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Host: Tracy Shuchart for MicDropMarketsGuests: Ross KennedyRoss Kennedy is the founder of Fortis Analysis, a strategic consultancy that serves public- and private-sector clients operating at the nexus of geoeconomics and national security. He is a logistics industry veteran, with seventeen years of direct experience operating agribusiness, chemical, energy, humanitarian, food, defense, and water supply chains.John KonradCaptain John Konrad, founder and CEO of gCaptain, is a seasoned maritime and offshore professional with hands-on experience in the energy sector. As a licensed captain for the world's largest ships, John has navigated drillships and oil tankers, working closely with energy operations in various ports worldwide. His expertise extends to building cutting-edge ships and overseeing billion-dollar offshore construction projects in the most challenging marine environments. John is author of "Fire on the Horizon: The Untold Story of the Gulf Oil Disaster" and is a distinguished alumnus of New York Maritime College.Disclaimer: This material is presented solely for informational and entertainment purposes and is not to be construed as a recommendation, solicitation, or an offer to buy or sell / long or short any securities, commodities, or any related financial instruments. Please contact a licensed professional before making any investment or trading decisions
With one of the most militarily and energy strategic states in our union, Alaska, being in the Arctic, and the extensive interests we have on the other side of the planet in Antarctica, do you wonder why our nation's icebreaking “fleet”—being what it is—amounts to an antique road show? Are you curious how our plan to replace them is making the LCS program look like a successful and well-run program? Can a nation of 335 million souls learn something from a nation of 5.5 million?Today's Midrats is for you with our guest, Peter Rybski.Pete is a retired nuclear-trained surface warfare officer who has served on six different ships and a couple of overseas staffs. His last job on Active Duty was as the U.S. Naval Attache to Finland. It was in that position that he began a deep dive into icebreakers and icebreaking technology. Pete retired in 2021, but remained in Finland, where he and his family live 106 miles from the Russian border.Forgot the most important part- He writes about icebreakers, security policy, and general life in Finland over at his Substack, Sixty Degrees North.ShowlinksSixty Degrees North article on USCG Polar Security Cutter ProgramSea ice trackerUSCGC Healy (WAGB-20)gCaptain article on Chinese icebreakersPolar Security Cutter Program from WikipediaWind Class icebreakersIcebreaker Collaboration Effort (ICE)Sam LaGrone article on the VT Halter icebreaker programLe Commandant Charcot, French icebreaking cruise shipFinland icebreaking Missile CorvettesAker ArcticDr Elizabeth Buchanan on XSummaryThis conversation delves into the critical role of icebreakers in U.S. Arctic strategy, highlighting the challenges faced by the U.S. Coast Guard in maintaining and expanding its icebreaker fleet. Guest Peter Rybski shares his experiences in Finland, where he developed a keen interest in icebreakers, and discusses the historical context of U.S. icebreaker capabilities compared to other nations. The dialogue also addresses procurement issues, legal challenges, and the necessity for armed icebreakers in the Arctic, culminating in a discussion about international cooperation through the Icebreaker Coalition.TakeawaysThe U.S. has not built an icebreaker in 50 years.80% of the world's icebreakers are designed in Finland.The Coast Guard has been slow to prioritize icebreaker needs.China is rapidly expanding its icebreaker fleet.The procurement process for U.S. icebreakers is dysfunctional.International cooperation is essential for icebreaker capabilities.The U.S. needs to consider purchasing foreign-built icebreakers.Armed icebreakers are necessary for Arctic security.The Icebreaker Coalition aims to enhance collaboration among allies.Political will is crucial for advancing U.S. icebreaker strategy.Chapters00:00: Introduction to Icebreakers and Arctic Strategy06:10: Transitioning to Finland: A Personal Journey13:03: The Importance of Icebreakers in Global Trade18:12: Challenges in U.S. Icebreaker Procurement24:34: The Complexity of Icebreaker Design and Construction30:00: Understanding the Delays in Icebreaker Development31:15: Legal and Political Constraints in Shipbuilding34:34: The Need for a Comprehensive Icebreaker Strategy37:17: Arming Icebreakers: A Strategic Discussion43:52: The Icebreaker Coalition: Collaboration and Challenges47:19: Finland's Defense Purchases and U.S. Relations51:42: China's Growing Influence in Antarctica53:53: Future Insights and Closing Thoughts
The International Longshoremen's Association & United States Maritime Alliance announced they reached a tentative deal Thursday night. The tentative agreement is for a wage increase of around 62% over six years & extend the master contract until January 15, 2025. The parties will continue to negotiate the outstanding issues.The outstanding issues you may ask?Autotomation. And to dig into this more, we welcome Captain John Konrad to help explain what this means for global supply chains. Captain Konrad is the founder and CEO of gCaptain and author of the book Fire On The Horizon: The Untold Story of the Gulf Oil Disaster. He is licensed to captain the world's largest ships and has sailed from ports around the world. John has built some of the world's most advanced ships and managed billion-dollar offshore construction projects in some of the world's harshest marine environments. John is a distinguished alumnus of New York Maritime College. Follow him on X @https://x.com/johnkonrad Where will I be next?Next up is DATCON, Oct. 22nd-24th in Kansas City. My audience can save $200 on tickets using code "armchair200". Next is the Broker-Carrier Summit, Oct. 23rd- 25th in Fort Worth. Finally, I will be at Freightwaves' F3: Future of Freight Festival, Nov. 19th-21st in Chattanooga! This program is brought to you by DAT Freight & Analytics. Since 1978, DAT has helped truckers & brokers discover more available loads. Whether you're heading home or looking for your next adventure, DAT has the data! New users of DAT can save 10% off for the first 12 months by following the links below. For Truckers, DAT One Pro gives you access to tri-haul & 15-day rate as opposed to 30-day rate. For Brokers, DAT One Select gives you access to Market Conditions, Exact Match alarms & more. Even under the best circumstances, moving freight was never easy.
