International Crisis:

I posted a blog on May 25^th, 2008 about the article from “Voice of America”dated May 23^rd, 2008.

Our nation is currently occupied with the important political event i.e.” The Presidential race". The Presidential candidates are vying for the highest position on land. The main stream media and news organizations are busy analyzing the "gaffe" by Senator Hillary Clinton and perusing the medical records of Senator John McCain. So not much attention is devoted to the International political events currently taking place that could have significant impact on the world's future and the "Superpower" status.

I share this with you for your information as it is relevant to the current political event in the United States whoever our next "President" might be!

Source: VOA.com (Voice of America) - Thank you.

23 May 2008

Russia's New President Makes First International Trip to China

Russia's new president Dmitry Medvedev says his country seeks what he calls a reasonable, pragmatic and friendly relationship with giant neighbor, China. He arrived in Beijing Friday for a two day visit - as part of his first trip abroad since he took office earlier this month. Stephanie Ho has more on the story.

Ties between former Cold War rivals, China and Russia, are warming. Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Li Hui says his government appreciates the Russian leader's choice of destinations.

He says President Medvedev's decision to make China one of his first foreign visits only half a month after taking office fully demonstrates the high degree of importance he and the Russian government place on the China-Russia relationship.

The Russian leader's Beijing schedule includes meetings with Chinese President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and other senior Chinese leaders.

The two countries are expected to discuss energy issues, as well as military cooperation trade.

Russian Ambassador to China, Sergey Razov, told reporters the two countries share many similar views on major international issues. He says on sensitive issues, including the Iran and Korean peninsula nuclear issues, among others, they have a common position.

Jing-dong Yuan, an associate professor at the Monterey Institute of International Studies, says the two countries already have strong defense cooperation.

"This is the most, probably salient, component of this relationship," said Yuan. "China has imported major weapons systems from Russia, and also military technology transfer, over the last decade and a half. And they have, in recent years, moved beyond simple arms sales to joint military exercise and other military cooperation."

He says the two countries are likely to expand their cooperation in space and nuclear technology.

At the same time, he says both countries need to work on expanding economic ties.

"Currently, the bilateral trade is only $48 billion annually, so it's very low for countries such as China and Russia, two big economies and neighboring countries," said Yuan”.

..............................................................
Analysis: Should United States be concerned about the proliferating China-Russia relationship especially with the military and nuclear technology expansion?

It is a matter of concern as these two nations being key members with “Veto Power” in the United Nations Security Council have demonstrated authority on issues related to Iran, North Korea and Burma. Both China and Russia are undeniably the emerging powers of the FAR EAST and Central Asia rich in fossil fuel and other natural resources. The recent impressive economic growth further enhances their political status and embolden them to ignore issues....whether it is human rights, free and fair elections and freedom of press expected of any sovereign nation towards their own citizens and the global community.

At home, the current administration investment of time and resources on Iraq and Afghanistan has shifted focus away from strengthening strategic alliances and ties with its allies and other nations sharing common goals such as upholding democratic values and multilateral resolutions for political, economic, energy and environmental crises affecting every living being on the planet.

Unfortunately, the administration stance in the past eight years and its unilateral position with Iraq war, declining to ratify the “Kyoto treaty”, neglecting serious warnings on the economic crisis, violation of civil and constitutional rights under the guise of “Patriot Act” and other unconstitutional legislative measures has contributed to the diminishing “Superpower” status and lately undermine the United States position in resolving any international crisis.

Meanwhile, China and Russia are actively engaged in political, economic and military expansion much to the concern of other developing nations in the region.

Is the next administration capable and prepared to deal with all of these real challenges, something the American electorate have to think long and hard prior to casting their ballot in November 2008?

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

"Voice for Humanity"

Current International Crisis:

Russian Invasion of Georgia:

It appears to be “Russia’s” turn to flex muscles against the less powerful sovereign neighbor, “Georgia”! The ulterior motive according to some political analysts is claimed to be none other than the “Liquid Gold” otherwise known as “Oil”.

What a “revelation”?

Even though Russia claims on its part that the recent aggression against Georgia is to protect the minority population in “South Ossetia” admittedly holding “Russian Passports” and willing to be part of prosperous, repressive “Russia” rather than overzealous Democratic “Georgia” with a confused strategy in embracing the minority group as “Georgians”.

