Comments
On reflection, I wanted to follow up with two observations - first, the eloquence of the language displayed in the document may not be conveyed in English as well as it probably comes across in Arabic (I want to clarify that I speak very little Arabic, but have sat through enough Iraqi meetings to understand some aspects of their culture, and to realize that sometimes words are inadequate to convey meaning when discussing complex issues in two languages). The references, requests for blessings and thanks to God are commonplace in Iraqi official documents and the openings and closings of official meetings and statements. Even the illustrations and borders, which to westerners might seem excessive or distracting, reflect a sense of how Iraqis see the richness of their cultural heritage. These are in keeping with the socio-cultural fabric of Iraq and its people(s), and I think help the government illustrate some of the reasons why Iraqis should value a degree of nationality.
Second, this is means that we can use to dialogue with Iraq, its people, the states within region and the International community about progress on issues which allow them to reach the level of security and stability needed to govern.
I would recommend all strategists, policy makers and those who comment on International Affairs and the War in Iraq take a good look at this. My first read of it shows an Iraqi National Security Strategy that has:
-A very good grasp of the problems and threats it faces
-A coherent understanding of the relationships between the problems, threats and conditions that face it
-An accurate self- reflection of where it stands in addressing the problems and threats
-The relationship between the ends, ways and means required to address those problems
- A plan for strengthening the "means" so that the "ways" can be pursued
- An understanding of how it must employ its elements of national power to provide governance - and the limitations and constraints of national power
- An understanding of the role Federalism will play in providing governance
- An understanding of its future role in the region and international scene
- The recognition of the role Multi-National Forces currently have in helping Iraq realize its National Security Strategy
- And perhaps most importantly an expressed desire to be in control of its own affairs and pursue the ends of its strategy toward securing and preserving Iraq for Iraqis.
This certainly provides direction and I would argue that is also in line with our policy ends with regard to Iraq and the region. This is a very encouraging document, not only because of what it does for Iraqis in terms of providing strategic direction, but also because it shows a desire to do the most fundamental function that a government should provide to preserve a society - provide security and assure the conditions to which people can live an prosper.
I also beleive they understand the difficulty of what they propose, and that it is a journey whose stated goals will take some time to reach - but they show great courage in the stated boldness. For them the object in view is worth the difficulty in attaining it.
In truth Im a bit envious - they seem to have a better sense of the things that threaten them, and can communicate it more clearly in writing then we appear able to do at times.