The element of Truth

March 2, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Truth is never welcome in the land of illusion.

Since, truth is simple and pure – it invokes honesty, courage and wisdom.

Truth is symbolic of the eternal light that illumines the pervasive darkness upon contact.

The brilliant light is overshadowed resulting in a solar or a lunar eclipse.

The bright sunlight or the pleasant moonlight is eclipsed in a recurring phase but not in totality, because,

Life is dependent on light that effuses energy, the origin of creativity leading to an evolution.

Illusion, on the other hand is an imaginary force with myriad of sources strengthening its power to form a perception of reality.

When human mind is confronted with the truth and an illusion, it’s instinctive to be attracted to illusion and resistant to truth, unless rationality intervenes to dispel confusion, the active illusory agent.

Confusion is often represented by fragments of complex negative elements becoming the dominant substance in suppressing the truth.

Laterally, rationality comes from observation, patience, critical thinking and an open mind.

Hence, it facilitates the ‘truth’s’ emergence from being submerged.

Another reason for rejecting truth is due to the typecast as the ‘bitter antidote,’ despite the antidote effects on ailments endangering life.

In the process, truth is thrashed subliminally to weaken the solid state and the image tarnished to subvert facts.

Truth and justice could be battered but never defeated for it eventually prevails against the unnatural embodiment of power.

Besides, truth and justice are the characteristic essence in deliverance of the suffering humanity.

The authorities might be well equipped with every imaginable resource to challenge the will of time.

Nevertheless, no reactionary can prevent the inevitable ‘Change,’ the natural course of matter.

“Saving the Planet,” and “Peace on Earth,” is a new beginning on the horizon.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Ethics | Leave a Comment 

Visual Content – U.S. Foreign Policy

March 2, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Pictures are worth a thousand words.

Authors and Scholars discuss the U.S. Foreign Policy in the visual content.

Every citizen must know the government activities.

What is being done by the government of the people to the people of other nations.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Haiti – Securing the Caribbean Nation’s Future

March 1, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The island nation in the western hemisphere is still struggling to deal with the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that caused an estimated three hundred thousand lives and millions displaced in the capital, Port-Au-Prince.

International aid, particularly from the United States and the global community to the relief organizations was significant for it helped in saving lives.

Despite the efforts, the suffering is far from over. The Haitian government is gradually addressing the humongous challenges following the catastrophe. Due to lack of resources, the government and the citizens were ill prepared for the calamity.

It’s noticeable in the comparison between Haiti and Chile, the recent earthquake victim.

Although, Chile has lost lives in the natural disaster, fortunately the death toll is proportionately less considering the greater magnitude than the one in Haiti.

Nevertheless, every life matters and the governments’ capabilities to restore normalcy is often tested during such national crisis.

Then there are displacement issues that are more demanding, with the population exodus from the disaster areas. If it’s harder for rich nations to cope with the tremendous humanitarian tasks after the natural events as seen during Katrina, it’s even more difficult for the poorer countries to salvage.

In Haiti’s case, the nation has been subject to prolonged foreign occupation and intervention initially by the French colonial power and,

Subsequently through U.S policy that enabled the military coups including the abduction of the democratically elected President Jean-Bertinand Aristide, currently forced into exile in South Africa and,

The U.S economic policy, that allowed corporations to dismantle the functioning economic structure established during the rare peaceful political atmosphere in Haiti.

Even though, the United States is currently making concessions to accept the earthquake victims as asylum seekers, the U.S foreign policy contributing to Haiti’s status quo cannot be ignored.

The present U.S gesture is admirable.

However, the previous administrations’ policy has transformed the once self-supportive Haitians into economic refugees in their soil.

U.S performance with respect to the military coups in Latin America has been consistent and Haiti is no exception.

The latest being the Honduran political crisis in 2009 – when the democratically elected President Manuel Zelaya, now exiled in Costa Rica, was ousted from power through coup d’état on the United States’ watch.

Providing economic aid to Haiti would temporarily ease the burden on the incumbent President, René Préval’s government.

Regardless of the commitment term, it’s not guaranteed to relieve the people from the worst economic conditions.

