"It is fair, I think to say that for the most part they have served us very well in furthering Australia's interests and raising our acceptance in the Asia Pacific region."

When did the term 'Asia-Pacific' enter the lexicon? Geographically the term is imprecise, and anyway, Australia belongs to the Oceania region. No wonder Asian nations respond with such opposition to Australia's insistence that it belongs in their region.

Very interesting article Tim. A breath of fresh air to clean out the rot in the halls of power. I like the sound of Prime Minister Rudd but am I being premature? No I just like the sound of something other than Howard who has bashed my sense of democracy and fair treatment of our neighbours and refugees. Howard is the antithesis of fair play and democracy and Downer is an absolute asset to the Labor party every time he opens his mouth. Enough negatives. Rudd is a change for the better and I look forward to a better Australia under his stewardship and a better relationship with the rest of the world