Hon. Governor Tim Kaine, Chairman, DNC – Thank you.

The Iraqi Parliamentary Elections – 2010

By Padmini Arhant

After prolonged war and foreign troops still on the ground, the Iraqi population went to the polls on March 7, 2010.

Despite explosions in and around Baghdad and elsewhere, the election marks a great period for the Iraqi population.

Like most democratic elections, the Iraqi electoral process is faced with the ballot counting errors and fraud allegations.

Nevertheless, it’s a unique opportunity for the Iraqi people to embrace democracy having been persecuted previously,

Followed by an on-going war that has forced the government to deal with the anti-war insurgency within the country,

Instead of remaining focused on the economy.

Even though, the Iraqi election commission has not confirmed victory to the incumbent Prime Minister Nouri-Al-Maliki due to the incomplete election results, the possibility of a majority rule appears to be bleak.

Leaving the current administration with the only alternative – a coalition government per the Iraqi constitution.

Iraq is historically a secular nation. Therefore, it cannot afford to let one group be dominant over others like now.

It’s essential for Sunni representation in the Parliament to curtail domestic terrorism and allow the Iraqi people to experience democracy via peaceful existence.

Likewise, the Kurdish constitutional rights must be acknowledged to reflect real democracy.

The Kurdish impressive victory in Kurdistan and the disputed areas is well deserved, considering the brutality against them in the past.

Similarly, the formidable opposition led by the leader, Ayad Alawi gaining momentum in the five Northern provinces signifies the rainbow coalition as the ideal political option for the long-suffering people of Iraq.

Iraq has been through a horrifying period with millions of innocent lives sacrificed up until now.

It’s in the best interest of the people – the Sunnis, the Shiites, the Kurds, the Assyrians and other minority groups to come together and govern Iraq in a democratic system.

Without a shadow of doubt, such approach would not only promote the desirable political stability but also provide economic prosperity and national security.

The concerns expressed by Sami Shorsh, the head of the Kurdistan alliance List, regarding the Kurdish rights at the national front is legitimate, based on the isolation recently.

At the same time, I concur with the Kurdistan President, Massoud Barzani urging the Kurdish unity on national issues. For it would expedite the regional progress and reduce the economic burden through solidarity.

I reiterate the importance on the Shiite and Secular outreach to the Sunni representatives in the formation of the new government.

It would unequivocally settle the storm that has wreaked havoc in Iraq thus far.

I urge all leaders in the ruling majority and the minority across Iraq to put their differences aside and acknowledge one another as an Iraqi first and rebuild the once sophisticated civilization of Mesopotamia.

At last, the life sacrificed by the Iraqi men, women and children in all these years is being honored with blessings on the living.

Congratulations! to the Kurdistan President Massoud Barzani and the Kurdish population on the recent legislative poll.

On that optimistic note, I wish the people of Iraq,

The dawn of new era with long lasting peace and glory in abundance.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Islamophobia or “Truth” Attack in the name of Free Speech?

By Padmini Arhant

Attention seeking news articles deserve scrutiny.

The article regarding The Republican candidate Tom Campbell – a former Stanford Law Professor.

Election 2010

Campbell haunted by links to professor

“Statements inconsistent on man tied to terrorists – By Mike Zapler
mzapler@mercurynews.com – Thank you.

Please read the entire article on-line @ www.sjmercurynews.com, Wednesday, March 10, 2010.

However, the excerpts of the article are presented below:

Washington – Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tom Campbell is facing a potentially crippling controversy over his past defense of a fired Florida professor with ties to terrorists and his inconsistent statements regarding what he knew and when about the man’s actions.

Dogged for weeks by criticism over his defense of Sami Al-Arian, who later pleaded guilty to aiding terrorists, Campbell has denied knowing about the man’s incendiary past, which included nods to Islamic jihad and calls for “death to Israel.” He also said that his dealings with Al-Arian occurred before the Sept.11 terror attacks…

Al-Arian was fired by the University of South Florida following an interview with Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly two weeks after the Sept. 11 attacks, during which he acknowledged proclaiming in a 1988 speech, “Jihad is out path. Victory to Islam. Death to Israel.”

Campbell responding to a request from a fellow law professor rallying scholars to the cause of academic, freedom, wrote to the president of the university in January 2002, asking her to reconsider the engineering professor’s dismissal.

“I respectfully wish to convey my sincere alarm that Professor Al-Arian may be treated harshly because of the substance of his views,” Campbell wrote.

The controversy over Al-Arian – combined with Campbell’s votes as a congressman to trim economic aid to Israel and his acceptance of campaign contributions in the 2000 campaign from Al-Arian (which at one point he denied) and others with ties to terrorist groups – has given rivals Carly Fiorina and Chuck DeVore an opening to challenge Campbell’s commitment to Israel.

Campbell rebuts each of the claims with detailed, nuanced arguments, but he has damaged his case with inaccurate statements and recollections, particularly of the O’Reilly interview.

“It never helps when you have to say the dog ate my homework,” said Pitney.

A potential source of his problems is the conflict presented by Campbell’s two chosen career paths.

He has spent his career advocating for civil liberties and academic freedom as a law professor while also trying to get ahead in the cutthroat arena of politics. But defending the rights of unpopular individuals is turning out to be poor politics.”
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2. Pa. woman accused in terror case

Indictment says she used the Internet to recruit jihadists – By Maryclaire Dale

Associated Press, Wednesday, March 10, 2010.

Philadelphia – A suburban woman “desperate to do something” to help suffering Muslims has been accused of using the Internet to recruit jihadist fighters and help terrorists overseas, even agreeing to move to Europe to try to kill a Swedish artist, prosecutors said Tuesday.

