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Office of Research
Issue Focus Foreign Media Reaction |
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Commentary from ... Europe Middle East East Asia South Asia Africa Western Hemisphere |
| January 23, 2001 |
World Press Scrutinzes George W. Bush's Debut
[This Issue Focus is an update of today's Early Report, with additional views from each region.]
George W. Bush's debut on the world stage continued to garner top attention in the overseas press. Many commentators repeated a mantra aired widely over the past month, namely that the "idealism" of the Clinton era would be supplanted by a "cold realism that puts the superpower's own interests above all else." In Europe and Asia, observers most often associated this sentiment with concerns that U.S. NMD plans and a reworking of strategic alliances would top the new administration's foreign policy agenda. Meanwhile, some analysts discerned--and were disquieted by--perceived "foreign policy shifts" under Bush. A British daily, for example, noting that Mr. Bush's first forays outside the U.S. will be within his own hemisphere, foresaw a tilt away from Europe. Dailies in the Mideast observed that U.S. policy focus in that region may shift eastward, at least initially, with greater attention on Iraq than on the peace process. Regional highlights follow:
EUROPE: Caution, Concern, Wait-And-See--From Britain to Moscow, dailies continued to react with a mix of caution and concern to what many perceived as new challenges ahead for the U.S.' European friends and partners. Paris's left-of-center Le Monde saw Europe as "distancing itself" from the "values" of the Bush administration. Most worried, as did a pair of Oslo papers, that Mr. Bush would "promote American 'unilateralism'" by, among other things, "hiding behind missile defense." NMD ranked high among concerns voiced by dailies in Italy, Finland, Ireland, the Netherlands and Russia, with a Moscow writer calling NMD proof of the Bush team's "tough...new" stance toward Russia.
ASIA: Strategic Relationships Vs. U.S. Self-Interest--Views were mixed among Asian writers. Editorials from China and Hong Kong foresaw continued U.S. support for Taiwan, but held that U.S. business interests in China's huge market would temper U.S. policy toward the PRC. Dailies in Tokyo and Manila predicted continued close bilateral ties with the U.S.
MIDEAST: "War Against Iraq Likely"--Arab dailies saw the new American administration downplaying the peace process "until it settles the issue of Iraqi threats." While Arabs remained hopeful in overall forecasts about the administration's position on the Mideast issues, a West Bank paper charged that such optimism is not supported by "any concrete evidence."
AFRICA: A 'Forgotten Continent'?--South African dailies judged that if Africa wants the new administration to take note of the continent's problems, it "will have to work at sensitizing Bush." A Zimbabwean editorial sounded a more pessimistic tone, saying that Africa will remain "the forgotten continent" and will have to "buckle down...and sort out its own problems."
W. HEMISPHERE: Economics, Etc.--Brazilian and Chilean euphoria about possible free trade agreements was offset by news of the appointment of Treasury Secretary O'Neill, who was deemed "bad news for environmentalists...and for Brazilian exporters." Others feared the regional impact of Plan Colombia, U.S. tax cuts and the U.S.' perceived "tilt toward Mexico."
EDITORS: Katherine Starr, Gail Hamer Burke, Stephen Thibeault, Kathleen J. Brahney
EDITOR'S NOTE: This survey is based on 56 reports from 40 countries, January 20-23. Editorial excerpts are grouped by region; editorials from each country are listed from the most recent date.
BRITAIN: "Bush Foreign Policy Shift"
According to the independent Financial Times (1/23): "President Bush signaled his intention to focus his foreign policy on the Americas yesterday by announcing that his first international visit would be to Mexico. In what appears to be a shift in foreign policy priorities, the new president's second trip is expected to be the Summit of the Americas in Quebec City.... Bush's first trip to Europe is unlikely to be before the G-8 summit of leading nations in Italy in July, reinforcing concerns in Europe about how he is likely to conduct foreign policy."
FRANCE: "George W. Bush's America"
Left-of-center Le Monde said in its editorial (1/23): "Most observers agree that Bush's humility over the weekend was in keeping with his political situation.... He is a good political strategist, and not the 'cretin' too many Europeans take him for.... The tone of his speech called for unity. But will he govern at the center? Everything points to the contrary.... He is not the moderate Republican son of George Bush senior. He is a Republican of the South, of the Bible belt.... Bush sees no contradiction between his Christian commitment and his staunch defense of the death penalty.... This also concerns America's allies. Europe unanimously denounces the death penalty.... And as such...Europe is distancing itself from the 'values,' which Bush defends. This is not a strategic break. But on either side of the Atlantic, the community of Western 'values' is breaking up."
