Diplomat Jim Patterson and the Illusion of Security

based on my work in security systems and technology, I am convinced security is an illusion. Aside from security analysts and specialists like Edward Snowden and Pfc. Chelsea Manning, everybody is engaged in breaching security systems.

I interviewed a representative for a Silicon Valley firm recently who swore to me that their surveillance data, detected on remote systems and transmitted to a central database and managed by a system administrator, could not be manipulated. The data could be generated for management into reports on the activity of individuals.

Later, I went to remote sites and reviewed reports. They looked impressive with identifying individual names by activity data and time. In response to a blog post on the manufacture's claim of manipulation-free data reporting, several individuals came forward with documentation they were on travel when a systems administrator reported them to management for illegally entering a high security area in restricted hours.

How did this happen? Errors on error-free security systems that cannot be manipulated? Blackmail? Incompetence of the security system administrator? Perhaps the answer is a host of things. If we could see these types of things coming, we could better analyze them.

Business and government agencies spend billions on security, including high technology systems hardware and software, only to discover a flaw at a critical moment when a data breach occurred. Consequences include lawsuits over systems and individual security failures.

The quest goes on for reliable security systems and the price tags go ever higher. Continued systems failures, for whatever reasons, are disappointing, disruptive, and dangerous. Perhaps fool proof security systems are an impossible dream. Still, the quest for reliable security goes on as security threats grow and individuals and firms seek protection from technology and technicians bombarded constantly from malicious sources than span the globe and that are also as close as the next office or cubicle.

Jim Patterson
JEPDiplomat@gmail.com

Diplomat Jim Patterson and the Politics of Foreign Policy

Foreign policy is playing a major role in the 2016 presidential election.

Foreign policy has traditionally been a strong political issue for the GOP. and it is proving so again this time. Donald Trump, Dr. Ben Carson, Chris Christie, Marco Rubio, Lindsay Graham, Carly Fiorina are listening to the American people and articulating their leadership on the Middle East, China, Russia, a strong response to the growing terror threat of ISIS, and the longing and expensive cyber theft by numerous countries, Asian and Eastern European.

While foreign policy is usually a hard political sell to the American people, that is not proving to be the case in 2016. At today's TheHill.com I have a piece titled "Foreign Policy and the Presidency." I will enjoy your comments on this foreign policy thought piece.

Jim Patterson
Member California State Society
Member New York State Society
Life Member American Foreign Service Association

Note; Mr. Patterson, a contributor to TheHill.com, is a Life Member of the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), Diplomatic and Consular Officers Reserve (DACOR), Friend of the Israeli Defense Forces (FDIF), the Bacon House Foundation, California State Society, Helen Keller International, New York State Society, Life Member Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, and Associate Member Korean War Veterans Association. He resides in Washington DC and New York. jepdiplomat@gmail.com

Diplomat Jim Patterson on National Security and Character

National Security and Character in the Age of ISIS
Jim Patterson


During the GOP presidential debate in Milwaukee, candidate Donald
Trump, in response to a question on undocumented immigration, stated, due to
what he sees as an uncontrolled influx, unless it stops “we have no
country.”



The current debate over Syrian refugees and the growing opposition to
them due to real or imagery national security concerns has raised
fears among a majority of state governors, 31 at press time, about
ISIS agents and sympathizers entering the U.S. and making a deadly
Paris-like strike.


The president could have met with Congress and cooperatively developed an acceptable
and non-controversial plan to provide relief to the Syrians. Instead,
the president has foolishly made Donald Trump’s statement on national
identity and "countryhood" a major political problem for him, fellow Democrats, and Democratic Benghazi-plagued presidential front runner Hillary Clinton.

There is an important lesson here for Mr. Obama and others who would seek leadership status.

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Jim Patterson
Member California State Society

James Patterson

Note; Mr. Patterson, a contributor to TheHill.com, is a Life Member of the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), Diplomatic and Consular Officers Reserve (DACOR), Friend of the Israeli Defense Forces (FDIF), the Bacon House Foundation, California State Society, Helen Keller International, New York State Society, Life Member Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, and Associate Member Korean War Veterans Association.

Jim Patterson at ISH Global Leadership Awards 2015

I enjoyed attending this event and seeing friends. Jim Patterson ISH Support and Accidental Graduate 1996.

GLOBAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS - HIGHLIGHTS  ISH-DC Resident Zinhle Mkhhabela of South Africa, Ambassador Geir Haarde of Iceland, Rear Admiral Susan Blumenthal, Senator Richard Lugar, General Brent Scowcroft, Dr. Anne-Marie Slaughter, Congressman Mark Meadows, Awards Congressional Chair On Thursday, October 22, International Student House of Washington, DC held our annual Global Leadership Awards Dinner.  Members of Congress, Ambassadors and embassy representatives of 18 countries, and members of the business and philanthropic communities gathered to honor three outstanding individuals for their commitment to international understanding and to support the House's mission. Inga Jona Thordardottir, Ambassador Geir Haarde of Iceland, Ambassador Gary Doer of Canada, Congressman John Fleming, Cindy Fleming We honored former US National Security Advisor, Lt. General Brent Scowcroft with our Global Leadership Award for his outstanding achievements to promote international understanding and cooperation.   Former Senator from Indiana and recipient of the 2014 ISH-DC Global Leadership Award, Richard Lugar, presented a stirring tribute to General Scowcroft. We also recognized Dr. Anne-Marie Slaughter, President and CEO of New America with our Global Educator Award for her commitment to international education and understanding. Rear Admiral Susan Blumenthal, MD, Former US Assistant Surgeon General, presented the award to Dr. Slaughter. Our Distinguished Alumni Award was conferred upon Former Prime Minister of Iceland, Ambassador Geir H. Haarde.  Ambassador Haarde was a resident of the House while he attended Johns Hopkins University.   ISH-DC resident from South Africa, Zinhle Mkhabela, paid a humorous and uplifting tribute to Ambassador Haarde citing his achievements and inspiring residents to such levels.     Ambassador Kenichiro Sasae of Japan introducing Senator Lugar during the Awards Presentation We are deeply grateful for the generosity and support of our sponsors, ISH-DC Board of Directors, and our Awards Dinner Committee.  We thank our Awards Dinner Chair, Jan Smith, our Congressional Chairs, Congressman Mark Meadows (R-NC) and his wife Debbie, and our Diplomatic Chairs, Ambassador Kenichiro Sasae and his wife Nobuko. To read more about the gala, see the recent Washington Diplomat Article.