It is not uncommon for sovereign nations to experience ethnic confrontations alongside the borders or mainland and have political differences with the disfranchisement of the minority groups. The ethnic or the minority groups in return demanding separatism or autonomy from the “State” governing those regions.

Whatever happened to the Intelligence Sources and their responsibility towards such international conflict?

Perhaps preoccupied like the “Heads of State” in the United States and Europe with the International Olympics?

Should “Beijing Olympics” be held responsible for being the major distraction with their outstanding display of talent and newly acclaimed status as the emerging “economic power” in Asia?

The strange scenario being our “President” and the “Russian Prime Minister”, Vladimir Putin’s presence at the Opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics to appease the host nation while bombing of “Georgia” was underway in full force.

It is well known for political figures to demonstrate “camaraderie” during the International events but “Prime Minister Putin” is the “Gold Medalist” among the “Heads of State” attending the ceremony.

Prime Minister Putin’s composure in convincing novice and professionals alike as the peacemaker at the event that pledges international solidarity and harmony after having executed full scale war against a democratic nation is truly remarkable.

The legitimate concern for the American electorate is to be mindful of these developments and exercise diligence when electing the next “President” and the administration in November 2008 who would exhibit leadership required for the “Super Power” in the world.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

P.S.

South Ossetia Geography:
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

South Ossetia (Ossetic: Хуссар Ирыстон, Khussar Iryston; Georgian: სამხრეთი ოსეთი, Samkhreti Oseti; Russian: Южная Осетия, Yuzhnaya Osetiya) is a region in the South Caucasus, formerly the South Ossetian Autonomous Oblast within the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic. A part of it has been de facto independent from Georgia since it declared independence[1] as the Republic of South Ossetia early in the 1990s during the Georgian-Ossetian conflict. The capital of the region is Tskhinvali.

The independence has not been diplomatically recognized by any member of the United Nations – which continues to regard South Ossetia as part of Georgia. Georgia has retained control over parts of the region's eastern and southern districts where it created, in April 2007, a Provisional Administrative Entity of South Ossetia[2][3][4][5] headed by ethnic Ossetians (former members of the separatist government) under the leadership of Dmitry Sanakoev which would negotiate with central Georgian authorities regarding its final status and conflict resolution.[6]

“Accountability”

To: Senator Barack Obama, The Presumptive Democratic Nominee, Democratic Party.

As stated earlier, I list the issues that are of major concern to me.

The economic, energy, health care plan and time line for troop withdrawal from Iraq and troop deployment in Afghanistan laid out by your Campaign is lacking in specifics and as a tax payer I am interested in precise solutions from you being the “Presumptive Democratic nominee”.

It is important for tax payers to understand how exactly the policies are going to impact the economic standards particularly with the current economic difficulties in all fronts ranging from energy costs to food, education, health care and hosts of issues that matter to every individual of our nation.

Further, the plan to fund most social programs does not elaborate on the strategy to provide for these services. The proposal to raise taxes on investments i.e. Capital gains on dividends earned from sale or investment holdings is another concern for small investor like me relying on income from investments during economic downturns contributing to weak job markets nationwide.

National Health Care proposal needs to address the costs involved to fund the policy. The grim reality is the costs will be ultimately transferred to the tax payers/consumers by the industry initially in agreement with the proposal.

Unfortunately the recent performance by the government at the State and Federal level in balancing the budget has been disappointing and the tax payers including myself have little or no confidence in the government with the money management.

I am also extremely disappointed with your seismic shifts on issues such as voting in favor of “FISA”, and against “Gun Control”, “Public Financing - it appears more corporate donations are pouring in through corporate executives who in effect neutralize the anti-lobbyists position claimed by your campaign during the primary election”.

Somehow the Senator Obama, whom I vigorously supported by enduring attacks and criticisms from both Democratic and the Republican fronts is lost in the same “Washington” crowd that follows the golden rule....“say anything and do nothing politics.”

If it comes down to winning the election by any means and any shifts in position is justified as “Political Expediency”, I fail to see any “transformation” in “Washington”with any new administration.

Since you emphasized on “Accountability” on the campaign trail and invited the electorate to bring forth issues concerning them, I have highlighted on some of them and hope to have a sincere response from you.

Once again, I appreciate the opportunity to present my concerns and not be treated as just another “donor” or one of “million volunteers” excited to get through the general election.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

"Race"

Dear America,

It has been a while, since I’ve shared my thoughts and experience via “blog”, an innovative medium for expression of views and comments that has revolutionized communication in the modern era.