ITALY: "Foreign Policy Relegated To Secondary Position"
New York correspondent Ennio Caretto argued in centrist, top-circulation Corriere della Sera (1/23): "For now, foreign policy has been relegated to a secondary position. Colin Powell yesterday received an enthusiastic welcome at the State Department but he did not announce any new initiatives. The New York Times denounced Iraq's rearmament.... But Bush's spokesman, Ari Fleischer, replied that the article 'has not revealed anything new,' and that 'the president expects Saddam to respect the agreements.' The U.S. diplomacy has been silent also on the Middle East peace negotiations as it waits for the outcome of the Israeli elections...on the Balkans and on depleted uranium."
"Space Shield Will Be Created, But Cautiously"
Leading, business Il Sole-24 Ore (1/23) carried the following report by New York correspondent Mario Platero: "Yesterday's New York Times article on the new arms factories in Iraq...gives new strength to those, in the new Administration, who are pushing to bring the project for the construction of an anti-missile space shield at the top of the government's agenda.... But even...Donald Rumsfeld is aware of the fact that this is a sensitive issue both from a political and a military/technological point of view. That is why, for now, a decision has been made to deal with this issue 'with' the allies rather than 'against' the allies, or against Russia."
RUSSIA: "New Baby Likely To Be Difficult"
Russia's ex-Foreign Minister Anatoly Adamishin wrote in reformist Vremya Novostei (1/23): "As the new administration is sending its first signals to Russia, it is clear that the baby is not going to be easy.... Its stand on virtually every issue from NMD to discontent over corruption in Russia has been known for quite awhile except that the tone, studiedly tough, is new. No doubt, some people in this country, understandably, are itching to respond in kind. It is important, though, that people 'at the top' resist the temptation. They will be wise to exercise restraint now, at the early stage of our relations with the new American administration.... We should use the pause to do useful work elsewhere. We can focus on the Europeans, in the first place, but, in doing so, we should not try to set them against the Americans. We need to be pro-Russian, not anti-American."
AUSTRIA: "Bush Test For Europe"
Senior foreign affairs editor Anneliese Rohrer front-paged this commentary in conservative Die Presse (1/20-21): "The foreign policy announcements of the new administration will be a challenge for Europe.... If Europe can use the situation to reinforce its own position and to solve postponed problems, it will pass the Bush test for Europe."
BULGARIA: "Bush Will Stay In The Balkans"
Political scientist Ivan Krustev wrote for online "mediapoolbg.com" (1/23): "If the Americans pull out, the NATO liberators will begin to resemble an occupation force, a friend of Belgrade.... In the context of all these fears and uncertainties, the DU scandal turned out to be a strategic ally of the European diplomacy... My prediction is that the 'uranium scandal' will make U.S. withdrawal...from the Balkans impossible for at least three to five years."
CZECH REPUBLIC: "Different Same America"
Milan Vodicka held in right-of-center Mlada Fronta Dnes (1/22): "We can expect that the United States will not change much.... The danger of isolationism will still be mentioned, citizens will pay less taxes... but it will still be the same America.... Leaders come and go, but American values."
FINLAND: Bush's Skills To Be Tested Soon"
Leading, independent Helsingin Sanomat's editorial read (1/23): "The outside world will have to prepare for a growing emphasis on NMD. It is likely to be implemented in one form or another. In other issues, as well, Washington may be more reluctant to listen to the advice from its allies."
"Examining Bush's Conciliatory Start"
Leftist Kansan Uutiset remarked (1/23): "Bush has made a genuine effort to bring to the Cabinet experienced and moderate politicians. But his conservatism becomes visible through some nominations, such as John Ashcroft. It is also visible in his strong support of the death penalty. The United States cannot be considered a civilized nation as long as it kills its own citizens. But there is no hope that capital punishment would be abolished during Bush's term in office. Bush stated that the United States will uphold its international commitments and look after its own interests and security but also after the interests and security of its allies. Thus, it does not look like there will be major foreign policy changes. Minor changes could include slightly more isolationism and selfishness."
IRELAND: "NMD And Trade Troubles"
The moderately conservative Irish Times opined on Bush's NMD plans (1/22): "His critics at home and abroad believe this could trigger a new arms race. Coming on top of difficult trade disputes, this should make transatlantic relations an immediate priority for the new president and his foreign policy team."
