The U.S. and India: Celebrating 200+ Years of Friendship

Posted under: MCCD By /

Prime Minister’s Media Statement during Joint Press Interaction with President of United States of America.

For Asia and around the world, India is not simply emerging; India has already emerged. And it is my firm belief that the relationship between the United States and India – bound by our shared interests and values – will be one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century. This is the partnership I have come here to build. This is the vision that our nations can realize together.

– President Barack Obama, during his 2014 visit to India

The United States and India have been entwined from as early as the 18th century. Kindred Nations: The United States and India, 1783-1947 is a photographic exhibition that captures various, beautiful moments of learning, partnerships, and exchanges that took place before India was the country we know today. Consisting of photographs, documents, and ephemera, Kindred Nations is organized in five thematic sections: Searching for Opportunity, Gaining Knowledge and Understanding, Seeking Truth and Unity, Finding Inspiration, and Toward Freedom.

Continue  

Global Leader Feature: George P. Shultz

Posted under: Center for Global Leadership By /

Adm. Robert F. Willard, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command, speaks with former Secretary of State George Shultz at the World Affairs Council Sept. 14, 2011 (Photo by Michael Mustacchi).

“Terrorism is a contagious disease that will, inevitably spread if it goes untreated.” – George P. Shultz

Last week before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Former Secretary of State George Shultz joined other former Secretaries of State Henry Kissinger and Madeleine Albright in outlining the challenges facing U.S. national security policy. His testimony highlights the kind of strategic thinking and cogent argumentation that make Secretary Shultz such an effective leader.
Continue  

Being Present in the Fight against Violent Extremism

Posted under: Center for Global Leadership By /

French citizens march on Paris in support of Charlie Hebdo. French President Hollandeand head of states from around the world later marched during the Solidarity March in Paris on January 11, 2015.

As photos of the Paris Solidarity March emerged featuring international heads of state arm-in-arm, Americans could not help but ask, where was President Obama?

This recent controversy surrounding the lack of U.S. representation at a march against violent extremism underscores one of the most undervalued aspects of effective diplomacy: simply showing up. Continue  

12 U.S. Foreign Policy Resolutions for 2015

Posted under: Center for Global Leadership By /

In 2015, the world should focus on security, cooperation and preparing the next generation of leaders.

As we all do, I have been thinking a lot about what 2015 will bring. Here are some of my thoughts, in no particular order, on what U.S. foreign policy must focus on this year. 1) Revitalize NATO NATO is a critical body for international security, but its importance and resources have been waning. As Russia tests the limits of NATO’s resolve, aggravating Cold War mentalities, NATO must stand strong as a coalition to safeguard freedom, security, and democratic values. 2) Finalize and adopt outstanding trade deals Negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) and Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)...

Continue  

Meridian International Center from the Eyes of an Intern

Posted under: Center for Global Leadership By /

Meridian Interns Sarenna Cech and Elizabeth Westbrook with Meridian employees

For the past semester, I have been extremely fortunate to intern in the GlobalConnect department of Meridian International Center. While I am still a bit in denial about the fact that the semester is almost over, this post will be an opportunity to reflect over the past couple of months and give my thoughts about interning at Meridian. First and foremost, for anyone who is interested in applying to intern in one of the many departments at Meridian International Center, I recommend it wholeheartedly. This internship has been a fantastic opportunity: I have been introduced to great people from...

Continue