Welcome to Dipnote
Posted by Sean McCormack on Sep 25, 2007 - 02:02 PM

Department Spokesman Sean McCormack answers questions by members of the press during the morning pre

Welcome to the State Department's first-ever blog, Dipnote. As a communicator for the Department, I have the opportunity to do my fair share of talking on a daily basis. With the launch of Dipnote, we are hoping to start a dialogue with the public. More than ever, world events affect our daily lives--what we see and hear, what we do, and how we work. I hope Dipnote will provide you with a window into the work of the people responsible for our foreign policy, and will give you a chance to be active participants in a community focused on some of the great issues of our world today.

With Dipnote we are going to take you behind the scenes at the State Department and bring you closer to the personalities of the Department. We are going to try and break through some of the jargon and talk about how we operate around the world.

We invite you to participate in this community, and I am looking forward to stepping away from my podium every now and then into the blogosphere. Let the conversation begin.

PS - We're new at this. It looks like we broke our own rule and used State jargon in our blog title. "Dipnote" refers to a diplomatic note. It is one of the many ways in which governments formally communicate with each other.

The dictionary definition of a diplomatic note is: "A formal communication between an ambassador and a minister (usually the foreign minister) of this host government or another ambassador."

Follow Entry's Comments Via RSS

Do you want to know when a comment is added to this entry? Stay up-to-date:
Comments

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Sean McCormack,

Thanks for all you've done bro -- giving us a voice in foreign affairs, and putting public diplomacy on the cutting edge.

Hope you'll drop in from time to time to check on your brainchild and let us know how your doing in private life.

And if you're ever in my neck of the woods, please do give me a shout...lunch is on me.

Take care, and much success in your next adventure.

EJ

Posted on Fri Jan 16, 2009

Susan in Florida writes:

Sincere best wishes to all the DOS people who because of the transition are leaving to pursue other opportunities. A special thank you to Sean McCormack who brought us, the public, the Dipnote blog. Again, best wishes and God bless you all.

Posted on Thu Jan 15, 2009

John in Greece writes:

Extremely good rescue guys in NY/USA! This is the fantastic good working U.S. "mechanism" that saves lives and serves!

I think that nobody can doubt anymore about the transition, since the United States of America proved once again that everything works EXCELLENT and not in a partisan way.

CONGRATULATIONS you people!

Posted on Thu Jan 15, 2009

John in Australia writes:

Why is U.S. seemingly so pro-Jew and anti-Arab?

Posted on Fri Jan 09, 2009

John in Greece writes:

Greece2009 + 1 sec:
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE IN OUR BLOG!

http://tycho.usno.navy.mil/leapsec.html

Posted on Wed Dec 31, 2008

John in Greece writes:

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! (my time)

Let's globalize this blog!
It's perfect!

Posted on Wed Dec 24, 2008

John in Greece writes:

Sean McCormack, Luke Forgerson and all the other guys on the Dipnote staff created the first diplomacy wonder of the new millennium. You are right Eric in NM,

Sean -- the soul of SD’s communications -- inspired and boosted this very difficult project-experiment to become a successful institution today.
And the most important, he “introduced” modern 2way-interactive communications (both in state.gov and Dipnote) by adopting all up to date platforms (Twitter , RSS, YouTube, Facebook…) and really sharp ideas like “Briefing 2.0: Make Your Voice Heard,” etc.
I think that he invented a new, 21st century diplomatic approach, which we can name D2P/P2D (Diplomacy2People and People2Diplomacy). I personally think that Mr. McCormack is obviously a communication guru.

Once again, I wish him the best to his career.

Besides, concerning Dipnote, I would also like to say a HUGE thanks -for their heroic efforts- to all the Dipnote staff and SD IT. Simple contributors have played an extremely important role too.

So,
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!
2009 WILL BE EVEN MORE SUCCESSFUL!

Posted on Thu Dec 18, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

"Finally, my domain as Under Secretary extends to public affairs, which is led by Assistant Secretary Sean McCormack. No public affairs leader in government has been more on the cutting edge of new technology than Sean, who has made DipNote into an exciting interactive venue."

-Under Secretary Glassman ,"Public Diplomacy 2.0: A New Approach to Global Engagement"

Now there's a shameless "plug" I can totally concur with!

(chuckle).

Happy Holi-daze to Sean, Luke and the friendly folks on the Dipnote staff who've turned an experiment into an institution.

Yup, I do belive that inflection point has been officially crossed over. Well Done!

And to all the folks I've had the pleasure of interacting with in many a robust debate, have a wonderful and peaceful New Year!

Posted on Wed Dec 17, 2008

Jim in Michigan writes:

@ Sybil in Wisconsin -- Saw your april 12 note while googling Lynn. I was one of that group of AU students and lost track of Lynn many years ago. Be delighted to hear from you.

Posted on Wed Dec 17, 2008

Sergey in Russia writes:

I am alumnus of "Open World" Program, 2000.

Posted on Sun Dec 14, 2008

Salavat in Russia writes:

I am very happy to read this. Excellent idea. I think, that it would be useful to add to tools of it; the electronic translator. I shall be glad to cooperate with you!

Posted on Sat Dec 13, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Luke Forgerson -- Thank you very much for those articles. The report by The U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy was particularly informative. With this heightened attention on some of those hurdles, I think that within the next several years we will see an emergence of a more effective and brilliant system for engaging the public. In fact, it's happening already. Thanks again.

Posted on Fri Dec 05, 2008

DipNote Blogger Luke Forgerson writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky -- Earlier this week, Under Secretary Glassman delivered a speech on "Public Diplomacy 2.0: A New Approach to Global Engagement" at the New America Foundation.

You may also find this report on America's public diplomacy workforce of interest, as well as this testimony by Ambassador Elizabeth Bagley, who serves as the Vice Chairman of the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy. The U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy is a bipartisan panel created by Congress and appointed by the President to appraise U.S. Government activities intended to understand, inform, and influence foreign publics.

Posted on Wed Dec 03, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky -- I wish that this is not "bad news" for DipNote's future... (Chucle!) Anyway, thanks for the alternative suggestion Kirk.

Is that a .gov Blog too?

Posted on Sun Nov 30, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

For those interested, the DoD also has a blog.

http://dodlive.blogspot.com/

Posted on Sat Nov 29, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Patrick in Wyoming -- I also wish that DipNote will remain open Patrick! It's a vital "channel", especially in this new tech era we are "running"!

And the most important: it's not a "garbage" Blog like plenty of others in the web!

Of course, I do not know what the new Administration will decide on this (and they surely know much better than me what to do with this "project").

However, I think (according to my opinion) that the Secretary of State, Sean and all the other DipNote guys have created a GREAT project!

Posted on Thu Nov 27, 2008

Patrick in Wyoming writes:

Will this communication channel remain open under the new administration?

Posted on Wed Nov 26, 2008

Donald in Virginia writes:

24 November 08

@ Carol in Maryland -- Interesting words (God's plan for Isreal)

1. We all know in the bible that God will protect his people. He will protect Isreal at all costs. We also know that all people on earth were created equally. We might not have been treated equally. Some people on earth were given many gifts in life. While others continue wondering when the next bowl of rice will come.

2. The existing bad blood between Arabs and Jews needs to end. If God really has a plan for these two unique cultures to exist, both sides have to communicate and end the violence, end the turmoil. I have said it once and I will say it again. "There is no chosen people on earth." God made everyone! "We are all God's children!"

3. We all know that God has the power over everything on earth. He is the creator and he will Judge. (EVERYONE)

4. United States is not finished. WE HAVE JUST BEGUN TO FIGHT TO SURVIVE! We are the Sleeping GIANT! We have over 200 years proving ourselves and our valor to the world! Countries might not always agree with all that we do but then we also have disagreements.

5. Is our country PERFECT? NO

6. We have something in America to be Proud of "our heritage!" We have accomplished many things.

7. We hope and pray that Isreal and all the Arabs in the Middle East will finally face each other, smile at each other, give grace, not war, give hope, not swords, give warm words, not bitter riverly, persicution is terrible on people. This is yet another form of "Cancer" the hate has to end. A line in the sand!

The United States tries to work with both sides. It's not easy when two kinds of people can't stand each other. There needs to be "Common Ground" a Buffer Zone for each to try and understand both positions. Then there will be PEACE!

HOW CAN THERE BE A "TREE OF LIFE" IF EACH PARTY CONTINUES TO BREAK THE LIMBS AND UPROOT THE VERY ESSENCE OF LIFE!

GOD BLESS!

BEST REGARDS,

DONALD

Posted on Mon Nov 24, 2008

Carol in Maryland writes:

Unoffial: United States supports dividing Israel

Officially, United States working on dividing Israel.

This is interferring with God's plan. Either policiesneed to be changed, or more judgements will come, such as disasters and economic breakdown. United States does not have much time to exist.

Posted on Mon Nov 24, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Dipnote Bloggers -- Are there any public papers out yet detailing a proposed future vision for our public diplomacy system? Specifically, advice to the in-coming administration about changes or further developments? As we stand now in a nexus of opportunities, faced with variables not seen before, the Department of State seems to be at a turning point in how it interacts with the global audience, as this blog attests. I wonder what evolution the doctrine of diplomacy is taking place right now and am looking for some reading material that may indicate the future trends.

Posted on Sun Nov 23, 2008

Elias in Canada writes:

What ever happened to the British High Commissioners of the Caribbean Island of St.Lucia? Is there any information on the late Mr Douglas Rice? And what does the USG representative plan to do with their future tours on the island for security?

Posted on Sat Nov 22, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

"Hu Jintao addresses Peruvian Congress, vows to establish comprehensive cooperative partnership with Latin America"

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-11/21/content_10389350.htm

Looks like China is already out-flanking us. Too bad I don't speak Chinese, I'd love to know what their propaganda machine is cranking out right about now.

Posted on Sat Nov 22, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Eric in New Mexico -- "We'll have to agree to disagree then Kirk,"

Agreed.

"I like my terrorists well ventilated with my morning cup of hot caffine..."

Ha ha ha.

"just because the LZ is hot doesn't mean the opp was 'botched'"

True. To be more accurate, perhaps I should have used the term un-covered.

Regardless of our differences of opinions, these are minor details when compared to the larger objectives. I am anxious to see if our aggressive cross border actions will ultimately be a successful avenue for crushing the local insurgency or if it will end up a diplomatic nightmare. Or both! We shall see.