What the Haitian population require at the moment is not an extemporaneous political status, represented by the United States appointee – President René Préval,

Instead a viable government led by an experienced leadership of the republic choice, the President in exile – Jean Bertinand Aristide.

The Superpower interference in democratically elected government affairs has been detrimental to the natives and the entire region. Whether it’s Haiti, or for that matter Iran in the Middle East.

It’s inconceivable that the citizens are barred from residency in their country of birth or naturalization for political reasons imposed by the foreign powers.

Reference :

The exiled Haitian President Jean-Bertinand-Aristide and the Honduran President Manuel Zelaya, having been democratically elected continue to remain popular in their country of origin until now. Yet, they both are denied access to their country.

Again, it’s poignant to raise the conspicuous flaws or hypocrisy in the U.S foreign policy that is diametrically opposed on issues even when related to a singular nation like China or Israel…and justifiably condemned by the people worldwide.

For example, “The current U.S foreign policy with China” –

U.S is conciliatory to China’s occupation of Tibet irrespective of the prevalent persecution and mass killings of the peaceful Tibetans, including Beijing’s furor over the spiritual leader, His Holiness Dalai Lama’s truncated meeting with President Obama.

The U.S. position is claimed as a tough decision because of the “economic ties” with the communist nation.

On the other hand, the contemporary U.S agreement on Arms sales worth $8 billion with Taiwan, antagonizing the U.S. major creditor, China is somehow not considered an economic impediment.

Ref: Congressional Research Service – http://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/RL30957.pdf – Thank you.

Taiwan: Major U.S. Arms Sales since 1990.

Taiwan arms sale to test US-China ties – www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/2437419/posts –

“Many Taiwanese, however, consider Washington’s willingness to sell defensive weapons as a sign of enduring US commitment to a longtime ally …”

Likewise, U.S. policy towards Israel – The condemnation of Iran for the inflammatory remarks against Israel was appropriate.

Reportedly, the U.S. has not ruled out military action against Iran for the nuclear program.

Further, the hawkish representatives in Washington have earlier stated the use of nuclear weapons in this context.

Ironically, with Palestine –

The U.S. is passive on the provocative Jewish settlements in West Bank and East Jerusalem as well as the National Heritage controversy, notwithstanding the Israeli authorities’ persisting oppression of the Palestinians – all of which are attributed to the past and the present peace process failure.

United States credibility as the “leader of the Free World,” is jeopardized because of the explicit double standards in the U.S foreign policy.

Haitian exiled President Jean-Bertinand- Aristide’s return to his native country is the honorable decision and a unique opportunity for the United States to remedy the former administrations’ undemocratic interception in the stable Haitian government then elected by the people.

The Republic of Haiti deserves a government that has the potential to revive the economic prospects that prevailed under Aristide’s Presidency.

Hence, upon the exiled leader’s arrival in his homeland, the ex-President would be able to participate in the 2010 elections and elected to the office with a resounding victory.

Indeed, that would be the best gift for the political and the natural disaster victims in Haiti.

Finally, Humanity owes it to Haiti in ending the population plight.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under International Politics, Politics | Leave a Comment 

Earthquake in Chile

February 28, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The devastating earthquake in Chile measuring 8.8 on the Richter scale is a humanitarian tragedy.

Unfortunately, an earthquake of this magnitude is humanity’s biggest challenge, despite tremendous progress made in monitoring the seismic activities around the world.

During events like these, Mother Nature’s act epitomizes the paradoxical universe.

On the one hand, the serenity resonating peace and harmony in Mother Nature that facilitates the nurturing of infinite species is incomprehensible and readily embraced by the inhabitants.

Contrarily, the wrath of Mother Nature revealed in the form of earthquake, tsunami, hurricane, tornado, typhoon…is feared and scorned by the species with the inherent discriminatory characteristics.

Loss of life in any manner, whether natural or human orchestrated wars are regrettable.

Humanitarian efforts and response to this catastrophe appears to be remarkable.

I hope the Chilean government is able to deal with the crisis promptly as saving lives in the earthquake’s aftermath often poses a greater risk for the rescue team.