Jim Patterson with News on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

PRESS RELEASE
WDC-075-2015
13 November 2015

WASHINGTON, D.C.—As the world prepares to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, Embassy personnel and members of the Filipino-American community gathered for a forum on a Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW).
In his welcome remarks, Minister Patrick Chuasoto, Chargé d’Affaires of the Philippine Embassy, pointed out the importance of discussing the issue of VAW.

“It is ironic that in conflict situations, for example, women are common targets of violence, and yet they are the ones on whom the families and communities rely the most when it is time to heal and rebuild. It is time that all of us recognize the strength of women, treat them with respect and stop their victimization from violence in their homes and everywhere else,” said Minister Chuasoto.

Marie Ramos, Outreach and Training Coordinator at the Asian/Pacific Islander Domestic Violence Resource Project, shared her knowledge on addressing VAW and her experience in dealing with cases of domestic violence among the immigrant community in the United States. Atty. JV Chan-Gonzaga, Minister and Economic Officer at the Embassy, talked about Philippine and international laws on the elimination of violence against women and children.

According to Ramos, domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of social class, race, and gender. She described how domestic violence looks in the Asian/Pacific Islander communities, including the incidence of “in-law” violence.

Ramos said expressing empathy and support is the best way to deal with a victim and shared tips on how to receive such information shared in confidence.

"That first conversation is critical. There are varied ways to express empathy and support, such as saying 'I support you' or 'would you like us to seek help and advice together?' While it is a common knee-jerk reaction, telling the person to 'just leave' is not advisable as it can drive the person to do something to put their life at risk. Most importantly, respect the person's decision, whatever that might be,” said Ramos.

In his presentation, Atty. Chan-Gonzaga provided a comprehensive view of international and Philippine domestic legal contexts with respect to eliminating violence against women and children.
He underscored the radical provision of Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004, which criminalizes several categories of abuse including physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, and economic abuse. The law treats acts such as causing physical, threatening physical harm, attempting to cause physical harm, placing the woman or child in fear of imminent physical harm, inflicting or threatening to inflict harm on oneself to control the victim’s actions/decisions, and knowingly or purposely engaging in conduct that causes substantial emotion or psychological distress to the victim as acts of violence against women and children.

“The Philippine law on violence against women and children is state-of-the-art in many respects. However, there is still much to do to enhance enforcement and prosecution capabilities,” said Atty. Chan-Gonzaga.

Both panelists pointed to the historical imbalance in power and gender relations as the main contributory factor to the persistence of VAW among societies. They also emphasized the need to shift cultural attitudes and norms in order to eliminate VAW, and pointed out the movement towards recognizing that men can also be victims of domestic violence.

The forum was part of the Embassy’s Talakayan sa Pasuguan series and the Gender and Development (GAD) program of the Philippine Government. Through the GAD program, the government is working towards mainstreaming gender issues and promoting gender equality in society.

The Domestic Violence Research Project is a Washington DC-based, survivor-centered and survivor-run organization which aims to address, prevent, and end domestic violence and sexual assault in Asian/Pacific Islander communities while empowering survivors to rebuild their lives after abuse. The organization provides survivor services, community outreach, and technical assistance. ###

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Jim Patterson
Life Member American Foreign Service Association

Diplomat Jim Patterson Writes Senator Dianne Feinstein and President Obama on UC Merced Violence

November 11, 2015

Dear Senator Feinstein,

Jewish Press reports today UC Merced student Faisal Mohammad,killed by police for stabbing other students, was an ISIS supporter. Please share with me any information you have on this tragic event at UC Merced.

as the father of Jewish children, I have written you many times about my concern for safety of Jewish students and their friends at California campuses. Kindly ask Governor Jerry Brown to increase campus security at California schools due to increased incidences of threats and acts of violence  from varied sources including student ISIS supporters.

Thank you for the courtesy of an email response to JEPDiplomat@gmail.com

Sincerely,

James Patterson

Member California State Society

Note; Mr. Patterson is a Life Member of the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), Diplomatic and Consular Officers Reserve (DACOR), Friend of the Israeli Defense Forces (FDIF), the Bacon House Foundation, California State Society, Helen Keller International, Kentucky State Society, Life Member Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, and Associate Member Korean War Veterans Association.

November 11, 2015

Dear President Obama,

The Jewish Press reports today UC Merced student Faisal Mohammad, killed by police for stabbing other students, was an ISIS supporter. Please share with me any information you have on this tragic event at UC Merced.

As the father of Jewish children, I have written you before about my concern for safety of Jewish students and their friends at college and university campuses. Kindly inform me what you are doing to increase campus security at schools due to increased incidences of threats and acts of violence  from varied sources including student ISIS supporters.

Thank you for the courtesy of an email response to JEPDiplomat@gmail.com

Sincerely,

James Patterson

Member California State Society

Note; Mr. Patterson is a Life Member of the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), Diplomatic and Consular Officers Reserve (DACOR), Friend of the Israeli Defense Forces (FDIF), the Bacon House Foundation, California State Society, Helen Keller International, Kentucky State Society, Life Member Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America, and Associate Member Korean War Veterans Association.

Filipino Senior Supreme Court Justice Carpio on UNCLOS

WASHINGTON, DC—“Will the world community allow a single state to rewrite the Law of the Sea, so this single state can exercise indisputable sovereignty to almost an entire sea, subject the high seas to its sovereign jurisdiction, and seize large areas of other coastal states’ EEZs (exclusive economic zone), which are their legal maritime entitlements under both customary international law and UNCLOS?”

