This follows the opening in 2011 of our Embassy in Addis Ababa, home of the African Union. Expanding our diplomatic footprint sends a clear signal of the Government's commitment to building a long-term partnership with the countries of Africa. Australia is also seeking membership of the African Development Bank. And our Prime Minister Julia Gillard hopes to attend the African Union Summit in Malawi this year, the first ever Australian Prime Minister to do so.

Speaking to an audience of special operations force leaders from around the globe, and those who provide the tools they need, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the State Department is working to mimic the "smart power" that's become the hallmark of special ops.

This article, therefore, examines the questions whether it is a Minister of Foreign Affairs or President Kiir or the entire Government of Republic of South Sudan is to blame for diplomatic failure over Panthoou/Higlig. In my opinion there are number of factors, which led to mounting diplomatic pressure on President Kiir. Please take a look at the followings.

Open letter to the German Ambassador: I have found it necessary to address this letter to you in view of certain developments at your Lagos Consulate with regard to visa requirements which have very adverse implications for academic practice in Nigeria.

The ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced May 22 that it will stage a fashion show and culture exhibition in Taipei City to celebrate Africa Day. “The initiative is in line with President Ma Ying-jeou’s cultural diplomacy approach,” the MOFA said in a statement. “It is also an opportunity for the people of Taiwan to experience African traditions.”

It is also noteworthy that its diplomatic efforts in Somalia presented Turkey with an important opportunity to illustrate its soft power in Africa. It is certainly an indication of Turkey's foreign policy ambition to become a major economic and political player in Africa.

India has reached out to Africa with an initiative to foster a People-to-People (P2P) understanding with Africa. “With 70 per cent of the population in Africa and India below the age of 25, promoting engagement between youth in Africa and India is imperative to pave the way for a shared future," said Navdeep Suri, the Joint Secretary, Public Diplomacy Division, Ministry of External Affairs, India.

As a Chinese person, I think the viewpoint is very interesting and needs some discussion. Obviously, the Chinese government is eager to change the image created by the coverage of the West media, and therefore spends a lot of effort on the construction of a positive image.