The Chilean population deserves the international aid and support to survive the immense grief and destruction from the major disaster.

With the victims and the families in my thoughts and prayers,

I wish President Michelle Bachelet, the fortitude required to overcome the enormous task ahead.

Please send any affordable donations to the international relief organizations on the site.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

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Spanish (Latin American)
Por Padmini Arhant

El sismo devastador en la medición de Chile 8,8 en la escala Richter son una tragedia humanitaria.

Desafortunadamente, un sismo de esta magnitud es desafío más grande de humanidad, a pesar del progreso tremendo hecho en vigilar las actividades sísmicas alrededor del mundo.

Durante acontecimientos quiere éstos, el acto de la Naturaleza personifica el universo paradójico.

Por una parte, la serenidad que resuena la paz y la armonía en la Naturaleza que facilita el alimentar de la especie infinita es incomprensible y fácilmente abrazado por los habitantes.

Opuestamente, la ira de la Naturaleza reveló en forma de sismo, la tsunami, el huracán, el tornado, el tifón…es temido y es despreciado por la especie con las características discriminatorias inherentes.

La pérdida de la vida en cualquier manera, si las guerras naturales o humanas orquestadas son lamentables.

Los esfuerzos y la respuesta humanitarios a esta catástrofe parecen ser notable.

Espero que el gobierno chileno pueda tratar con la crisis inmediatamente como ahorro vive en las repercusiones del sismo a menudo coloca un riesgo más grande para el equipo de salvamento.

La población chilena merece la ayuda y el apoyo internacionales sobrevivir la pena y la destrucción inmensas del desastre mayor.

Con las víctimas y las familias en mis pensamientos y oraciones,

Deseo a Presidente Michelle Bachelet, la fortaleza requirió a vencer la enorme tarea adelante.

Envíe por favor algún donativo económico a las organizaciones internacionales del alivio en el sitio.

Gracias.

Padmini Arhant

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Humanitarian Challenge

February 27, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Recently there was a flurry of criticisms and admonishments for the article titled “His Holiness Dalai Lama in Spotlight,” and the earlier ones related to the,

“Iranian Theocracy cracking down on pro-democracy protestors and the inflammatory rhetoric against Israel.”

Alternatively, the Israeli authorities’ oppression of the Palestinians in Gaza and West Bank.

Likewise, social issues regarding human rights violation –

Self-interest and greed reflected in the globalization v. protectionism including,

The article on the racial attacks against the Indian students and other immigrants in Australia, scorned for the delivery and the condemnation of discriminatory practices.

Hence, it’s important to clarify the difficulties surrounding when addressing social injustice of this enormity.

Needless to emphasize that it’s much easier and less distressing to discuss non-controversial issues related to the economy, environment, travel, food, entertainment…etc.,

However, when the social injustice is concerned,

Whether it’s about the denial of equal rights to the gay community,

Women’s rights,

Burgeoning Health care crisis in the absence of a universal health care or a public option,

Students plight with the rising educational costs,

Growing economic disparity,

Or,

On a serious level – The invasion and occupation of foreign lands through wars,

Nuclear proliferation,

Slighting human rights over economic opportunities,

Double standards in the terrorism definition,

Ignoring environmental warnings…all of which draws immediate attention from the critics representing the specific agenda.

Prior to moving forward with the discussion, it’s necessary to accept the bestowed honor for being compared with the canines by the critics.

As an animal lover, particularly the canines, I consider the comparison – a true compliment.

The reason being, the canines are known for their unconditional love, loyalty and protective instincts towards their owners and the families. They are also well regarded for their intuitive nature.

Due to these extraordinary characteristics, the canines have earned the title as “Man’s best friend.”

Although, sometimes it’s worth posing the question if the man deserves a best friend in a canine.

Similarly, the attacks through innuendoes and nuances seen against the articles on atrocities that were presented with evidence, are intriguing.

Cynicisms vary such as the articles meeting the “critics standards” attributed to the guardian or the ‘Almighty’ out of fear as the case might be and phrased as the ‘Brisk walk.’