Cyberspace is a platform where the voiceless can have a voice or be heard through someone on their behalf on issues related to mankind and everything else. It is not necessary to go through the “Red Tape” or be newsworthy to be a “news item” in the prominent media and print press. There is no requirement to be part of any “influential circle” either!

An average citizen with an “internet” access can express an opinion or recount an experience that is relevant to all or none. The “Giant Leap” by mankind in every field is truly admirable.

However, have we made progress in human relations?

Why is it so difficult for the most “intelligent” species in the hierarchy of the animal kingdom to co-exist in peace and harmony and accept one another as human beings first and then anything next?

We have been gifted with the “discriminating power”. Unfortunately, it is being used more effectively for negative discriminatory practice than otherwise.

It is believed that “God created all equal”.

Do we all think like the creator? If that is the case, the world will not be in a state as it is now.

Since evolution, several battles and wars been fought over land, wealth, resources with the ulterior motive being the “Power” and “dominance” of one segment over another. The unquenchable “quest” of mankind has led the world to a dire situation where the other inhabitants of the planet are facing extinction due to proliferation of human population followed by the endless needs for survival and human comfort.

Human beings in general are stigmatized and victimized by fellow human beings as portrayed in history since time immemorial. We are living in an “imperfect” world, yet there is a desperate search for “perfection” among humans. People come in all shapes and dimensions and in great variation with respect to the pigmentation of the skin.

Will this world be an exciting place as it is now in the absence of such diversity around us in all aspects?

It is evident from history and contemporary times that a secular and diverse society has made far more progress than a “homogeneous” society. The collective talent available in the “heterogeneous” society is a great challenge to deal with for the opposing forces in this respect.

There could be no better example than the “United States” that is triumphant on the trials and tribulations of “homogeneous” vs. “heterogeneous” society. The phenomenal success of this great nation in every field is due to the intellectual power and strength from the diversity it has maintained since origin. It is a country that set a precedent in modern times for other nations to embrace “multiculturalism” and “secularism” as a milestone for humanitarian progress.

Then why is it that “race” is a sensitive topic to discuss?

Can discriminatory practice towards human beings be ever eliminated in any society?

If that happens, it will be “Utopia”. Why seek “heaven” or “paradise”?

There is still “hope” as “goodness” still exists in the “paradoxical universe”.

The complexity of diverse cultures and race presents prospects and problems in every society. The world will be peaceful and prosperous if people can accept one another as the member of the “human race” and rather than look for “flaws” in others, acknowledge one’s own “shortcomings” that every individual possess at some level regardless of their identity.

Should the entire race and culture be held responsible and vilified for an “individual” or “group of individuals” action or behavior?

Regrettably, it is often a human tendency to analyze others based on predisposed views and sometimes experience that creates obstacles in the path of human relationship.

Then what about nobility demonstrated by human beings of a particular sect that is targeted for any wrong doing? Should the society ignore the positive contributions of these individuals even if they are a minority?

There is no particular race or culture that is spared in the contemporary world about anything. We can overcome prejudice only if human beings can alienate themselves from the qualities and characteristics that allow conflict over compassion, caring and consideration for others.

It is up to mankind to practice “goodness” and make this world a better and peaceful place for all.

There could be no better legacy than “good deeds” and “virtues” that would benefit all.

The fact of the matter is, despite tremendous progress in science and technology mortality is certain and no one is assured of “eternal life” on earth.

The other reality is when we all bleed; the color of the blood is the same no matter who we are!

These facts prove the theory that “all are created equal”?

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

“A Voice for Humanity”

Democratic Nominee

Dear America,

I would like to begin with my heartfelt compliments to both historic candidates of the Democratic Party, Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton.

Congratulations! Senator Barack Obama on your historic achievement as the “Presumptive Democratic Nominee” in the current “Presidential race 2008”.

My blog titled “The Winner” posted on your website on February 3rd, 2008, at 4.09a.m EST, just prior to “Super Tuesday” Primaries way back on February 5th, 2008 was analyzed and critiqued as “irresponsible assertion” by the media and others. You proved them wrong. You have also paved the way for many that everyone is entitled to hope and realize their dreams which are possible in this great nation called “The United States of America”.

Congratulations! Senator Hillary Clinton on your historic night. I admire your fortitude, resilience and the spirit that “When the going gets tough, the tough gets going”. As a woman, I commend your tenacity and willingness to accept challenge against all odds. You have set a precedent for all women in this nation and around the world that success is not everything but working towards the goals in itself is a victory.