@ John in Greece -- Hey, great advice! Just knowing those three simple things can lead people to great accomplishments. Thanks!

Posted on Wed Nov 19, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

We'll have to agree to disagree then Kirk, I like my terrorists well ventilated with my morning cup of hot caffine....and no, just because the LZ is hot doesn't mean the opp was "botched", and if they did pull a snatch it's news to me.

I'd say they did what they had to do to get the job done, which doesn't suprise me at all. All in a day's work...

Sometimes you have to go in and let a human do the dirty work instead of a drone...to be sure about the results.

Retrieve a laptop or two...documents etc. Perhaps a live source too...but Seymore Hersh is not exactly the most reliable of references...

Assad a reformer? You must be joking. He hasn't the guts to get off the fence before it impales him.

The cell was already compromised, so how much further intel would be gained is purely speculative.

Posted on Sun Nov 16, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in KY -- Unfortunately, I've lost Tara Foley's authentic GREAT "Career advice" from my computer files. Some months ago, she wrote -- among other extremely interesting things -- something 5*special:

So now, (In my words -- according to her spirit, if she doesn't mind) I will attempt to recall:
WHAT IS THAT YOU REALLY WOULD LIKE TO DO?
WHAT ARE YOU GOOD AT?
WHAT WORLD NEEDS?
(excuse me Tara if I do not remember correctly?)

These are the components that can ensure REAL LIFE success!

Posted on Sun Nov 16, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Eric in New Mexico -- I think you are underestimating the level of cooperation we have with Syria. You are correct about one thing, though, they definitely play as many sides as they can. They are at once friend and enemy, which is due to the various factions that vie for control. With Assad you have a reformer who is constrained by the old guard. He seems to have the desire to make reforms but lacks a clear picture of the desired end state and he cannot upset the status quo too much by which he risks his position maybe even his life. Thus he has the desire to cooperate with us but not fully to the extent that we'd like. If you don't believe me, here is some more evidence:

"Syria has given us invaluable help on hunting down members of al-Qaida, and they were instrumental in ex-filtrating some major Iraqi fugitives back to Baghdad," one former senior CIA official said. "That is not to everyone's liking."

Two top Iraqi biological scientists who had been hiding in safe havens in Syria were ex-filtrated back to Iraq where they were captured by U.S. military forces, former CIA officials said.

A U.S. intelligence official told UPI: "It was a gift to Secretary of State Colin Powell" and also an effort by Damascus to compensate for its apparent lack of cooperation with the United States in closing the Damascus offices of Palestinian militant groups, which are on Washington's list of terrorist organizations.

According to these sources, Syria and the CIA have a joint exploitation center based in Aleppo, plus Syria turned over to the agency all its intelligence networks in Germany as well as all of Syria's cover companies there. As a result, the agency learned that Sept. 11, 2001, hijacker Mohammed Atta once worked in Germany for a Syrian cover company, these sources said.

"Syria was not the only source, but they were very helpful in this matter," a former senior CIA official said.

The CIA was also grateful to Damascus for giving early warning of a planned al-Qaida attack on U.S. installations in Bahrain, using an explosives-laden glider, which would be invisible to radar, according to these sources.

"The Syrians have been an incredible help in sharing intelligence," one serving U.S. intelligence officer said.

As Seymour Hersh wrote, "[B]y early 2002 Syria had emerged as one of the CIA's most effective intelligence allies in the fight against al-Qaeda, providing an outpouring of information that came to an end only with the invasion of Iraq." The relationship was apparently sustained by the CIA, and reportedly was resumed after the war.

So there you have it.

On the other hand, as you noted, they also work against us. It's the age old strategy of being cooperative on one front but sabotage and weakening your ally on another. Whether Assad is the hand behind the funneling of some terrorists through the state or the work of another faction, the effects remain detrimental. Like you, I think we should continue to pressure them to break links with terror groups but I doubt they will completely give up their covert advantages and proxy warriors.

"I don't know what you mean by a "botched raid"...there were no prisoners taken-intentionally because of the nature of the opp, limits of transport and the added time taking prisoners would have taken. The target was therefore eliminated with extreme prejudice.

I call that a successful takedown."

No. An unmanned drone firing a missile to assassinate your enemy with no risk to yourself, that is a successful takedown. The use of four helicopters and special forces is to capture the target and then extract as much intel as possible. You are creating justification without evidence. What's-his-face was much more valuable alive than dead. Kill him and all he knows, networks, caches, contacts and all that, dies with him. Turn him and you've got a wealth of information. Since two people were reportedly taken, perhaps he or his allies have been captured.

Our force's cover was blown on the way in and they had to fight it out instead of sneaking up and surprising them. It says so in the article and makes sense logically. That's a botched raid. Whether the terrorists were tipped off by the same people who gave us the intel, it's possible, but I can't speculate on how probable. It may have just been an unfortunate stroke of luck that our forces were spotted before getting in place.

***

"You can call it whatever you want, but it doesn't mean you are correct.

Personally, I think we should do this every day of the week until they roll every single terrorist enjoying safe haven in Syria up in a carpet and hand deliver them to us with an apology.

Now you have any problem with that? "

***

Hey, they make a decaf brand that tastes just as good.

Posted on Sun Nov 16, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Eric in New Mexico -- Thanks for the link, there was lots of good information in there.

@ John in Greece -- Ha ha, right. One thing at a time, eh? Thanks for the kind words.

@ Luke Forgerson -- Thanks for the info, sounds like an exciting department.

Posted on Sat Nov 15, 2008

Robert in Florida writes:

I have a question. What qualifies Hillary Clinton to be Secretary of State. better yet how does she compare to Secretary Rice?

Posted on Sat Nov 15, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky -- Try this link, you'll find a who's who of international org.'s in your area that might find interest in your idea.

Good luck with it.

http://www.gotolouisville.com/content.aspx?id=86

Posted on Mon Nov 10, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky -- Concerning "Hotel KY", "the right direction" is applying for an SD position. I thought you wanted a service career Kirk and not a management vision.

Let me joke according to our previous game:

- Al's voice:
"Don't look at the Hotel, just finish the Motel". (LOL)

I really wish you the best for anything you choose as a career.

Posted on Mon Nov 10, 2008

DipNote Blogger Luke Forgerson writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky -- The Bureau of Intelligence and Research (INR) provides value-added independent analysis of events to Department policymakers; ensures that intelligence activities support foreign policy and national security purposes; and serves as the focal point in the Department for ensuring policy review of sensitive counterintelligence and law enforcement activities. Read more on INR's web pages.

Posted on Mon Nov 10, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Well Kirk, There's the "official" Syrian face they put on, and then there's the fact that any terrorist recruited through Iranian embassies world wide has had free passage through Damascus international airport on their way to Iraq.

I have a friend (a private citizen of an EU nation) who actually cased out an Iranian embassy posing as a wannabe martyr about four years ago.

Opened a few folks eyes it did among intel services of both his nation and mine.

In my opinion, Syria has only done the bare minimum to create the impression that there is cooperation, and save themselves from being "next on the list" for regime replacement therapy.

I don't believe that the intel came from the Syrian gov. in this case. We have assets they know nothing about. It is logical they would throw the US a "bone" occasionally to create the impression of cooperation, but I don't believe it to be the case on this one.

I don't know what you mean by a "botched raid"...there were no prisoners taken-intentionally because of the nature of the opp, limits of transport and the added time taking prisoners would have taken. The target was therefore eliminated with extreme prejudice.

I call that a succesful takedown.

You can call it whatever you want, but it doesn't mean you are correct.

Personally, I think we should do this every day of the week until they roll every single terrorist enjoying safe haven in Syria up in a carpet and hand deliver them to us with an apology.

Now you have any problem with that?

Posted on Mon Nov 10, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

What type of work does the Bureau of Intelligence and Research do? How do they assist diplomacy efforts?

Posted on Mon Nov 10, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

Dear Dipnote staff and other interested parties,

I am writing in hopes that you may be able to assist me with gathering some information or at least point me in the right direction.

I have often fancied the idea of opening a French style salon (bear with me, it gets relevant soon) that housed visiting artists in monthly stints, funded by grants. Private quarters upstairs and an open-to-the-public downstairs decorated with past artists contributions and such.

However, while reading some of the posts today that idea made a transformation. Why not have a place that provides free room and board to visiting representatives and minor officials who are travelling through the area? While Kentucky is not exactly the hotspot for foreign diplomats, with two great colleges here in Lexington (University of Kentucky and Transylvania University) and active sister city programs, we get our fair share of international guests (in fact, you may remember my post about meeting Cyrpus's Ambassador to the US, His Excellency Andreas Kakouris).

I know from my experience working in hotels that a few nights stay can run anywhere from $500 to $1200 so perhaps this may appeal to those frugal travelers minding their budget.

As long as security is not an issue the downstairs of this prospective downtown house could be turned into a cultural center, on one side highlighting the great achievements and ideas of America and on the other a monthly display highlighting another country.

The reason I bring this idea up here is that the State Department may see this a tool to assist their cultural outreach program. It could also put on display some of the current State Department programs, as well as information about foreign investing and visa applications. Perhaps even a computer or two. Sort of like a mini-embassy outpost. It would put a more visible and tangible face on State Dept. domestically and may even draw some students and tourists.

Since the project is relatively small it could easily be run by a single person, like a concierge. The major expense would be the rent.

I may submit this idea directly to the State Dept. but I thought I would field this idea to you folks first.

I see this idea has having real potential so if anyone has any ideas about where I should start looking for funding, or point out something to consider, please feel free to respond. All ideas welcome.

Thanks for your time.

Posted on Fri Nov 07, 2008

Ron in New York writes:

@ Sean:

You have done a great job.

Good Luck (in media?)

Best,

Ron

Posted on Thu Nov 06, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Eric in New Mexico -- "That's not a deal we'd get into. Besides they'd look weak coming to us to deal with their internal problem, so no I just don't buy it Kirk."

Ah yes, but the capture of Abu Ghadiya wasn't their problem, it was ours and they assisted us in his capture. Ghadiya was actively working against the US/Iraq collition but not Syria but nevertheless they gave us the intel, surely they would realize what our next step would be. They have ample reason to assist us since they are trying to get off our list of states that sponsor terrorists and what is hopefully a sincere desire to eleminate terrorist strongholds from their back yard. Despite the rocky relationship between us there is ample evidence that shows we work together on a variety of issues.