Authorities said the case shows how terror groups are looking to recruit Americans to carry out their goals.

A federal indictment charges that Colleen LaRose, who called herself Jihad Jane and Fatima LaRose online, agreed to kill the Swede on orders from the unnamed terrorists and traveled to Europe to carry out the killing.

It doesn’t say whether the Swede was killed, but LaRose was not charged with murder.

A Justice Department spokesman wouldn’t confirm the case is related to a group of people arrested in Ireland on Tuesday on suspicion of plotting against Swedish artist Lars Vilks, who depicted the Prophet Muhammad with the body of a dog.

But a U.S. official speaking on condition of anonymity said LaRose had targeted the Swedish cartoonist and had online discussions about her plans with at least one of the suspects apprehended in Ireland.

The official wasn’t authorized to discuss details of the investigation.

LaRose, who has blond hair and blue eyes, indicated in her online conversations that she thought her appearance would help her move freely in Sweden to carry out the attack, the indictment said.

In a 2009 online message to a co-conspirator in South Asia, she said her physical appearance would allow her to “blend in with many people,” which “may be a way to achieve what is in my heart,” the indictment said.

LaRose is a convert to Islam who actively recruited others, including at least one unidentified American, and her online messages expressed her willingness to become a martyr and her impatience to take action, according to the indictment and the U.S. official.

“I will make this (killing the artist) my goal till I achieve it or die trying,” she wrote another South Asian suspect in March 2009, according to the indictment.

U.S. Attorney Michael Levy said the indictment doesn’t link LaRose to any organized terror groups. He would not comment on whether other arrests were expected.

LaRose, 46, lived in Pennsburg, Montgomery County, Pa., before moving to Europe in August 2009, authorities said.

She called herself JihadJane in a Youtube video in which she said she was “desperate to do something somehow to help” ease the suffering of Muslims, the indictment said.

According to the 11 page document, she agreed to obtain residency in a European country and marry one of the terrorists to enable him to live there.

She traveled abroad with a U.S. passport stolen from a male friend and intended to give it to one of her “brothers,” the indictment said.”
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3. Swedish artist has no regrets over prophet drawing – By KARL RITTER, Associated Press Writers.

AP – Swedish artist Lars Vilks walks in the streets without protection in Stockholm, Sweden, Wednesday March …

NB: It’s contradictory to the claims made in the preceding article.

—————————————————————————————

4. Boyfriend: ‘Jihad Jane’ suspect wasn’t religious – By MARYCLAIRE DALE, Associated Press,
Wednesday, March 10, 2010.

Killing the target would be her goal “till I achieve it or die trying,” she wrote a south Asian suspect in March 2009, according to the indictment. Her federal public defender, Mark T. Wilson, declined to comment Tuesday.

“I’m glad she didn’t kill me,” Vilks told The Associated Press on Wednesday, saying the suspects appeared to be “low-tech.” He said he has built defense systems in his home to thwart would-be terrorists, including a safe room and electrified barbed wire.

U.S. Attorney Michael Levy said the indictment doesn’t link LaRose to any organized terror groups.

In recent years, the only other women charged in the U.S. with terror violations were lawyer Lynne Stewart, convicted of helping imprisoned blind Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman communicate with his followers, and Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani scientist found guilty of shooting at U.S. personnel in Afghanistan while yelling, “Death to Americans!”

PA Comment: Again the content is inconsistent.

————————————————————————————————–

Content Review: By Padmini Arhant

The recent “Associated Press,” publications severely lacking in credibility due to the following information on these articles.

Relevantly, it makes one wonder, which does the “Associated Press,” represents –

The people, as it should in a democracy

Or

The powerful responsible for creating confusion and mayhem targeting the truth seeker by scapegoating Islam and the Muslim population.

When journalism is at the lowest ebb, it symbolize the democracy’s demise.

1. The article . Swedish artist has no regrets over prophet drawing – Associated Press

The same AP article in Yahoo News at 11.30a.m PST had a foot note :

“The Prophet is not holy to be offended anytime.”

However, it’s been re-published later without that comment and it’s a wise move for it prevents unnecessary discussions.

2. As for the article on the Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tom Campbell –

Campbell haunted by links to professor.

These particulars raise an interesting query about the intention.

“A potential source of his problems is the conflict presented by Campbell’s two chosen career paths.

He has spent his career advocating for civil liberties and academic freedom as a law professor while also trying to get ahead in the cutthroat arena of politics. But defending the rights of unpopular individuals is turning out to be poor politics.”

Then quoting the “Fox News host Bill O’Reilly’s interview” as the premise for substantiating the allegations against the scapegoat, Tom Campbell, is a top notch comedy of errors, especially with the show’s irony as “The No-Spin Zone.”

The truth of the matter is the American Professor Sami Al-Arian is innocent and a “Patriot Act” victim in a witch hunt by the unscrupulous to camouflage their crimes against humanity.

Please view the USA vs. AL-ARIAN is 2007 documentary film about Sami Al-Arian and his family during and after his federal trial on terrorism-related charges. It was directed by the Norwegian director Line Halvorsen.

3. Then in the article Pa. woman accused in terror case.

Indictment says she used the Internet to recruit jihadists – By Maryclaire Dale Associated Press

Wednesday, March 10, 2010.

The repeat references are noteworthy.

“A suburban woman “desperate to do something” to help suffering Muslims has been accused of using the Internet…”

She called herself JihadJane in a Youtube video in which she said she was “desperate to do something somehow to help” ease the suffering of Muslims, the indictment said.

