Korea – National Liberation Day / Independence Day

August 14, 2022

Korea – National Liberation Day / Independence Day

Padmini Arhant

North Korea Flag 

South Korea Flag

 

 

 

Korea – Greetings and felicitations to Korea on National Liberation Day or Independence Day celebrations from colonial rule!

North and South Korea sharing the joyous jubilation in ending colonial occupation and rule in 1945 though actual independence gained and established on August 15, 1948 is a great sense of joy and pride.

The topic will resume with further coverage.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter

PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

 

 

North Korea – Firing Possible Ballistic Missile

March 4, 2022

North Korea – Firing Possible Ballistic Missile

Padmini Arhant

North Korea firing possibly long range ballistic missile landing in the Sea of Japan on Mar 5, 2022 i.e. Saturday local time is confirmed by Japan’s coastal guards and defense ministry.  South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff has also verified the information to this effect reported by international news agency. 

The latest ballistic missile is stated to be ninth since the beginning of the year 2022.

At whomsoever behest, North Korea has resumed missile launching this year, the ill-advise is best not adhered to in North Korea and the neighbors’ safety and security interests. 

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un maintaining the peace agreement with partner South Korea and delivering further in sincere efforts to abandon old ways that has brought tremendous pain and suffering to the peace loving citizens in North Korea is critical for the sovereign nation North Korea.

Similar expectations from across the DMZ line in South Korea and near by Japan facing constant threats are to be met by North Korea demonstrating trustworthiness in honoring the peace deal.

The violations from North Korea are unnecessary provocation that are neither helpful nor constructive in negotiations on sanctions relief. 

The ballistic missiles of any kind whether short or long range with nuclear capability are not to be experimented now or in the future by any nuclear states or nuclear aspirants in the world.

The issues are far too many and humanity confronted with enough challenges like the lingering global pandemic and Ukraine crisis among several developments. 

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un exercising restraint and adopting peaceful approach would exemplify North Korean leadership’s commitment to peace and denuclearization. 

It is never too late to pursue and persevere peace over unnecessary and unwanted confrontation.

The Korean peninsula and South East Asian region deserve tension free environment that has caused enormous barriers in economic trade and activities until recently depriving North Korea long overdue economic growth and development.

The choice is clear between peace leading to progress and prosperity and conflict yielding decline and failure. 

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter

PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.con

Korean Peace Agreement

December 14, 2021

Korean Peace Agreement

Padmini Arhant

The leaderships in North Korea Kim Jong-Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in agreement on declaration to end Korean war between North and South on December 13, 2021 is a welcoming beginning in the dawn of peace in Korean Peninsula. 

The formal agreement between the two nations i.e. North and South Korea to bring the prolonged conflict that was paused on armistice until now transitioning into conclusion of warfare is fair and appropriate.

Now moving forward the long overdue permanent peace treaty would transform the hope of Korean families on both sides in North and South into reality.

The leaderships in Pyongyang and Seoul decision to move away from warfare and proceed towards peace merit recognition and appreciation.

Though the accord weighing in on numerous factors understandably reached in principle in the present time, the leadership from North Korea – Kim Jong-un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in accelerating the process into practicality would be direct acknowledgment of Korean citizens essentially the families on both sides of the great nation of Korea. 

There is no doubt the people in Korea especially the citizens with relations on both sides of the country have suffered enormously and the people in North Korea in particular have endured tremendous challenges up until now. The economic plight of North Korean population could be alleviated in improving and fostering better ties with South Korea in every respect.

Similarly South Korean citizens could experience peace and tranquility without the dark clouds of warfare and uncertainty hovering over the peninsula. 

The news is also cordial for the neighbors like Japan and the entire South East Asian region deserving normal environment for economic activities and overall peaceful engagement all around. 

The responsibility and maturity is reflected in the much anticipated approach with expectation among citizens for consistency and continued efforts in perseverance eventually leading to successful reunification of Korea. 

Once again, the leaderships in North Korea Kim Jong-un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in maintaining peaceful discourse in the development of strong partnerships in all fronts would benefit the people in Korea in unison. The peace initiatives and involvements on both sides would eventually deliver the desirable outcome – Korea as one nation sharing the strengths and prosperity. 