Syria's cooperation in the fight against al Qaeda was highlighted by the revelation in June 2002 that a key figure in the Sept. 11 plot, Mohammed Haydar Zammar, had been arrested in Morocco and sent to Syria for interrogation, with American knowledge. While U.S. officials wern't able to question Zammar, American did submit questions to the Syrians.

"They have been very helpful," a State Department official said. "But we still have very serious concerns and that's why they are still on the list of state sponsors of terrorism."

Officials said Syria has been unstinting in helping in the battle against al Qaeda, in large part because Syrian officials view fundamentalist Islamic movements as destabilizing. After Sept. 11, Syrian President Bashar Assad pledged his support in a letter to President Bush, and that has been followed up by concrete actions.

Vincent Cannistraro, a former counterterrorism chief for the CIA, said Syria has "been completely cooperative" in investigating al Qaeda and persons associating with al Qaeda. In some cases, he said, Syrian officials have avoided arresting suspects so they can continue to monitor their conversations and movements and report back to the United States.

Richard W. Erdman, the chief State Department specialist for Syria, recently told the American Israel Public Affairs Committee that Syria's actions against al Qaeda have "helped save American lives."

Citing Syria's cooperation, the Bush administration recently opposed a bill backed by key members of Congress, including House Majority Leader Richard K. Armey (R-Tex.), that would punish Syria for its support of terrorist groups

A senior delegation of Syrian officials, headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Walid al-Moualem, met with Assistant Secretary of State William J. Burns, Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) and other Americans at Rice University in Houston. While U.S. officials play down the importance of the meeting, some participants said the tenor of discussions suggested Syria was serious about improving relations.

"There seems to be a real readiness to build on the cooperation in practical ways on the issue of terrorism," said Edward P. Djerejian, director of the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy at Rice.

Journalist Ibrahim Hamidi said: "Syria over the past few months has been making a number of signals."

"For example, it has been moving toward closer ties with the U.S.-backed Iraqi government, including more cooperation on the Iraqi border -- a key demand of the Bush administration," Harling said. "Syria has shut the transit route for Arab militants on the way to Iraq," he said.

"Syria perhaps wants to show that it is able to move quickly," Tabler said. "So, if you're reading the signs, and you look at Lebanon, you can see which way the winds are blowing between Damascus and Washington."

I think that says enough about the bilateral military alliance. There are probably plenty of citizens in Syria who are upset over our incursion into their land but it seems their goverment has taken a more practical approach. The reason for their and our public statemenst is certainly speculation, but looking at the actions and goals of the Syrian government, one can infer a desire to put on a strong face domestically by denouncing our botched raid, on one hand, and the desire to improve US relations, on the other.

Posted on Thu Nov 06, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky -- for whatever reason the Syrian government was and is unwilling or unable to deal with it's responsibilities to maintain security within its own borders and fight terrorism, and it is a state sponsor of terrorism....they are not exactly cooperating on our side in this Kirk, wake up please.

This is not to say that the US doesn't have intel assets inside Syria. But I doubt that the government of Syria tipped us off to al-quaida within their borders and then said to us, "Come get them, and we'll pretend we didn't know they were there and blame you for killing civilians".

That's not a deal we'd get into. Besides they'd look weak coming to us to deal with their internal problem, so no I just don't buy it Kirk.

The news report just doesn't make a whole lot of sense in that light of logic, but it's a nice piece of speculation.

Besides, Syria doesn't have much of a reputation left to protect among terrorists anyway, holding indirect peace talks with Israel.

And think about it for a moment, after all the terrorism Syria has supported over the years, were they to come to us and hand us a terrorist on a platter to take out because they were too afraid of repercussions from terrorists to do so, I think it would have folks rolling on the floor in laughter and we'd feel SOOOOO sorry for them....NOT>

And if you were about to put folks in harm's way on an opp, you sure wouldn't bet their lives on info a hostile government gave you that may in fact be a set-up, rather than genuine.

So for a fair number of reasons any "bilateral" action w/ Syria is highly problematic.

Posted on Thu Nov 06, 2008

Pamarty in India writes:

Madam / Dear Sirs:

I am a practising Lawyer from INDIA . I have authored a POEM titled : 'SONG OF AMERICA...!!!'today which I proudly and humbly submit for your kind reading and appropriate use in all Official Publications and Sites of the HON'BLE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA as a TRIBUTE TO YOUR UNPARALELLED WISDOM IN LEADING THE WORLD and on this historic Day of Elections to the Hon'ble Presidency of the Greatest Civilization on Earth,Today...!!!

I am attaching it as well as reproducing it below for your kind perusal & suiable acknowledgment of MY SALUTE TO YOUR GREAT NATION...!

With warmest regards,
Thanking you,
Yours sincerely,
PAMARTY V.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SONG OF AMERICA ... !!!

Stars and stripes donned all across my firmament !
Stupendous ,spectacular and scintillating is my land !
Seemingly endless;always enticing;always free I am !
Superbly High do I Fly Always - on all Fronts...!!
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

America is the Name ;United States of America is Me !
United Nations of the World acknowledge my Shine & Smile !
I stand Supreme as the Oldest Democracy of the Free World !
Uncle Sam ,so they address me in sheer respect for my Age !
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

I Fly High and have my Flag hoisted on the Moon !
I Climb high and have myself fluttering on Mt.Everest !
I Dive deep into the ocean-bed and explore ;I stand flying on
Antarctica !
I know that yonder out there the Aliens are studying My Land !
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

A Free Country ...Free Worlds...Freedom from Despots !
So I say and thus spake the Freedom-fighters of America !
Freedom from Hunger;Freedom from Poverty;Free Man In Life !
A Free Country is my Land of Plenty; Home for all those Deprived !
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

A Free Mind in a Healthy Body ; A Solace for Everybody !
A Loving Peoples I uphold and am Upheld as Lovingly !
A Proud and Precious Peaceful Land of Virtues and Valour !
America does the Whole Earth Proud ,time and again,since ages !
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

Triumphant blows the bugle of Victories and Wins !
Standng Tall does the Statue hail our Liberty !
Wondrous are the varied Talents of My Countrymen !
Speaking for All and every issue of Mankind then and now !
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

I Fly in all Weathers,in all Countries, where all I survey !
I am Saluted not by my Countrymen alone but by Everyone !
I am the Stars and Stripes on the Grandest Flag on Earth !
I am the Usherer of Peace,of Joy , of Salvation to All Men !
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

Stars and Stripes they say with Pride , in Glee, in Unison !
Stars and Stipes they Hoist and Sing in Joy - the Song of America !
Stars and Stripes they See and flee do - the terrorists and the
outlaws !
Stars and Stripes they Look up to - in times of Crises-Natural or
Man-made !
So Be It - Forever the Stars and Stripes...!!!

IN GOD WE TRUST ;
IN GOD WE ALL TRUST ;
IN GOD WE ALL DO TRUST ...
So Be It - Forever : The Stars and Stripes...!!!
The Stars and Stripes...Be it Forever ,the SONG OF AMERICA ...!!!

by: Pamarty V.
Advocate:India.

Posted on Thu Nov 06, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Eric in New Mexico

There's enough info in the news article to suggest a bilateral action. Our intel was good -- it came from Syria. It's just interesting to watch the governments do their little dances after the cat escapes the bag.

As to the responses by the US and Syria, I'd say it was skillfully played on both sides with the closing of the center and our "warning". If you want to keep the enemies (in this case, the terrorists and their allies in the population and government) unsuspecting, it's better if each side plays out their respective roles of bully and victim rather than let on to those terrorist adversaries that factions in the military are snitching them out. By playing the "victim" to our "aggression" it keeps the Syrian government from becoming a direct target in retaliation. If it weren't for that leaky source in Washington, fewer people would have suspected the level of cooperation between our intelligence/military agencies.

Hopefully not too much damage has been done.

Posted on Wed Nov 05, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky, I think things tend to go down a lot more simply than you might think. In this case intel was good and folks took out the target. So what it was in Syria? They'd been warned. If they didn't believe us that a terrorist can run but can't hide, that's their problem.

They act so shocked that we would do such a thing....now that is sketchy....a political mask....of "victimhood". When we simply did the Syrian government's job for them.

But now they know we'll do it again....and that no , Syria's soveregnity meens naught to the US as long as it harbors terrorists. And now that's a message that's been "officially" delivered.

----

@ John in Greece, If there is such a thing as a non-partisan blog, this would be it.

Posted on Wed Nov 05, 2008

John in Greece writes:

Red or Blue?

Both red and blue are American colors. Congratulations DipNote for keeping us UNITED!

After all, the United States of America is THE IDEA!

According to my opinion, all this pre-election period, DipNote was the only Blog or site in the world that remained sober and absolutely objective concerning the election "fight".

Congratulations DipNoters.

Posted on Tue Nov 04, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

Syrian Strike Update:

"Questions raised over Syrian complicity in US raid"

"Syria has denounced a US strike on its territory but sources say Damascus secretly backed the raid"

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/middle_east/article5062848.ece

Now that actually makes some sense. Likewise, from this bit of news one can conclude, based on the close working relationship the US has had with some Pakistani generals that a similar condition of 'look the other way' and covert intelligence sharing is playing out there as well.

This is another example of how military tactics and diplomatic tactics converge. Especially under our 'French Style' of diplomacy where most talks are conducted in secret. Agreements are made between the two parties but because of certain sensitivities, say like the visiting party is very unpopular with the public of the host, then they collaborate a cover story of the talks breaking down but a few weeks later, when public attention has drifted elsewhere, the things agreed upon are quietly put in the works.

And viola, the host nations get the benefit of co-operation, whether it's military intel sharing or trade deals, without all the hassle of rousing the ire of the public or becoming a target themselves.

Of course, in a situation like this, when the cover is blown, there must be all sorts of posturing back and forth between the two nations, if at least to save face...

"US says attack on village was 'warning to Syria'"

"...the Syrian Government had ordered the closure of an American school and a US cultural centre in Damascus"

But with all the smoke billowing around it's hard to tell who knows what and who is blinded by the screen...