Again, here in this specific article, one must also observe the ambiguity on the entire content without being able to provide the terrorist group having allegedly recruited the subject, the convert to Islam, and then this claim:

“It doesn’t say whether the Swede was killed, but LaRose was not charged with murder.”

U.S. Attorney Michael Levy said the indictment doesn’t link LaRose to any organized terror groups.

He would not comment on whether other arrests were expected.”

Despite the national intelligence services’ surveillance on the American citizens’ private and public communication through all mediums under FISA and Patriot Act,

The quoted official and the indictment is unable to furnish details to authenticate the data.

Evidently it’s a blatant demand from those behind this cacophony articles to withdraw the requests made in the blog post titled “Subliminal Attacks – A new wave Politics,” favoring the people in the United States and across the globe on national and international issues.

Hence, my response to them is – “Hope and Change,” is no longer a myth but a reality.

The forces behind the subliminal threats ought to remember that if my blog posts are being searched to discredit my standing,

I urge them to be patient for the information to be released shortly that would truly enlighten the minds of the entire world.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

His Holiness Dalai Lama in Spotlight

By Padmini Arhant

His Holiness Dalai Lama was a guest at the CNNs Larry King Live show on Monday, February 22, 2010.

During the interview, the host Larry King stated,

“Most Americans do not want the United States relationship strained with China over Tibet’s independence.” 

Interestingly, Mr. Larry King did not provide any specifics like who exactly these Americans are, the pollster name and details for authenticity.

Such position could not be from the mainstream population given the fact that by and large American people are samaritans and strong believers of democracy including human rights for them and others.

That being the case, it makes one wonder –

Like everything else is Made in China, if the questionnaire for this interview was possibly,

Prepared by China or Beijing’s representatives in the United States due to the provocative and insensitive questions posed in the interview.

Should a major international network like CNN compromise on substance to boost rating?

As for the alleged statement cited by the CNN talk show host, the anonymous individuals prioritizing economic opportunities over Tibetan people’s freedom cannot be living in the,

Land of the Free, Home of the Brave.

More likely, they belong to the – Land of the Narcissists, Home of the Hypocrites.

The people of the oppressed nation, Tibet may not necessarily be the strongest ally of the United States for whom the latter poised as the leader of the free world would not undertake risks against the invader and persecutor, the Communist China, like it did in 1991 –

When the U.S and allies waged war against Iraq in retaliation to Iraq’s President Saddam Hussein’s invasion of a comparatively small kingdom, the oil rich Kuwait,

Or for that matter,

Threatening to wipe out (Obliterate with nuclear weapons- the rhetoric during Presidential campaign) anyone harassing the nuclear armed Israel, the United States surrogate partner in the middle east despite Israel prominently established as the Neo-Imperialist in the region.

Is freedom a natural right and an entitlement for the privileged while remaining a fantasy for the weak and defenseless?

What would be the twenty first century like in the absence of the following events?

The women’s suffrage movement leading to the women’s vote in the United States of America.

If, President Abraham Lincoln had not ended slavery.

A young civil rights leader DR. Martin Luther King daring to dream a world without prejudice.

If, a resilient leader Mahatma Gandhi had failed in the non-violence principle to free his nation from two hundred years of colonialism.

Creating the state of Israel in OId Palestine amid Arab disagreement in the aftermath of holocaust.

The fall of Berlin wall and Eastern Bloc nations set free from the former Soviet Union.

Liberation of South Africa from the brutal apartheid.

Likewise, Independence for the small island nation East Timor -after prolonged tyranny and massacre.

Emancipation of human beings is not up to free individuals or the oppressive authority to decide whether the enslaved are eligible for liberty or not.

Reiterating the earlier message – All living beings are created equal and born to be free.

The people in Tibet, Palestine, Iran, North Korea, Myanmar, Afghanistan and the nations in Africa, Middle East, and Latin America are no exception to this natural rule of law.

No military might and economic power can continue to suppress the freedom of the population for their false sense of political superiority.

His Holiness Dalai Lama for diplomacy sake could seek autonomy rather than independence for the persecuted and tortured six million Tibetans on account of Tibet’s economic dependency on China.

China’s communist politburo decline political freedom and economic opportunities for long oppressed Tibetans in the Buddhist land.

However, India and South Africa would not be independent had they been abandoned under similar notion that the fate of the several millions are better off as the oppressed minority in their domicile.

Every tribe, community and society has leadership potential to guide and govern the people irrespective of the economic and educational status.

It’s an innate quality provided by nature and commonly seen throughout the animal kingdom.

Because of human greed to amass wealth and territories poignantly,

China – In spite of being third largest nation by total area and the second largest in land area, Beijing authorities insist on retaining Tibet, Xinjiang province, annexing Taiwan and currently eying on neighbor India.

Furthermore, the Chinese Communist rule conspicuously reining in on the most powerful nation, the United States transformed into a subservient economic debtor through unfair trade practices.

Not barring the Most Favored Nation (MFN) status, WTO membership and veto power in the UN Security Council consistently abused by the Communist nation at any given time.

Again, the United States and allies biased treatment of other communist nations is noteworthy.

Cuba and North Korea are incessantly subject to economic sanctions for a variety of reasons ranging from human rights violation to the nuclear standoff.

On the other hand, China, the ultimate communist authority with gross human rights violation and utter disregard for international rule of law is granted immunity based on the emerging economic power status by the democratic nations.

United States lacking in political will and corporations with investments in China are pressuring media to evade democracy depriving the people of Tibet the political freedom.

Then the real power – the people as consumers from all walks of life across the world should prove that the political and economic stakeholders can no longer determine the destiny of human beings.