Best Wishes on the Peaceful Reunification of Korea!

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter

PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com 

Politics – Paradoxical Paradigm

March 6, 2019

Politics – Paradoxical Paradigm

Padmini Arhant

I feel the importance for a relevant reminder to United States incumbent administration i.e. right from the time when Presidential candidate Donald Trump’s chance of winning the Presidential bid in 2016 experienced seismic tremor with the controversial Access Hollywood tape revealing then candidate Donald Trump’s sexist profanity against women, the race was practically over for the republican contender.

Subsequent to swearing in to the office of Presidency, the U.S.President was confronted with liberal outrage demanding the newly elected President Donald Trump ouster from the office in the movement led by Jill Stein, Hillary Clinton – the bruised democrat candidate having lost the election to the least expected rival and the left wing Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont and more.

Then there was an insurgency against President Donald Trump to leave office citing mental instability for impulsive reactions on twitter handle (that is persistent until now as a signature trait) not barring the nuclear threat against North Korea with inflammatory remarks such as:

United States President Donald Trump pledging fast and fury destruction of North Korea boasting United States had a much bigger nuclear button than North Korea and so on… in the run up to then imminent nuclear confrontation with North Korea.

Fast forward to January 2019, the longest United States government shutdown costing U.S. taxpayers billions of dollars over border wall did not resolve among themselves for those claiming to be problem solvers on national and international disputes thus far.

Similarly, the de-escalation of India Pakistan feud is also hogged by political actors whether in the United States, India or Pakistan despite their individual belligerence displayed on numerous occasions including escalating warfare between two nuclear states rather than defusing war rhetoric and channeling focus on terror and terrorism remaining the contentious issue.

Undoubtedly, the political beneficiaries and their die hard supporters with crony conventional and social media playing prominent role in promoting bizarre propaganda on how their so-called respective leaders as President and Prime Ministers steer through the rugged terrains and sail valiantly on the rough seas on their own while conveniently and deliberately attributing my positive and productive contribution all along paradoxically to those involved in flaming the fire.

However, any efforts towards peace from anywhere is always welcome and not to be patented as a commercial commodity.

Politics never shying away from contradictory paradigm is the fact that makes political gains all the more fallacious and fraudulent.

Any engagement towards peaceful resolutions is worthy of recognition upon those demonstrating in action by resolutely and consistently committed to peace and progress of humanity at large unlike selective disposition favoring allies even when they are responsible for illegal invasion, occupation of foreign territory and gross violation of human rights viz. in Palestine, Syria, Yemen and now the resurrection of India-Pakistan long standing line of control (LOC) skirmishes along the Indian borders of Kashmir and Punjab.

There is more to it than meets the eye especially in politics.

The divine mission is witnessed not only by the world but also the Supreme entity, the all-knowing and seer of events on earth and galaxy.

Accordingly, those for whom I am an arch nemesis,  I say to them – You may keep me anonymous and illegitimately assign my identity to wannabes, opportunists and power, fame as well as fortune seekers from politics and entertainment world in particular.

Nonetheless, you and those whom you have deployed in the ill-fated task can never seize my good Karma as it is noted by the one and only Supreme force – the infallible Almighty God.

Something to remember that all actions bear consequences and none are exempt from karmic effects as Karma is and ever remain the judge, jury and executioner in living and upon inevitable departure from this world regardless of stature and background.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Art of Peace and Diplomacy

July 30, 2018

The Art of Peace and Diplomacy 

Padmini Arhant

The latest offer from President Donald Trump to meet with Iran on fresh nuclear agreement is a positive step towards reconciliation of differences and misunderstandings that would benefit all, the Middle East in particular.

Iran accepting the opportunity for direct communication with United States would enable both sides to improve relations that are imperative in terms of global economy and energy sector.

President Donald Trump personal meeting with the leaderships from North Korea, Russia and now the overture to Iran are necessary to renew relations opening the channels for constructive peace and diplomacy. The peaceful dialogue is the only way that guarantees permanent resolution to long standing confrontations and adversarial positions maintained thus far.