"...an Iraqi government spokesman condemned the strategy. 'The Iraqi Government rejects US aircraft bombarding posts inside Syria. The Constitution does not allow Iraq to be used as a staging ground to attack neighbouring countries,'"

Posted on Sun Nov 02, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

Regarding the strike in Syria

These cross border strikes are disconcerting. It is also a complicated issue because of the benefit to cost ratio of these actions. You have two different messages being sent to the world, one is beneficial, the other is not. The first message is that hiding on the other side of a border is not an effective defense to any antagonists. We are saying, in essence, we will come to you regardless of what lines are drawn on the map and we are not afraid of the consequence. That is a powerful message, one which could deter enemies from further action.

However, when regarding the other message, the benefit is not so clear. By taking these actions we are saying that we do not respect the integrity of a sovereign nation's borders. Any military incursion on another country's soil, no matter what the cause, is tantamount to a declaration of war and we are playing a very risky game with that. We are not being good neighbors and countries like Pakistan and Syria who are, at best, luke warm about our presence near them are being further alienated and their citizens given cause to work against us.

If it were just those countries involved, the political fallout might not be so bad,(Unless you consider the long term consequences of driving up the ill will of these power centers who may not be able to attack from afar but can certainly make obtaining future goals in the area very difficult) especially when you consider that these countries often give the US lip service but have factions that actively work against us. But it's not just those countries, it's the whole world who watches us.

The wisest of warriors are also diplomats because they know that obtaining and keeping allies is a force multiplier. By disrespecting their borders, how can we engender good will with those who could help us the most?

These strikes may be brazen displays of our tactical abilities, but is also seem like the strikes were the first options considered that would work and were put into effect without considering other, perhaps more beneficial options. I think that's called satisficing.

Why didn't we have a joint Syrian-US strike force attack this target? That would have been good public relations for both sides. The citizens of Syria would be cheering for us instead of demonstrating against us. When considering the COIN manual, one of the main goals is to prompt the indigenous police force to tackle these threats even if they were less capable because it adds legitimacy to the action and trains the forces. Though the situation is a bit different, the principals of legitimacy are the same.

Posted on Thu Oct 30, 2008

Anton writes:

We enjoy reading your blog at the U.S. Army Combined Arms Center. Our new Stability Operations manual calls for a "Comprehensive Approach" to civil-military operations. We have one of the very few blogs hosted on a .mil URL. We are in the process of adding Dipnote to our blogroll and are hoping you might consider reciprocating.

http://usacac.army.mil/BLOG/

Posted on Tue Oct 14, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Kuan in New York

As a curious citizen, I must ask, what type of assistance do you believe Iceland needs?

Posted on Fri Oct 10, 2008

Kuan in New York writes:

I would like to know what the State Dept. standing on helping Iceland, a fellow NATO ally I believe and part of the Western Alliance, assist Iceland in their time of need.

Will the State Dept. allow the Russians, whom are still hostile to the United States, to 'save' Iceland's time of woe due to the financial crisis that is upon them?

Can America afford to forget her friends in their time of need?

Especially our European Allies that can keep the ocean commerce lanes in the Atlantic free from interdiction from formerly friendly land that might possibly fall into unfriendly hands due to a lack of attention towards of...

Posted on Wed Oct 08, 2008

BRE in Germany writes:

I was somewhat surprised (shocked) to learn that the U.S. State Department had launched its own official weblog. I discovered DipNote today via a reference in a post at the FP Passport blog: Diplomats 'flocking to war zones' (Oct 03, 2008).

Although I have not reviewed many of your posts I do want to welcome the people at 'State' to the blogosphere. It's about time that you guys took some of the pressure off of us 'US citizen diplomats' working hard in the Sphere. Good luck with your blog and wishing you much success.

BRE @ 'Jewels in the Jungle' blog
Germany

Posted on Tue Oct 07, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky -- Neither I am implying that I live in the "heart of the world", nor I dream to become a political analyst, moreover a future teller. Concerning Ukraine, though, there is one thing for sure.

No matter whether Tymoshenko, or Yushchenko, or whoever "chenko" will be in power in 2010, the overwhelming majority of Ukrainian people DO NOT FORGET the past.

They do not like Russians and they have freely decided that their future belongs to the WEST side. It's a pure democratic ONE WAY to freedom that no "chenkos" or "Putins" can change.

Posted on Mon Oct 06, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

"Crackdown on militants by tribal volunteers"

http://www.dawn.com/2008/10/06/top1.htm

"KHAR, Oct 5: Hundreds of tribal volunteers marched in Mamond and Wara tehsils, strongholds of militants in Bajaur Agency, on Sunday and warned pro-Taliban elements to either surrender or leave the area."

Now that's how it's done. I'd very much like to know what the catalyst was that sparked such determined efforts by the people. I'd also like to know what sort of involvement the government had in this.

If the US examines the conditions that led to such support of the people to secure their homelands, we could use those lessons in other areas of the world to help energize apathetic or fearful populations. This is "de-legitimizing terrorism" at its finest.

Posted on Mon Oct 06, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ John in Greece

Those are reassuring comments. Of course I love the US but I have to admit feeling a bit of envy that you live in the "heart of the world" and can converse with people from all over Europe, Asia, and Africa! It must be enlightening.

While Russia seeks to forge closer bonds with Ukraine, I'm curious to see how reliable an ally Tymoshenko will be since she seems quite adept at shifting alliances with the change of the political winds. Professional politicians are a bit like mercenaries, despite the range of skills they bring to the table, their most prominent trait is being an opportunist. We will see then, if she wins the elections in 2010, if she is truly a leader of the people or not.

Posted on Mon Oct 06, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky

Ukraine? I will remind you of an inspired fellow contributor's Quote: But then historicly Russians have been coming to my neck of the woods a long time, and they just don't appreciate what alcohol does to someone at 7000 + feet in elevation. And they talk too much when suffering from the effects of a margarita the size of a honeypot. ...(chuckle)... --End Quote--

Russians will do anything to create problems to "the New Millennium FREEDOM". But, as long as they are also engaged in "business punk ex-KGB roles" right now, they will keep on doing things the same amateur way as they attempted to do it in the past. You see, they are confused! And this time, they are even more corrupted and? dizzy (dizy-gotic too!) And, at the very End, they will certainly have to face their "End Quote" of what they never comprehended.

But, this time, they have also to face another problem, besides "altitude understanding". Cause they mean to keep on ignoring their "color-blindness"? The big problem for a "professional" pilot is to see something "red", while this is certainly "ORANGE"!

P.S. Very interesting post Kirk. Don't worry about a thing! Here in Greece we have thousands of Ukrainian immigrants. Sometimes, I meet some of them in a kiosk near my house and we chat. 80% of them are PRO NATO. THIS IS THE TRUTH!

Posted on Mon Oct 06, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

"Russia finds unlikely ally in Ukraine's Tymoshenko"

http://www.reuters.com/article/reutersEdge/idUSTRE4940GP20081005?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0

Now that's something to think about.

Posted on Sun Oct 05, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky

Here is the "added value" packaging product label, concerning the "Little island diplomacy role playing game", when it makes it to the "multimedia stores":

"Intel Inside"!

P.S. Dear Kirk, before you proceed with the production of your game or any career you may follow, I would suggest you to remember this: No intel -- Game Over!

Posted on Sat Sep 27, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Susan in Florida

Well said! I've been reading your posts and am looking forward to your future contributions.

@ Eric in New Mexico & John in Greece

You both have well reasoned points. To establish the facts is an essential part of deciding the next step. And there is nothing wrong with disputing those facts with more accurate information (especially if you suspect some one may be distorting the truth on purpose, eh?)

Regarding our little island diplomacy role playing game, I have to admit that Eric nailed it on the head, there's not a single thing I'd do differently. It was so similar that I was a bit surprised (though the steps may have been obvious, in retrospect) I think it would be neat to compile a booklet of historic diplomatic crises as a "what would you do?" game, in the back of the booklet you could put the actual actions taken for each crises.

Posted on Sat Sep 27, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

Answers to FAQs about "Getting the People Part Right: A Report on the Human Resources Dimension of U.S. Public Diplomacy"

http://www.state.gov/r/adcompd/rls/110243.htm

Chairman Mr. Hybl answers questions regarding the Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy testimony.

What surprised me was his statement that public affairs officers are used more in administrative duties and less in actual public relations.

So my question to the Dipnote readers is this:

How would you conduct a program to engage a foreign audience?

If you wanted to convince a foreign people of the correctness ofthe U.S. position or draw attention to a program, how would you do it? Brainstorm the most creative thoughts on this matter and fire away! I have a response ready, but I'd like to hear from you first.

Dipnote Editors: Since you are on the technological front, this blog being the cutting edge of public diplomacy, feel free to offer your perspective. Also, can you highlight some programs the DoS is currently using to "get the word out"?

Posted on Sat Sep 27, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Susan,

When someone consistantly posts misinformation as "fact" knowing that to do so is false and misleading, this no longer constitutes "opinion" and thus it becomes fair game to question the intent of the author.

Nor does it constitute a personal "attack" , because it is the message and the source that are in put in question, by the statements they made.

Posted on Tue Sep 23, 2008

Susan in Florida writes:

@ John in Greece --

I do not believe that disagreeing with someone is "demeaning". But when the only intent is to totally negate another's opinion or thoughts on a subject, then I think it is wrong. They have a right to their opinion, as do you. I guess it goes back to that old saying, "it's not what you say, but how you say it". For me, a disagreement can be done with graciousness. My comments were made as a general statement, as I would not like to see this site become just an on-going argument. It was my observation that it might be headed in that direction. I appreciate your comments, always.

Posted on Tue Sep 23, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Susan in Florida

Thanks a lot Suzan. As long as you agree with Kirk, but Kirk agrees with me, it's like you agree with me too.

1. So, according to my post (Welcome Sep19 and Eric's reply Sep20), you agree that many topics "begin" with (as) posts, but on the way they become a "debate". Don't you? Otherwise, how can we "evaluate" (judge the argumentation value) someone's post concerning "US-Russia Relations", for example, if we have not concluded, whether Russia invaded Georgia or Georgia invaded Russia.