While, the so-called ‘inappropriate berating’ of the human misconduct selectively ascribed to the “off-leash” canine, apparently not accustomed to the ‘city lifestyle.’

It beckons the argument on whose side is, these city slickers as the “judges” and “critics” on, when the articles on the website are invariably factual and visuals supported, portraying the systemic degradation of humanity at every level.

If the presentation or the style is the issue, then it’s worth remembering that the art of diplomacy and sophistication is at its best in a dialogue with the virtuous free of vices and that being envy, ego, pride, prejudice and greed.

Moreover, the offenders condemned in these articles are no missionaries or monks in the monasteries.

Instead, they are individuals as well as powerful authorities deliberately and conscientiously engaged in killing and mass murder of their own population, specifically the oppressed minorities.

Economic opportunists causing immense agony and misery for humanity through deceitful and deceptive actions.

It appears that any one daring to highlight the inherent omission of fairness by the corporate owned networks and the political figures’ evasion of responsibility on vital national issues like health care, financial reform, environment are declared ‘reprehensible’ by their representatives.

The double standards in the first amendment act as found in the terrorism definition among the critics are attention worthy.

When the articles on this website raise genuine credibility issue against the major corporations and their political allies, not excluding the foreign governments’ human rights activities, the news outlets are instantaneously used by the mighty and the powerful to warn the legitimate substance or comment as “off-limit,” in a democracy.

On the other hand, the constant vilification of the “progressives,” the “liberals,” anyone defending righteousness and the most favorite of all,

The religion of Islam and its followers…by the Fox news presenters viz. Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity and Bill O’Reilly, not barring the radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh are,

Permitted as ‘free speech’ parlance with an exclusive right to trigger violence, hostility, anger and fear mongering.

Even if the extreme provocation leads to untoward incidents like the death of DR. George Tiller of Wichita, Kansas,

The green jobs advocate Van Jones’ resignation and,

Last but not the least, the recent anti-government groups promoted “terrorist attack” by Joe Stack against the IRS building in Austin, Texas.

Despite the track record, when the White House contemplated to exclude the Fox news in the press conference, the entire news media and the leading news organizations deemed such action as objectionable.

Only if the mainstream media like CNN, Fox News and others had placed the former administration under President George W. Bush and the Vice President Dick Cheney in spotlight with tough questions on the Iraq war, akin to the ones posed to His Holiness Dalai Lama, it could have led to a favorable status quo.

Humanity’s response to the Prophets / Messiahs, the Political leaders and the Peace activists thus far has been,

Lord Jesus Christ crucified.

Prophet Mohammad ( May peace be upon him) diminished in status as an alibi by the pretentious followers of Islam like the terrorist network Al Qaeda and others, Iranian Theocracy and the dictatorial powers in the Middle East.

The Holy Buddhist Temples in Afghanistan desecrated by the Taliban forces.

Holy Islamic sites under siege by the Israeli authorities in the disputed Hebron.

Hindu Temples attacked in Kashmir (Indian and Pakistani side) by the Pakistani fundamentalist terror groups.

President Abraham Lincoln assassinated for ending slavery.

President John F. Kennedy assassinated. President Kennedy was a vocal critic of the secret society and the military industrial complex.

Mahatma Gandhi assassinated for the peaceful effort to unite Hindus and Muslims.

DR. Martin Luther King assassinated for civil rights movement.

Egyptian President Anwar Sadat assassinated for signing the Israel-Egypt peace treaty.

Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin assassinated for the peace initiative and signing the Oslo Accords pertaining to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

On an optimistic note, the universal peace mission might have been successfully thwarted by the anti-peace factions for centuries,

Nevertheless, the reversal is imminent in the immediate future.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Ethics, Featured, Humanitarian | Leave a Comment 

His Holiness Dalai Lama in Spotlight

February 23, 2010

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

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Ethics, Featured, International Politics, Politics | 1 Comment 

International General Elections – 2010

February 21, 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.
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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

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Reflection on the World Economic Forum – Davos, Switzerland

February 19, 2010

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.