India and Pakistan adopting similar policy with the incoming Pakistan government by setting aside political and strategic rhetoric is vital to defuse tensions between two nuclear states.  Indo-Pak involvement in building trust and reliable partnerships in trade, social and cultural exchanges as well as addressing common problems like water supply and environment conditions are critical for bilateral progress. 

Likewise, Taliban in Afghanistan recent ad hoc meeting with United States diplomat in Doha, Qatar for peaceful negotiations related to nearly two decades warfare in that nation is yet another promising start for the people of Afghanistan deserving respite and end to violence experienced thus far. 

However, the word of caution in this regard is unlike the previous event in 2013  with Taliban representation of Afghanistan in Doha, Qatar under separate flag proclaimed as The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan could not be simply taken as symbolic without strategic goals from behind the scenes operatives viz. the forces in Pakistan. 

Taliban commitment to peace in Afghanistan must be subject to renouncing violence which means disavow ties with architects and catalysts of terror including the purveyor of arms and ammunitions.

In doing so and upon verifiable and incontrovertible evidence of this requirement would then qualify them as Mujahids or liberators of their nation from foreign occupation and neighbor control such as Pakistan ISI and army. 

United States deploying peaceful means to conclude the Syrian conflict is paramount for Middle East peace and stability.

The adaptation of peaceful outreach and persistent diplomacy to end crises in every part of the world is the absolute measure to achieve global peace and security.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com 

International Affairs

July 12, 2018

International Affairs

Padmini Arhant

The current administration under President Donald J Trump policies and strategies are the highlights in this discussion.

Snapshot of core issues are as follows.

United States Migrants Children Plight – Delays and debacles in reuniting children with migrant parents subsequent to inhumane and unethical separation is a tragedy.

Furthermore, the migrants detained prior to verification and confirmation of background – criminal profile in particular is a major setback for democracy not to mention human rights violation apparently relevant to United States with respect to other countries track record cited in imposing economic sanctions. One has to be the example in anything expected from others and more so in important issue like family matter with children born in the United States sharing the constitutional rights as any other citizen in the country.

North Korea – Following the gala summit in Singapore on June 12 between the leaderships
in the United States and North Korea, the former imposing sanctions against DPRK for another year rather than lifting them to build trust- quintessential in any agreement creates credibility problem while accusing DPRK of not submitting to US and allies demands explains US foreign policy vulnerability subject to vested interests over trustworthiness in honoring mutual commitment.

North Korea is a serious player along with neighbor and family South Korea to forge peace and security in Korean Peninsula. However, United States expectations from DPRK for unilateral denuclearization in
the face of prominent nuclear powers viz. Russia and United States declining such necessity on them i.e. global nuclear disarmament given the stockpiles and legacy concerning them is an irony. United States moving forward in improving relations with DPRK would demonstrate US independence from fringe elements influence hindering success in Korean Peace Treaty. Peace requires solidarity and reliability from all sides without subjugation of any one party involved in the agreement. There is potential for permanent resolution upon United States willingness and courage to engage amicably that would guarantee stability and economic prospects for all.

NATO Summit – President Donald Trump stance in urging NATO allies to contribute to self-defense is valid and reasonable. When small developing nations in other parts of the world are providing for their security by any means, the industrialized European NATO partners modifying priorities is long overdue.
United States tax dollars expended in safeguarding foreign nations borders essentially addressing their security concerns meanwhile neglecting US taxpayers requirements is unsustainable. Since the
introduction of euro valued at present US $1.17 arguably proved expensive for US taxpayers in maintaining  NATO predominantly serving hegemonic goals like in Afghanistan and earlier in Iraq and Libya and using Turkey against Syria had nothing to do with NATO allies security. Instead the operation were aimed at gaining economic interests and strategic dominance in the respective regions.

Similarly, further back NATO decimation and Balkanization of Yugoslavia had grave consequences with massive casualties and political upheavals paving way for extended intervention in the Balkan states that were all paid for by United States in blood and treasure. European NATO coalition formalizing economic ties with Russia on gas pipeline suggesting the deal favorable and affordable to them viz. Germany, Belgium and others might be acceptable on financial feasibility compared to importing same energy product from United States or elsewhere based on Europe’s proximity to Russia besides the price factor.