2. You write: "I believe that all comments have merit, whether you agree with them or not. This site should not become a place where only a few bloggers feel comfortable to comment". I totally agree with you. However, all comments that have merit, whether we agree with them or not should be "ready" for criticism as long as they are posted in a public forum. Bloggers who do not feel comfortable to comment is due to their luck of argumentation. I do not see any Blog signs writing "John ONLY" or "Susan Only" etc.

3. Concerning the "sarcastic or demeaning manner" you are referring to, if you mean my last "basketball" post I would like to inform you that this was an extremely political approach (Zharkov used 2 statements, but Eric replied him with 3 -- a 3shot). I just used some "jargon" in order to help the discussion climate and make it more "comfortable". I could do it the "straight" way by simply saying: "Z I feel you owe an answer to Eric's arguments", but I really cannot understand why this approach would make the Blog more interesting or popular?

Posted on Tue Sep 23, 2008

Susan in Florida writes:

I agree with Kirk in Kentucky and think this blogsite was created for discussions, for the exchanging of ideas, and perhaps, to have some input into our national diplomatic policies, if that is not too presumptuous on my part. To exchange ideas and opinions is a good thing and I appreciate the DoS for creating this site so that we can do just that. I have been visiting this site for sometime now, just reading the different comments but not commenting myself, until recently. This is my conclusion -- no one individual "owns" this blogsite. It is not a place to have "debate games" or to attack others in a sarcastic or demeaning manner. I believe that all comments have merit, whether you agree with them or not. This site should not become a place where only a few bloggers feel comfortable to comment. It must not become a game of putting others down because of their opinions. Remember, openmindedness is essential to learning.

Posted on Tue Sep 23, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky

No matter if I am correct, or YOU are correct, here is the exact point that you are absolutely right, concerning what (I suppose?) you initially wanted to say:
When we talk inhere, we are all "creative", "free" and "open minded", After all, we are here in DipNote!

At least, through our interesting dialogue, I believe we made some positive steps; a healthy discussion with only one scope from both "sides": to keep high-standards concerning the Blog we both love, exchanging views.

Thank you very much for your reply. I really look forward to read more of your posts.

And why not? To debate more in the future? This is healthy!

Posted on Sun Sep 21, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ John in Greece

I accept your points and theory as sound and well reasoned.

I made my response, perhaps a bit hastily, out of a concern that the blog would descend into the kind of mud-slinging you see on other sites and which this blog has been a nice refuge from. But you have reminded me that if a comment was truly without some merit, it would be screened out by the moderators. Sometimes I forget that cornering some one with a well constructed argument and making them squirm is part of the fun!

Posted on Sat Sep 20, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky

What is a "personal attack"? Where it begins and where it becomes politics or debating technique without being a "personal attack"?

According to Dipnote rules, if a forwarded text contains "personal attacks" it's not posted. All of which is very fair and vital for keeping a high-class Blog atmosphere!

So, (I will talk only for myself) my previous posts referring to Zharkov's posts automatically are not "personal attacks" as long as they were posted. Otherwise Dipnote moderators would have banned their posting.

Obviously, they also understand how sensitive is the term "personal attacks" and its boundaries. Where it begins, ends and where it becomes politics that is debate or debate that is politics?

However, if you are interested in a more theoretical perspective, according to my interpretation of the term, it is extremely difficult to characterize something "personal attack", unless it's obvious personal. What is an obvious "personal attack"? If you call names, for example, or you attack the other debater's origins, religion etc, in order to insult him. If I had called Zharkov a stupid guy, or an idiot, then automatically it's a "personal attack".

But you cannot easily have a "personal attack", the way we use the term in our everyday life, especially during an internet debate, since you do not know the other debater. If you do not have a more personal view of the other person, how can you attack him due to personal reasons? So, the so-called "attack" is only debate that is "politics.

You may wonder why I call the "debate" politics and the "politics" debate. In our case, thousands of people "read" our debate and consciously or unconsciously receive political messages. So, it is politics after all.

In other words, when me and Eric attack Zharkov's arguments we only debate: we attempt to make our thesis stronger and "destroy" his. We do not attack Zharkov for being Zharkov. We attack his thesis in a political way and not personal.

When I do not "allow" him (Eric's suggestion) to change subjects, I do it on purpose (it's a debating technique) in order for me to "develop" the specific dialogue even more and reach the argumentation level where my political thesis becomes the "winning" one. This is not bad. This is debate! A debate, besides exchanging views, has a winner and a "looser".

This is the point I disagree with you. A glass of "political water" is either full or empty. There is a no "half". Either Russia invaded Georgia, or Georgia invaded Russia.

According to my interpretation of the evidences, Russia invaded Georgia? and this is certainly a "serious" attack!

Posted on Fri Sep 19, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky

Eric's reply to your comment on "personal attacks" covered my thesis too, more than absolutely.
However, if you want my views concerning "personal attacks" I would first suggest us to change "channel" and go to the "welcome" section of our Blog. (That's why I am answering from here, as long as this debatable issue -- personal attacks -- has nothing to do with the topic U.S.-Russia).

Nevertheless I see that Z creates many funs of his "Utopia School of Change", on the ground that, on purpose or not, you did it too! We now discuss for something else, very different than the initial topic or the PROOFS that Eric offered to our debate,
(http://graphics8.nytimes.com/packages/pdf/world/2008/09/20080916_Georgia_Transcript.pdf) concerning the Russian invasion to Georgia, without attacking anyone personally, but using the "art of evidence" and descent, scientific procedures of participation in such a high-class Blog.

So, tomorrow (my day light local time) I will post my views concerning (Personal Attacks) and if you wish we can have a little debate, or at least you will have a chance to have my thesis concerning this term. However, we will do it "on subject", that is the "welcome" section.

Until then I suggest all visitors to read all the U.S.-Russia posts. It's obviously becoming very interesting!

Posted on Thu Sep 18, 2008

Mathew in Malaysia writes:

please step into the bad situation which is going on in malaysia. humanrights abuses going on daily.prominent opposition members,bloggers and journalists are being detained with absurd reasons DAILY! all supposed to be a theart to the country. any dissent to the present goverment are considered a theart to the country. please help before it too late.

Posted on Sun Sep 14, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky

Money makes the world go around!

Back to your game:

Buy some time, No Press comments at all at this time (this is the only point I disagree with Eric), do not interfere with local politics and create new contacts using the official diplomatic way.

Anyway, according to your scenario, you are the one that wants to "buy". So, you have the money, you are the strongest.

Wait!

Saint Senior (chuckle)

Posted on Sun Sep 14, 2008

John in Greece writes:

"I remember one end game where he had only his king left, and so did I, + a knight and a rook. I checkmated him, but there was an N under his king , so he survived with a stalemate, not able to move. And another where he wiped me out taking his own king and mine. Another "draw".

Posted on Fri Sep 12, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

(chuckle)....John, I'd still send the "Get a grip" in reply, without changing a thing...only I'd make sure it got published in the same Pak newspaper...(LOL)!

Checkmate.

Speaking of spamming....I get these emails from bogus members of US armed forces asking for me to stash away millions in stolen Iraqi loot.

Total scam, and attempted political manipulation.

It wuld be nice if US gov IT guys could trace these to their source and arange a meet up with real US soldiers.

Posted on Fri Sep 12, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

It's pretty simple Kirk, military force is an essential leg of the stool, just as nation building and economic investment lead to security.

One cannot exist effectively in an insurgent environment without the other two.

Ultimately, your going to have to go in and eliminate the bad guys who are terrorizing the population. the fact that they hide among civilians is a deliberate tactic to make it harder for a nation that values human life to root them out.

Once the population understands that then they turn against the terrorists that bring trouble to their door. For it is they that are being "targeted".

Such was the case in Anbar with the "awakening".

On your little scenario....

A) Verify the information from the informanyt through existing contacts.

B) No detailed press statement untill facts are known. Express support for peaceful transition, rule of law and as being an Internal matter of the government, not US policy to determine the results.

C) Unlikely that there would not exist some contact w/opposition party already to know that they oppose the trade agreement so make inqueries.

d) After assesing all parties interests and intent, with respect to the nation's political future and its impact on trade, then offer a public assesment as to possible future trade agreement being sucessfully negotiated.

It may be that the opposition to the trade agreement was political, not practical in nature. The ruling party being for it, and the opposition against. Reasses the opposition's points of contention, and find answers that will satisfy their concerns.

Above all, encorage the parties to resolve things peacefully and do no harm to bilateral relations out of their partisan crisis.

The opposition may need some incentive to trust, after noting our support for the former governing party. So find out from them what the people need to see from Greece to better the relations among nations. Could be as simple as building a wastewater treatment plant to deal with sewage in the streets.

I'm sure there's other aspects I haven't addressed that would be by the Ambassador, but this is running kind of long so I'll stop now.

Posted on Fri Sep 12, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

At the risk of spamming the board, I'll post one more item and then let my keyboard cool off a while.

@ John in Greece

All right, John, now I have a little game for you. I'll give you a scenario and you can tell me what actions you'll take to resolve it. Ready?

You are Greece's senior diplomat at the embassy in Kobudabi, a fictional tropical island country. You have a small five person staff plus some locals hired for the office.

You are enjoying a sunny afternoon when an informant bursts into your office with an urgent message: the President of Kobudabi has just resigned unexpectedly! Citing the tremendous difficulty in getting any legislation passed due to the opposition party's recent rise in power, he has packed his bags and left office. Several loyal followers, some who were your contacts in the government, have also resigned.

Furthermore, he has named an obscure party member to be his successor in the interim government. You have very little information on this person or his intentions.

The parliament is in chaos and most parties are demanding snap elections.

To make things trickier, there were several items awaiting the President's approval on his desk before he quit, the most pressing: a trade agreement to encourage Kobudabi's coconut exports to Greek (Grecian?) markets.

And to top it off, the opposition party, which has the most local support and would probably win any up-coming election, has taken a decidedly chilly stance towards Greece.

The phone rings, it's the local newspaper, and they want to know what your country has to say about this unexpected turn of events.

Leaders back in Athens want to know what's going on and your junior officers are looking to you for the next step.

What do you do?

