By Dr. Richard A. Byron-Cox
Every civilized nation goes through a period when certain areas of its development shines so brilliantly that the only apt characterization is, it’s living a golden age in that sphere of endeavour. This may be in industry, the arts, military might, or another field. World history provides evidence of this from China to Britian, and from the USA to South Korea. Having observed the realization of the diplomatic practice, foreign policy and foreign relations of SVG, I here posit that this country is presently experiencing a golden age. It’s nothing short of stunning, what this tiny nation has achieved in this realm over the last 23 years.
I maintain that foreign policy must be purposeful, not decorative embroidery on the table of governance. It’s an extension of national policy, projecting our nobility and courage to say and do what is right and just when engaging others, as opposed to a dictate of those who have power but no conscience, offering crumbs for our endorsement of their immorality on the world stage. The ULP preaches and practices an ennobling diplomacy, declaring: “We are better than no one, but no one is better than us;” and, “Friends of all, we strive for a better world.” The colonial-minded and imperialist stooges have denounced our stance, insisting the only thing that matters is “What would America say?” Our government has rightly heaped scorn on this cowardice of these house slaves; and refused to be ignoble, thus resulting in a bountiful harvest and global admiration, trust and respect.
From the start Dr. Gonsalves signalled to the rich and powerful, we are not here to do their bidding. Mitchell’s Otley Hall gang was told, stealing from this country stops now! The Japanese Foreign Minister came to a rude awakening when he learnt that SVG is NOT a colony of Japan; Uncle Sam was told to end spraying SVG with his dangerous weedicide. However, the first genuine litmus test of this new foreign policy came when Dr. Gonsalves decided to build the Argyle International Airport! Then, our Prime Minister said, we will build it through a “coalition of the willing.” He went about gaining the trust and commitment of some Muslims and Christians, socialists, communists and capitalists, leftists and rightists, Asians, Europeans, Latin Americans and Caribbeans, breaking Spanish, Persian, Georgian, and Austrian language barriers in the process. The AIA is proof positive of the effectiveness of this foreign policy, but Ralph was only beginning!
The ULP said to the world, we have the wherewithal to successfully undertake the Presidency of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The international community agreed and when SVG past that test, it said, well done, and overwhelmingly gave us a temporary seat on the United Nations Security Council. This was all done while Dr. Gonsalves faced an onslaught from unpatriotic opposition forces who went as far as writing to the nations of this world imploring them not to vote for us. This was a most ignoble and dastardly act! I say here now, HISTORY WILL DAMN THEM FOREVER!!
The arrival on these shores of 14 Heads of states and governments and other high officials from across Latin America and the Caribbean, India and China among others; the attendance of Antonio Guterres and high representatives of other organisations at this Summit, are unequivocal declarations that this nation of 150sq miles and a population 110,000 people is trusted to preside over the affairs of a community of more than 600 million. The international community understands and has accepted the fundamental tenets of this country’s foreign policy, so when we call, they come. It is rare in history when the big, powerful and rich honours the small, “powerless” and weak. Yes, this is our golden age in diplomacy, foreign affairs, and foreign relations.
I have tried to encourage Dr. Gonsalves to write a book on the conceptualisation, formation and realisation of SVG’s diplomatic, foreign policy and foreign relations practices from 2001 to present. The simple truth is, the efficaciousness of its implementation, and the sheer magnificence of abundance that this foreign policy has delivered -the latest of which is the VIII Summit of the Community of States of Latin America and the Caribbean- cannot be detailed in one or two articles of 800 words. To do justice in the transcription of a golden age in the life of any nation requires the penning of volumes. This golden age must be recorded for posterity; but more importantly, to serve as the inspiration for the aspirations of future generations, giving real meaning to the creed, “Whate’er the future brings, our faith will see us through.”