European NATO allies dependence on United States for security at US taxpayers expense and economic benefits in utilizing Russian energy exemplify them taking advantage of the best of both worlds. Nonetheless, the situation merits proportionate defense spending easing the burden on United States taxpayers footing the bill thus far for the reverse would not be entertained let alone bearing the extraordinary financial responsibility. Hence, United States is justified in seeking NATO countries to allocate appropriately towards own defense.

Haiti – The Caribbean nation in the Western Hemisphere going through political unrest is the result of US foreign policy and previous administrations direct involvement in destabilizing the democratically elected governments in that country. The topic was discussed on this site extensively during the turmoil when Haitians sought the return of the first democratically elected President Jean- Bertrand Aristide.

The people choice leader and former President Jean- Bertrand Aristide was deposed by earlier US administration under ex- President George W.Bush and before that the state was forced into extreme economic struggles through US economic policy and political establishment key members such as the Clintons interference depriving the population normal existence. Haiti also had to deal with natural disasters of epic proportion in the past years exacerbating survival.

Thailand– Cheers and Kudos! To Thai Soccer Team – The Wild Boars having emerged from harrowing experience. The incredible efforts and successful rescue mission headed by Thai NAVY SEALS with international support saved lives enabling them to safely return home. I convey my best wishes to the young brave boys and their coach for speedy recovery.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant
Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com
Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

Korean Peace Efforts

May 26, 2018

Korean Peace Efforts

Padmini Arhant

The latest developments on Korean affairs with North Korea demolition of Punggye-ri nuclear test site reportedly in the presence of international journalists with subsequent graphics from various news outlets confirming North Korea’s destruction of the sites clarify DPRK’s pledge to maintain nuclear non-proliferation. Additionally, the meeting held today between DPRK leader Kim Jong Un and South Korea’s President Moon Jae-in following Panmunjom Declaration with both nations agreement to end wars and hostilities besides fostering momentum on peace efforts is a welcoming change.

Furthermore, North Korea willingness to hold direct talks with United States per scheduled meeting between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and United States President Donald Trump on June 12th, 2018 in Singapore is yet another positive sign despite United States wavering positions from on to off and on stance. The much anticipated North Korea and United States high level meeting could be the precursor in ending tensions in Korean Peninsula.

Meanwhile, North and South Korea involvement in reconciling differences by diplomatic means thus far is very encouraging and obviously expected by citizens from both sides as any fall out in relations and setbacks in peace talks have direct impact on the people in Korea. The continuous pursuits and engagement by leaderships and members at various levels in North and South Korea is critical to achieve the common goal on permanent peace that would guarantee progress, growth and prosperity.

North Korea and United States delegation and diplomatic sources preparation for forthcoming summit on June 12th, 2018 in Singapore would lead to successful arrangement without any skepticism on eventuality of the meeting.

Congratulations! To the people and leaderships as well as officials in North and South Korea in demonstrating eagerness and positive overtures in peace making deal.

I convey my best wishes to all sides in providing peace an opportunity and prevail in crisis resolution in Korean Peninsula.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

 

 

 

 

 

Korean Peace Summit

May 22, 2018

  1. Korean Peace Summit

Padmini Arhant

Peace and Success are hard to achieve without hard work, perseverance and commitment.

War is easy with just a handful’s drumroll and pandemonium creating the environment of fear, skepticism and failures that are inevitable upon anyone pursuing the course with the intent to undermine positive outcome.

Peace process on Korean affair requires preparedness to listen, understand and accommodate each others genuine concerns and reasonable requests for a fair exchange. Anytime the side exerting military and economic pressure on the other side through provocative drills and excruciating sanctions place preemptive demands in the absence of any concessions on their part, such negotiations are not going to succeed considering the imbalance and excessive expectations for political and strategic gains. 

United States has a tough role in building trust given recent and past defaults on peace accord and promises that are never kept or slighted to appease certain influential forces agenda. As a result, trusting United States with a legacy violating US end of the bargain is challenging for all involved to make peace. 

That doesn’t mean Untied States is not capable to resolve crisis. As a matter of fact barring political speculations and expediency as well as vested interests that often dominate high level meetings and discourse, the focus on common goals benefiting all sides would be the gateway to peace deal. 