This was the question posed by Justice Antonio T. Carpio, Senior Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, during his lecture on China’s nine-dash line claim and the South China Sea dispute at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) on 5 October 2015.

“Maritime security and the South China Sea will continue to impact US-China relations and China’s relations with its neighbors. We are pleased Justice Carpio’s speaking tour in the US kicks off today at CSIS. His thoughts will certainly enrich the discourse on what has been characterized by Professor Michael Tkacik of Stephen Austin State University as possibly the single most important dispute in the world today,” Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. said in his remarks.

During his talk, Justice Carpio discussed China’s nine-dash line claim as the root cause of the South China Sea disputes and as having no historical basis.

According to Justice Carpio, China’s national boundaries under the nine-dash line have effects not only on the Philippines but also on other countries in the region and the world.

“The Philippines loses about 80 percent of its EEZs facing the West Philippine Sea, including the entire Reed Bank and part of the Malampaya gas field. Malaysia loses about 80 percent of its EEZ in Sabah and Sarawak facing the South China Sea, as well as most of its active oil fields in the same area. Vietnam loses about 50 percent of its total EEZ. Brunei loses about 90 percent of its total EEZ. Indonesia loses about 30 percent of its EEZ facing the South China Sea in Natuna Islands, whose surrounding waters comprise the largest gas field in Southeast Asia,” said Justice Carpio.

Through the nine-dash line, China claims the high seas which, under international law, are considered global commons. According to Justice Carpio, because any country in the world, including those that are landlocked, can exploit national resources in high seas, the entire world is affected by China’s expansive claim.

The Justice reiterated that activities by China to enforce the nine-dash claim violate the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2002 ASEAN-China Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. Such activities threaten peace, security, and stability in the region.

In 2002, China, along with member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations agreed that the South China Sea dispute shall be resolved “in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.”
Eleven years later, China has begun insisting that historical facts be accepted as additional basis of its claim.

“After the Philippines filed in January 2013 its arbitration case against China under UNCLOS, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi declared that the South China Sea dispute should be resolved in accordance with historical facts and international law,” said Justice Carpio.

However, according to Justice Carpio, the nine-dash line has no historical basis.

Official and unofficial maps of China from 1136 during the Song Dynasty until the end of the Qing Dynasty in 1912 show that the southernmost territory of China has always been Hainan Island.
Hua Yi Tu, a Chinese stone map from the 12th century, excludes disputed islands in the South China Sea from China’s territory. The 1986 Huang Chan Zhi Sheng Yu Di Quan Tu or The Qing Empire’s Complete Map of All Provinces shows that Hainan Island was a part of Guangdong Province and became a separate province only in 1988.

Official and unofficial maps of the Philippines from 1636 until 1933 show that Scarborough Shoal has always been part of the Philippines.

The 1734 Murillo Velarde Map shows Scarborough Shoal and some features in the Spratly Group of Islands as part of the Philippines. The Islas Filipinas, Mapa General Observatorio de Manila published in Washington, DC in 1899 by the US Coast and Geodetic Survey shows Bajo Masinloc, which also refers to Scarborough Shoal, as Philippine territory.

According to Justice Carpio, the Philippines has not only historical basis for its claim to Scarborough Shoal, but also legal basis.

“The 1898 Treaty of Paris between Spain and the United States drew a rectangular line wherein Spain ceded to the United States all of Spain’s territories found within treaty lines. Scarborough Shoal lies outside of the treaty lines. However, two years later, in the 1900 Treaty of Washington, Spain clarified that it had also relinquished to the United States all title and claim which Spain may have had at the time of the conclusion of the Treaty of Paris, to any and all islands belonging to the Philippine Archipelago, lying outside the lines of the Treaty of Paris. Thus, Spain ceded Scarborough Shoal to the United States under the 1900 Treaty of Washington,” said Justice Carpio.

The Justice ended his lecture by reiterating that the Philippines will stand by UNCLOS and the ruling of the Arbitral Tribunal with regard to the maritime dispute.

“If UNCLOS does not apply to the South China Sea dispute, as when China’s nine-dashed lines are allowed to gobble up the EEZs of coastal states as well as the high seas, then UNCLOS, the constitution for the oceans and seas, cannot also apply to any maritime dispute in the rest of the oceans and seas of our planet. It will be the beginning of the end for UNCLOS. The rule of the naval cannon will prevail in the oceans and seas of our planet, no longer the rule of law. There will be a naval arms race among coastal countries,” said Justice Carpio.

Washington, D.C. is the first stop of Justice Carpio’s US tour to conduct lectures on the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea dispute. He will bring the lecture to New York City and San Francisco in the next few days. ###

Jim Patterson and Senator Dianne Feinstein on NSA Surveillance of US Government Allies

September 30, 2015

Mr. James Patterson

766 Harrison St, Unit 211

San Francisco, California 94107

Dear Mr. Patterson:

Thank you for contacting me to express your concern about alleged National Security Agency (NSA) surveillance of government leaders of our allies.  I am pleased to report that this is an issue on which we agree, and I sincerely apologize for the delay in my response.

As you are aware, recent news reports have alleged that the NSA routinely conducted surveillance on foreign leaders of allied nations, including German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President François Hollande, as well as other countries and institutions that are friends and allies to the United States.

Like you, I oppose the surveillance on foreign leaders of allied nations.  Unless the United States is engaged in hostilities against a country or there is an emergency need for this type of surveillance, I do not believe that as a general matter, the United States should be collecting phone calls or emails of the leaders of friendly nations with whom we consult regularly.  You will be pleased to know that in light of some of the recent allegations in the press, the Intelligence Committee, of which I am Vice Chairman, is conducting an ongoing review of all U.S. intelligence collection programs.  

Additionally, in January 2014, President Obama announced several changes to surveillance practice and stated that the U.S. government would no longer conduct electronic surveillance on the leaders of allied nations. This guidance, known as Presidential Policy Guidance 28, is a positive step towards maintaining a balance between honoring the privacy of our allies and continuing to gather intelligence to protect our nation. 

