Things that matter
This strike me as a problem: The U.S. State Department’s point man for Pakistan—perhaps the world’s most dangerous place—has virtually no previous experience in South Asia. I’m talking about Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Richard Boucher, whose prior positions were assistant secretary for public affairs and department spokesman. This is ...
This strike me as a problem: The U.S. State Department's point man for Pakistan—perhaps the world's most dangerous place—has virtually no previous experience in South Asia.
This strike me as a problem: The U.S. State Department’s point man for Pakistan—perhaps the world’s most dangerous place—has virtually no previous experience in South Asia.
I’m talking about Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Richard Boucher, whose prior positions were assistant secretary for public affairs and department spokesman.
This is not a knock on Boucher, mind you. I’m sure he’s a dedicated and capable public servant with a sterling reputation inside the department. He does speak French and Chinese, and was consul in Hong Kong and Cyprus. As spokesman, he regularly accomplished the key task of boring journalists to death at the podium and thus making no news. And for what it’s worth, U.S. policy on Pakistan is probably being screwed up set at a level well above his pay grade. I’m just mystified as to why the higher-ups thought he was the best person in the entirety of the U.S. foreign-policy apparatus for this critical job.
More from Foreign Policy
The Scrambled Spectrum of U.S. Foreign-Policy Thinking
Presidents, officials, and candidates tend to fall into six camps that don’t follow party lines.
What Does Victory Look Like in Ukraine?
Ukrainians differ on what would keep their nation safe from Russia.
The Biden Administration Is Dangerously Downplaying the Global Terrorism Threat
Today, there are more terror groups in existence, in more countries around the world, and with more territory under their control than ever before.
Blue Hawk Down
Sen. Bob Menendez’s indictment will shape the future of Congress’s foreign policy.
Sign up for World Brief
FP’s flagship evening newsletter guiding you through the most important world stories of the day. Delivered weekdays.
By submitting your email, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use and to receive email correspondence from us. You may opt out at any time.