HUNGARY: "Saddam, Powell And Sanctions"
Foreign affairs writer Laszlo Szocs observed in leading Nepszabadsag, in the 'Focus' column (1/22): "The newly inaugurated leader of American diplomacy, Secretary of State Colin Powell has already stated that a tougher than the Clinton policy is required toward Saddam Hussein's regime. Washington, no doubt, won Desert Storm and Kuwait was freed. And the American doctrine that the world's strongest military has to be capable of simultaneous regional interventions still exists. But there have been still more key cards in the Iraqi regime's hands. Baghdad is not cooperating with the international weapon inspectors and thereby maintains uncertainty about the weapons of mass destruction."
"Idealism Gives Way To Cold Realism"
Eva Elekes observed in independent Nepszava (1/22): "Curious eyes are looking now at Washington in the main capitals of the world... It is the expectation now that the Clinton idealism of bettering the world will be replaced with a cold realism that puts the world's superpower's own interests above all else."
NETHERLANDS: "Bush Arrives"
Centrist Haagsche Courant's editorial declared (1/20): "George Bush has waiting for him today not only the heavy and perhaps the impossible task of making us forget Clinton.... His role on the world stage would appear to be a modest one, but that is what was thought of Clinton, initially, also. What is worse is that Bush seems to be making the same mistakes as Reagan: tax reductions and more money for defense, to, among other items, chase the utopia of a missile shield."
NORWAY: "Bush And The World"
Newspaper-of-record Aftenposten commented (1/22): "In the time of globalization there is little danger that the United States will indulge in isolationism. The important question is if Bush and his ideologically-oriented Republicans will promote American 'unilateralism.'"
"Hiding Behind Missile Defense"
The social democratic Dagsavisen judged (1/20): "The signals from Bush and his people hint at desires for increased isolationism and a belief that the United States can hide itself behind missile defense. Such a line might in worst case lead to a break with loyal allies and to U.S. opponents...forming their own new alliances."
POLAND: "Wishes To Bush"
Krzysztof Darewicz wrote in centrist Rzeczpospolita (1/22): "Poles wish President Bush all the best with the hope that he will realize his electoral promises to tighten transatlantic ties, support Poland's endeavors for EU membership, quickly enlarge NATO...and back democratic processes worldwide."
ROMANIA: "A New Team"
Foreign policy analyst Cristian Stefanescu had this to say in independent Ziua (1/23): "The new U.S. president comes to the White House ready to execute his policies using his father's team, and began his first day in office defining a series of ethical principles--courage, character, sensibility, civic responsibility--that each member of the administration should respect.... It seems that Bush wants to say that the new presidential team comes from a traditional, safe and balanced America, not from that America of a life spent on the edge of the precipice.... Now the word of the day is vigilance, as it is difficult to predict the future economic trajectory. The global economic balance will depend on the speed and delicacy with which the United States proceeds to deal with economic issues.... Now, after the promise that he will shatter all the fears generated by pessimistic political observers who had predicted an isolationist America, Bush has a duty--and has the team capable of doing so--to create a new world order. The problems are many, but not very different from what they were ten years ago."
SPAIN: "Bush Debuts"
Barcelona's conservative La Vanguardia remarked (1/23): "President Bush does not inspire excessive confidence in Europe.... His rare journeys outside of the United States don't qualify him to play the role of an American president in a time when the world turns inexorably on the political economic and military decisions coming from the White House."
TURKEY: "The Tale Of Two Presidents"
Yasemin Congar wrote in mass-appeal Milliyet (1/22): "Clinton and Bush present a complete contradiction.... Despite being part of an ordinary family, Clinton worked very hard and did his best to educate himself, and had gained a vast intellectual background.... Bush, however, despite coming from a well-off family, is ignorant of the world and has no interest in art and philosophy.... There are some in Washington who already believe that in the new White House, 'the person who is in charge' will be Dick Cheney instead of Bush."
AUSTRALIA: "Enter, A President"
An editorial in the leading, liberal Sydney Morning Herald underscored (1/23): "Mr Bush's approach to foreign policy is likely to be less divisive if only because it is less interesting to him--and most Americans. Indeed, the only early indications are that he will be less like his father and more like Ronald Reagan when it comes to dealing with the outside world.. Whether a hands-off approach serves the new president well will depend on the foreign policy challenges he faces. Time will tell."
CHINA: "New President, Same Road"
Yuan Ming commented in the Nanfang Weekend (Nanfang Zhoumo, 1/23): "Bush's cabinet, a hard-line group, bears more resemblance to the Reagan administration than to his father's administration.... Many Asian analysts remain worried about the new cabinet because not only National Security Adviser Rice, but also Secretary of State Powell and Defense Secretary Rumsfeld are new to Asian affairs. As for his policy toward China...it is predicted that the new cabinet will hold fast to the bottom-line that it will never allow Taiwan to drag the United States into trouble. At the same time, the new cabinet's precautions against China will not change dramatically, which is evidenced by its insisting on continued arms sales to Taiwan. In the foreseeable future, the United States will continue viewing China neither as a foe nor as a friend. Just as Powell said, China is neither our foe nor our strategic partner."
