US-led tsunami aid coalition
not competing with UN: Indian envoy
Yahoo News, India
While many are quick to proclaim the US Aid Coalition's formation was primarily to usurp the UN "moral authority", it is important to understand the intent was not to shut out the UN's participation, but to maximize efficiency for humaritarian aid by having countries concentrate their efforts on particular regions so the massive demands would not be duplicated.
Washington, Dec.31 (ANI): India's Ambassador to the United States, Ronen Sen, has refuted allegations that the US-led four nation aid coalition for tsunami victims is in competition with the United Nations (UN), which traditionally coordinates global responses to major disasters.
Commenting on the coalition's formation, which includes India, Japan, Australia and the United States, Sen told mediapersons here on Thursday that "this is basically going to be an information exchange and a coordination of efforts between these countries. So, it's not a consultative mechanism to discuss modalities, but practical cooperation and to avoid duplication of efforts."
(snip) continue reading at link above
Add to this the voices suggesting India's quick acceptance of the Aid Coalition's invitation also has political overtones.
By its direct involvement, India not only has control over the aid sources, minimizing any obligations to extreme Muslim aid groups, but presents itself as a country worthy of a permanent seat in the UN Security Council, and possibly a good fit for the EU.
Within days of the tragedy India joined the United States, Japan and Australia in a four-nation core group coordinating the relief effort.
Foreign affairs expert C. Raja Mohan says the move represents a welcome shift towards closer cooperation within the region and with the United States.
"It is the first time India has worked with a great power on a collective regional security issue," he said.
"What we are seeing is the emergence of an India willing to take a lot more regional responsibility ... and it is not trying to do this by keeping others out."
Well now... what's all the hoo-hah for? Most of us have heard of the "win-win" situation. And in this case, the balls are headed out of the ballpark on all aspects.
First and foremost, given its recent history, we all feel better not blindly throwing the cash at the UN. Then again, we've been taking a beating about the UN/US relations of late as well.
In one fell swoop, we have not only created a form of UN oversight for aid money, but we did it with inclusive grace and sans blatant accusations of corruption.
What a coup.
The focus of the Aid Coalition, in conjunction with UN efforts, limits opportunity for major internal scams. Even those that suspect the intents of the Indian government must recognize that their gov't officials' response efforts are also under scrutiny by America, Japan and Australia.
It is only fitting that India enjoy some diplomatic advantage while rebuilding after this tragic loss. And if it occurs while we eliminate some UN middle men, all the better.
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