Former US Secretaries of State on Darfur

Last week, Christiane Amanpour and Frank Sesno of CNN hosted a forum featuring forum US Secretaries of State – Colin Powell, James Baker, Warren Christopher, Madeleine Albright and Henry Kissinger.

They discussed many of the challenges that will face the next president of the United States – from big global issues like climate change and poverty to dealing with Russia, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, how to fight terrorism and America’s changing role in the world.

Darfur came up.  Watch below. (double click video for full screen)

James Baker:  When you formulate foreign policy, you’ve got to take America’s principles and values into consideration… and have a healthy dose of national interests… because otherwise you lose the support of the American people.

I’m glad that Mr. Baker mentioned America’s principles and values.  But what are our national interests?  Is it in our interest to stand up to tyranny and injustice, especially genocide?

I think so.

Also, I loved everything General Powell said regarding Darfur.  He has shown remarkable courage and rare leadership on this issue.  Thank you.

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Watch the entire discussion on CNN.  It’s fascinating.

World of Challenges: Part 1

World of Challenges: Part 2