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June 4748 ★ President Seichō delivered a major foreign policy speech today at Eiwa National University, wherein she focused on issues of international trade, development and solidarity between the developed and developing worlds. While the president has an extensive catalogue of political writings and teachings, she is widely perceived as an apolitical, unifying figure in Sekowan society.
Seichō appeared to those gathered in the auditorium in plain Artanian-style clothing, not unusual for the Kando-ji Abbess in the discharge of her duties as President. Seichō began by offering a prayer and blessing upon those gathered to hear from her, before taking her place at the podium. Many of the young students mustered in the cramped, sweaty theatre offered an effuse and enthusiastic standing ovation for the President, until they were silenced by a gentle, yet swift wave of her wrist.
The address began by Seichō asserting that, "In ancient times mountains arose, our mighty rivers roared forth, and our sapphire lakes were formed. Our highlands, plains and valleys were covered with greenery and flowers. We populated this sacred planet with different faces and hues, and since that time we have understood the plurality that exists in all things and in our diversity as human beings and cultures."
These opening lines set much of the tone for the speech, as the president continually drew links between economics, nature and Daenism. Seichō declared that economic development should continue, not to increase excessive material consumption, but to increase productive capabilities, which is necessary to reduce poverty and improve well-being all over the world.
"Even with lower aggregate consumption, welfare can be increased without increase in consumption by consuming differently, rather than consuming more," Seichō said. "Look at the birds; they consume only as much as their stomachs can hold. They cannot take in more than that. They have no granaries for hoarding. Look at the ants and insects; that is all they can do. Look at the trees; they can take in only as much as their trunks will allow."
Seichō argued that Daenist philosophy and materialist critiques share a deeper understanding of the root causes of human suffering, critiquing the "industry of aid," as insufficient to bringing about substantial change and development:
"It is almost laughable simply to speak of solving the problems of hunger, illiteracy, and illness," said Seichō. "These are not the real problems at all; they are merely symptoms. The root of the problem of exploitation has not been addressed."
Developing on this theme, Seichō denounced war and violence on the continent, and around the world, calling for a pacifistic ethic in international affairs. She criticized those in the developed world who choose aggression over diplomacy, enabled by an institutionalization of decision-making in the hands of the most powerful.
"The calls for justice originating from this continent are spurned like bald and mangy dogs whose lamentations and cries disturb the peace and quiet of the manufacturers and merchants of misery," said Seichō. "If we truly desire peace we must choose the path of peace; killing others can only lead to being killed. If we are to recognize our natural interdependence, we should act out of mutual kindness and compassion, overcoming evil with goodness."
Further, the president decried the present "free trade" arrangements sought by developed countries vis a vis developing countries. Seichō alternatively called for "a preferential option for the oppressed," borrowing a phrase from the Hosian tradition, in agreements between states.
"Free trade and the unrestricted globalization of economic exploitation chains cannot be the only option for development presented to the most oppressed and marginalized peoples of the world," said Seichō. "We must encourage the emergence of alternative modes of development, and act with a sense of moral urgency and social ethics in assisting countries in their development, as best they see fit."
To this end, Seichō applauded the governments of
Lourenne and
Indrala, which had ratified preferential trade agreements with the Kingdom of Hanzen. These agreements give Hanzenese exports tariff-free access to the markets of those richer nations, while allowing the Kingdom to impose tariffs as they see fit for their domestic development. While Seko doesn't enjoy a comparable level of development, Seichō announced that Seko would be ratifying such an agreement with Hanzen as well.
"These countries have shown the way forward, in ratifying agreements which foster mutual understanding and which recognize the unique needs of the developing world," Seichō said. "The needs of the poor take priority over the desires of the rich; the rights of workers over the maximization of profits; the preservation of the environment over uncontrolled industrial expansion; production to meet social needs over production for military purposes. This is what we mean when we talk about a preferential option."
The president briefly touched on a number of topical issues, praising the
emergence of a stable and progressive government in Ostland, while registering her dismay with developments to the north.
"It is profoundly saddening to many, to watch the emerging government to the north
slander the September Revolution and those who govern by its ideals as 'tyrannical.' Such comments can only be borne out of ignorance and a complete unwillingness to comprehend the other side of a very ideological debate," said Seichō. "We certainly find it concerning that this discourse is being stoked by a political force which advocates imperialism and the representation of Hulstrians alone."
Seichō concluded her address by stating the following:
"It is necessary to look at the map of Dovani, to place oneself before its splendid multiplicity, before the cosmic generosity of the wide places which surround us, in order to understand why we refuse to share the dishonour and plundering of the past, of all that which has been taken away from an exploited and oppressed peoples. One may feel lonely when located in this wide geography of pain and history, but there is no insurmountable solitude. All paths lead to the same goal: to convey to others what we are. And we must pass through solitude and difficulty, isolation and silence in order to reach forth to a condition which will bring enlightenment, justice, and dignity to all of humanity. "
Seichō speech received a rousing applause from those gathered at Eiwa National University before students filed out of the auditorium, eager to discuss and analyze their president's words. Seichō for her part, is said to be travelling back to her temple outside of Nago to engage in spiritual matters. Thus, it is yet to be seen how this landmark address will affect government policy moving forward.
OOC Note: This article incorporates quotes from Bhikkhu Buddhadasa, Pablo Neruda and Evo Morales, among others.