The storm had already claimed the lives of at least two people in China's Hainan and 16 people in the Philippines
His prime thrust is to ensure that a thaw is in the making, and one that would enable both the countries to make strides over issues of regional and bilateral conflict. The very fact that the State Department has given its green signal to a non-diplomat to trek on such a tricky business is not without substance. However, given to understand that Richardson for long has been visiting the Stalinist state goes on to indicate the level of off-the-record involvement that the US has in the region, and especially in dealing with the reclusive leadership of North Korea.
But is the US trying something new this time around as it sends down Richardson? Former US presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton definitely enjoy larger clout in Pyongyang’s establishment, and could have been of more use had they been entrusted with a new mandate in the region. Richardson’s contention that though he is not carrying a brief but would be debriefed at the White House on his return is tactful diplomacy. At a time when North Korea’s primary concern is denial of formal bilateral talks with the US, one hopes Richardson can make the difference of at least paving the way for getting back to the table. Washington would be highly advised to open a formal window of communication with North Korea and cultivate it for a meaningful relationship.
The ball can be set rolling instantly if the US agrees to resume the stalled Six-party talks, which has been a demand on the part of China and North Korea. Dealing with the North is no two-plus-two number game, and Washington knows that better in all proximity. Nothing can stop Pyongyang from going further belligerent, until and unless a considerate policy of bringing it on board through international recognition and a robust economic plan is put into practice. It goes without saying that Pyongyang’s psychological benchmark to bounce back to real business is official acknowledgment from Washington. It’s high time this process of trial and error bears fruit for good.
The storm had already claimed the lives of at least two people in China's Hainan and 16 people in the Philippines
Dubai Police have asked drivers to be extra cautious
The former all-rounder has returned to cricket during the past year after a horrific car crash at the end of 2022
Dubai Police have asked drivers to be extra cautious
The country has set a new Guinness World Record by creating the largest falcon hood, beating the previous record of 1.65 metres
Hamas' health ministry said that 94,616 people have been wounded since the conflict began on October 7
In most Islamic countries, including the Gulf countries, the Prophet's birthday is observed on 12 Rabi’ Al-Awwal 1444
Traffic will be diverted to the opposite side during this period