But sometimes decisions have to be made even if your heart doesn’t follow it. It is easier said than done. You have made all women proud!

To quote “William Shakespeare” –

“All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players”.

The long hard battle between the two tenacious Senators of the Democratic Party, Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama finally concluded last night i.e. June 3rd, 2008.

The Democratic Primary was very exciting as well as challenging. There were heated exchanges from all sides due to the passion and tension between two campaigns.

They were all carried out not by choice but due to circumstances and frustration experienced by the campaigners and the electorate given the current national status in all aspects.

Nevertheless, there is always a winner and a "runner up". It is easier for the winner to smile and console the "runner up", but the "runner up" has the burden to display courage and greatness, whether it is a team sport or a highly contested, “high profile” political event such as the “Presidential race”.

Senator Clinton, you wrote a book titled "It Takes A Village To Raise A Child",
similarly it takes a nation to elect a "President" and that could happen only with unity.

I sign off with my all time favorite phrase;

“Behind every successful man is a successful woman" !

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

"Voice for Humanity"

“The Nation Salutes our Heroes”

Dear America,

On Memorial Day and every day, it is the duty of every “free” individual to think about the veterans and thank the brave young men and women volunteered to lay their life for the freedom of their fellow citizens at home and around the world.

The families of these veterans deserve not only praise but immediate attention for survival with respect and dignity. It is a tragedy that these veterans are left dependent on charity upon arrival at home especially after their huge sacrifices for the nation and the world population subject to oppression and persecution.

While these noble servicemen and women do their part in serving the nation, it is the duty of the nation in return to honor the “Fallen Heroes” and pay tribute to the wounded and all those brave hearts guarding our borders and challenging the forces in the front line of the battlefield.

It is time for the legislators to review and renew the policy on veteran affairs and provide comprehensive (both physical and mental) medical benefits , overhaul rehabilitation centers for complete recovery of the wounded veterans, counseling services, employment for the armed forces and their families upon transitioning into civilian life, free or subsidized housing and college education for their dependents, assistance with programs to enable veterans offer their engineering, mechanical and other technical skills to the community and local economies.

It is important for all those law makers to remember and realize that “Freedom is not free” and casting their vote for wars with no justification such as the current “Iraq War” in the comfort zone as legislators is not an entitlement but reckless action with serious and irreparable consequences including loss of precious lives.

"War is not the solution for every problem".

The world must explore the path of “Peace and Diplomacy” over “War and Aggression”.

The Nation honors and salutes every veteran for their sacrifice and service now and in the past.

Please make contributions to the following non-profit organizations engaged in providing immediate relief and humanitarian aid to all those deserving veterans and their families.

We can never be too poor or busy to support our troops and their families because our comfort and security is a result of their martyrdom.

The contact details of some notable organizations are:

1. Help Hospitalized Veterans, P.O. Box 98088, Washington DC -20090-8088

2. Wounded Warrior Project, National Processing Center, P.O. Box 758516,

Topeka, KS 66675-8516

3. USO, P.O. Box 96860, Washington DC – 20077-7677

4. The Armed Forces Aid Campaign

TREA Memorial Foundation

P.O.BOX 96303

Washington D.C. 20090-6303

And

5. Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes

P.O.BOX 96440

Washington D.C. 20090-6440

Thank you all for your generous contributions to the deserving cause.

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

“Voice for Humanity”

International Politics

Dear America,

Our nation is currently occupied with the important political event i.e.” The Presidential race". The Presidential candidates are vying for the highest position on land. The main stream media and news organizations are busy analyzing the "gaffe" by Senator Hillary Clinton and perusing the medical records of Senator John McCain. So not much attention is devoted to the International political events currently taking place that could have significant impact on the world's future and the "Superpower" status.

I decided to stroll down the international alley and stumbled upon the major news event. I share this with you for your information as it is relevant to the current political event in the United States whoever our next "President" might be!

Source: VOA.com (Voice of America) - Thank you.

23 May 2008

Russia's New President Makes First International Trip to China

Russia's new president Dmitry Medvedev says his country seeks what he calls a reasonable, pragmatic and friendly relationship with giant neighbor, China. He arrived in Beijing Friday for a two day visit - as part of his first trip abroad since he took office earlier this month. Stephanie Ho has more on the story.

Ties between former Cold War rivals, China and Russia, are warming. Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Li Hui says his government appreciates the Russian leader's choice of destinations.

