European collapse unlikely, Illawarra Mercury, James Dunn on 14/11/2011 ”……..Of particular interest this week is United States President Barack Obama’s brief visit to Canberra. No doubt there will be lots of speeches about the closeness of the US-Australia relationship.
However, when Prime Minister Julia Gillard reminds Mr Obama that we will see out the Afghanistan operation with them, she will hardly be expressing the views of many Australians.
The recent spate of casualties, seemingly inflicted by the people we went there to help, question the Australian force’s welcome in that country. These attacks may be part of a daring Taliban plot, but they must have a demoralising impact on our troops.
I share with retired General Alan Stretton the feeling that it is time we withdraw from that tortured country.
I am also concerned at the idea of having a US base in the Northern Territory. It risks drawing us into any conflict the Americans involve themselves in.
It sharply weakens our image of independence, and, of course, will not help our important relationship with China. http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/blogs/between-the-lines/european-collapse-unlikely/2356714.aspx