Again, thank you for writing.  I will certainly keep your views in mind as the Committee conducts its review of intelligence programs.  If you have any additional comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841.

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Dianne Feinstein

                 United States Senator

DF:nb

Jim Patterson on North Korean Sanctions

Dear Mr. Patterson:

Thank you for contacting me regarding sanctions against North Korea.  I appreciate the time you took to write, and I welcome the opportunity to respond.

As you may know, U.S. sanctions against North Korea are administered by the Treasury and State Departments, and are authorized by multiple legal authorities including executive orders, federal statutes, and United Nations Security Council resolutions.  On January 2, 2015, through Executive Order 13687, President Obama imposed the most recent set of sanctions on North Korea. 

As you may know, the "North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act of 2015" (H.R. 757), which was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressman Edward R. Royce (R-CA), would direct the President to investigate the designation of sanctions upon individuals suspected of transacting with the North Korean government.  Additionally, the legislation calls for the implementation of additional sanctions on the North Korean government as well as a promotion of human rights efforts within the country.  H.R. 757 is currently pending in the House Foreign Affairs Committee, among other House committees.  I understand you supported this bill when it was introduced last Congress as H.R. 1771.  

Please know that I have carefully noted your views regarding additional sanctions against North Korea, and I will be mindful of your letter should the Senate consider such legislation in the near future.

Again, thank you for writing.  I hope you will continue to contact me regarding issues of importance to you.  Should you have any further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact my Washington, D.C., office at (202) 224-3841.  Best regards.

Sincerely yours,


  Dianne Feinstein
         United States Senator

Jim Patterson & President Obama on the China Challenges

Dear Jim: Thank you for writing.  I welcome the continuing rise of a China that is peaceful, prosperous, and stable, and that plays a responsible role in the world.  The United States has much to gain from a closer working relationship with China, and there are very few global challenges we can address effectively without its active cooperation.  With significant resources and skill in addressing a range of challenges, China plays a major part in the global economy, and engagement with the Chinese government is important to ensuring strong, sustainable, and balanced growth around the world.  My Administration is working with China on a number of issues, including stopping North Korea’s nuclear program, food safety and public health, energy security and climate change, and nuclear non-proliferation and counterterrorism.  We want to deepen our cooperation in addressing these issues in the years ahead. In addition to expanding practical cooperation, I am also committed to working with our Chinese counterparts to constructively manage our differences.  Improved relations with China will require candor and open discussion about those issues on which we may disagree.  We must address human rights, democracy, and free speech, as well as cybersecurity and maritime issues, and we must create a level playing field for American workers, ranchers, and businesses.  We must also strive to ensure that the global economic system is governed by international rules based on open and transparent economic competition.  These important matters will be essential elements of our ongoing engagement with China. Thank you, again, for writing.  For more information on my foreign policy agenda, I encourage you to visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/Issues/Foreign-Policy. Sincerely, Barack Obama Note: The next to last sentence is realistic in tone. but lacks heft. "maritime" issues is, of course, code for South China Sea. It has to get stronger than this. JEP>

Diplomat Jim Patterson and Senator Dianne Feinstein on TPA

Dear Mr. Patterson:

Thank you for contacting me to express your concerns regarding Trade Promotion Authority (TPA).  I appreciate the time you took to write, and I welcome the opportunity to respond.

First, please know that as a U.S. Senator, I carefully review each free-trade agreement that comes before me to ensure that the best interests of American workers and businesses are served, and that the agreement will not adversely affect the U.S. economy, human rights, labor rights or environmental standards.

As you are aware, I voted in favor of TPA—otherwise known as fast-track authority—because it grants the President the ability to finalize the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). I believe that increasing free trade with our neighbors in the Pacific Rim is squarely in our economic and national security interests. 

The process of considering trade legislation has enabled me to see the extraordinary importance of trade to California's economy, and I wanted to share some of this information with you.

Today, trade supports more than 4.7 million jobs in California, and nearly 40 million nationwide. More than 75,000 California businesses export goods out of the state, and 95 percent of those are small- or medium-sized, meaning they have fewer than 500 employees. Since 2009, jobs related to merchandise trade have increased by 11 percent in California, and research has shown that firms that export pay their employees 15 percent more than those that do not.

Three of California's major sectors benefit substantially from trade:

• The services sector—both high-skilled professional services as well as lower-skilled services such as accommodation, food and administration—have helped lead California's economic recovery since the 2008 recession. Services exports have been a key contributor to that sector. For instance, in 2013, California exported $114 billion in services, a 58 percent growth over 2006. This has translated to job growth: last year, 66 percent of all new jobs in California were in the services sector. By reducing barriers to services exports, the Trans-Pacific Partnership is expected to boost this critical sector of our growing economy.  

• In 2014, California exported $174.1 billion in total merchandise goods and over the past 10 years, exports from California to existing free-trade partners grew by 50 percent. If past trade deals are any indication of the future, then our merchandise industry will continue to grow under TPP. Today, California's exports of computer and electronic products face tariffs as high as 35 percent, while transportation equipment and machinery face tariffs as high as 70 percent, both of which will be reduced under TPP. 

• California agriculture also relies on exports. In 2013, agricultural exports were valued at $21.2 billion, making our agriculture industry the largest by value in the United States. According to a U.S. Department of Agriculture study, under TPP nationwide agriculture exports are expected to increase by 5.4 percent by 2025. As with our merchandise exports, our agriculture products currently face steep tariffs in the Asia-Pacific region. Dairy products face a tariff of up to 35 percent in Japan while walnuts face a 30 percent tariff in Vietnam. With these tariffs reduced or eliminated, the TPP will help California's farmers, ranchers and producers. 

The bottom line is that trade has been critical for California's economic growth, and it will be vital to sustaining that growth.  

As you know, past trade deals have negatively affected certain areas of our workforce. This is why in addition to supporting TPA, I also strongly support Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA). TAA provides workers displaced by trade with job retraining and other assistance. I look forward to TAA becoming law as soon as possible, and as a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to push for funds for the program each year. 

