[PBO]

Originally Posted by TexasSP

Yeah, it was tough talk and part of propaganda. However, what did we do to those that didn't come along? That's right, nothing. You make it sound as if we would have nuked someone had they not have joined us

Nuked I was thinking more along the lines of trade reductions & economic harm rather than violence. It was a fairly crazy time, with a lot of media generated fear, governments needed to act for their people, demonstrate solidarity & maintain alliances. Difficult when there's a superpower doing all the tough talking

Originally Posted by TexasSP

I feel every country can do their own thing without approval from the UN. I don't recognize the UN's power/authority over sovereign nations and neither should anyone. I don't see how it's ironic. Just because talking heads run their mouths about on situation or another doesn't necessarily reflect the populous at large. With Russia a major part along with all the little rogue nations full of hard core dictators I can't see why anyone would recognize that farce which is the UN.

I wasn't neccessarily identifying the UN, there are a number of communities and alliances that consult each other before taking any action. Yes, this can slow the process down but often this is a good thing - a cooling off period if you like - & to be certain, I'm no fan of the UN either

Originally Posted by TexasSP

On another note what is Australia doing in regards to foreign policy which is so much superior to ours? When I look closely it seems to me Australia has it's own fair share of issues facing it as well. I am just saying everyone loves to point and bash the US as it's quite the sport across the globe but what happens when it's pointed inward? It also seems to me as your suggesting that we should ask others permission before we make moves but others should not have ours? Maybe I am misreading this but it's how I took it.

Australia is a little US, we like to have our way in our region & we are the peacekeeper/policeman. We exercise tough border control policies (which are often election issues) that challenge human rights. We want our cake & the ability to eat it too

As a nation we are very generous on our own terms & aid to neighbouring nations is provided relatively unchallenged although I can't quote you figures. We encourage trade over our own borders but will protect our producers & manufacturers (certain industries will say otherwise) to retain domestic industry & supply. We are selling off assets to foreign companies & countries faster than we realise or want to

We consider ourselves an ally of the US, UK etc and will engage globally as an ally. We are fearfull of some of our large neighbours like Indonesia & we enjoy the brownie points we earn as an ally

We consider ourselves as more egalitarian than not & get confused about a nagging sense of entitlement and our pragmatism. However we sleep soundly knowing we are a resouce rich country so one day that pile of dirt will be worth something if it isn't now

We are very defensive over our mate New Zealand although we hate it when they beat us in sport - bloody Kiwis. We will always help a mate & prefer to fix our own problems