HONG KONG: "Sino-U.S. Relations Will Be Tied To WTO Issue"
The independent Hong Kong Economic Times predicted (1/23): "Sino-U.S. relations are unlikely to experience a great change in the first half of this year before China joins the WTO. A new broom sweeps clean. It is understandable that Bush wants to have some diplomatic achievements. Bush will actively support Japan and Taiwan in the Asian region, and he will heighten the checks on China.... Since China has not yet joined the WTO, Washington will have to think twice before doing anything, so it will not make any move to intimidate China. Diplomacy nevertheless has to give way to national interest. For the United States, opening up the Chinese market is in the interest of U.S. business. In addition, the transnational enterprises that cast a covetous eye on the Chinese market are the core supporters of the Republican Party and Bush."
JAPAN: "New Era for Stronger U.S.-Japan Alliance"
According to top-circulation, moderate Yomiuri (1/23): "The U.S.-Japan alliance, which the Bush administration considers the center of U.S. security strategy in East Asia, will have even more strategic importance than in the past. At issue is how Japan will deal with a U.S.-Japan alliance that has entered a new phase. The U.S. administration is placing greater expectations on Japan to make a policy which would allow for the right to collective defense so that Japan can effectively conduct joint operations with the U.S. military.... The administration has also shown its willingness to promote strategic dialogue with Japan. This is because the administration has judged that Japan will respond positively and that it can expect Japan to play a power-sharing role."
INDONESIA: "Bush Stresses Civility, Compassion And Personal Responsibility"
Leading, independent Kompas opined (1/23): "From a distance, we are impressed by the points this new U.S. president indicated because we are concerned about quality and character. We cannot ignore events in the Philippines, in which a leader was forced to step down after only two and a half years because of a lack of one or two of the main qualities.... In this context, we see that President Bush's determination merits repetition in Indonesia's current affairs, which have yet to get rid of the shackles of gloom."
"Challenges For George W. Bush"
Golkar Party's Suara Karya indicated (1/23): "The Bush administration's view that international trade and foreign policy must be devoted to the national interest should have a positive impact on sovereignty for developing countries, but will cause potentially complex changes in its policy toward Asian countries.... U.S. relations with Southeast Asian countries, which during Clinton's tenure in office were treated like stepchildren, may improve or may worsen. Arms embargoes imposed on ASEAN, including Indonesia, would probably be lifted, but U.S. stands on international trade requiring free access for its products, but with all sorts of protectionist quotas on ASEAN products, would worsen if Bush's trade policy is predicated on the national interest. At home, Bush faces challenges of legitimacy; abroad, more complex trade relations."
PHILIPPINES: "Subdued Inaugural, Stormy Presidency"
Outgoing Philippine Ambassador to Washington Ernesto Maceda pointed out in the independent Manila Bulletin (1/23): "The atmosphere in the inaugural celebrations here are subdued, probably because of the dragged out close presidential contest with protesters along the way. By the conduct of the Senate confirmation hearings, the Bush presidency will be stormy one, as the inaugural weather has symbolized with a 50-50 Senate, with the Democrats raring for fight every inch of the way. The 2004 U.S. presidential contest has begun. Will it be a Bush-Gore rematch?"
"Activism For Peace And Development"
The independent, too-circulation Manila Bulletin (1/23), and its sister publication, tabloid Tempo, stressed (1/23): "Governments and peoples across the world have voiced the hope that the new American president will sustain the activism that the United States has exhibited in favor of peace and development over the last decade, as manifested during the term of the current president's father and in the growth-filled years of...Clinton. The signs are clear that the new American president will not renege on his domestic and international responsibilities. The commitment is evident in the nominations he has submitted for his...cabinet.... We also expect further improvement of bilateral ties between the Philippines and the United States under George W. Bush's administration."
LAOS: "Greetings To Bush, Powell"
Two Lao-language, government-run dailies, Party organ Pasason and Vientiane Mai, offered greetings (1/23) to President Bush and Secretary Powell "on the occasion of their inaugurations as President of the United States and as Secretary of the State Department."
INDIA: "The Light And Shade Of Clinton"
An editorial in centrist, Telugu-language Eenadu from Hyderabad (1/22): "Clinton will never forget his failures with regard to CTBT and the Middle East peace process.... In the beginning, Clinton was very harsh toward India.... The same Clinton had finally initiated a new and very vibrant phase in Indo-U.S. relations and friendship. Bush is also likely to continue the same momentum in Indo-U.S. relations."
