[NotJustAnotherPrettyFace]

From Merali's "bio" on the Sameer website - these things ring the bell of international connections.

International Memberships
· World Economic Forum - Geneva, Switzerland
· The Conference Board - New York
· International Who's Who of Professionals

[kcvl]

2003 World Economic Forum

Kerry John F.
Senator from Massachusetts (Democrat), USA

[kcvl]

US Senator John Kerry from Massachusetts warned that support for protectionism will grow if the US population is not educated about the benefits of globalization and if emerging markets perceive the United States as not being sensitive enough to their needs. Kerry said the US must adopt a pro-growth approach in its foreign policy but become far more sensitive to the needs of the developing world.

The United States needs to lead and manage globalization," Kerry said. "Globalization is a phenomenon, not an economic movement," he added. "It needs to be tamed". This means being sensitive to and engaged in helping those countries which have adopted International Monetary Fund reforms and the American model of free market economic policies.

Kerry stressed that although the US population is largely internationalist rather than isolationist, this could change if the US economy comes under pressure. Congressman Leach agreed, saying that the greatest danger comes from US politicians who support protectionism for political gain once difficulties emerge in the global economy. Congressman Leach also issued a plea to build a strong, international banking system.

John F. Kerry