He says President Medvedev's decision to make China one of his first foreign visits only half a month after taking office ful ly demonstrates the high degree of importance he and the Russian government place on the China-Russia relationship.

The Russian leader's Beijing schedule includes meetings with Chinese President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and other senior Chinese leaders.

The two countries are expected to discuss energy issues, as well as military cooperation trade.

Russian Ambassador to China, Sergey Razov, told reporters the two countries share many similar views on major international issues. He says on sensitive issues, including the Iran and Korean peninsula nuclear issues, among others, they have a common position.

Jing-dong Yuan, an associate professor at the Monterey Institute of International Studies, says the two countries already have strong defense cooperation.

"This is the most, probably salient, component of this relationship," said Yuan. "China has imported major weapons systems from Russia, and also military technology transfer, over the last decade and a half. And they have, in recent years, moved beyond simple arms sales to joint military exercise and other military cooperation."

He says the two countries are likely to expand their cooperation in space and nuclear technology.

At the same time, he says both countries need to work on expanding economic ties.

"Currently, the bilateral trade is only $48 billion annually, so it's very low for countries such as China and Russia, two big economies and neighboring countries," said Yuan”.

..............................................................
Analysis: Should United States be concerned about the proliferating China-Russia relationship especially with the military and nuclear technology expansion?

It is a matter of concern as these two nations being key members with “Veto Power” in the United Nations Security Council have demonstrated authority on issues related to Iran, North Korea and Burma. Both China and Russia are undeniably the emerging powers of the FAR EAST and Central Asia rich in fossil fuel and other natural resources. The recent impressive economic growth further enhances their political status and embolden them to ignore issues....whether it is human rights, free and fair elections and freedom of press expected of any sovereign nation towards their own citizens and the global community.

At home, the current administration investment of time and resources on Iraq and Afghanistan has shifted focus away from strengthening strategic alliances and ties with its allies and other nations sharing common goals such as upholding democratic values and multilateral resolutions for political, economic, energy and environmental crises affecting every living being on the planet.

Unfortunately, the administration stance in the past eight years and its unilateral position with Iraq war, declining to ratify the “Kyoto treaty”, neglecting serious warnings on the economic crisis, violation of civil and constitutional rights under the guise of “Patriot Act” and other unconstitutional legislative measures has contributed to the diminishing “Superpower” status and lately undermine the United States position in resolving any international crisis.

Meanwhile, China and Russia are actively engaged in political, economic and military expansion much to the concern of other developing nations in the region.

Is the next administration capable and prepared to deal with all of these real challenges is something the American electorate have to think long and hard prior to casting their ballot in November 2008?

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

"Voice for Humanity"

Presidential race – Sequel

Dear America,

At last, the chances of my dream coming true appear to be bright. When I was an active blogger in the past months, I was seeking candor and transparency from all politicians running for public office.

Initially, I was requesting all “Presidential candidates” to release their respective tax returns. Some did it in timely fashion, while others released them according to their own convenience. Nevertheless, they all did and ought to be credited for their impressive earnings and their contributions towards tax and various charities. They all did excel and cannot possibly win the title alone in the “Elitist vs. Populist” contest.

Senator John McCain, on Friday May 23^rd, 2008 took a giant leap and welcomed selective medical professionals and reporters to review the voluminous personal medical records. The Senator aroused suspicion in his critics mind for uninviting other high profile media and press reporters. All said and done, according to those few privileged sources the Senator surprised his critics with his clean bill of health.

Now, it is time for other candidates to follow suit.

The news media is always disappointed in the absence of newsworthy issues. If nothing could be found, something will be invented to prevail in their hunt for scoops and scandals.

Who ever says that this “Presidential race” is biased?

In all fairness, the three “Presidential candidates” have been constantly dealing with the most sensitive remarks about them...... age, race and gender.

Senator McCain has heroically challenged his critics with the personal medical history text book.

Critics can never be satisfied. Only if the Senator could have made his medical records in “hard cover” available in all book stores and on Amazon.com, he would have been instantly acknowledged and perhaps sworn in as the most transparent “President of the United States” while Senator Hillary Clinton is proving herself to be a formidable democratic opponent for infinity and beyond.

Congratulations! Senator John McCain on your good health. You have successfully put many of your opponents’ supporters to task in search of clues to detect flaws in your physical and mental health.

Sincerely,

Padmini Arhant

Voice for Humanity