"Is Boom time Over In U.S.?"
A commentary in the centrist Business Line from Chennai held (1/22): "The prospect of a slowing U.S. economy is certainly worrisome. The extent to which it would affect Indian businesses is again a mixed picture.... The biggest fear is that the slowing of the U.S. economy would affect the perceptions of the people into believing that the economy is going into a recession.... On the contrary, these are times when a low-cost economy such as India can aim at grabbing the advantage through carefully implemented strategies both at the level of the economy and for the individual business unit."
PAKISTAN: "Signals From Bush"
An editorial in the center-right Nation held (1/23): "The challenge before the new man in the White House, is how, besides dealing with the immediate inherited internal problem of an overheated economy, he deals with inherited global issues, despite an avowed policy of non-intervention. A still greater challenge is how he goes about it while living with a razor-thin majority in the Senate and Congress and the shadow of a hairbreadth win in the presidential race hanging over him."
BANGLADESH: "Bush's Foreign And Domestic Challenges"
An editorial-page article in the independent, English-language Daily Star noted (1/23): "Since the power of the Israeli lobby is a well-known fact of life, it [will] take a lot of effort on the part of new President George W. Bush to earn the trust of both sides [in the Middle East]. What is even more probable is that President Bush will have to devote a lot more time to his domestic agenda and the Middle East may vanish from the scene like a grain of sand in the desert.... [Domestically,] George W. Bush will have to muster all his charm in order to win back the wounded Democrats. His is a paper thin, loudly contested majority. Will he be able to bridge the American Divide?"
ISRAEL: "Marathon: A Start With No Finish"
Correspondent Rivka Rabinovich wrote in popular, pluralist, Russian-language Vremya (1/22): "Sunday night, 'marathon' talks with the Palestinians started at Taba.... The two sides are facing each other without the Americans for the first time in a long period.... Although...not much is known about President Bush's stance about issues concerning Israel, the right-wing camp has already expressed its satisfaction: 'Nobody will push us toward the peace we don't want. Let us win the elections and the word 'peace,' a recurring fixture of the elections campaign, will be archived.'"
WEST BANK: "Bush Administration Forecast Regarding The Middle East"
Mohammed Al-Noubani opined in independent, moderate Al-Quds (1/23): "The Arab political and cultural milieus are certain that the American position regarding the Middle East under George W. Bush is going to be different from that of Clinton. However, this perspective is not supported by any concrete evidence. It is only that they are reminded that Bush, the father, forced Ishaq Shamir to attend the Madrid Conference after the Second Gulf War and that the administration of Bush, the son, includes only two Jews in unspecified positions."
EGYPT: "The U.S. Between Isolation And Intervention"
Laila Takla, contributor to pro-government Al Ahram, judged (1/23): "In his first presidential debate, Bush said that 'if we are an arrogant nation...the world will reject us, but if we are strong and modest, the world will welcome us.' During the election crisis, observers expected that the freeze in Washington would strengthen isolationist tendencies...however, upon his victory, Bush confirmed total opposition to the calls for isolation and promised a continued American role in the world.... Clinton stated that he spent eight years trying to convince his citizens that the United States should pay attention to what is happening outside its borders.... American foreign policy can be described as contradictory.... The difference between the Democratic and Republican Parties is no longer about intervention [in world affairs], but about the method and extent of intervention."
KUWAIT: "The Constants Of American Policy"
Abdullah Al-Hadlaq wrote in independent Al-Anba (1/23): "War against the Iraqi enemy is very likely. It is perhaps more likely under the Bush administration than it was under the Clinton administration.... This possibility includes use of force on a larger scale against the Iraqi enemy, if the opportunity arises and if the enemy shows signs of rebellion or recklessness. The new American administration is known for being hawks not doves. This administration will seek a premise for military confrontation. The new American administration will not tackle the Middle East peace process until it settles the issue of Iraqi threats."
LEBANON: "Before Bush--After Clinton"
Mohamed Mashmoushi penned this editorial in pro-Syria, Arab nationalist As-Safir (1/23): "Do the Arabs, and even the outside world, need to know more to find out the truth about the American 'unbiased mediator' in the negotiations?... Bill Clinton...has always sought to ensure Israel's military, economic, and political superiority over the Arab world.... Bill Clinton, who gave a lot of his time to the peace process, has always been considered Israel's friend.... Can we describe Clinton's efforts over the last eight years as anything but Israeli efforts?"