We are excited to share this Special Edition COBT focused on the impact of the recent dockworkers' strike and its implications for the energy sector. As we send this out, you may have heard the strike has been suspended. It was and is a fascinating situation… and wait until you meet who we found to discuss the issues. We were lucky enough to connect with Dr. Salvatore Mercogliano, Associate Professor of History at Campbell University. In addition to his role at Campbell, Dr. Mercogliano also serves as an Adjunct Professor with the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Dr. Mercogliano has an extensive background in shipping and maritime history, having previously served as a merchant mariner with the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command. He holds a Ph.D. in Military and Naval History from the University of Alabama and is also the host of “What is Going on With Shipping?” We were thrilled to hear Sal's unique insights on the dockworkers' strike and on the shipping world overall. One strong takeaway we had from the conversation with Sal is that shipping will be getting more expensive over the next decade for a number of reasons. Sal first provides key background for understanding why the strike happened, differences between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) on the West Coast and the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) on the East and Gulf Coast, and recent contract history for the ILWU and ILA. We discuss the post-COVID surge in profits for container liners and how it has been a key driver for the ILA's push for wage increases, the ILA's concerns with automation, fearing job losses similar to what the ILWU experienced on the West Coast after automation was introduced, and the broader resurgence of unions' power post-COVID across different industries. Sal shares his perspectives on the ILA's leadership and influence, the potential economic impact of prolonged strikes (had the strike continued or if it resumes January 15), the effects on energy and refined product transportation, and rising shipping costs due to new fuel regulations, aging fleets, limited shipyard capacity, and longer lead times for shipbuilding. We also explore the evolving global shipping market, government involvement in strikes, global shipping's critical role in the world economy, the cyclical nature of trade trends, the importance of maintaining open maritime routes for continued global trade, and much more. It was an absolutely fascinating discussion. After we hung up with Sal, we stumbled on many other issues to explore with Sal in the future (like the dark fleet that transports Russian oil for example). As you'll hear in the discussion, we reference our COBT episode with Captain John Konrad, CEO of gCaptain. The episode is linked here. Mike Bradley kicked us off with a quick update on two current events: the East & Gulf Coast longshoremen's strike and the escalating Middle East conflict. On the longshoremen strike front, he noted that equity markets haven't been overly concerned that this strike would extend beyond the weekend, but if it does, then equity markets will begin to dial in some equity risk premium early next week. Regarding crude oil, he highlighted that WTI price spiked ~$4/bbl (to ~$74/bbl) on Thursday after President Biden was asked by a reporter whether he would support Israel striking Iran's oil facilities and Biden responded that they're discussing it. Oil markets are beginning to dial in some modest risk premium due to uncertainty of whether Israel will attack Iranian nuclear sites and/or key Iranian crude oil export terminals & refineries. He also noted that a key reason for the current oil price spike was a hedge fund trading squeeze brought on by an extremely bearish crude oil trading setup. He ended by noting that oil traders are beginning to focus on the December 1st OPEC meeting and whethe
Where there appears to be a fair bit of shock and surprise in the general public, for those who have tracked the story closest, the feeling could be found along the spectrum from resignation to dismay. This did not happen overnight - and for those given responsibility for our nation's sea power, this was only a matter of time. By acts of commission and omission, the nation that likes to call itself the world's greatest - because we are no longer the largest - seapower, finds itself here;The Navy will reportedly sideline 17 vessels due to a manpower shortage that makes it difficult to properly crew and operate ships across the fleet. …The ships include two replenishment ships, one fleet oiler, a dozen Spearhead-class Expeditionary Fast Transports and two forward-deployed Navy expeditionary sea bases – the USS Lewis Puller, based in Bahrain and the USS Herschel "Woody" Williams, based in Souda Bay, Greece.The effort is known as the "great reset" and is awaiting approval from Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti. The change will reduce Navy demands for officers by 700 mariners.No amount of spin or PAO squid ink can hide this carbuncle - so we're going to dive into it on the next Midrats Podcast. Returning to Midrats to get everyone up to speed is Dr. Sal Mercogliano, Chair Department of History, Criminal Justice and Political Science at Campbell University Former merchant mariner, contributor to USNI Proceedings, Sea History, Naval History, and gCaptain. Host of the YouTube channel What's Going on With Shipping.SummaryThe conversation discusses the recent decision by the Navy to sideline 17 vessels due