Worldwide boycott of Made in China goods along with investments withdrawal from the state controlled Chinese holdings by humanitarians, democracy and peace seekers for all contrary to the selective few could lead to the beginning of the end of the communist rule in China and elsewhere.

Not long ago, in the latter part of the twentieth century i.e. during the cold war, the former Soviet Union was formidable opponent of the United States.

Lo and behold, the iron curtain dropped astonishing the rest of the world in marking the end of the repressive rule.

History is testimony to the fact that the rise and fall of empire and emperors not attributed to honorable surrendering of power or the oligarchs’ magnanimity but instead the voice for democracy within and outside oppressed nations have enabled the political transition.

With an inevitable freedom for the people of Tibet, Palestine, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea and others, the optimism will prevail over the lingering insecurity among the authorities and their proxies in the political and economic domain.

Caring, compassionate and peace activists from around the world must stage a non-violent protest and display solidarity in the freedom movement for Tibet, Palestine…the only hope and a guaranteed victory towards democracy for these nations.

Finally, the consumer power always succeeds against any economic and political power.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

International General Elections – 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Congratulations! To the newly elected and the incumbents re-elected for the office of Presidency in their respective nations.

President of the State of Bolivia – Juan Evo Morales Ayma, the indigenous head of state and the incumbent President re-elected in December 2009 for a second term.
President Morales represents the MAS (Movement toward Socialism) political party.

President of the Republic of Croatia, Ivo Josipović representing the Social Democratic Party of Croatia elected on January 10, 2010.

President-elect of the Republic of Chile – Sebastián Piñera, positioned Center-Right representing National Renewal Party, elected on January 17, 2010.

President-elect of Ukraine – Viktor Yanukovych, representing Party of Regions, Political Position – Centrist and Pro-Russian, elected on January 17, 2010.

President-elect of Costa Rica, Laura Chinchilla Miranda, first female President, representing the National Liberation Party – Political Platform – Social Democracy and Green Politics, elected on February 7, 2010.
————————————————————————————————-

With reservations due to the undemocratic circumstances of the electoral process – the Sri Lankan election results presented as information only.

Incumbent President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa, of the United People’s Freedom Alliance Party – decided to seek a fresh mandate prior to the expiration of his term in 2011,

To capitalize on the victory against the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam), that represented the ethnic Tamils oppressed and persecuted since the ‘British rule’ departure from the Indian sub-continent.

President Mahinda Rajapaksha victory is highly disputed amid denial of war crime charges on ethnic cleansing of Sri Lankan Tamils specifically the brutal execution of unarmed men along with mass killings of unarmed civilians – women and children by barring foreign journalists and press media to evade international condemnation.

I wish the democratically elected leaders success during the political term and look forward to their contribution towards economic progress, environmental goals, social justice and regional stability.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Reflection on the World Economic Forum – Davos, Switzerland

By Padmini Arhant

The World Economic Forum on January 27 – 31, 2010, at Davos, Switzerland contemplated the global economic crises.

Speakers from the large consortium expressed their thoughts and hope or the lack thereof about the global economic prospects at the annual meeting.

Summarizing the summit issues:

The general focus has been:

The economic recession.

The financial crisis and the need for financial reform.

U.S economy, the dollar, the deficits and the gridlock in Washington due to Special Interests’ control of Congress.

Skepticism on the EURO currency strength and concerns regarding European market from the economic struggles in Greece, Spain, Iceland, Ireland, Portugal, Latvia to name a few further exacerbated by the majority euro members surpassing the 3percent budget deficit cap, a criteria for the euro currency usage.

ECB (European Central Bank) role in easing the liquidity crisis.

UK urging banks to assume responsibility – i.e. resume credit to the frail economy.

National Debt from bailouts – A common symptom shared by the major global economies.

Emerging Markets’ potential in stimulating economic growth through international mergers and acquisitions.

Corporate leadership in risk undertaking, growth sustainability and resisting or embracing reform.

Technological impact on business and adapting social networking concept to promote global agenda.

Google – China controversy on hackers and censorship.

Green Technology and consensus on the climate change policy.

Humanitarian issues related to natural resources such as water scarcity, inadequate food supply in fighting hunger, poverty and disease worldwide.

————————————————————————————————–
Economic Synopsis – By Padmini Arhant

Global economic recession – The general agreement is:

The massive capital interjection with public money in the private sector particularly the finance and the auto industry in the United States was essential in the year 2008 and 2009 to avert a major catastrophe – a full blown depression.

Following that, the bailed out bankers have supporters and cynicists to defend or vilify the mega rewards via executive bonuses amid severe financial meltdown mostly attributed to the current economic crisis.

Another contentious issue related to the financial sector is:

Should governments continue to bailout banks under the banner?

“Too Big to Fail.”

Regardless, it’s clear from the recent experience that a serious financial reform is no longer an option but a necessity to counteract risk undertaking in the financial market.

Moreover, the finance industry being the vehicle for the economic growth, it cannot resist regulations due to the uninsured public funds management by the private sector.

Evidently, the real estate slump exacerbated the liquidity crisis in the global economies viz. Iceland (nicknamed as the “subprime economy”) Ireland, Spain and not sparing the once booming commercial real estate capital – Dubai, UAE,

Leaving the United States not unique in the burgeoning residential and commercial real estate decline.

In terms of stimulating the economic growth, industrialized nations and the emerging markets face a common dilemma – stimulus packages, bailouts and the rising national debt.

Government stimulus programs target specific industries in the domestic economy with the green technology touted as the promising field.

Unequivocally, the green technology should be promoted by all nations big and small besides infrastructure projects and reviving the manufacturing industry.

However, the stimulus activity is bound to create national debt from the budget deficit because of sluggish GDP and the negative current account balance for import-oriented economies like the United States.

