Gorbachev in NYT: Summoning the Will for U.S.-Russia Relations
Source: http://www.robertamsterdam.com/2009/07/gorbachev_in_nyt_summoning_the_will_for_us-russia_relations.htmPosted on Friday, July 17th, 2009 | In Market Commentary, Russia
I was just reading Mikhail Gorbachev’s latest op/ed in the New York Times, and I was struck by how he focuses on the mere fact that just wanting relations to improve is still a problem. Gorbachev praised Barack Obama’s keynote speech, in that it “showed an ability to listen and sought to persuade his listeners that
our two nations have shared interests and compatible values.“ That’s great, but it is pretty hard to persuade the Russian public that there are mutual interests when the speech isn’t even broadcasted on any of the main channels, and the media coverage fo the visit so tightly managed. Nevertheless, it is good to see that Gorbachev recognizes that we first have to make a case of the simple political will, before we can argue about who should do what.
So now comes the hard part: consolidating the new atmosphere by
following up in all areas of mutual relations. Success must be the work
of both sides. It is encouraging that the two presidents will head a
joint commission to guide and oversee this work.The new course in U.S.-Russian relations will meet with resistance
from various quarters. There is also the danger that the new
relationship could be mired in inertia and routine.
The two presidents must exercise political will to prevent
negotiations on important issues from degenerating into an endless
tug-of-war.The results that could be achieved if they truly invest in a new relationship are well worth the effort.
In a world where daunting unpredictable risks are mounting on a
daily basis, Russia with its natural and intellectual resources and
America with its power and influence must cooperate. The benefits will
accrue to them and to the rest of the world as well.
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 About Robert Amsterdam (http://www.robertamsterdam.com/)
Robert Amsterdam is a lawyer and an advocate for rule of law. His blog was created to express views which may stimulate debate and discussion on topics of international interest. Robert believes that we live in a world of unchallenged impunity, and he views his blog as merely a small attempt to shine a light on issues he views as important in countries with which he is engaged. He make no apologies or pretense of objectivity - he is merely stating his opinions. |
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