Former National Security Adviser Sandy Berger said the United States must continue its role as an “energetic peacemaker” last night at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.
Berger reflected on actions taken during his eight years in the Clinton cabinet and theorized about the role of globalization in the new Bush administration.
Explaining the importance of globalization in 21st century foreign policy, he sought to eliminate the idea of one dominant superpower, saying “a stronger Europe doesn’t mean a weaker United States.”
In fact, the goal of the United States foreign policy is, Berger said, to “make larger forces work for us, not against us.”
Discussing Clinton’s foreign policy, Berger emphasized that upon the beginning of the first administration, the primary goal during the 50-year Cold War was no longer the most important issue.
While communism was no longer the main focus, political strife in the Balkans moved to the forefront. Speaking about forces dispatched to Kosovo, Berger said, “We acted swiftly and forcefully against ethnic cleansing.” He cited the downfall of dictator Slobodan Milosevic as proof of success.
In addition to military action, large amounts of time during the Clinton administration were devoted to assisting the reconciliation of feuding such as that between Israel and Palestine.
In regard to the peace and security of the United States, Berger said constructive relations with other countries are necessary. For example, while it is “tempting to focus on what” Russia has “failed to do,” he said, we must also consider the security advancements made by Russian leaders and the citizens’ consistent rejection of a return to communism.
China has also made strides toward cooperation, Berger said, by making a “declaration of interdependence,” and working to comply with requirements for World Trade Organization membership.
“We need to broaden America’s defense,” said Berger, explaining that America has become “more vulnerable to attack.”
However, Berger advised the Bush administration not to rush into the employment of a missile defense system until proper technology is available. He contemplated actions that might necessitate a violation of the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty.
Berger reminded the audience that “national security is more than defense against bitter enemies and deadly weapons.” He cited the explosive growth in the number of AIDS victims in Africa as a non-violent “problem that crosses borders.”
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