U.S Economy:

Although, the multi-trillion dollar deficit has not drastically affected the U.S credit rating as the investor confidence in the U.S market is not lost,

The status quo cannot prolong with the persisting Republican members’ opposition against tax hikes to protect self-interest and special interest.

Notwithstanding their blockade in the financial, health care and energy sector reform.

Therefore, the American electorate must be careful prior to swinging their support to the Republican members in Congress.

The ideologues were responsible for bringing America on its knees under the disastrous Bush-Cheney administration.

Now, the same republican members are determined to stay on the course to debilitate the U.S economy with an utter disregard for the ‘average’ Americans.

While comparing the economies in the stimulus funding, it’s clear that the nations investing in the domestic economy like China, Japan, India, Brazil… have survived the worst crisis through quasi participation.

Private sector project with public capital infusion is seemingly a viable economic strategy to reduce unemployment and curb public outcry over increasing national debt.

It’s attention worthy that President Barack Obama has similarly approached the economic woes with the SBA loans to boost small businesses, tax credits to the corporations and the green sector only to be browbeaten by the “fiscal conservatives” in name only on both sides of the aisle.

Again, something to remember about the so-called “fiscal conservatives” successful derailment of economic progress.

So far, the opposition policy in every national issue is “Penny wise and Pound foolish.”

Not to mention their conduct exemplified in the tarnished U.S image at WEF with,

Communist China scorn democracy by citing the Special Interests’ dominance in American politics.

The statement is not far-fetched except for scapegoating democracy against totalitarianism.

United States should adopt big and bold economic actions to contain the high unemployment and that would be:

Job creation in the infrastructure projects, innovate the manufacturing sector with technology alongside revolutionizing industrial growth on eco-friendly foundation.

Energizing the small businesses and retail industry is equally important to enhance the per capita income, an appropriate inclusion in the economic progress measurement rather than reliance on GDP growth alone.

United States is rich in resources in every aspect with an advantage of being the pioneer across the economic spectrum.

The rumor about United States weak economic status and attempts to denigrate the U.S dollar as the international currency is nothing but smear tactics by the competitors vying for the leading role in the world economy.

What the investors should bear in mind is the U.S economy’s resilience to rebound in the face of worst economic and political crisis and history is testimony to that effect.

In addition, the democratic system is a positive factor in attracting investments within and offshore.

European Economy:

The EU and the ECB (European Central Bank) proposals are pragmatic in many ways.

ECB intervention to pull the European financial markets from the liquidity crisis would facilitate the anticipated credit flow in the union.

Economic setbacks in Greece, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Latvia and last but certainly not the least Iceland are significant and cannot be abandoned for it might reach a crescendo irrespective of the trade volume.

Accordingly, the conditional offer from Germany and France to bailout Greece is vital to protect the EU economic interest with Greece being the union member.

The leadership in the Mediterranean nation under the Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou is capable of salvaging the dire economic situation.

When the reckless banking sector was bailed out for speculative trading, otherwise gambling of public investments,

The Greek economy with labor capital, entrepreneurial exuberance and political stability deserves EU / IMF /World Bank assistance to survive the economic turmoil.

It would be detrimental to hinder the borrowing opportunity for Greece and other ailing economies predominantly due to the regional impact.

At the same time, Greece and Iceland should be transparent with facts and display fiscal responsibility to the international monetary oversight for creditworthiness.

United Kingdom is right on target in demanding the financial sector to resume credit to the frail economy.

U.K has been forceful in urging the much-required global financial regulations even though not surprisingly, the conservative political faction is against it.

France – Recommendation on the long overdue closing of corporate tax havens is a step in the right direction.

In fact, the rule of thumb for the global economies dealing with budget deficits is to:

Eliminate redundant expenditure

Differ or limit discretionary spending

Scale back unaffordable commitments like wars, conventional stockpiles and nuclear proliferation not barring extravagant agenda like moon travel more for prominence than purpose.

Revision of tariffs and taxation laws to expand the revenue horizon.

It’s imperative to consider tax increases and close tax evasion loopholes through tax havens.

Spending freeze with tax cuts and synonymously tax increases with skyrocketing expenditure would be oxymoron at any given time.

Emerging Markets viz. BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China):

The salient feature in the group is their ability to focus and invest entirely on the domestic economy.

Unlike the United States and NATO, none of the four nations is currently engaged in active warfare though; cross border tension is permanent with contingent defense forces on the periphery.

Still, the four nations ‘combined defense spending falls short of the exponentially escalating U.S military expenditure appropriated for –

Two overt wars in Iraq and Afghanistan,

A proxy war in Yemen with drones and fighter planes provided to the Yemeni forces,

Over and above the U.S military base situated nationally and overseas.

Poignantly China more than Russia is engaged in the lucrative arms race to Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Pakistan, North Korea, war torn Africa – Darfur in Sudan, Congo, Somalia, Guinea, Rwanda…

Yet, not competitive enough to the United States in this respect and confirmed by:

The New York Times article By THOM SHANKER – Thank you.

Published: September 6, 2009

Despite Slump, U.S. Role as Top Arms Supplier Grows

“Despite a recession that knocked down global arms sales last year, the United States expanded its role as the world’s leading weapons supplier, increasing its share to more than two-thirds of all foreign armaments deals, according to a new Congressional study.”

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Economic Synopsis – By Padmini Arhant

BRIC countries impressive performance is expected to continue with the investor confidence higher in these regions than Europe.

Their view on the U.S domestic job creation as isolationism or protectionism do not bode well since the BRIC nations have adapted the domestic investment policy to expedite economic revival.