Posted on Fri Sep 12, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

While some people, when they hear of villagers dying in bomb attacks, may sigh and say "Well, that's war for you" or worst yet, automatically assign those villagers to terrorist supporters to ease their guilt, it disturbs me when what we are doing abroad runs contrary to our own advice and established doctrine. The DoD may be a better place to lodge these protests, but the DoS is intricately connected and can speak for government. Between Afghanis reporting that they are more afraid of their own corrupt police than the insurgents, to an infrastructure that still has not solidified, and the killing of innocents by our own government, it's obvious things are not proceeding the way they should. Just so people don't think I'm off my rocker about this, here are some selected quotes from our own military personnel from the paper "Principals, Imperatives, and Paradoxes, of Counterinsurgency."

The authors:
Eliot Cohen, John Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies
Lt. Col. Conrad Crane, U.S. Army, retired
Lt. Col. Jan Horvath, U.S. Army
Lt. Col. John Nagl, U.S. Army

"Legitimacy as the main objective. A legitimate government derives its just powers from the governed and competently manages collective security and political, economic, and social development. Legitimate governments are inherently stable. They engender the popular support required to manage internal problems, change, and conflict. Illegitimate governments are inherently unstable. Misguided, corrupt, and incompetent governance inevitable fosters instability."

"Political primacy. While all the elements of national power have a role in successful counterinsurgency, political objectives must be planned and executed with consideration of their contribution toward strengthening the host government's legitimacy and achieving the U.S. Government's political goals. The political and military aspects of an insurgency are usually so bound together as to be inseparable, and most insurgents recognize this fact. In counterinsurgencies, military actions conducted without proper analysis of their political effects will at best be ineffective and at worst aid the enemy."

"Isolating insurgents from their cause and support. Cutting an insurgency off to die on the vine is easier than it is to kill every insurgent. Dynamic insurgencies regenerate quickly, so a skillful counterinsurgent must cut off the sources of that recuperative power. Ideological support can be sundered by redressing the grievances that fuel the insurgency."

(Why are we spending thousands of dollars on launching a missile into somebody's house to kill one guy, when the path to victory lies in a different arena entirely, such starving the roots of insurgency?)

"Security under the rule of law. The cornerstone of any COIN effort is security for the populace. Without security, no permanent reforms can be implemented, and disorder will spread. To establish legitimacy, security activities must move from the realm of major combat operations into the realm of law enforcement. If they are dealt with by an established legal system in line with local culture and practices, the legitimacy of the host government will be enhanced."

(Note these next four)

"Use measured force. Any use of force generates a series of reactions, so, it is best to use the minimum possible force in resolving any situation. At times, an overwhelming effort is necessary to intimidate an opponent or reassure the populace, but the amount of force and who wields it should be carefully calculated. Mounting an operation that kills 5 insurgents is futile if collateral damage leads to the recruitment of 50 more. Often it is better that police handle urban raids, even if they are not as well-armed or as capable as military units, because the populace is likely to view that application of force as more legitimate. Also, a local police force reinforces the rule of law."

"The more you protect your force, the less secure you are. The counterinsurgent gains ultimate success by protecting the populace, not himself."

"The more force you use, the less effective you are. Any use of force produces many effects, not all of which can be foreseen. The more force applied, the greater the chance of collateral damage and mistakes. Enemy propaganda will portray kinetic military activities as brutal. Restraint of force also strengthens the rule of law the counterinsurgent is trying to establish."

"The best weapons for counterinsurgency do not fire bullets. Counterinsurgents achieve the most meaningful success by gaining popular support and legitimacy for the host government, not by killing insurgents. Security is important in setting the stage for other kinds of progress, but lasting victory will come from a vibrant economy, political participation, and restored hope. Dollars and ballots will have a more important effect than bombs and bullets, information is even more powerful when correctly wielded."

Posted on Fri Sep 12, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Fred in Kansas

I've been told that world experience is a valuable addition to your portfolio. If you have the funds, try a little travel abroad after you finish your schooling. Also, while foreign languages aren't a prerequisite, it may give you an edge over other applicants.

Posted on Thu Sep 11, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ John in Greece

That was an interesting idea, with a little bit of development you may have a fun little game. The Army's Special Forces (or maybe the Navy Seals) has an on-line game where they describe a scenario and you have to pick the best response from a list. Afterwards they evaluate your choices and tell you the best option. You could try something like that.

Of course I recogonized my own writing and threw in a little self depreciating humor. I think everybody needs to have a laugh at themselves.

Posted on Thu Sep 11, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Eric in New Mexico

I think we should stop this game concept before we make them all bored of this, although... I still see some interest in its concept.
Maybe I will reconsider its creation. (joking -- very tough, it needs a complicated group of "brain stormers"). The problem concerning the creation is that -- as Kirk very correctly says -- you need to know?

"First off, it must be noted that an analyst has already been prepped with information that the average citizen doesn't have, like the State's real desired outcome of a region and intel about leaders and such. Plus, they have a framework of operation. I don't know how an embassy or post operates, so I'm working at a deficit, but I'll give it a go."

+ (plus) plenty of other things: how intel or military works and how can you have all these co-operate (collaborate) for the same scope, in order to make the analysis for the creation of such an electronic game, in order for the programmers to be able to "write" the code.

- All of which I do not know my dear Eric.

- All of which, however, (now this is Al's voice again) describes:
How difficult it is for the U.S. to operate such a huge global "operation" in real time and not a game!!!

Concerning the "cable":
I already told you, it's my "fault" that I did not give you the exact parameters of the game, but:

Al to player2 (Eric -- Intel specialist):
"Regularly, we don not respond to objections concerning the in-depth status of the "game without the rules". However, in your case, we will make an exception due to your proven patriotic strength and of course, because we still believe that you still forget to feed the poor pet. (reminder!&...chuckle)

You know that nowadays, there are no cable-grams. All communications is Sat and Crypto. So, you should know that when we wrote that "you receive a cable on the dock of the bay in Kabul", of course the cable was from our central facilities (somewhere - we cannot tell you the exact location) and the "receiver" (Kirk) knew that the source was safe. It was not a letter, it was a cable. Have you seen many theoretic-terrorists (new word-term) "cabling" texts through our crypto procedure? They cannot even reach the AC-plug in (I hope).

So, you should have understood -- you players -- that the cable was obviously official due to analysis. Actually, our comparative literature office in Pakistan found this text in a local Muslim newspaper. The "editors" told "us" that they "found" it over the internet and they re-publish it.

Although the text was published in a newspaper in Pakistan, senior literature analysts suggested that probably the text was written from someone in Kabul (although English, they found two words that are part of an Afghanistan perspective of thinking).

So, knowing that often -- as Sean stated in the morning brief two or three days ago -- many things that happen in Pakistan affect Afghanistan and vise versa we send the cable to Kirk in order to analyze the writer.

Unfortunately for him, it was him.

Al to John in Greece ():
Quit the game concept, you are not EA. Try something else!

Posted on Thu Sep 11, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Ah John....If a cable was sent, it implies one knows the source, and that a reply is possible and actually requested, as there were questions asked by the "junior analyst".

So I sinply played the game according to the parameters I was given to understand from the imput received.

In any case, the cat eats better than I do....(LOL!)

--------

@ Fred in Kansas,

Don't be intimidated by the odds, and please don't let my personal reflections on the process disuade you in any way.

Foreign experiance such as a stint in the Peace Corps, or other NGO oversees work is valuable experience to put on a resume.

As to health, I wouldn't qualify for world wide service, looking at the end of my third career in life due to a ripped rotator cuff and imminent surgury. Blessed by adversity I guess....(chuckle).

But that's not stopping me from trying to apply for an analyst position w/ DoS.

If you think you have something useful to bring to the table, go for it!

Posted on Thu Sep 11, 2008

Fred in Kansas writes:

Nice blog and I like the informative and interesting comments left by people.

I guess trying to be a FSO is next to impossible? I have taken the test three times, well, gearing up for the fourth time.

FSO is what I really want, is there something about the same but not as, lets say, competitive? Or something that has more of a personal application process other than a test?

I applied for an STS position and got a conditional offer of employment, but medical issues disqualified me. I was thinking of applying again but I really do not want to be in that line of work. But I really want to work for the State Department. Currently I am a junior in college majoring in political science, so I hope to be able to open some more doors for me to get into the State Department.

But if anyone has any suggestions or tips for me to gain a career with the State Department, I would be more than happy to have them as it is really something I want to do in my life.

Posted on Wed Sep 10, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk in KY & Eric in NM

Thank you very much guys for your participation to this 1st and "unfortunately" last phase of "Diplomatic Compass -- The Brain Game" (Beta ver1/2008). Believe it or not, I did not know (Kirk) the existence of the intel game you referred to, but I had almost the same way of thinking, when I attempted to create the "Diplomatic Compass" concept in my brain.

As long as there is something similar, I will abandon "creations" and I will keep on playing my favorite -- according to my age -- game in http://future.state.gov/fun/.
(by the way, great idea guys in the future.state.gov)

Nevertheless, I still believe that SD should develop such a brain game based on true historical events of the American diplomacy and history, using almost the same format as the intel test you referred to Kirk. You can use a combination of diplomatic, intel and military tools that the player can select in order to achieve his goal, based on true choises of the history.

If strategically, future.state.gov uses this communication tactic (I mean a game format that actually informs and educates site visitors), why not develop it for adults also? Of course you guys at DoS know better. I just shared a rough idea in a few words. Please, excuse me if this comment perspective of mine is too much childish.
____________________________________________________________

And now, I think that we owe you Kirk the results of your one and LAST participation to this game.

Game Voice (I would suggest Pacino's)
Al's voice announces the result concerning Kirk's move:

Al to player1 (Kirk -- Junior Analyst):
"Sorry Kirk, but you used your own keyboard to write your own career's obituary".

On Sun Aug 24/2008, while you were working in Kabul, your computer in KY forwarded the text you were supposed to analyze during your game-role.
In fact, either you knew it while doing so, or not, we made YOU ANALYZE YOURSELF! And you characterized him:
"Since it's important to judge any information received by the aims of the source we will start with the author. It's obvious that this person is ONE OF THOSE SILLY IDEALISTS WHO ARE TOO EASILY MOVED TO EMOTION by the plight of others! Accidents happen, especially during wars. There is an opening in a NGO in Kentucky. Good luck with your new life."

Al to player2 (Eric -- Intel specialist):
"Forget the game" and feed the cat! You always forget the poor animal. We are watching everything for keeping you safe. Try to keep the poor pet safe too.