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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

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Economy, Featured | 3 Comments 

People’s Republic of China – Domestic and Foreign Policy

February 19, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

There is an inherent danger in the hybrid economies with the state controlled capitalism conspicuous in the Google – China controversy with the hackers in China infiltrating the Gmail user accounts.

Having been threatened by Beijing recently, I can relate to the incident.

Hence my message to Beijing is:

I remain steadfast in my commitment to the humanitarian cause and strongly condemn the Communist nation’s following actions:

Human rights violation against the people of China,

Suppression of democracy

Imprisonment of Chinese dissidents

Failure to curb human trafficking and organ extortion crimes in and from China.

Interference in foreign nations’ visitor protocol – example United States and India.

Harassment of foreign investors in Chinese soil,

Patent law and Copyrights infringement.

Music, Movies and Software piracy.

Currency manipulation to gain export advantage against the United States and the rest of the world.

Arms supply to Africa,

Aiding ethnic cleansing in Sri Lanka,

Promoting tension between Pakistan and India on Kashmir,

Territorial dispute with India and incursion in the northeastern border concerning the Indian state Arunachal Pradesh.

Refusing to acknowledge Taiwan’s sovereignty.

Forging defense and economic partnership with the dictatorial regime, the military Junta in Burma.

Non-cooperation with international community on Iran and North Korea nuclear standoff.

Abuse of the U.N Security Council permanent membership.

Declining support in the global financial regulations on tax havens used by corporations.

Disregard for the COP15 Copenhagen environmental accord.

And the most reprehensible crime against humanity being –

The illegal invasion and occupation of the independent nation – Tibet

Innocent men, women, children and the Buddhist Monks of Tibet subject to tyranny and persecution.

Systemic eradication of Tibetan culture.

Desecration of the Tibetan shrines and the Tibetan Buddhist religion constituting sacrilegious in the highest order.

It’s important for the Chinese leadership to understand that economic prosperity without freedom is analogous to the bird with clipped wings locked in a golden cage.

Sooner than later the caged bird would set itself free as all living species are born to be free.

Individuals with authority fail to understand that no matter how mighty and powerful one might be –

All things must end for a new beginning in compliance with the natural law.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under International Politics, Politics | Leave a Comment 

Eulogy

February 16, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The nation bid farewell to the two honorable members of Congress recognized as the veterans in national defense and politics.

Rep. John Murtha (June 17, 1932 – February 8, 2010)

John Murtha, a former Vietnam War veteran and then a Democrat in the United States House of Representatives from the 12th Congressional District, Pennsylvania, turned into a strong critic of the Iraq war.

Initially, Rep. Murtha joined the majority of the Democrats and voted for the Iraq war.

However, the Congressman reportedly remained confused about the premise surrounding the Iraqi invasion. Later, Rep. Murtha called for the troop withdrawal from Iraq.

Legislatively, the democrat representative served his constituents until the last moment and earned the reputation as the longest serving member in Congress for the state of Pennsylvania.

Like most public figures, Rep. John Murtha was criticized on ethics related to earmarks spending and receiving campaign contributions from the special interests.

Militarily, Colonel John Murtha appeared to have gained distinction for his service having won many Medals of Honor.

Appropriately, the Congress acknowledged Rep. John Murtha’s invaluable service to the nation.

The veteran Congressman will be missed in the strong dissent against the military presence in Iraq.
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Charles Wilson (June 1, 1933 – February 10, 2010)

Charles Wilson – Previously, a United States naval officer and subsequently a 12 term Democrat Representative in the U.S House of Congress from the 2nd congressional district in Texas is remembered in the U.S operation against the Soviet Army in Afghanistan.

Rep. Wilson was apparently a true celebrity in many aspects with positive and negative connotations.

Nevertheless, the Congressman’s contribution towards the U.S expulsion of the Soviet Union from Afghanistan is memorable.

Similarly, Rep. Charles Wilson as the naval officer deserves credit for his service in the United States Navy and later at the Pentagon in the intelligence unit.

We hope and pray for their soul to rest in peace.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Written by Padmini Arhant · Filed Under Politics, United States | Leave a Comment 

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