The irony is the characterization of the United States and Europe adhering to similar strategies as ‘protectionism.’

It’s noteworthy that Brazil, India and China have benefited from globalization with transnational ventures in their shores.

Such anomalies beckon paradigm shift in the globalization concept among the emerging markets.

Some U.S corporations as the global operators echo the sentiments much to the displaced domestic workforce anguish and disappointment.

They remain oblivious to the facts that the United States being the largest consumer base and a major importer is struggling to contain high unemployment, fragile housing market and credit crunch in the financial sector.

U.S economic recovery is paramount for the global economic stability.

Optimize Technological Applications:

World society is more digitalized than before and technology embedded industry maximize efficient output. Incorporating technology in every imaginable field is the cornerstone for the present and future generation.

Green Technology and Climate Change Policy:

Industrialized countries along with developing nations are grappling to arrive at a consensus on climate change policy.

Fortunately there is tremendous enthusiasm towards green technology and the economic powers are reluctant to make the swift transition by renouncing fossil fuel and nuclear power to natural sources like solar, wind and hydrothermal energy.

The main problem lies with the profit guiding politics by the energy behemoths obstructing the fossil fuel and nuclear technology abandonment against all natural elements for energy production.

Life survival and sustenance on the planet is dependent upon clean air, water and food chain maintenance, not achievable without an aggressive climate change policy.

Hybrid policy targeting carbon emissions through carbon tax and cap & trade is the viable solution from the economic and political standpoint, other than possibly winning bipartisanship in the climate bill legislation in the United States.

Humanitarian Issues:

Water scarcity and inadequate food supply is the global challenge confronting humanity.

Emerging markets favoring globalization have a primary responsibility in addressing the plight of the vast majority in their domain rather than exclusively focused on GDP growth.

The population in Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East cannot be ignored by the affluent nations and their $100 billion commitment in economic aid during the G20 meeting reflects meagerness and not eagerness to alleviate suffering on the planet.

Poverty being the reality, the global community can provide to the needy by reining in on personal greed.

Communal development against concentrated growth guarantees a bright future for humanity.

Global progress and prosperity begins with economic equality, social justice and political freedom.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Response to President Barack Obama – Re State of the Union Address

By Padmini Arhant

Hon. President Barack Obama
Washington, DC

Dear Mr. President,

I appreciate you sharing your concerns and the strategies to revive the economy, the priority for the democratic Congress.

The Democratic Party has suffered major setbacks in the recent elections and obviously, the trend cannot continue in the 2010 elections – for the work to rebuild our nation has just begun with your Presidency.

Considering the American plight particularly in the job front, the economic measures taken thus far by your administration is reassuring and the challenge lies in the legislation approval, amid lack of cooperation from the Republican members in Congress.

Although, you are earnestly seeking bipartisanship in the legislative process, the opposition is utilizing the cynical response to stall progress for political reasons especially in the election year.

They understand that their delaying tactics would let the steam evaporate leaving the charred inaction on national issues becoming a political liability for the democratic majority.

When in fact, the responsibility or rather the blame squarely lies with the trouble makers on both sides and they deserve to be voted out of power.

Needless to say that, the Democratic Party under your leadership and the distinguished members in Congress have a great opportunity to accomplish the immediate and long-term goals for our country provided, we remain steadfast in our objectives and confront obstacles through result-oriented actions.

As you stated eloquently in your State of the Union Address, people can no longer survive on rhetoric and the time is running out for the members of both political parties. It is not that people have no patience.

When the situation is desperate with many families struggling to make ends meet in the harsh economic times, the public trust is won by delivering the most required solutions to the current problems and that being job security, housing as well as affordable health care.

Despite the Supreme Court conservatives’ decision potentially causing impediments in free and fair elections, the grassroots support could be earned by staying on course in dealing with the economic woes confronting our nation.

We cannot ignore the external threats through lobbyists and their representatives to block legislations. It’s reflective of their insecurity in the wake of unprecedented call for reform in Washington.

Therefore, it’s up to us to demonstrate our resolve and integrity to stand by the people and do what is right for them. Your economic policies to help small businesses, middle class and students are prudent.

Similarly, it’s important to provide jobs for the blue-collar workers in the manufacturing sector, who are facing equal hardships due to massive layoffs from the economic recession and globalization.

With respect to health insurance, I understand the hostility surrounding the issue from the expected sources. However, I still think it’s imperative to move ahead with a public option for economic viability and social equality.

It would not only prove our determination to succeed in closing the widening gap between the haves and the have-nots but also strengthen public confidence in the Democratic Party as achievers.

Once the legislations are passed and the opposition is made aware of our intention to proceed in the tasks ahead regardless, it will weaken the opponent’s resistance to issues dedicated in improving average American lives, not to mention the culminated risks for them in the coming elections.

Further, prioritizing public needs over the industry demands is the key to electoral victories evidenced in the Massachusetts election with a political mandate to perform in people’s interest and focus on the national progress in economy, health care, education, energy and environment.

I commend you and your administration for the excellent work in the budget preparation. Nevertheless, implementing the policies efficiently is crucial to gain credibility. Again, I’m not going to pretend on the uphill battle in the legislative matter.

Sometimes, one has to adopt the tricks of the trade practiced by the opposition when they were in a majority i.e. passing legislations through reconciliation process etc.

I reiterate that adopting republican strategies in the legislative process cannot possibly cause an uproar among the conservatives on both sides, for it would prove their double standards and the priorities in pubic service.

If it’s good for the goose, it’s good for the gander!

As stated earlier, the purpose of my political involvement is to be the voice for the weak and the oppressed. My passionate expression is to reveal the frustration among the victims at home and overseas.