Who told you that we can reply to the author of the received text? The scope is to analyze the unknown author and have a final safe conclusion on "who he is". (My fault that I did not share with you players the rules -- however, there are no rules!)

And now Eric, back to real life, keep an eye on player1, while he's changing career. He is a left-wing idealist with a subconscious tendency to question and reject his initial views and thoughts. He is very high-educated and trained. He may become a trouble if he collaborates with the bad guys.

____________________________________________________________

P.S.: OF COURSE, I'M JOKING KIRK. THIS IS JUST A SILLY GAME-IDEA. I AM THE LAST ONE THAT WOULD HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE TO ANALYZE YOU AND ESPECIALLY ERIC.
I TRULY WISH YOU THE BEST CONCERNING A CAREER WITHIN DoS. START FILLING UP APPLICATIONS AND -- GOOD LUCK!

Posted on Wed Sep 10, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Kirk, thanks for the vote of confidence there, but I doubt if I'm FSO material, and I didn't stand a snowball's chance against global warming (or someplace hotter) of achieving the impossible.

When I consdider the fact that most of them spend most of their time implementing policy and dealing with nuts and bolts aspects of this rather than actually having the time to really sit and reflect on policy, analyze its worth, find creative alternatives to futher policy goals, and then instigate change from within the institutional structure of DoS, then I'm better off doing so as a private citizen then stuck in some cubicle in a consulate somewhere.

And probably more effective, having way too much time to think on my hands...(chuckle).

A guy's gotta know his limitations, and I'm always pushing the envelope....go figure.

How would I answer John in Greece's hypothetical cable?

I would remind the individual that Taliban have provided misinformation not just on civilians killed in prior circumstance like this, but have also tried to get coaltion troops to attack civilian targets with providing false "leads" on Taliban activity.

I would remind him/her that his time would be better spent doing one's job in seeing what the entire embassy team can do to offer assistance and mitigate the political fallout instead of cabling superiors with hotheaded characterization of policy and assuming facts surrounding the incident before an investigation is completed and facts are confirmed. Unless it was personally eyewitnessed, which isn't indicated in the "cable".

So I'd tell him/her to go confirm those facts personally -- on the ground -- and get back to me with the results of their research and interviews.

Because if they sent such a cable without facts to back it up to begin with, I'd make certain to explain that their personal credibility was on the line.

And lastly, advise him/her that if they did not feel they could carry out their assigned duties and oath of service in good faith, to then offer their immediate resignation and pack bags for the next flight home. As is their option.

Basicly I'd send him/her a "Get a grip" in reply.

I wouldn't be unkind or threatening about it, just very real in pointing out options. And the lack of analytical content of substance and worth in such a cable.

Not exactly "dry" analysis from a junior analyst if you see my point.

Posted on Wed Sep 10, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ John in Greece

A game, eh? That's very creative of you. You might be interested in knowing that intelligence agents play a similar game where each member of the team pretends to be a different country and, using the context of a recent event, each tries to maneuver their country into the best position. It hones their strategic thinking as well as the skill of seeing things from another person's (or country's) perspective.

Frankly, I doubt anyone on here gives 2-cents what my analysis is of anything, but I'll indulge you your game -- at least this one round.

First off, it must be noted that an analyst has already been prepped with information that the average citizen doesn't have, like the State's real desired outcome of a region and intel about leaders and such. Plus, they have a framework of operation. I don't know how an embassy or post operates, so I'm working at a deficit, but I'll give it a go.

Since it's important to judge any information received by the aims of the source we will start with the author. It's obvious that this person is one of those silly idealists who are too easily moved to emotion by the plight of others!

As to the content of this message, which seems to be a warning about the detrimental effects of using tactics that result in high civilian casualties, the first step would be to collect the relevant data.

First I would liaison with the Afghan government to get their death count and compare it to our death count. To take precautions I'd note where the discrepancies were highest and advise to send undercover investigators to those villages to ferret out any insurgent spies or agents.

Next I'd look at the HUMINT from my fellow political and public relations officers to get a pulse on the mood of the people. I would look at the American people to see how these deaths are affecting public support for the war. If either one tipped the scale so far it created an interference in operations, I'd advise a change of tactics and level of acceptable risk for our military.

Meanwhile, to mitigate the negative effects of such deaths, I'd start several programs. One, a small honor guard that help bury the dead and witness the funeral. Assuming that they are not run out of town, they could help ease the distraught with official apologies and take the brunt of guilt. (But it's also possible that it might be best to leave them alone while they bury their dead since it's such a private moment) Plus, they would pay the families of the deceased with goods like food, shoes, and blankets, things they could use immediately, plus some money.

Second, I would send the most capable officers to meet with each of the regional leaders and placate them. Using their psychological profiles, find the appropriate lever to persuade them of our greater good, and to get them to downplay these deaths, or at least not exaggerate them. Use these moments to sense what their level of continued support might be and find more about their specific desires.

Third, focus a reconstruction team to rebuild any houses and public works destroyed by the bombs. I would increase the general aid to hit villages and crank up the propaganda output. After houses, focus on high-profile infrastructures and paying the locals well for the labor they contribute. Idle hands do the devil's work, keep them busy and fed.

These are expensive options, especially in personnel, but probably less so than a prolonged war by the frequently replenished ranks of insurgents made up of angry surviving relatives. Ignore the hearts of the people and they will grow to hate you, as the saying goes.

Finally, if the people's discontent caused partnerships with the insurgents, I would send an advisory message to the DoD. Bombs sure are expedient and virtually risk free (for us), but there are some things more important than saving the skin of our soldiers from even a scratch. A possible solution would be to ring the villages with small groups around the roads and points of travel, move several camouflaged sniper teams in at night, wait until dawn, and begin plucking off identifiable targets. Put up an observation drone and track movements. Anyone fleeing the village can be ambushed by waiting troops and captured. If the main targets won't come out from their cover, pull the snipers back and wait for them to come peeking out. Rinse and repeat. At night, move in using flash and stun grenades. Riskier, but much less likely to kill random innocents.

Of course, if the DoS and DoD are sharing their information properly, the DoS clean-up team will already be ready to move in after each attack.

And that, John, is my fantasy riddled analysis. I'll stop here to save the general public any more agony. Is that what you had in mind? If not, how would you like to play it?

Perhaps you would like to pick an event and put your analytical skills to work?

Posted on Wed Sep 10, 2008

John in Greece writes:

Dear Mr. McCormack,

http://video.state.gov/?fr_story=4f8abdb18f63cebc9aadae1abd72fe0ee5e11fed

I watch the briefings -- via internet -- from time to time and the experience is unique. Watching the Daily Briefings, I have learned many many things that I would not have learned even if I had studied for earning the best university degree in the world.

The new "scenery", lighting and atmosphere in the press room is also unique and according to my esthetic: Excellent!
After all, all of us like progress...

Of course, I know, that after this comment some "good will" contributors will start a "huge" debating concerning the "decoration".

Nevertheless, according to my opinion, it's PERFECT! It's NEW! It's UPDATED.

All of which make the room ALIVE!

Posted on Tue Sep 09, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Mr. Forgerson

Thanks for the reply. I am looking forward to the additions you all are planning, it must be a rewarding experience to have such an impact on the diplomatic scene and the people interested in it.

@ Eric in New Mexico

That is certainly a daunting challenge, but I have no doubt that you are up to it -- you are a keen debater and have an impressive knowledge of world events. You are doubly prepared considering that you have already run the gauntlet once and have a good idea of the needed knowledge. Good luck!

Posted on Tue Sep 09, 2008

John in Greece writes:

@ Kirk

I am not a recruiter! I live far away from the States. I am not an American citizen. I do not have a job 4U? But I'm the creator of the game? (joking)

Let's have some feedback of your tendency to... offer? service?

Let's create a "virtual" game on how GOOD a probable SD officer is ready to be (This is also a promotional idea for our Blog -- let's create a game)

Rules: (negotiable/I don't think in their existence)
There is only 1 player: You
Position: SD junior analyst
Aged: 22 maybe 24 (who cares, a young boy? seeking Fed career)
1st post: Afghanistan
Year: today

Sitting "on the dock of the bay" in Kabul -- your cable receives this post for analysis:

"Is this the fruit of our labors?

While our strategists play cunning war games for Great and Noble Causes, people scream in vain for restraint. Are we too cowardly to kill our enemies with our own hands but instead prefer slaughtering innocents with bombs? How can it be that the thought of these poor, little, broken bodies does not pierce through to our very hearts? Does it not make one pause and ask themselves if these calculated tactics cause more harm than good? Are we so proud of our high science that we must birth these machines of death that kill so many who do not deserve to die? Is there truly no other way? We struggle, vainly, to do righteous deeds, but instead our fingers bloody all we grasp. More children who will never stand-fast -- struck with awe at the glorious rise of the morning sun. Now, more mothers feed the cold hungry earth -- never again to feel the caress of their husbands or touch with tender care the cheeks of their babes. Another brother taken, another son lost. Try as we might, to bring peace, freedom, and prosperity, what cruel curse is it that causes us to trample underfoot very lives we seek to protect? Their blood stains our souls. Right now, as widows' cries echo through the night, Our American Dream is surly their unfathomable nightmare.

If this is the fruit of our labors, I'd rather starve."

Analyze it Kirk?

Posted on Mon Sep 08, 2008

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Kirk, the last time I took the written portion of the exam there were some 15,000 applicants nationwide for about 400 open positions.

Long odds indeed. One would have had to ace the multiple choice (ACT type format) 100%, and lay the golden goose's egg in one's essay to even get to the orals in my opinion.

But it was an interesting challenge, and I may try again someday to be a part of the foreign service if that recruiter Luke referred me to actually gets back and replies to my email.

I'm sure he gets a few inqueries.

Posted on Mon Sep 08, 2008

DipNote Blogger Luke Forgerson writes:

@ Kirk in Kentucky:

A colleague in Human Resources assures me that those are not the only people who are qualified for service. We have finite resources, so we can't hire everyone!

On a separate matter, the DipNote team hasn't forgotten your inquiry about lessons learned from our blogging experiences. We'll be sharing some insights soon.

Posted on Mon Sep 08, 2008

Dao in California writes:

I would like to point out that on his coming trip to Vietnam, the deputy sec of state Negroponte should ask Vietnam to release the 2 newspaper reporters who were wrongly imprisoned for exposing corruption. We can do more to help move Vietnam toward democracy and respect for human rights, freedom of speech and press. Thanks.