At this point in time, transformation of existing Korean armistice to irrevocable peace treaty is paramount. The simultaneous termination of North Korean nuclear testing and United States military exercise are critical to enforce the peace accord. One cannot insist the other side quit engagement without another ceasing the activity as they are interlinked with North Korea reacting to United States and South Korea’s military rehearsal at DPRK’s border. Again without a shadow of doubt, United States military training over decades deploying latest military hardware, technology and nuclear capabilities including over 30,000 troops in Korean Peninsula are legitimate reasons behind security threat to DPRK that prompted North Korea ‘s nuclear status.

The situation has to change in a transparent manner with US demilitarization and North Korea abandoning nuclear testing allowing both North and South Korea to normalize relations in a peaceful approach using diplomacy and constructive dialogue at all levels of interaction. 

The other factor worth remembering is the U.S. and North Korea peace summit has great potential for economic partnerships between the two nations that is otherwise wasted in indefinite stalemate.

There are two main options in the United States, South and North Korea present state.

One is to retain status quo which means escalation of tension and  regional instability contributing to global volatility that should be prevented via rapprochement. 

The other being demonstrating leadership and courage in ending hostility and begin a new chapter in peaceful settlement of all issues with honesty and integrity. In doing so, the population on both sides of Korea as well as the people in Asia Pacific would have the opportunity to coexist peacefully and experience economic growth and development especially in North Korea that has been denied due to hegemonic ambitions until now.

War offers deaths, destruction and mutual annihilation whereas progress and prosperity accompanies peace.

Making peace is the practical and prudent measure that guarantees better prospects now and in the future. Notwithstanding regional and global peace and security. 

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant 

Author PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi. PadminiArhant.com 

North Korea – U.S. Peace Summit

May 16, 2018

North Korea – U.S. Peace Summit

Padmini Arhant

The reports on North Korea’s possible withdrawal from the upcoming peace summit tentatively scheduled on June 12th, 2018 in Singapore citing the ongoing military exercise between United States and South Korea and the U.S. officials demand for complete denuclearization obviously deserves fair assessment.

As mentioned on many occasions to resolve any crisis, the cause must be identified and addressed effectively making way for any appropriate solutions. On North Korea issue, the United States military drills with South Korea in Korean Peninsula has been the bone of contention prompting North Korea to seek nuclear option in self-defense and deterrence in the first place.

After long skirmishes and threats from both sides i.e. United States and North Korea, the olive branch exchanged between North and South Korea in the wake of Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea in February this year set the pace for peace talks between the two neighbors with hopes and expectations on all sides to diffuse long standing tensions ushering in the era of peace and normal relations in Korean Peninsula.

The earlier interaction between the two leaders of Korea, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in was indicative of some progress in reaching the milestone bringing the two leaderships to reconcile many differences and among them the three key proposals were to transform the current armistice to permanent peace treaty, North Korea terminating nuclear testing and economic ties along with family reunion among Korean members were to be formalized on Wednesday, May 16th, 2018.

North Korea released the three Americans held hostage on espionage charges and also made a public announcement via state media that North Korea is scheduled to shut down the nuclear testing site and facility followed by an official ceremony on May 23rd – May 25th this year.

Now the U.S. military training of South Korean forces claiming to be in preparation of defense strategy for ally South Korea in the middle of peace process impairs faith and credibility necessary on all sides to rescind activities that has been contributing to the escalation of conflict.

Anytime when one side makes demands on the other despite the former having been the source of the problem from the beginning with relentless military maneuvers and display of artillery power including nuclear submarines at the doorstep of another in a manner that is intimidating and provocative,

The element of trust that is essential in all negotiations is jeopardized due to lack of commitment to meet their end of the deal.

United States military presence in Korean Peninsula is similar to their engagement worldwide much to the angst and frustration of nations they deem adversary. These states are expected to accept the situation as permanent setting regardless of such disposition undermining sovereignty and security.

United States military has been training South Korean forces since the emergence of that state without any determination of making South Korea self-reliant and there appears to be no end to the military base in Korea like the operation in Afghanistan.

How long does it take for the military such as the United States projected as the formidable and superior defense force in several aspects with capabilities to provide training and guidance enabling the trainees to qualify in self-defense mechanism?