Lastly, it is important to note that beyond economic considerations, the proposed TPP is key for our national security and foreign policy objectives. TPP will require our trade partners to raise their standards with respect to human rights and workers' rights. Further, it will require countries like Vietnam and Malaysia to improve their laws and enforcement against human trafficking and wildlife trafficking, which I believe are absolutely critical. 

Additionally, TPP will help the United States re-balance our global priorities to take into account the increasing role of the Asia-Pacific region. Pursuing free and fair trade with our allies in the region is a key part of that re-balance. By creating a free trade zone, we will be ensuring its member countries play by internationally-recognized rules that we will help establish. Rejecting this trade deal would cede influence to countries that do not share our commitment to worker rights, human rights and environmental stewardship. 

As the information above demonstrates, trade is economically vital for California and the nation, which is why I will continue to support Trade Promotion Authority.

Sincerely yours,


  Dianne Feinstein
         United States Senator Comment: Senator Feinstein's letters and position on TPA improved greatly. Her staff when from a position that the TPP was secret and they did not know the content of it and would take a leadership position on something unseen. Ambassador Froman told me on many occasions the TPP was the most transparent free trade agreement in history. President Obama said they same.  It seems, based on this letter, she has either seen the agreement or based on the economics of the agreement to California, she accepts the economic and political reality of the U.S. taking a major trade initiative in Asia and competing with the influence of China.  As a diplomat and an economist, I agree with her "trade is economically vital for California and the nation."
These letters are always undated but this one came into our account July 14, 2015. Jim Patterson

Diplomat Jim Patterson on the Canadian Dairy Dispute Holding Up TPP

Canadian Subsidies Distort Trade

The current U.S.-Canada dairy dispute blocking finalization of the Trans-Pacific Partnership is a legacy of the Clinton administration’s Nafta failures

Published July 16, 2015 5:43 p.m. ET in response to a Wall Street Journal article on Canadian dairy subsidies distorting trade. All subsidies distort trade and the US is the biggest trade distorter on agricultural products and the loudest to shout over agricultural subsidies by other nations. There is too much soft diplomacy, assurances, side letters, etc. etc. that nullify major portions of trade agreements, benefit corporate agribusiness, penalize small farmers and adversely impact labor markets. Politicians are poor negotiators.

The public despises NAFTA for all the wrong reasons. It was a distorted free trade agreement by US and Canadian political interests and commodity groups. 

Dear Sirs, 

I speak as an agricultural economist (Auburn University) who worked on the North American Free Trade Agreement at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the 1990s. The current U.S.-Canada dairy dispute blocking finalization of the Trans-Pacific Partnership is a legacy of the Clinton administration’s Nafta failures (“U.S.-Canada Dairy Dispute Sours Trade Negotiations,” U.S. News, July 11).

It was a huge mistake by U.S. negotiators to allow Canada to legally violate the terms of Nafta with regard to dairy. Former President Bill Clinton also let U.S. commodity groups violate the terms of Nafta. Only Mexico is forced to comply with the most oppressive terms of Nafta to protect U.S. and Canadian trade interests. Is there any wonder why most Americans don’t trust Washington on so-called free-trade deals?

Do the Canadian dairy subsidies distort trade in dairy products? Yes, they do, and they distort trade far beyond dairy. President Obama and USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and the whole of the U.S. are seeing just how distortive these and other subsidies can be. They are holding up a trade deal economically vital to the U.S. and its Asian trading partners. The Clinton legacy of “free trade” distortion will limit the success of the TPP unless Canadian subsidies are eliminated.

James Patterson
San Francisco 

Diplomat Jim Patterson Associate Member of Korean veterans Association

Diplomat Jim Patterson, a Life Member of the American Foreign Service Association, recently attended events in Washington DC commemorating the Korean War (June 25, 1950 to July 27, 1953). Patterson's late father, James G. Patterson, was a Korean veteran. 

Sixty-seven nations, including the U.S., Canada and Mexico, joined in supporting the Republic of Korea from the Communist attack. Flags from each nation were arrayed with era war and peace photographs on Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House. (Photo courtesy of National Park Service)

Jim Patterson is an Associate Member of the Korean Veterans Association.

At his Silicon Valley Office, Patterson is active with the Korean community. In this photograph he is meeting Mike Kim, an executive with LinkedIn and a member of the San Francisco Seoul Sister City business delegation.

This event, an international cultural reception for South Korea, was held at San Francisco's World Affairs Council. Patterson and Kim discussed technology, Korean unification, the U.S. role in Korea, South Korea's world famous football team, human rights abuses in North Korea, continuing political tensions with the North and and the delectable qualities of South Korean food, especially barbeque. South Korea's flag is in the background. (Photograph courtesy World Affairs Council.)

Jim Patterson and President Obama on China

Dear James: Thank you for writing.  I welcome the continuing rise of a China that is peaceful, prosperous, and stable, and that plays a responsible role in the world.  The United States has much to gain from a closer working relationship with China, and there are very few global challenges we can address effectively without its active cooperation.  With significant resources and skill in addressing a range of challenges, China plays a major part in the global economy, and engagement with the Chinese government is important to ensuring strong, sustainable, and balanced growth around the world.  My Administration is working with China on a number of issues, including stopping North Korea’s nuclear program, food safety and public health, energy security and climate change, and nuclear non-proliferation and counterterrorism.  We want to deepen our cooperation in addressing these issues in the years ahead. In addition to expanding practical cooperation, I am also committed to working with our Chinese counterparts to constructively manage our differences.  Improved relations with China will require candor and open discussion about those issues on which we may disagree.  We must address human rights, democracy, and free speech, as well as cybersecurity and maritime issues, and we must create a level playing field for American workers, ranchers, and businesses.  We must also strive to ensure that the global economic system is governed by international rules based on open and transparent economic competition.  These important matters will be essential elements of our ongoing engagement with China. Thank you, again, for writing.  For more information on my foreign policy agenda, I encourage you to visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/Issues/Foreign-Policy. Sincerely, Barack Obama