"Lebanon And Bush: Courtesies And Politics"
Rafiq Khuri authored this editorial in centrist Al-Anwar (1/23): "Until President Bush reopens the peace process file...two documents will be on his desk: President Clinton's proposals, currently being negotiated in Taba between the Palestinians and the Israelis; and the study that was prepared by the Washington Institute.... Lebanese should not make the mistake of reading this study and betting that President Bush will take its recommendations regarding Lebanon's bilateral relations with Syria into consideration.... Furthermore, the Lebanese should not bet on the personal relations that some Lebanese have with the Bush administration..... Personal relationships are important, have a role in relations between countries, and facilitate matters. However...the basic issue in American policy is its interests. Washington has no special policy toward Lebanon. Washington looks at Lebanon within the framework of the Arab-Israeli struggle.... The only game in town is the peace process. Our challenge is to know how to be players."
"Iraq And Its Position In American Priorities"
An editorial by Nizar Abdul-Kader in pro-Syria Ad-Diyar asserted (1/23): "It will be interesting to follow...the strategy that will be adopted by the new American administration regarding Iraq, particularly since Secretary Powell and Vice President Cheney assisted Bush the father in leading the attack against Iraq in 1991.... Those two people have returned...while Saddam is still in power, challenging the world.... It appears that Secretary Powell...is leaving the gate wide open for a wide-scale military operation against Iraq.... However, this time the Americans would have to confront great international and Arab opposition.... Iraq is no longer considered a dangerous country.... Furthermore, the international community can no longer tolerate the impact of sanctions against the Iraqi people and against the interests of some great countries like France and Russia.... The United States really needs to rethink its view and position on the peace process first...and on Iraq and its people."
SYRIA: "Israel Fills Vacuum Left By U.S."
Ali Kasem, commentator in government-owned Al-Thawra, maintained (1/23): "The futility of the [Taba] talks increases with the continuation of Palestinian bloodshed and massacres. Israel is striving to continue the Taba talks, while it conducts flagrant election maneuvers.... Israelis seem to be playing and wasting time, [in the political vacuum created] as the new U.S. administration has yet to open its political portfolios...especially those dealing with the peace process.... It seems as if they [the U.S. political files] will not be opened before the Israeli elections. In the meantime, Israelis are seeking to fill this vacuum."
SOUTH AFRICA: "Beating About Bush"
The independent, liberal Daily Dispatch commented (1/23): "Whatever the political sentiments,
South Africans have to live with the United States and Bush...because we live in a global trading village. Not only Americans but the whole world will be looking to Bush for leadership.... But Africa can expect even less than a 'friendly kiss' from Bush. He has himself said Africa is not a priority.... His foreign policy agenda is that foreign aid should be directed toward encouraging free-market reforms. A 'trade, not aid' policy toward the developing world would be devastating in a world where economic giants tip the scales of trade unfairly against emerging markets through protectionist laws and agricultural and other subsidies. It will be up to Bush to determine the correct and most helpful manner of U.S. involvement in the world market."
"George W. Bush"
Afrikaans-language, centrist Beeld commented (1/23): "If Africa wants the new American administration to take note of the continent's problems, particularly the deadly AIDS and the autocratic leaderships, its leaders will have to work at sensitizing Bush.... Bush and his government should be convinced that in spite of the inherent dangers that nuclear weapons and irresponsible leaders present to world peace, the particular danger of AIDS could have far-reaching consequences for the world. It should not be presented as purely an African problem. The United States, as the most powerful country in the world, should be convinced that the interest of the entire world is to tackle and resolve Africa's problem."
CAMEROON: "Bush Installed Amid Protest".
The opposition, English-language, biweekly Post ran this editorial (1/22): "Although his foreign policy has been described as illusory, with no concrete proposal for Africa, Bush reiterated his commitment to maintain the balance of power. He also expressed his support for missile defense, a position which analysts say might lead him to a fight with the same man--Saddam Hussein--as his father.... It is doubtful whether Clinton would retire definitely from the American political scene."
ZIMBABWE" "We Are our Own Saviors"
The government-controlled Herald insisted in an editorial (1/23): "Africa is at the bottom of the foreign policy agenda of just about every country in the First World.... We are the ignored continent, the forgotten continent. Bill Clinton was the most Africa-friendly president to ever live in the White House. He actually visited the continent and hobnobbed with some of its leaders. But what else did he do? He helped open trade doors just a little, but to a far less extent than he was doing for the Latin Americans.... When it comes to continental crises, it can take forever for the UN or non-African states to offer support.... Yet relatively small crises in the Western Hemisphere bring rapid American responses.... What all this means is that Africa cannot look to outsiders for solutions to its problems. Outsiders do not care. If there is something they can do that costs them little, causes no controversy and makes them feel all warm and cozy, they might think about it. But they will do nothing that might cost them real money or blood. Indeed, why should they? American presidents are elected to look after American interests, not African affairs.... It does not matter if the Republicans or Democrats win the U.S. elections.... No one is going to pay attention to Africa. We just have to buckle down (and) sort out our own problems."