Posted on Mon Sep 08, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

Dear Mr. McCormack or anyone else who is interested in answering this:

I read on the careers section of the State website that only about 10% of the applicants in a hiring cycle are accepted. Is this because those are the only people qualified for service, or is it that the current quotas are much smaller in proportion to interested applicants?

Posted on Sat Sep 06, 2008

William in Colorado writes:

I would like to write a few words to your agency about the critia task that you have met head on, as well as the on going events. I am someone who has traveled the world and it is truly impressive, your message of democracy. The world although still very dangerous in some area is becoming more subceptable to our ideas, way of life and the simple concept that this is in deed a great country. "Good job for your agency."

Posted on Wed Sep 03, 2008

Michael in Georgia writes:

I am a victim if the Labelle bombing and I am asking Secy. Rice not to go to Libya before Libya keeps it's promised settlement and If she choose to go before Libya honor's it's settlement w/ the Labelle victims then she should stay there until the funds are actually transferred, no matter how long it takes because she will not be welcome back otherwise. Libya has honored all settlements with all the other countries with the exception of the USA.

Posted on Tue Sep 02, 2008

Eric in India writes:

In the recent violence that rocks india's Orissa state, several Christians have been killed and Churches burnt by Hindu mobs. The state government permtted this ethnic cleansing because it has as ally the Right wing Hindu BJP party.

After ascertaining facts from the Ambassador in new Delhi, I would like the State Dept to view Orissa's Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik as it views Narendra Modi, Gujarat's Chief Minister for allowing the genocide of Muslims and ethnic cleansing in his state.

Posted on Sat Aug 30, 2008

Ronald in New York writes:

Dear Secretary Rice:

Please do not allow President Bush to bomb the nuclear sites in Iran; just prior to the November Presidential election.

Thank you.

Posted on Fri Aug 29, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

"The U.S. military says its airstrike on militants in Herat province killed 30 people, including five women and children, and it will investigate the Afghan report.

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN -- President Hamid Karzai on Saturday denounced an airstrike by U.S.-led forces that his government said killed 76 Afghan civilians.

Civilian casualties are an extremely sensitive subject in Afghanistan, where the government has repeatedly pleaded with Western troops to exercise greater care to avoid injuring and killing noncombatants. Karzai broke down in tears during one such appeal."

Is this the fruit of our labors?

While our strategists play cunning war games for Great and Noble Causes, people scream in vain for restraint. Are we too cowardly to kill our enemies with our own hands but instead prefer slaughtering innocents with bombs? How can it be that the thought of these poor, little, broken bodies does not pierce through to our very hearts? Does it not make one pause and ask themselves if these calculated tactics cause more harm than good? Are we so proud of our high science that we must birth these machines of death that kill so many who do not deserve to die? Is there truly no other way? We struggle, vainly, to do righteous deeds, but instead our fingers bloody all we grasp. More children who will never stand-fast- struck with awe at the glorious rise of the morning sun. Now, more mothers feed the cold hungry earth- never again to feel the caress of their husbands or touch with tender care the cheeks of their babes. Another brother taken, another son lost. Try as we might, to bring peace, freedom, and prosperity, what cruel curse is it that causes us to trample underfoot very lives we seek to protect? Their blood stains our souls. Right now, as widows' cries echo through the night, Our American Dream is surly their unfathomable nightmare.

If this is the fruit of our labors, I'd rather starve.

Posted on Sun Aug 24, 2008

Warren writes:

I hope your read this. I ran a cable tv company in Moscow for two years. I also traveled to 14 provincial cities working on the cable TV systems there. I have many Russian friends. I sat back for the last three years and shook my head whith what was going on. I met with many influential Russian Bureaucrats and in fact worked for one of bigger oligarchs. In preparation for my job I have read over 30 books on Russian history. So I think i am qualified to state the following

1. Once Putin controlled the oligarchs there was a clear order which was Russian control of commerce around the world. He let them amass as much wealth as possible to buy up everything they can. We let them do this why at the same time he pushed all US business out. Meanwhile the provides look like third world countries.

2. Your right they are still very mad about losing the speres of influence and will use military force to get them back. I am doing business in the Ukraine and believe me the Ukrainians are very worried at every level.

3. Your right you have to isolate them commercially. That means no visas period for any of their business men. The one thing that can make a difference is this and the UK should do the same. The population who recently has enjoyed travelling after years of confinement would react to this in a big way. All of western Europe should do this it would stop them in their tracks.

We don't have to worry about retaliation since we can't do business there anyway. I got the boot because Mayor Luzkov told my oligarch that no American was going run a communications company in Moscow.

I know is very complicated but we can influence what they do through commerce. Another case of our open society being taken advantage of.

Posted on Sun Aug 17, 2008

DipNote Blogger Luke Forgerson writes:

@ Joe in Washington, DC --

You'll be pleased to know that the Public Diplomacy Council is already on our blog list and now currently visible on our main page. We have about 20 entries on the blog roll, but only 10 are visible at any given moment. We are working to address this, and you should see some changes in the near future. We appreciate your suggestion and encourage you to continue reading and posting.

Posted on Tue Aug 12, 2008

Joe in Washington, DC writes:

As a member of the Public Diplomacy Council, I noticed on your blog roll that the listing for the Public Diplomacy Institute takes me to an outdated page. A more active page is sponsored by the Institute's affiliate, the Public Diplomacy Council, available at http://www.publicdiplomacycouncil.org

The Council, well known to public diplomatists throughout State, requests a link on your blog roll.

Posted on Mon Aug 11, 2008

DipNote Blogger Luke Forgerson writes:

@ Ben in Washington, DC --

The Office of Secure Transportation is located within the U.S. Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration.

You might also find information about the State Department's Bureau of Economic, Energy and Business Affairs' Transportation Division of interest.

Posted on Wed Aug 06, 2008

Ben in Washington, DC writes:

My question is does the Department of State have an called "Office of Secure Transportation"?

I searched your web site and couldn't find a POC or any information. If this Office does exist can you please provide some contact information.

Thanks

Posted on Wed Aug 06, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ John in Greece

Great analogy! Thanks for sharing!

Posted on Mon Aug 04, 2008

John in Greece writes:

I will attempt to follow your very interesting question and query through this simple thought of mine:
http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/phoenix/main/index.html

“NASA found water in Mars.”

Your question is tough (good question!) … For the simple comment I will post…
However, I will try…

How this (water in Mars) will affect our lives in the next 5 years?

I do not think it will at all, except the “scientific and industrial amenities” we are going to receive from this program-operation.

But, it will probably affect our lives in 10, 20… or 50 years.

Who knows?

We can even go there.

Mars!

So, it probably has a serious meaning and result.
(According to my opinion, DipNote does exactly the same! It creates healthy thoughts that develop global positive political and diplomatic decision making we may not understand right now, but we will...)

Posted on Sat Aug 02, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

@ Any DipNote Bloggers,

I am curious. Since the launch of the blog in '07 and the accompanying reading of hundreds of posts and coordination between contributing authors, what has been gleaned from this operation? At the quiet end of a long day as you stare through your glass, be it water or wine, when your eyes are blurry and tired from all the reading, ears numb from the phone, what floats to the surface of the mind in relation to all this? What wisdom can be imparted for us interested readers?

Posted on Tue Jul 29, 2008

Jonathan in California writes:

As a student considering a career in diplomacy, I have strong hopes that "Dipnotes" will be an informative tool for learning about a diplomat's life. I appreciate both the desire to promote public dialogue about current events and the effort to give readers a glimpse of life as a diplomat.

Posted on Fri Jul 25, 2008

Kirk in Kentucky writes:

Some people call it coincidence, some call it synchronicity, others might call it divine intervention. I don't know what to call it, but I just had the honor to meet the Ambassador to the US from Cyprus, Mr. Andreas Kakouris. Here I am, enmeshed the deepest I've ever been in the study of international affairs, with dreams to some day become a Foreign Service Officer myself, and I happen to cross paths with a man of such class who is doing exactly what I wish to do, it has left me a bit stunned by the sense of the ironic. To say that I was rooted to the spot in awe might be a bit of an over-statement, but not by much.

But first, let me qualify that statement. In my line of work as a humble night auditor at a local hotel, and a few instances outside of it, I've had the opportunity to meet a number of powerful and influential people, why just the other day I helped a man to his room and afterwards his golf partner confided in me that his friend's assets were around the tune of 40 billion dollars, another time an English gentleman stayed with us for several months who had been knighted and was the member of a prestigious Order, he had met the Queen of England on a number of occasions. Those are to name a few, and there are a couple more. So, though I come from poor and modest background, I am hard to impress. None of those people held any particular sway for me. But none of those people ever carried themselves with such an aura of dignity and calm as Mr. Kakouris. From the moment he checked in, it was obvious he was a statesman, for he had a regal but humble air about him. As he came down this morning we had a chance to chat. His stature and mannerisms were elegant, dress impeccable, his voice was of fine modulation -- pleasing to the ear, and his manner of utmost congeniality.

After he revealed his occupation I managed to get out: "I'd just like to say that I'm honored to be in the presence of such a distinguished individual as yourself."

He said: "It's just a title." Then he added some advice, "You take your job very seriously, but-", and he leaned towards me with a little twinkle in his eye, "never take yourself too seriously." And with that, he was off. I can't say I've been more impressed with some one in such a short amount of time as this, I'm sure I'll remember it for a long while.

One last thing that made an impression, as we were talking, the cab pulled up and gave a ring, but Mr. Kakouris did not rush off, instead, he made the cabbie wait, just a minute or two, until we finished our conversation. Most people, when the cab arrives immediately cut the conversation short, sometimes in the middle of a sentence, and scurry out the door to get back to their very busy and important lives, but not this time. For a person of his status to show the patience and deference to a humble night auditor like me, made me feel like a prince among peers. Like a million bucks. But it also really made me pause and think about how I treat others and if I do it as kindly as he. It's those kinds of quiet actions that speaks volumes about another person and their character. I wish Ambassador Kakouris the best and hope that some day, I too, will be a gentleman of such fine Stateliness and Integrity.

Posted on Fri Jul 25, 2008

Page 1 of 4 pages 1 2 3 Next Last »