Legal Journals

US to ?Reset? Foreign Relations

By jreiss

At a major international security conference in Munich last week, Vice President Biden attempted to hit the “reset button” on American foreign relations by signaling out Russia and Iran for increased diplomatic efforts.

“I come to Europe on behalf of a new administration determined to set a new tone in Washington, and in America’s relations around the world,” Mr. Biden said. “We will engage. We will listen. We will consult. America needs the world, just as I believe the world needs America,” he continued, asking for cooperation on the deactivation of Guantanamo Bay and assistance in Afghanistan.

The speech also highlighted the importance of institution-building and the involvement of civil society in strengthening democracy worldwide.  Additionally, Mr. Biden addressed the global economic crisis and international environmental issues.

For more information, see here and here.

Full post as published by Harvard International Law Journal Digest on February 12, 2009 (boomark / email).