Certainly, the course could not run into decades which means there are inherent deficiencies in the method or the objectives are not necessarily confined to the stated position with protracted goals to establish indefinite stay evident not only in Korea but also in Afghanistan, Middle East, the Baltics and the rest of the world.

South Korea on their part need to clarify the status to own citizens and their extended family members across the border in North for a truly democratic nation would not eternally allow or submit to foreign troops deployment under the guise of strengthening military prowess.

Needless to say, concessions are required from all sides based on their involvement that led to constant clashes with clear and transparent participation in the summit.

Again, reiterating earlier statement on this matter, denuclearization is incumbent not only on North Korea but in fact all nuclear states with United States and other major nuclear powers viz. Britain, France, Russia, China leading Israel, India and Pakistan along with NATO de facto in possession of nuclear arsenal are to be disarmed without exceptions to establish a nuclear free zone that would guarantee global peace and security and not otherwise.

The concept of responsible vs. reckless in nuclear status has been visited several times and adequately ascertained that all nuclear states pose a threat to humanity.

Accordingly the originators in this game i.e. United States and other dominant nuclear forces mentioned above bear responsibility to begin nuclear disarmament given their imperial legacy and ongoing illegal invasion and occupation of foreign land as well as territorial annexations necessitating nuclear option for those states as viable even though the maintenance and monitoring of nuclear sites proved an enormous liability for taxpayers and nations struggling with the costs of nuclear affordability and investments in the economy.

South Korea has to demonstrate independence in decision making without being influenced by foreign military power i.e. United States in ending military routines once and for all. South Korea population are entitled to forge normal ties with their families in North and begin a new chapter renewing economic partnerships, cultural and relevantly converting the armistice into irreversible peace accord. All of these are achievable upon demilitarization of the Korean peninsula paving the path for peaceful coexistence that has been prevented with United States exerting authority on Korean affairs.

The leadership qualities are tested in these times demanding courage and sincerity to embark on a peace mission abandoning aggression visible in military undertakings attributed to current impediments depriving the people in Korea on either side to stabilize and normalize the environment.

There are always implicit and explicit hawkish overtones attempting to stymie successful peace agreements as they are regarded unfavorable to personal and vested interests not to mention other extraordinary plans ignoring the consequences of such motives exacerbating human suffering and interjecting undesirable conditions.

South Korea should prioritize peace, stability and economic prosperity for all in Korea and move forward as a free sovereign state in holding direct talks with North Korean leadership and officials that would confirm the initiatives trustworthy and reliable for that is key to any endeavors more so of this pact having the prospects to turn history towards positive and peaceful direction.

I urge the South Korean President Moon Jae-in and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to come together and ratify the alteration of armistice into peace treaty in addition to facilitating free flow of economic goods and services in Kaesong industrial complex in North Korea and consolidating Korean cultural values that are significant to present and future generations in their respective country.

United States role exemplified in demilitarization and lifting economic sanctions against North Korean citizens is vital as these actions would authenticate United States integrity in changing history from acrimony to harmony.

North Korea ceasing nuclear testing and closing nuclear site is prudent and proceed to do so that would further affirm international support recognizing the seriousness of such pledge.

I convey my best wishes to the people in North and South Korea as well as the leaderships and officials on all sides including United States striving hard to accomplish ever lasting peace that is long overdue in Korean Peninsula and Asia Pacific region.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

Prakrithi.PadminiArhant.com

United States – State of the Union Address 2018

January 31, 2018

United States – State of the Union Address 2018

Padmini Arhant

 

President Donald Trump delivered his first State of the Union Address to the nation and viewers worldwide.

I present my thoughts on the address.

The domestic issues related to job creation, lowering unemployment among African Americans and Latino Americans besides other achievements were highlighted in the speech. The tax reform legislation with tax breaks for various groups though the tax relief for individuals are temporary with an expiry date compared to corporations’ permanent tax cuts and stock market record breaking performance were brought to attention. They are relevant and important milestones for this administration and Congress.

The ordinary citizens in different occupations especially the members involved in rescue operations of natural disasters and those fighting crimes within nation were appreciated and commended in the first segment of the speech. These citizens deserved acknowledgment for risking their lives and saving others from life and death situation demonstrating care and compassion in the hour of need.

