Australian Ambassadors for Russia and the United States

It is important that we develop a deep understanding of Cultures, I have highlighted the Russian and US Ambassadors to gain insights into these countries.  In my view I believe Australia would serve its own interests far better if it is a neutral third party mediator rather than seeking protection or economic gains as the determinant of narratives.

I have posted Peter Tesch Australian Ambassador to Russian Federation (and 8 other Republics in former Soviet Union) speaking with the Australian Institute of International Affairs.  It is interesting to learn of his experience, knowledge and background.

I found this interesting hearing Peter Tesch the Australian Ambassador to Russia.  I could hear that he has a healthy respect for the Russian people.  Interesting comment about a Russian business person speaking about consuming energy rather than exporting in the face of environmental collapse.  We still speak in the economic narrative when the ecological reality is significantly changed.  I recall when I went clowning in Russia in 2002. I was flying in and I saw so many forests to my amazement. I realised that communism was not cultivating the land to the extent of capitalist countries.  We have to consider sustainability, collaboration, cooperation and innovation to ensure food security, evolving livelihoods and exchanging ideas as global citizens.  What is real prosperity?  Does prosperity ensure security or is it relationships?  Do we use language like ‘exploit’ relationships or embrace new narratives such as ‘diversity’ in relationships rather than ‘disagreements’?  Respectful relationships are critical.  I would like to know what our interests are?   Do we want persuasive stories or authentic envisaging of futures?  A thought for consideration.

This is a video of Joe hockey who is the Australian Ambassador to the United States.  I was looking for a career diplomat and was surprised to see him.  I note the narrative is very different from the Australian Ambassador to the Russian Federation.  It is clear that the relationship is based on conflict given his statement ‘fighting together’.  He speaks of intelligence and terrorism (deeper level then ever before) and trade.  He sees it as a deep relationship.

I ask a question as a citizen – is this focus an Australian priority or US?  The comment about US is always going to put its interest’s first is not surprising but it is important that Australia is very clear about what is in its sovereign interests given the issues raised about wars based on US business interests regarding Oil and donations to political representatives.   I recall George W Bush’s words you are either ‘with us or against us’ as a mind set that seems to determine friends or foes on the basis of agreement.  I would say in a new international order that when we respect diverse views and ensure there are no implications for not doing what other countries interests want but choose to be steadfast in our own citizens interests.  Are national interests the same as citizens interests?

I would have liked to find a video with more depth about the US people, culture, shared interests, tensions and a better explanation of our relationship so that the Australian people are informed clearly given representation and relationships.  Perhaps I have to watch ABC’s Q&A more.