President Obama on Cuba

Yesterday, after more than 50 years, we began to change America's relationship with the people of Cuba.
We are recognizing the struggle and sacrifice of the Cuban people, both in the U.S. and in Cuba, and ending an outdated approach that has failed to advance U.S. interests for decades. In doing so, we will begin to normalize relations between our two countries.
I was born in 1961, just over two years after Fidel Castro took power in Cuba, and just as the U.S. severed diplomatic relations with that country.
Our complicated relationship with this nation played out over the course of my lifetime -- against the backdrop of the Cold War, with our steadfast opposition to communism in the foreground. Year after year, an ideological and economic barrier hardened between us.
That previous approach failed to promote change, and it's failed to empower or engage the Cuban people. It's time to cut loose the shackles of the past and reach for a new and better future with this country.
I want you to know exactly what our new approach will mean.
First, I have instructed Secretary of State John Kerry to immediately begin discussions with Cuba to re-establish diplomatic relations that have been severed since 1961. Going forward, we will re-establish an embassy in Havana, and high-ranking officials will once again visit Cuba.
Second, I have also instructed Secretary Kerry to review Cuba's designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism -- a review guided by the facts and the law. At a time when we are focused on threats from ISIL and al Qaeda, a nation that meets our conditions and renounces terrorism should not face such a sanction.
Third, we'll take steps to increase travel, commerce, and the flow of information to -- and from -- Cuba. These steps will make it easier for Americans to travel to Cuba. They will make it easier for Americans to conduct authorized trade with Cuba, including exports of food, medicine, and medical products to Cuba. And they will facilitate increased telecommunications connections between our two countries: American businesses will be able to sell goods that enable Cubans to communicate with the United States and other countries.
Learn more about the steps we're taking to change our policy.
These changes don't constitute a reward or a concession to Cuba. We are making them because it will spur change among the people of Cuba, and that is our main objective.
Change is hard -- especially so when we carry the heavy weight of history on our shoulders.
Our country is cutting that burden loose to reach for a better future.
Thank you,
President Barack Obama

Diplomat Jim Patterson: "Investing the Philippines is Smart Business Decision."

PRESS RELEASE
WDC-045-2015
30 June 2015
WASHINGTON, DC—Recent developments and policy changes in Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT/BPM) in the Philippines are making the country ripe for investment and poising it to ride a new wave of revolution in information and communications technology (ICT).

This was the message of government officials and business leaders who traveled to San Francisco for a conference entitled “Invest in the Philippines: Asia’s Bright Spot,” the third and final leg of a high level trade and investment mission to the United States on 29 June 2015.

In his remarks, Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. pointed out that the IT/BPM and ICT industries in the Philippines are very much alive and have been a strong driving force in the Philippine economy.
“The choice of San Francisco as the third city of this historic High Level Trade and Economic Mission to the United States is very appropriate. San Francisco, and Silicon Valley in particular, is the heartland of innovation and technology. And the importance of information and communications technology, which this city breathes and lives, is one that is not lost on the Philippines,” said Ambassador Cuisia.

The envoy added, “The first wave of the information and communications technology revolution transformed the Philippine semi-conductor industry into one of the most important segment of our economy. Today, the IT/BPM industry has been the fastest growing industry in the Philippines in the last ten years. In 2011, we overtook India to become the number one outsourcing destination for voice support. And the Philippines is second only to India as a global outsourcing destination, specifically in the areas of healthcare and software.”

However, the Philippines is still facing challenges in the IT/BPM and ICT industries. According to keynote speaker Mr. Diosdado Banatao, Managing Partner of Tallwood Venture Capital, a main challenge that remains for the country is infrastructure building in ICT, particularly the lack of internet bandwidth, which he also noted as an area of opportunity for investments.

The government is addressing these issues through legislature aimed at reforming the country, boosting economic growth, and creating an environment conducive to investment.

Senate President Franklin M. Drilon, who participated in the San Francisco Conference, shared the Congressional agenda for the last year of the Aquino administration, which is to pass the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act in order to institutionalize reforms and best practices, amend the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Charter to strengthen its regulatory power, and approve the Customs Modernization Law to achieve trade facilitation and logistics efficiency.

According to Senator Drilon, a bill to create the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is also on its way.

On 2 June, the Senate approved the third and final reading Senate Bill No. 2686, which mandated the creation of the DICT. The bill would effectively create the agency charged with developing, planning, and promoting the government’s ICT agenda, as well as speed up the industry’s growth and competiveness by enhancing the country’s technology linkages with ICT firms abroad. The House version is currently being debated at the committee level.

There has also been a greater emphasis on education, which is further enriching one of the biggest assets of the country, its human resource.

Secretary of Trade and Industry Gregory L. Domingo pointed out that the young Philippine workforce is only getting better due to the reforms in the educational sector such as the introduction of K-12 and doubling the budget of education.

Panelists in the conference agreed that with a strong, high-skilled and eager labor force, good political leadership, the ability to provide the required infrastructure, the Philippines has created an excellent business environment.

“It is our hope that this conference will generate not only investments in infrastructure and PPP, which are equally important to the continued success of the Philippine economic story, but also in the information and communications technology sector. Such investments from the United States will complement the Philippine Government’s investments, in the last few years, on the infrastructure, technology and human resources that underpin the growing Philippine economy,” said Ambassador Cuisia.

The Conference is the third stop of a high level trade and investment mission to the United States taking place from 24 to 29 June 2015. The delegation made a pitch in Washington, D.C. on 24 June and conducted an Economic Briefing and Investment Conference in New York on 26 June.
The Mission is an important follow-up to the Philippines-United States Memorandum of Cooperation on an Infrastructure Collaboration Platform, which was signed during the 8th Global Infrastructure Leadership Forum (GILF) held in New York in February.

