Annan criticizes policy of preemptive defense

[AmyStrange]

Annan criticizes policy of preemptive defense
By Marcella Bombardieri, Globe Staff | June 11, 2004

FROM: http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2004/06/11/annan_criticizes_policy_of_preemptive_defense/
CAMBRIDGE -- In a speech laden with implicit criticism of President Bush and the American invasion of Iraq, UN Secretary General Kofi A. Annan told graduates and alumni of Harvard University yesterday that the world needs "enlightened American leadership" and countries should not launch unilateral action to shape world events.

Speaking at Harvard's graduation ceremonies, Annan did not mention Bush by name but took clear jabs at the administration's policy of preemptive self-defense. "What kind of world would it be, and who would want to live in it, if every country was allowed to use force without collective agreement, simply because it thought there might be a threat?" he said.

Annan earned frequent applause during the speech, one of the most pointed critiques he has made of the Bush administration.

Annan said an international system can work only if countries accommodate different points of view and reach decisions collectively.

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