Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Hague Stresses Strong US -UK Ties

As the United Kingdom welcomed news of Prince William’s recent royal engagement, Georgetown welcomed William Hague, U.K. secretary of foreign and commonwealth affairs, on Wednesday as he completed a four-part series of major foreign policy speeches.

Hague’s talk focused on strong ties between the United States and the United Kingdom, and the role that the U.K. plays in world affairs. According to Hague, finishing his lecture series in the States was a symbolic choice.

“Our indispensable relationship with America is at the heart of the U.K.’s place in the world,” Hague said.

Hague was appointed as U.K. foreign secretary last May as a result of England’s new coalition government. In his new position, Hague has delivered foreign policy briefings in London, Japan and now the United States. The lecture marked Hague’s first return to the Hilltop since 1982, when he participated in a debate about British policy in Northern Ireland on campus.

“I enjoyed my visit here as a 21-year-old,” Hague said. “The students on this campus know how to have a very good time.”

Peppering his dialogue with British wit, Hague delivered a foreign policy speech in which he predicted continued U.K. prominence in global affairs.

“I am confident the U.K. will continue to be one of the most effective global leaders in the upcoming years,” Hague said. “We will never shrink from our international security responsibilities that come with our economic and military strengths, as well as with our membership in international organizations.”

Hague emphasized that the U.K. is committed to both national and international security despite defense budget cuts that have been introduced to help the nation resolve its deficit problems. Hague also linked strong financial policies with a strong national defense, stating that one is not possible without the other.

“Financial stability is at the heart of international affairs,” Hague said. “A [re-balancing] of priorities and organizational tactics brings together our efforts across culture, sport and beliefs for a thickening of relationships with other nations.”

Addressing the alliance between the United States and the U.K., Hague promised to continue supporting the United States in its war in Afghanistan. He also announced the need for more cooperation between the United States and the U.K. on the issue of cyberspace security. According to Hague, both nations should make it a priority to protect people without undermining the flow of information and free speech rights.

Hague also called for well-established national partnerships and more concern for the needs of developing countries.

“We must use a rounded approach to foreign policy,” Hague said. “It is not just about making impacts now; we must set up success for future foreign affairs.”

Students in attendance praised Hague’s speech.

“[Hague] provided interesting insight into U.S./U.K. relations,” British exchange student Stuart Taylor (COL ’12) said. “It is good to have such top-level officials speak to us – it adds to the prestige of the university.”

Sean Keady (SFS ’13) found the secretary’s visit refreshing because of the international flair.

“I feel like Georgetown is fairly well represented with the U.S. diplomatic corps, so it is nice to get other perspectives,” Keady said. “Plus, he was definitely more charismatic than Hillary Clinton when she came to campus.”

Straying from more traditional political topics, Hague did take some time to joke about the American media fervor surrounding Prince William’s recent engagement.

“Even though your ancestors all came [to the United States] to escape kings and queens, you all seem to be obsessed with every little thing they do,” Hague joked. “Perhaps you miss them a bit.”

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