CANADA: "Hola, George!"
The conservative National Post told its readers (1/23): "Washington treats Ottawa as a special partner because of geography, but in the past this was buttressed by a shared culture and shared ideals. Now, while Mexico has more and more in common with the United States, Ottawa boasts of its differences, runs the Canadian economy as though mediocrity were the national goal, and pokes Washington in the eye over everything from missile defense to Cuba to land mines. Canada might sniff at its southern neighbor, but the United States will not make the same mistake."
"Bush Closes His Eyes To The Grey Areas"
Under the sub-heading, "What A Triumph For Anti-Abortion Protestors," columnist Patricia Pearson noted in the conservative National Post (1/23): "Well, he didn't waste much time. George W. Bush's first day at his new desk, and he announces an intention to pull funds from international aid groups that provide abortion counseling. We go full circle, end-running eight years of Democratic policy, to return to the stern old days of Poppy and Ronnie.... We must protect, Bush said, 'every person at every stage and season of life' (unless they're on death row). We are building, he went on, in a statement he refused to read himself, 'a culture of life.' No, he is not. He is building a simpleton's culture of punitive morality, inflaming a contentious politics, perpetuating a trench warfare over abortion just as the shades of grey elongate and shadow every dimension of new life: stem-cell research, in which a life can be saved from a life that is lost; amniocentesis, which signals a severe malformation early in gestation; selective abortions in multiple pregnancy after fertility treatment; genetic research that enables the implantation of a healthy embryo and--by implication--the destruction of others conceived and deemed unfit.... It is ridiculous that the countless reasons women offer for ending a pregnancy, from fetal handicap to date-rape to poverty to youth to depression to impending divorce, should all be streamed together into one of two, unequivocal positions: wrong or right."
"God Bless America And Mr. Bush"
Columnist David Warren put forth this view in the tabloid-style Ottawa Citizen (1/23): "Just as it was clear to many, through the Washington January murk, that [President Bush] had tears in his eyes when taking the oath of office.... I want to explain the tears. I think President Bush is that very rare politician, who knows himself to be unequal to the task ahead; who genuinely knows that he will need God's help; and prays for it. And therefore a president who is, in our limited earthly terms, genuinely worthy. Only in America could such a politician flourish. God bless America."
"George W. Bush Seeks Unity, But Lacks Mandate For It"
Columnist Lawrence Martin opined in the tabloid-style Ottawa Citizen (1/23): "Though the new Bush has a mandate problem, this...is offset by circumstance. Americans did not vote in favor of his giant tax cut plan, but because of signs of an economic slide, the divided Congress and nation may feel it is the right remedy. Similarly, Americans didn't enthusiastically raise their hands for opening vast tracts of territory for energy exploration. But the fact that the state of California is experiencing blackouts due to power shortages is perfect timing for Bush. His presidency begins with nothing pressing. No wars, no recessions, no daunting foreign enemy giving him the nuclear glare. No one is expecting too much and Bush need not enter into any first 100 days with a dramatic action plan. But he faces two potential crises. One is that the economic downturn will quicken toward recession. No president fares well when the economic winds blow strongly against him. The other is that the Florida election recounts...will show that in fact he did not win that state and therefore did not win the election. This development could produce a hailstorm of bitterness that could even test the vaunted American unity."
ARGENTINA: "Bush And The Hemisphere"
Michael Soltys, executive editor of the liberal, English-language Buenos Aires Herald, asserted (1/23): "Speculation abounds as to what Bush's hemispheric vision might be but don't expect him to give the region any thought before his flying visit to Mexican President Vicente Fox's ranch in Guanajuato.... Bush has more reasons than most for a step-by-step approach because no U.S. president since Jimmy Carter has entered office with 'one term' so clearly stamped on him. For all we know, Boy George might have a glowing future ahead of him but the past and present condemn him.... Finally, the current downturn in the U.S. economy also seems to be pointing to history repeating itself--if eight good years under Reagan were followed by a lean one-term George Bush presidency, eight boom years under Bill Clinton might well now be followed by another recessive, one-term George Bush Jr. presidency. Ironically, the elder Bush's presidency was torpedoed by yawning deficits...from the supply-side thinking which Bush himself had condemned as 'voodoo economics' during Republican primaries. Now the younger Bush with his massive tax cuts seems a convert to the same supply-side policies which destroyed his father. Yet it is these tax cuts...which will determine Latin America's future more than anybody's geopolitical game plan at this stage."