Your tremendous efforts will come to fruition and I’m working with you alongside to promote the policies developed to change the status quo.

Adversity often drives down motives. During this period, the people are vulnerable to propaganda, and as we know, it’s available in abundance.

That’s why, it would be helpful for democrats appearing on radio and television networks including the cyberspace to remind the electorate constantly of your administration’s past year achievements, present targets and future vision.

In addition, updating official websites with credible data on employment, education, health care and other issues would keep the electorate well informed as opposed to being misinformed by the opposition media.

Otherwise, transparency and accountability will go a long way now and during the elections. I’m tirelessly engaged in the humanitarian cause and trying to assist the people in alleviating their suffering.

I extend my unwavering support to your Presidency, Congress members and the Democratic Party, with the hope that every action is devoted to benefit the people and not the governments or corporate power at home and around the world.

Besides, I firmly believe that bringing more progressives into the Democratic Party is always best, for it’s easier to triumph in the legislative affairs of the people. They are also more amenable to work for common good.

You mentioned to me that you’re not a quitter, but a fighter. I believe you and you need to prove that to the American electorate. The health care reform is the place to start in proving the democrats’ ability to move the nation forward.

Rest assured I’m with you and the Congress in reaching these milestones.

I wish you success in all your endeavors.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

Massachusetts Special Elections – Senate Race Poll

By Padmini Arhant

In a shortwhile, the electorate in the great state of Massachusetts will be heading to the polls to cast their vote for the United States Senate representative.

This is no ordinary Senate representation, as the winner would replace the late Senator Edward M. Kennedy, the son of the nation’s most admired Kennedy family. The Kennedy’s generational service to the country is well known and particularly in the State of Massachusetts.

Since the contested Senate seat was previously represented by the United States’ most renowned and respected President John F. Kennedy followed by his youngest sibling Senator Edward M. Kennedy, it’s significant in terms of the Massachusetts electorate passing the torch to the ideal candidate now.

The choices are simple between the democratic candidate Martha Coakley, the Massachusetts Attorney General and the republican candidate Scott Brown, MA State Senator with night and day distinction in their credentials, achievements, policies and future commitments.

When comparing the two candidates’ profile and their political agenda, the democratic candidate Martha Coakley is by far the intelligent choice based on the party representation, pragmatic disposition rather than ideological resignation and clarity on all national issues as opposed to delusional perception of the real challenges in the average citizens’ life.

Massachusetts being the seat of intellect in many respects need not be elaborated on the dire consequences of fortifying the Republican Party representation through the election of the State Senator Scott Brown to the United States Senate.

Despite being the minority, the Republican Congress members in both the House and the Senate have exhibited nothing but partisanship throughout the legislative process and prioritized politics over people with utter disregard for the national interest.

The majority of the Republican Congress members serve as proxies for the Wall Street that is predominantly responsible for the burgeoning financial, housing and the overall economic calamity.

To make matters worse, the candidate Scott Brown has sworn allegiance to that effect even prior to being elected to the national office.

It’s a dangerous precedence…the prevalent culture having brought the great country on its knees with the Republican Party rejecting progress for the people electing them to the public office.

Adding more members to such destructive force is oxymoron.

With respect to the policies that are critical to the Massachusetts electorate such as the economy, education, health care, energy, environment and international crisis, the Republican members’ consistent response has been grand standing instead of constructive thinking in resolving the monumental problems created by the Republican owned Bush-Cheney administration and the Republican Congress members.

Therefore, it’s incumbent on the democrat and independent including the disenchanted republican voters to cast their vote for substance and not style considering it’s a national senate race and not a “cosmopolitan,” fashion contest with millions of lives at stake in the Senate decision making process.

Democracy is a privilege in the contemporary world with an alarming population deprived of freedom that grants the voting right to elect a representative to the political office through free and fair election.

Squandering the rare yet cherished opportunity by electing a candidate like the State Senator Scott Brown whose voting decisions on national issues are lacking in diligence and vision would be a colossal failure in rationality.

Senator Scott Brown, not surprisingly has not offered any strategies desperately required for the expeditious economic recovery anticipated by the citizens in the state of Massachusetts and across the nation.

I stand by President Barack Obama, the Democratic Party including the Independent representatives in the Congress and urge the Massachusetts electorate to go to the polls in record numbers and cast their ballot in favor of the Attorney General Martha Coakley and grant the candidate a decisive victory appropriately fitting the departed long-term Senator Edward M. Kennedy’s political image.

Massachusetts is a blue state and cannot afford to become the red state signifying the danger zone.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

COP15 – Copenhagen 2009

By Padmini Arhant

I welcome all nations attending the climate summit in Copenhagen, Denmark. It’s a symbolic recognition of the ‘greenhouse gases’ affecting humanity at the present time.

Since the nations across the globe have come together to arrive at a consensus in containing the burgeoning environmental crisis threatening life existence and sustenance on earth, it’s vital to display solidarity in dealing with the humanitarian challenge.

Prior to the conference, the anti-environmentalists coalesced to spread the propaganda against global warming through ambiguous data arousing skepticism in the public mind. Unfortunately, whenever there is opposition to a common cause benefiting humanity, the isolated views temporarily overshadow the reality. Therefore, it’s necessary for the world population to invade the fiction with facts during such meeting or any other time.

The polarizations are inevitable in a global discussion on the various problems contributing to the environmental deterioration. However, protecting the habitat is an individual responsibility as much as it is the collective goal. Having stated that, the industrialized nations being the major polluters through carbon emissions are seemingly resistant to solid financial investments and serious commitments urgently required to alleviate the planet degradation.