The Conferences are being organized by the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. and the Philippine Consulates General in New York and San Francisco, in partnership with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the US-Philippines Society, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Investor Relations Office, as well as Citibank, Deutsche Bank, Development Bank of the Philippines, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, JP Morgan, Land Bank of the Philippines, Morgan Stanley, Standard Chartered, and UBS. ###

Jim Patterson  Diplomat
Life Member American Foreign Service Association

Diplomat Jim Patterson & Senator Dianne Feinstein on Cybersecurity

Dear Mr. Patterson:

Thank for your writing to express your concerns regarding data breaches of personal financial information.  Your correspondence is important to me, and I welcome the opportunity to respond. 

As you are aware, the financial information of certain customers held by multinational companies ranging from Target to Home Depot has been compromised by hackers, leaving some individuals susceptible to identity theft and fraud.

I understand that you believe that retailers should be required to protect consumer information more vigilantly.  I also recognize that you believe retailers should be held to the same data protection standards as financial institutions such as credit unions.

Please know that I share your concerns about the protection of personal privacy, particularly with respect to Americans' financial information.  For more than a decade, I have worked to pass legislation requiring notification to consumers after a data breach, and I have supported legislation that would better protect Americans' personal information.  In the 113th Congress, I joined Senator John Rockefeller (D-WV) in introducing the Data Security and Breach Notification Act, which would require the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to issue security standards for companies that hold consumers' personal and financial information and notify affected customers after a data breach.  Although this legislation did not pass before the 113th Congress adjourned, I remain hopeful that the Senate will be able to come together and pass meaningful consumer privacy protections.  

You may be interested to know that on February 4, 2014, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing called "Privacy in the Digital Age: Preventing Data Breaches and Combating Cybercrime."  For your convenience, I have included a link to the webcast here: 

http://www.judiciary.senate.gov/hearings/hearing.cfm?id=138603a26950ad873303535a6300170f

Once again, thank you for taking the time to write.  Please know that I will keep your concerns in mind should this issue come before me in the U.S. Senate.  If you have any additional questions or comments, please contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841.  Best regards.

Sincerely yours,


  Dianne Feinstein
         United States Senator
Further information about my position on issues of concern to California and the nation are available at my website, feinstein.senate.gov. And please visit my YouTube, Facebook and Twitter for more ways to communicate with me.

Diplomat Jim Patterson: Invest in the Philippines

PRESS RELEASE
WDC-043-2015
27 June 2015

WASHINGTON, DC—Investments in people, infrastructure and reforms have transformed the Philippines into a prime destination for foreign capital in recent years, according to Philippine Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima, who was one of the keynote speakers at the Economic Briefing and Investment Conference held on 26 June 2015 at Goldman Sachs in New York City.

Entitled “Invest in the Philippines: Asia’s Bright Spot,” the New York Conference underscored the significant improvements the country has made in terms of macroeconomic governance, promoting transparency, enhancing the ease of doing business, and focusing on infrastructure development. These factors, combined with a competent, hardworking and growing workforce, and a central location in an economically dynamic region, have increased the attractiveness of the Philippines in the eyes of foreign investors.

“The Philippines is not perfect, nor is it completely efficient, but to investors like you, it is an opportunity. In fact, many companies are already silently making money,” Secretary Purisima stated.
BPI Capital Corporation President Dennis Montecilloagreed with the bullish assessment, saying that there has been a noticeable shift in the demand for foreign private equity. Montecillo, who previously worked for Morgan Stanley in Hong Kong, recounted how private equity clients have now developed a keen interest in the Philippines, with some calling the Philippines their core markets, from demonstrating a very low level of interest in 2000-2007.

In addition to the Philippines acquiring investment grade in the credit ratings of S&P, Moody’s and Fitch, the country’s debt to GDP ratio is at its lowest at 45.4% in 2014, from as high as 97.7% in 1986.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor DiwaGuinigundo further substantiated the Philippines trajectory and he forecasts the debt to GDP ratio to continue its downward trajectory, anticipating a debt to GDP ratio of 0% within the next 10 years. He adds, however, that “there is no magic number with regards to any country’s debt to GDP ratio. The emphasis must be placed on the fiscal space and the government’s ability to spend in terms of investment and infrastructure.”

Philippine officials and private businesses have pointed to good governance as the main driver of economic growth. Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory L. Domingo and National Competitiveness Council Co-Chair Guillermo Luzhighlighted the Philippines’ steady rise in competitiveness rankings and assured the audience that liberalization and economic reforms will continue.

Secretary Domingo enumerated some encouraging developments, including the release of the new Foreign Investment Negative List which features fewer restrictions on foreign investments; the impending amendment of the Cabotage Law that will allow foreign vessels to make calls at multiple ports; and the European Union’s granting of GSP+ status to the Philippines, which gives about 6,000 product lines duty-free access to the European market.

He also cited the substantial growth of the IT/BPO sector, which is expected to generate US$ 25 billion in revenues in 2016 from the current amount of US$ 18 billion.

Manolito Tayag, Accenture’s Country Managing Director for the Philippines, projected that the IT/BPO sector will go up from 1 million to 1.3 million employees in 2016. He explained that the future growth of the country’s IT/BPO sector is underpinned by its moving up the value chain, including analytics; the opening of new markets in Latin America, Europe, and even within the Philippines; identifying niche industries; locating regional and global centers in Manila; and creating a new wave of BPO cities.

Upgrading the country’s infrastructure is also seen as a key to boosting productivity and tourism.
Transportation and Communication Undersecretary Rene K. Limcaoco outlined the transport development plan, and explained the key performance indicators relating to reducing transport costs by about 8.5%, and logistics costs to 15%. He noted that the Philippines’ 653-kilometer North-South Rail is currently the largest infrastructure project in the country’s history at over US$ 8 billion.