"From Clinton To Bush"
An editorial in daily-of-record La Nacion held (1/23): "One does not need to be a fortune-teller to think that Bush's priority will be to consolidate U.S. authority abroad in order to prevent conflicts overseas...from deepening to the point of demanding U.S. intervention.... Seemingly a more active and perhaps more coercive policy will be required, with more determined decisions in favor of some of the factions asking for the American eagle's protection.... Of course, one imagines that soon there will be more news than announcements and that the United States will continue to be loyal to the tradition which makes it desire self-sufficiency more than any other power attribute."
"George W's First Gesture"
Mariana Carbajal emphasized in left-of-center Pagina 12 (1/23): "Two days into office, Republican George W. Bush made his first gesture toward the conservative sectors which supported him to reach the White House. Yesterday, while there was a massive demonstration against abortion in Washington...the new U.S. President Bush announced that he will deny federal aid to overseas groups that promote abortion. The announcement revived the debate regarding abortion--an issue which divides Americans--and unleashed concern among feminists, who fear a possible hardening of the legislation related to the issue."
BRAZIL: "The Face Has Changed"
Columnist Luiz Fernando Verissimo commented in center-right O Estado de S. Paulo (1/23): "Brazil has a new leader. I am not saying that Bush will now give us orders. I am saying that new U.S. Treasury Secretary Paul O'Neill will be giving us orders. O'Neill has replaced Larry Summers, who once defended the logic of transferring polluting industries to underdeveloped nations where the social cost of pollution would be lower. The Brazilian media has not paid enough attention to the man who, as Treasury secretary.... O'Neill is in many ways better than his predecessors.... He is the first since Jimmy Carter's secretary to go to the Treasury straight from the industrial sector, not from the financial sector.... But he made his management reputation heading International Paper and Alcoa--bad news for environmentalists. His industrial background means that he may be more protectionist than his predecessors--bad news for Brazilian exporters."
CHILE: "Agreement With The U.S"
Conservative, influential, Santiago, newspaper-of-record El Mercurio (1/21) had this op-ed by Francisco Garces, analyst with Libertad y Desarrollo think-tank: "The news about the negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with the United States is very positive.... The other favorable fact is Bush's arrival to the presidency, because his program includes the opening of trade policies and an explicit interest in advancing integration with Latin America.... In spite of the benefits of a Free Trade Agreement with the United States, Singapore and Chile--both very much prepared for a negotiation--won't reach a treaty easily.... Being aware of the numerous benefits for our country and maybe for all of Latin America, we will need a high measure of persistence and flexibility."
ECUADOR: "W."
An opinion column by Andres Mejia Acosta in Quito's center-left, influential Hoy emphasized (1/22): "Without much experience in foreign policy, other than his relation with Mexico as a governor from Texas, without having traveled outside his country except for a few times, Bush is not known for his diplomatic abilities. It is enough to say that his statements (about reducing the U.S. presence in international humanitarian aid) have been greeted with horror and irony on the other side of the Atlantic, from those who affirm that 'W' represents the 'cretinization' of U.S. policy, to those who fear that the United States will become 'more arrogant and unilateral.' Perhaps with the exception of Mexico, Latin America seems to have few expectations of the Bush administration. The strengthening and spreading of free trade will continue to be Washington's preferred policy, fostering a kind of financial Darwinism in the region: either you compete, or you sink. In the case of the Andean Region, and Ecuador in particular, if Plan Colombia continues to give priority to military expenditures over social and diplomatic investment, we will continue in the vicious cycle of economic crisis and social violence. It is difficult to be optimistic about Bush's administration. But it is more difficult to realize that a 'W' phenomenon can take place in any country of our region. It would only take the candidacy of one of those 'juniors-daddy's sons, with poor knowledge and intellect despite the costly private universities they attended, mediocre in professional merits, who would know how to exploit his contacts and the family's wealth. And we have lots of them."
"Bush Also Inherits Problems"
The main editorial in Quito's leading, centrist El Comercio asserted (1/20): "President Bush...has announced his support for Plan Colombia, although there is the possibility of some changes. The appointment of General Colin Powell carries much weight. He is the author of a proposal for cautious involvement of the United States in external conflicts. There are many more challenges than those that have been analyzed by his advisors and he will have to make decisions. Plan Colombia is now a concern for a good portion of Latin America and the countries of this region will follow closely what the U.S. government does or does not do during Bush's tenure."
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