragged on for over a year now, and the West, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, has poured billions into military aid, equipment, and financial assistance for Ukraine. The argument has been that Ukraine needs our support to defend itself against Russian aggression, which, in theory, could pose a broader threat to Europe and even global security. But is this endless funding truly in the best interest of our nations? I argue that it is not.

Unintended Consequences: Economic Strain on the West

Let’s start with the practical issue: the economic toll on our countries. We are facing significant domestic challenges – from economic recessions and rising inflation to unemployment and energy crises. Yet, despite these struggles, billions of taxpayer dollars and pounds continue to flow out to fund a conflict halfway across the world.

Consider the impact on everyday citizens. Energy prices have skyrocketed, in part because of sanctions on Russian oil and gas, but also due to our funding of this seemingly never-ending conflict. Instead of investing in infrastructure, healthcare, or education at home, we’re propping up a country that, quite frankly, needs to take responsibility for its own survival.

What’s Really at Stake?

While it's easy to frame this war as a moral crusade against tyranny, it’s far more complex than that. Ukraine is not a perfect democracy, and its issues with corruption are well-documented. Are we truly supporting a nation based on democratic ideals, or are we merely caught in a geopolitical tug-of-war with Russia? Either way, the continued funneling of funds is draining resources that could be better spent elsewhere.

Moreover, the West has already armed Ukraine to the teeth, providing advanced weaponry and training. The Ukrainian military is now well-equipped to hold its own. So why are we still providing an endless cash flow? At what point do we say, "Enough is enough"?

Ukraine's Responsibility to Defend Itself

At some point, we must allow Ukraine to stand on its own two feet. Nations throughout history have had to fend for themselves in times of crisis, and Ukraine should be no exception. This is their fight, after all. If they wish to preserve their sovereignty and independence, it’s their duty to do so.

One might argue that cutting off funding would be abandoning Ukraine to a Russian takeover. But that's an oversimplified view. Ukraine has proven its resilience time and time again. They have the will to fight; what they now need is the determination to do so without relying on endless Western support. The question isn't whether they can defend themselves – it's whether they will if left to their own devices.

Western Nations Need to Prioritize Their Own Citizens

The well-being of our own citizens should always be our primary concern. Our governments are elected to serve ourinterests, not to act as the world's police force or charity. With millions struggling to make ends meet, is it really fair to continue sending our hard-earned money to a foreign conflict?

We need to refocus on issues that matter at home: rebuilding our economies, strengthening national security, and addressing the energy crisis. Instead of being distracted by far-off wars, let’s direct our efforts toward solving our domestic problems.

The Risk of Prolonging the Conflict

Finally, there's the risk that by continuing to fund Ukraine, we are merely prolonging the conflict. If both sides know that Western money and weapons will keep flowing, where's the incentive for peace? By stepping back, we encourage diplomatic solutions rather than an endless military stalemate.

It’s time for the West to rethink its role in the Russia-Ukraine war. While supporting Ukraine was initially seen as a moral and strategic necessity, the continued funding is proving to be more of a burden than a benefit. Ukraine has the means to defend itself. Now it must find the resolve to do so independently. Our priorities should shift back to addressing the needs of our citizens, and it's high time we let Ukraine face Russia on its own terms.

After all, every nation must ultimately be responsible for its own survival.

[emilypenserfranglais]

The Devil Wears Prada is on and omg. How did I not realize how much this was like my old job? Including the toxic boss. 💀😭🤬

[newspatron]

Significance of G20 2023 and Bharatmandapam: Shaping a Global Future

Discover the power of the G20 Summit 2023 and the grandeur of Bharatmandapam. Dive into a world of global diplomacy and architectural marvels

Hello, here is another exclusive article for NewsPatron, I am thrilled to bring you an in-depth look at the upcoming G20 Summit 2023 and the grand venue, Bharatmandapam. I aim is to provide you a comprehensive understanding of these topics with a special focus on Bharatmandapam’s unique features and significance. So let’s dive right in!Write to me at editor@newspatron @newspatronUnderstanding…

[ivygorgon]

AN OPEN LETTER to THE PRESIDENT & U.S. CONGRESS

No more arms transfers! Ceasefire now. The hostages must come home.

637 so far! Help us get to 1,000 signers!

Last week, President Biden expressed his outrage over the Israeli military’s killing of seven World Central Kitchen workers directly to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Within hours, the Israeli cabinet voted to increase aid deliveries in Gaza — a welcome sea change in its months-long siege that can help tens of thousands of people avoid famine.

There’s no need to wait for the Israeli military to make another deadly decision for President Biden to do all he can to save lives now. President Biden should enforce U.S. law immediately to suspend U.S. military aid to Israel and ensure the indiscriminate killing of aid workers and mass starvation of Palestinians ends today. We need the focus to shift to peace negotiations, rescuing the hostages, and rebuilding.

The U.S. government is likely the only one capable of swaying the Israeli government from deepening the crisis and tipping the entire region into all-out war. It must do so. Americans overwhelmingly want the carnage to stop.

Thanks.

▶ Created on April 8 by Jess Craven · 636 signers in the past 7 days

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[futurefatum]

Nuclear Risks and The End of Empire with Jeffrey Sachs (Tone: 400)

Are we on the brink of nuclear disaster? Jeffrey Sachs explores the dangers of unchecked U.S. foreign policy in this must-watch episode. #NuclearWar #Diplomacy #Peace

Posted September 11th, 2024 by @thegreatsimplification Compelling Summary: In this eye-opening episode of The Great Simplification, host Nate Hagens interviews renowned economist Jeffrey Sachs on the pressing threats of nuclear war and U.S. foreign policy. Sachs highlights the dangerous trajectory of the United States’ global dominance strategy, which he argues has fueled the current tensions…