When NGOs and the private sector organizations become involved, support is more quickly forthcoming. Ambassador Roy replied that this is not a shift. Our top national security commanders work closely with Ambassadors in the field and are part of our diplomatic face to the world. Mrs. Oakley added that CINCs have resources. They can offer training, joint exercises, and some equipment.
Resources are very important when trying to influence countries.
In response to a question regarding the need for better dialogue between the business and development communities, Mr. Malloch Brown agreed that there has been some mutual suspicion and some conflicts of interest between the two groups. But, he added, business recognizes that it functions best in stable and democratic environments and he believes that the two communities are on track toward stronger partnerships. One questioner spoke of the Japanese model of encouraging community involvement in international affairs by creating offices of international engagement at the local level, institutionalized in local government. Mr. Malloch Brown noted that this has happened in one form in the United States with the explosion of NGOs that encourage interest in international programs. It was noted that sometimes missions were left uncompleted and that closer cooperation is needed among NGOs, official organizations, military, and local authorities in a given country.