May 2008








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Business: Africa
Ethiopian Coffee Wakes Up To Global Battle for Profits
by Larry Luxner

For most, coffee is just a nice beverage enjoyed on the job, but for Ethiopia’s Samuel Assefa, it’s a matter of economic survival.

Also See: Ugandan Coffee Farmers Cash in on Religious Differences


Capitol Corner : U.S. Rep. John F. Tierney
Tierney Seeks Accountability Through Oversight Powers
by John Shaw
Congressman John F. Tierney has plunged into his newfound oversight powers to examine a range of issues, from relations with Pakistan to weapons in space to patient care at Walter Reed.

Education Special Section
Five times a year, The Washington Diplomat publishes a special section focusing on education in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. This month’s section takes a closer look at how protocol remains as important as ever in navigating today’s complex interconnected world, the state of physical education in American public schools and an Arab-American fellowship program.

Cover Profile: Djibouti
Djibouti’s Dean of Diplomatic Corps Reflects on 20 Years in Washington
by Larry Luxner
From the Soviet demise to the Middle East’s rise, Djibouti’s Roble Olhaye, dean of the diplomatic corps in Washington, reflects on 20 years of profound change.

People of World Influence: James A. Baker III

From Iraq to Climate Change, Baker Sees Packed Agenda Ahead
by John Shaw
After leading the Iraq Study Group, former Secretary of State James A. Baker III has remained in the diplomatic limelight, offering thoughtful analysis on Iraq, Iran, Russia and beyond.

International Affairs: Middle East
Israel at 60: One People’s Joy’s Another’s Ongoing Tragedy
by Larry Luxner
Israel’s 60th anniversary this month will be marked by massive celebrations here and abroad, but not everyone’s feeling celebratory.

Trade: South America
Colombia Hasn’t Given up Hope On Shelved Free Trade Agreement
by Larry Luxner
Neither side is letting up in what has become a bruising, bitter political battle to open up U.S.-Colombia trade relations.

Diplomacy: Elder Wisdom
No Retirement Rest for Former World Leaders Like Ireland’s Robinson
by Mark Hilpert
The group of former world leaders that make up “The Elders” are proving that there’s life after political office.

Politics: Democracy
Zimbabwe Election Crisis Imperils Fragile State of African Democracy
by Larry Luxner
The world is waiting and watching to see how the election crisis in Zimbabwe unfolds, which could set the stage for democratic reforms across the continent for years to come.



Medical Special Section
Four times a year, The Washington Diplomat publishes a special section focusing on medical issues that impact the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. This month’s section examines how fibromyalgia patients still find themselves waging a medical battle for recognition of their pain and tuberculosis continues to claim millions of lives worldwide.






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