There was also a pledge to reduce the cost of prescription drugs that are astronomical leaving patients suffering from terminal illnesses with hard choices between buying medications to fight disease and food for survival.

The message on economy was optimistic and complimenting brave citizens for their selfless actions were humanizing in the Presidential delivery.

There was also emphasis on unity considering the divisiveness based on misrepresentation and propaganda of different types in communication outlets that are contributing to polarization. The gesture to transcend identity and accept one another as American is a positive note. The conciliatory approach on immigration recognizing the DACA issue as one of the four pillars including border security is welcome.

The second chance with job prospects for prison inmates having satisfied necessary time is a good moral and economic support to help them reform and settle as productive citizens in society. In this respect, the plan to open and set up vocational institutes and other labor training facilities would certainly be impetus for youths straying in life and committing crimes adding to prison population in the country.

I did not hear any specific benefit to college students on education loan that is vital as there are many of them in this category saddled with education debt prior to starting their career. The student loan is another area other than mortgage that often weighs down on ordinary citizens unable to have any savings after paying the huge interest laden debt. The low or no interest easy payment plan to students and their families would definitely boost college enrollment and educated work force.

Infrastructure to build roads, railways, bridges and ports were addressed in the President’s speech that are all important with bipartisanship in funding the projects leaving politics aside is essential.

The transition from free trade agenda to fair trade with reciprocal arrangement conforms to proposal on this website.

On religion, the guarantee to safeguard religious rights as constitutional norm is conducive and crucial for social harmony.

These issues were all right on track and pertinent to building America.

What I did not hear from the President that is significant not only to America but also to the survival of all species is the environment protection and reducing carbon emission. The administration should review the Paris Climate treaty objectively though I’m yet to familiarize myself on the details of the accord which I will do in the immediate future to understand the nature and commitments of the signatories to the agreement.

In my experience, the environment accord is usually limited to consent and not necessarily translated into action by major polluters viz. United States, China, India and other industrialized as well as emerging economies contributing to global warming and ice caps melting in the north and south poles specifically the arctic and Antarctic respectively endangering marine life and human inhabitation in remote regions of the world.

In fact, the fire, hurricanes, floods and freezing temperatures the President cited in his address are the results of gross environment abuse and neglect that could no longer be slighted prompting serious engagement from government to citizen level to curb environment deterioration. The wealth and economic development are meaningless in the absence of clean air and water critical for life.

Unfortunately, the President heeding to coal industry and endorsing fossil fuel production rather than reduction with export possibilities to other nations is not a viable option on environment preservation. Instead the coal miners and other energy companies should consider clean renewable energy using natural resources like solar, wind and hydrothermal projects and contain fossil fuel dependency. The oil companies constant drilling, fracking and digging in deep and shallow water along with pipelines like the controversial Keystone project ignoring native Americans plea to spare their territory prioritize profit over people and planet sustenance.

The administration’s focus and obligation to protect oceans and rivers from contamination and the atmosphere from pollution is key to healthy living standards that would also decrease health care costs for the nation. Again, clean air and water is not a privilege but indeed a necessity for all to exist and experience healthy life span.

Now on foreign policy. Not surprisingly, the foreign policy advocates input in the State of the Union Address targeting the usual nations as adversaries was predictable. The distinct remarks against some were not only repetitive stance but pronounce stagnancy in changing course from their archaic view of the world and refusing to accept the transformative geopolitical landscape.

Simultaneously touting the allies’ erroneous demands and indulgence viz. Israel and Saudi Arabia with the former occupation of Palestine and defiant settlement activities in Palestinian territories while the latter pounding of Yemen using United States sold artillery in Yemen are proved counterproductive.

The administration’s egregious decision on Jerusalem is neither in United States nor Israel’s interest as claimed in the speech. Jerusalem is a holy city shared among natives and residents settled thereafter creation of Israel on Palestine. The unilateral declaration of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital is provocative and appropriately ruled out in the UN vote by majority in the world.

