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Royal College of Defence Studies Visit to the United States
RCDS conducted a study visit to New York and Washington between 12th and 18th April 2008. This was the third such visit to the US by the whole College and comprised of a lecture and seminar programme arranged in New York by the staff of the United Kingdom Permanent Representative (UK PERMREP), and in Washington by the National Defence University (NDU).
Robert M Gates, US Secretary of Defense
The objectives of the visit were to:
- Examine at first hand the key prevailing domestic and international factors, which impact on the USA’s global strategic priorities.
- Consider the means by which the USA will engage with the international community to address these priorities.
- Consider the role and assess the effectiveness of the UN in conflict prevention, resolution and post-conflict activities.
Highlights of the lecture programme included the following:
- Challenges Facing UN Peacekeeping - Major General Per Arne Five, Military Adviser Department of Peacekeeping Operations.
- Sustaining Recovery from Conflict - The role of the Peace Building Commission and Peace Building Support Office - Ms Carolyn McCaskie, Asst Secretary General PBSO.
- Visit to Security Council Chamber/General Assembly Room.
- A Diplomat’s View of Washington – Mr Dominick Chilcott, Deputy British Ambassador.
- House Armed Services Committee – Congressman Ike Skelton, Chairman of the Committee.
- Department of Defense – Issues and Challenges – Robert M Gates, US Secretary of Defense.
- The Supreme Court – Mr Justice Souter.