The Asia Foundation News

Vital Voices of Asia Summit Seeks to Strengthen Women Leaders

admin — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:27:35 +0000

An article in ExpressIndia announces the “Vital Voices of Asia” leadership and training summit, which will take place in New Delhi, September 14-17. The summit seeks to strengthen the network of women leaders across Asia. The Asia Foundation is identified as a sponsor of the event. Read the full article: “Vital Voice of Asia Summit to empower women.”

US and Other Nations Reluctant to Resume Six-Party Talks with N. Korea

admin — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:27:24 +0000

An article in The Christian Science Monitor discusses other nations’ reluctance to resume six-party talks with North Korea, despite the readiness expressed by Kim Jong-Il. Scott Snyder is quoted saying that the US is essentially requiring North Korea to make the first move towards denuclearization. Read the full article: “Why only North Korea may be ready for six-party talks.”

U.S. Launches $40 Million Women’s Rights Initiative in Pakistan

admin — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:51:21 +0000

An article in Xinhua reports that the United States is launching a $40 million program to support women’s rights in Pakistan. The Asia Foundation is identified as a partner in the program, which will provide 400-500 grants to local organizations working to expand women’s empowerment and access to justice and human rights. Read the full article: “U.S. launches women’s rights program in Pakistan.”

Carter Successfully Brings Home American Citizen Held in N. Korea

admin — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:44:38 +0000

An article in Yonhap News discussing Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter’s visit to North Korea quotes Scott Snyder, who said that “a Kim Jong-il meeting with Carter would not have had a big impact on US-DPRK relations since it was a private visit.” Read the full article: “Carter brings home American held in North Korea for trespassing: reports.”

N. Korean Leader Leaves for China Without Meeting Carter

admin — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:59:46 +0000

An article in CNN examines speculation regarding Kim Jong Il’s trip to China, which coincided with former U.S. President Jimmy Carter’s trip to North Korea. Scott Snyder is quoted saying that If Kim left without meeting Carter, it would be perceived as an affront. Read the full article: “North Korean leader fuels speculation with trip to China.”

Former President Carter Travels to N. Korea to Free Imprisoned American

admin — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 23:01:51 +0000

An article in Yonhap News details speculations regarding a visit by former president Jimmy Carter to Pyongyang to win the freedom of American journalist Aijalon Gomes. Scott Snyder is quoted discussing Carter’s 1994 visit, during which Kim Il-Sung negotiated for help from the U.S. in exchange for denuclearization. The story was picked up by The Korea Times, and a similar story appeared in The Chosun Ilbo. Read the full article: “USA hints at possible visit to North Korea by Jimmy Carter.”

MILF Advises Philippine Government to Resume Peace Talks

admin — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 21:21:22 +0000

An article in BusinessWorld reports that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has advised the Philippine government to follow protocol in resuming peace talks. The protocol includes informing members of the International Contact Group, of which The Asia Foundation is a member, should talks resume between the two parties. Read the full article, “MILF advises state to follow protocol.”

East Timor President Pardons Rebels Involved in Assassination Attempt

admin — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 20:56:57 +0000

An August 25th story on Radio Australia (ABC) discusses the recent decision by East Timor’s president, Dr Jose Ramos Horta, to pardon 23 rebels involved in his attempted murder in 2008. Silas Everett comments on the lack of details about the shooting itself and the new issues raised. Read the full article: “Timor pardon raises new issues.”

Thailand Expresses Interest in Mediating Philippines Muslim Conflict

admin — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 18:41:53 +0000

An August 23 story on Radio Australia (ABC) examines Thailand’s offer to help mediate in the long-running separatist insurgency in the southern Philippines. Steve Rood is interviewed on his thoughts on Thailand as a facilitator of the talks, reconciliation efforts under the new Aquino administration, and the current situation in Mindanao. Read the full article: “Thailand offers to mediate Philippines Muslim conflict.”

Former President Carter Plans Visit to N. Korea to Free Imprisoned American

admin — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 23:30:37 +0000

An article in Asia Times Online reports on former President Jimmy Carter’s trip to North Korea. Carter is set to travel to North Korea ‘within days’ in the capacity of a private citizen to try to gain the freedom of an American imprisoned for illegally entering the communist nation. Asia Foundation, Scott Snyder, is quoted as saying “North Koreans are looking for a sense of prestige and respect. They feel a visit by the former president will give it to them. “Read the full article: “Carter linked to Pyongyang mission.”