The President expectation from nations to fall in line on international affairs such as Jerusalem deny these nations sovereign right to express dissent and their citizens’ position on global matter. The anticipation on complacency and complicity from nations as recipients of United States financial aid and funding of the United Nations qualifies as bribery to buy votes in the UN voting process defeating the legitimate purpose of an international body.

On North Korea –  the President reminisced the formation of union with then patriots’ resolve for self-governance that led to the emergence of United States of America proudly declared an independent nation on earth.

However, the free country not entirely free in governance with diverse special interests from within and outside exerting control over United States investments has developed into imperialist power despite failures and consistent debacles from illegal invasion and occupation of foreign land.

The irony with western colonial powers is they cherish own freedom and take pride in subjugation and colonization of nations worldwide. The colonial mindset rejects the rights of all human beings to liberty and independence from foreign intervention.

North Korea’s aspiration for reunification of Korea as an independent, sovereign nation liberated from foreign military on the borders and repressive UNSC economic sanctions is an inalienable right of the people of that country. United States long standing imposition on North Korea is direct violation of North Korean sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The same would be applicable to United States engagement in Syria, Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan and wherever United States military bases are established indefinitely declining the citizens of these nations the self-determination in governance of their choice without foreign troops and sponsored terror outfits presence.

The imperial quest premised on unfettered access to economic reserves and strategic dominance prompting military and terror infiltration in foreign land is a flawed strategy and never gain respect draining tax payer dollars on aggression and violent pursuits.

On the subject of terror – As stated earlier on this website, terrorism would collapse instantly upon terminating supply of weapons to terror factions together with ceasing funding to terror operatives that fosters terror. There is little or no desire to end these two means among promoters and profiteers of terror instrumental in proliferating terrorism.

Nuclear policy – The reluctance to lead the world in nuclear disarmament due to reservations from forces believing nuclear might as formidable defense is an illusion. Again, as explained earlier on the topic on this website, nuclear status is a dead weight on nuclear powers demanding extraordinary vigilance and financial investment in maintenance of nuclear site depriving other areas such as health care, education and infrastructure improvement in the national budget. The reality is people dying from preventable disease and lack of basic facilities is much higher and happening on daily basis among nuclear and non-nuclear states than the probability of nuclear attack. Yet nuclear ambitions and advancement exceed overall life requisites among nuclear states accelerating nuclear arms race.

The world cannot afford to wait for a particular time and place on denuclearization. Nuclear weapons are a menace and require safe disposal making the world a nuclear free zone. Hence, it is incumbent on all nuclear states to arrive at a consensus and expedite nuclear disarmament exempting none in the endeavor. The world leaderships in military, politics and civil society owe this responsibility to the present and future generation for safe and nuclear free existence.

Likewise, there is another cleaning up task pending world action. The land mines and improvised explosive device (IED) that are inflicting pain and permanent injury to largely poorer demography in countries that are designated eternal war precincts with weapons and explosives left behind in open field and abandoned in warehouse as witnessed in Africa, Afghanistan and Libya.

The addiction to foreign policy to suit core entities self and vested interests against United States and global benefits hurt America’s credibility in presiding over world disputes and discord.

The President speech also confirmed on Guantanamo Bay to remain open retaining status quo. The idea to house terror suspects most of whom are known to be falsely held in captivity denying them habeas corpus – the right to legal defense to prove their innocence emanated from the administration headed by then President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney and sources in power at that time. These members having been primarily responsible for allowing terror attack on 9/11/2001, they were never held accountable for dereliction of duty amounting to treason and violation of human rights in introducing torture and inhumane tactics on those in unlawful custody.

United States image could not be enhanced in skyscrapers and coast to coast high ways, bridges and monuments alone.  Any nations real progress is verifiable in the treatment of own citizens and those abroad with mutual respect, dignity and fairness without compromising on ethics and human value.

I reiterate that President Donald Trump led administration and the present Congress with members from both sides of the political aisle have potential to build America and enable American dream for all Americans leaving none behind barring prejudice in general and partisan politics in governance.

United States and the world moving forward in strengthening ties with neighbors in the region and across the frontiers treating each other as partners and not rivals extending economic, cultural, educational and social events is paramount for global peace, prosperity and security.

God bless humanity and environment.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Author & Presenter PadminiArhant.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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