The Philippine Government has actively sought private sector participation in infrastructure development. Undersecretary Cosette V. Canilao, Executive Director of the Public-Private
Partnership (PPP) Center, informed the group that three projects worth US$ 4.24 billion are being rolled out, while six projects amounting to US$ 4.6 billion are pending formal approval for roll out.
Mr. Jay Collins, Vice Chairman of Corporate and Investment Banking at Citigroup, acknowledged that the Philippines has made strides to free up fiscal space and ensure that it is infrastructure investment friendly.

He also emphasized that infrastructure risk needs to be assessed with the overall macro-environment and that focus should be given on how the domestic financial institutions can help bridge gaps and provide expertise in areas such as deal structuring and contract standardization.

Notwithstanding the significant reforms and positive outlook, the constitutional limitations on foreign equity as well as the prohibition on foreign ownership of land continue to put off investors, according to Atty. Alex B. Cabrera, Chairman and Senior Partner of Isla Lipana & Co. However, he stressed that there are legal means to surmount these challenges.

Special economic zones represent a productive use of land to attract and grow foreign investments. Bases Conversion and Development Authority Executive Vice-President Aileen Zosa referred to the success of Clark Base as a special economic zone and its high ability to host backroom and BPO operations of various companies. She introduced the development of the Clark Green City initiative which incorporates over 9,400 hectares of forest land for mixed-use commercial development.

“Invest in the Philippines: Asia’s Bright Spot,” garnered positive responses, due in large part to its effort to present a comprehensive and balanced appraisal of the state of the Philippine economy.

“The Republic of the Philippines delegation conveys the image of a dynamic nation, proud of its past achievements in the economic and social fields, but also aware of what lies ahead and keen to take on the challenges that will turn it into one of the world’s top 20 economies by 2050,” said Mr. Dominique Jooris, moderator of panel on the Philippine macroeconomy, and Managing Director for Asia Credit Capital Markets at Goldman Sachs.

In his remarks, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. addressed the issue of making the reform process irreversible.

“But looking towards the future, to the post-Aquino era, I should like to note that in order to ensure the sustainability of our good governance dividends, the Philippine Government is now focusing on a menu of crucial policy areas in the remaining months and days of the Aquino administration in order to preserve the gains of the good governance reforms that have been put in place.”

The Economic Briefing and Investment Conference in New York City is the second stop of a high level trade and investment mission to the United States taking place from 24 to 29 June 2015. The delegation made a pitch in Washington, D.C. on 24 June and will make its final stop in San Francisco on 29 June.

The Mission is an important follow-up to the Philippines-United States Memorandum of Cooperation on an Infrastructure Collaboration Platform, which was signed during the 8th Global Infrastructure Leadership Forum (GILF) held in New York in February.

The Conferences are being organized by the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. and the Philippine Consulates General in New York and San Francisco, in partnership with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the US-Philippines Society, as well as Citibank, Deutsche Bank, Development Bank of the Philippines, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, JP Morgan, Land Bank of the Philippines, Morgan Stanley, Standard Chartered, and UBS. ###

Awaiting Senator Barbara Boxer's Response on Situation in South Sudan

Note: Senator Boxer is a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and I am eager to read her response to this letter on brutality against children in South Sudan. I will post it when it is received. 

James Patterson, Diplomat

Life Member American Foreign Service Assoc.

San Francisco CA 94107-4232

June 26, 2015

Senator Barbara Boxer

United States Senate                                                                    

Washington DC 20510

Dear Senator Boxer,

The San Francisco Chronicle recently reported that 129 children were killed in fighting in South Sudan. Little boys were brutally castrated and left to bleed and little girls were gang raped and killed based on reports from United Nations children's agency UNICEF. The agency reports other children were burned alive.

UNICEF reports South Sudan's military was responsible for these atrocities. I know Secretary of State John F. Kerry has spent considerable diplomatic effort in South Sudan since April 2014. Still, the South Sudan military is engaged in a horror campaign against innocent children.

I urge to ask Secretary Kerry to do more to stop these horrific crimes against humanity in South Sudan. Further, the U.S. government should not be funding South Sudan's military to commit such barbarous acts.   

Please inform me what you can do to save the children of South Sudan. I would appreciate the courtesy of an email response to JEPDiplomat@gmail.com I am writing because I have had difficulty submitting questions over your website.  Thank you for your assistance with this deeply troubling issue of violence against children in South Sudan.

Yours truly,

James Patterson, Diplomat

www.HumanRightsIssues.com

John Diaz

San Francisco Chronicle

Foreign Policy

Washington DC

Congressional Gold Medals for Filipino WWII Soldiers

June 24, 2015

Mr. James Patterson, Diplomat

Life Member American Foreign Service Association

Dear Mr. Patterson:

My name is Thryza Navarrete and I work for Ambassador Cuisia at the Philippine Embassy.

I am writing to thank you for your letter to Senator Feinstein.  We are pleased that the Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers will now be recognized with the Congressional Gold Medals.  It is through the support of many concerned individuals like you that this has been accomplished.  We thank you again for your support.

Mabuhay! 

Thryza Navarrete

Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines

1600 Massachusetts Ave NW
Washington, DC 20036

My letter to Senator Dianne Feinstein 

 

James Patterson, Diplomat

Life Member American Foreign Service Association

JEPDiplomat@gmail.com

June 11, 2015

Senator Dianne Feinstein

United States Senate

Washington DC 20510

Submitted via Email

Dear Senator Feinstein,

I am writing in support of legislation, recently introduced in the House and Senate, to honor Filipino and Filipino-American soldiers who fought in World War II with Congressional Gold Medals.

Please work with Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono, Virginia Senator Tim Keane, and other members of the U.S. Senate to pass this important legislation. It is time for our country to honor the courageous Filipino and Filipino-Americans who fought for freedom and to defend the world from Axis aggression, terror and torture.

Please share with me your thoughts on Congress awarding the Gold Medal to Filipino and Filipino-American WWII veterans. Thank you for the courtesy of an email response to JEPDiplomat@gmail.com

                                                                                                 

Respectfully,

Jim Patterson

Philippines Today, Manila Office

Room 102 G/F National Press Club Bldg.

Magallanes Drive

Intramuros, MANILA