It doesn’t come as a surprise considering the priorities of waging war that is proved to exacerbate the ozone depletion in the atmosphere justified over imminent danger to the evolutionary process. The presumptuous policy is indicative of the folly and blissful ignorance.

Evidently, the United States is leading in this context with the ‘Cap and Trade’ legislation tossed in the back burner at the domestic front. Further, the defiance to requests on climate debt and reparation designed to assist the poorer nations experiencing the worst climate disasters in the form of famine, floods and unnatural hazards caused by the U.S. and multinational corporations’ industrial pollution dismay the victims.

In yet another respect, the U.S. ambivalence in ratifying the comprehensive Kyoto treaty extension, alternatively the formation of a similar agreement enforcing universal standard on carbon reduction constructively rather than destructively reflect the continuation of Bush-Cheney policy.

Nevertheless, the international community is presented with a unique opportunity at this forum to turn the tide by solemnly pledging to explore all options and exhaust the available means within reach to avert climate catastrophes. The timeframe set to achieve the targets should be in the near and not the distant future in acknowledgment of the apocalyptic-like events witnessed recently in the impoverished regions such as Africa, Latin America, The Pacific Islands and South Asia particularly the Philippines, Burma and Bangladesh.

Given the new revelation in the world stage with the powerful conglomerate determined to execute the ‘New World Order,’ through iron fist strategy otherwise the militia embodiment in direct violation of the national constitution,

It’s imperative for every citizen around the world to come together as the unified singular force representing the human race in resolving the enormous issues ranging from the environment to economic meltdown created, managed and manipulated by the oligarchs drumbeating the war message in preparation for the World War III.

I urge the global community to actively dissent military aggression and occupation in Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere that is not only absorbing a significant proportion of the national GDP towards military expenditure but also depriving the nations from investments in environment, education, health care and long-term progress.

If democracy is slighted then the leadership is dangerously straying from the path of governance to dominance and the citizens obligatory to defend the constitution. Please don’t forget the powerful were once powerless. In a democracy or any form of government the real power lies with the mass, i.e. you. So, don’t let your voice be unheard. Think about our troops, the brave men and women being sent away and separated from their families around Christmas and Thanksgiving for years in search of an invisible Osama Bin Laden they have been looking for since October 2001.

Shifting focus on the climate change, the melting glaciers, the rising sea levels, the tsunami, the extreme weather patterns and the earthquakes are directly related to the precipitous decline of the ecosystem. In addition the imbalance is attributed to deforestation, overfishing, inadequate preservation of wilderness, wetlands and natural resources, offshore drilling for oil, and limited measures in energy conservation. As a result of these factors the endangered species are rising not barring the excessive toll on human beings.

More than a billion in the world population, the majority being children are battling with death from starvation. In the United States alone 49 million people reportedly went hungry in 2008 and sadly 1 million among them were children. It’s completely unacceptable for any nation and certainly for the affluent country that allocates disproportionate amount towards hypothetical warfare but fails to provide the citizens with basic necessities.

The United States must lead the world in regulating the environment contamination by the energy industry and other sectors. It could share the technology and innovative knowhow with the developing and under-developed nations in waste management.

Vigorous campaigning and incentives to recycle products along with the manufacturing of biodegradable and non-toxic items for consumer use is crucial. Consumption of organic produces against genetically modified food is lot cheaper for the poorer nations and the multinational corporations should be deterred from marketing chemical fertilizers that have harmed the agro-based economies drastically.

I admire the sincere dedication towards climate justice by a fellow Australian, the 24 year old Anna Keenan on hunger strike into the 35th day and currently awaiting outcome from the COP15 meeting. The world is proud of honorable citizens like Anna and look forward to seeing the fair minds in the leadership role, perhaps the future Prime Minister of Australia. Accordingly, Anna should end the hunger strike in order to continue the crusade in protecting the planet.

Likewise, there are great many activists relentlessly engaged in safeguarding the best gift to mankind, the beautiful earth, the habitat for all living species. We should not allow it to perish through the willful act of negligence.

I trust the COP15 conference in Copenhagen, Denmark will be a huge success with an international treaty in place for the global community to adhere to in terms of carbon reduction within the next two years. Energy solutions via natural sources are absolutely essential for independence from foreign oil and fossil fuels.

Above all, a genuine agreement on nuclear disarmament to eliminate the desire for nuclear energy by some nuclear free nations is paramount. It would eliminate the possibility for endless wars under the guise of establishing freedom and peace on foreign land.

Let’s cherish and celebrate Mother Nature. Save the planet and secure the future for all.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Happy Thanksgiving!

By Padmini Arhant

A special day to thank the people for their love, compassion and actions that positively impact the recipient’s life. In this respect, the nation is thankful to the brave men and women in harm’s way for their sacrifices in many different ways, most importantly their precious life. Within the community, there are many benevolent individuals dedicating their time and resources for others’ welfare. They deserve acknowledgment by the members. Then the family unit, where the relationship is strengthened with genuine care, affection and understanding for each other unconditionally recognized in a subtle or profound manner.

Nationally, the members in the House and the Senate ought to be congratulated and thanked for their hard work and perseverance in passing the preliminary health care legislation.

Personally, I appreciate the opportunity to serve the people at home and across the globe through the innovative technology made possible by the genius minds and entrepreneurship in the contemporary world.

I’m thankful to all the visitors to this site for their support and encouraging remarks that help me strive hard to enhance my contribution at various levels. While compliments are incentives to exceed the expectations, constructive criticisms on the other hand are a reminder for self- evaluation besides representing the checks and balances.

Finally, the tradition nurtures the charitable act of giving and sharing with the less fortunate on this American holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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