William Hague: Supporting the Arab Spring
The British foreign secretary discusses the situation in Syria and the UK’s role in the region.
From foreign invasions to a military coup, from iconic red soles to paramilitary boots, Sir David’s guests this week have seen it all.
William Hague, the UK’s foreign secretary, joins Sir David to discuss the many facets of British foreign policy, looking specifically at the UK’s support of the Arab Spring, its mission in Afghanistan, nuclear talks with Iran, and its tangled relationship with eurozone countries. What are the most pressing issues for the coming year?
Hague says: “The events of the Arab Spring have taken most of my time last year, and I think that will go on…. I think this is a process that will go on for some years and continue to through up different crises and conflicts. But we have to maintain our believe in the people of that region and help them where we can to have the freedom and the opportunity that we enjoy…. We all want Syrians to be able to decide in a democratic way, but certainly my view is that a leader who has killed so many of his own people cannot restore his credibility and leadership in the eyes of the world.”
Emilio Barbarani, an Italian diplomat and former ambassador to Chile, shares his experience of the military coup and the election of President Pinochet in 1974. He also offers his suggestions on how Europe can overcome the eurozone crisis.
| Christian Louboutin and Martin McGuiness |
Sir David will not be giving up his red socks for a pair of studded Louboutins but he joins the iconic French shoe designer at his boutique in London for a rare insight into the art of making the perfect shoe.
Former IRA leader and current deputy first minister of Northern Ireland, Martin McGuinness, joins Sir David to share his views on the ongoing quest for peace and reconciliation in the six counties and discusses what lies ahead regarding the North’s union with Britain.