'The only way we can use sanctions is by unanimity'

Q&A


Vice-president of the European high commission, Catherine Ashton is also the European Union (EU) high representative for foreign affairs and security policy. Recently visiting India before an India-EU summit, Ashton spoke with Sachin Parashar about a free trade agreement in the works, reaching unanimity on policy within the EU, applying sanctions on Iran - and the critical situation in Syria:


Interview - Q&A


-The Times of India, February 17, 2012 

On a wing and a prayer

"The Libyan National Transitional Council (NTC) faces many serious problems in a situation complicated by violence, tribalism and hatreds, old and new. "

There are complaints about the Council's lack of openness. The lack of central control means former rebels have inflicted revenge killings, torture, for aiding the old Qadhafi regime's forces. Racism may also be a factor. Those problems by themselves could seem intractable enough, but the Council also has to contend with obstacles to the revival of the oil industry. The Hindu : Opinion / Editorial : On a wing and a prayer

In effect, Libya could easily slide back into the chaotic violence which preceded Qadhafi's overthrow. Nato that embarked upon regime change in Libya with no apparent consideration of the consequences or of the fact that ordinary Libyans would end up paying the price for its heedlessness. If things implode, the Western powers will have a lot to answer for.

The Risks Of Conflict

US intervention in Syria would have have too many policy challenges and political pitfalls


The Risks Of Conflict

-The Times of India, January 13, 2012

2011: Democracy's Odyssey

Protests this year showcased popular yearning for freedom, dignity and participation


Article - 2011: Democracy's Odyssey

-The Times of India, December 28, 2011

How to control Libya missiles? Buy them up

The Hindu : Opinion / Op-Ed : How to control Libya missiles? Buy them up