to a manpower shortage. This decision has raised concerns about the impact on the fleet's operational capabilities. The guest, Dr. Sal Mercagliano, explains that this issue has been a long time coming and traces it back to decisions made in the 1980s. He highlights the challenges faced by Military Sealift Command (MSC) in recruiting and retaining mariners, as well as the negative impact of COVID-19 on crew availability. The conversation also touches on the lack of recognition and benefits for CivMars, the civilian mariners who serve on these ships.The conversation explores the challenges and potential solutions for the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the U.S. merchant marine. The complex chain of command for MSC and the stringent requirements for civilian merchant sailors are discussed. The need to make it easier for people to transition from active duty to MSC is highlighted. The conversation also addresses the issues of training, leave, and travel expenses for MSC mariners. The low recruitment rate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the negative experiences of some mariners with MSC are mentioned. The potential consequences of a shortage of mariners during a crisis are examined. The conversation emphasizes the importance of proper allocation of funds and the need for leadership and recognition of mariners' contributions. The lack of visibility and positive messaging about the merchant marine is discussed, along with the need for a national maritime strategy. The importance of logistics and the challenges of maintaining a strong logistics force are highlighted. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need to reevaluate the role of MSC and the potential benefits of reverting some ships from USNS to USS.TakeawaysThe Navy's decision to sideline 17 vessels due to a manpower shortage raises concerns about the fleet's operational capabilities.Recruiting and retaining mariners has been a long-standing challenge for Military Sealift Command (MSC).The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the crew availability issue.CivMars, the civilian mariners who serve on these ships, do not receive adequate recognition and benefits for their service. The chain of command for MSC is complicated, which makes life difficult for the Admiral in charge of MSC.There is a need to make it easier for people to transition from active duty to MSC.The stringent requirements for civilian merchant sailors and the training and travel expenses for MSC mariners need to be addressed and made more efficient.The recruitment rate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is low, and negative experiences with MSC can deter mariners from continuing their careers at sea.There is a need for a national maritime strategy and better recognition of the contributions of mariners.The importance of logistics and the challenges of maintaining a strong logistics force are emphasized.Reverting some ships from USNS to USS and putting supply officers in charge of fleets and commands could improve the understanding and management of logistics.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Invitation to Join the Conversation02:07: The Navy's Decision to Sideline 17 Vessels05:32: The Long-standing Issue of Personnel Shortage in the Military Sealift Command09:09: The Impact of COVID-19 on the Merchant Marine and the MSC15:23: The Poor Work Environment and Recruitment Challenges26:00: The Importance of Auxiliaries in Supporting Warships29:26: The Potential Repercussions of Sidelineing Vessels31:54: Addressing the Manpower Shortage: Improving Work Environment and Recruitment33:23: The Complex Chain of Command for MSC34:19: Making the Transition to MSC Easier35:34: Increasing Recruitment from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy36:29: Addressing Negative Experiences and Retention Issues37:50: The Potential Consequences of a Shortage of Mariners40:55: The Importance of Leadership and Resource Allocation
On episode 747 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is joined by GCaptain's John Konrad V to talk all about the Red Sea conflict, America's need for shipbuilding; and the decimation of the U.S. merchant marine. What happens when a driver dies on the road? It can be incredibly challenging for surviving family members. That's why Robert Palm started Truckers Final Mile, a charity dedicated to helping trucking families when the worst happens. Plus, FreightWave's CEO and founder Craig Fuller offers debate challenge to ATA and OOIDA; rail cargo theft in Mexico up 99% in May; another carrier bankruptcy; largest American flags in the U.S.; and more. Watch on YouTube Check out the WTT merch store Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On episode 747 of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is joined by GCaptain's John Konrad V to talk all about the Red Sea conflict, America's need for shipbuilding; and the decimation of the U.S. merchant marine. What happens when a driver dies on the road? It can be incredibly challenging for surviving family members. That's why Robert Palm started Truckers Final Mile, a charity dedicated to helping trucking families when the worst happens. Plus, FreightWave's CEO and founder Craig Fuller offers debate challenge to ATA and OOIDA; rail cargo theft in Mexico up 99% in May; another carrier bankruptcy; largest American flags in the U.S.; and more. Watch on YouTube Check out the WTT merch store Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Китайское большегрузное судно Wei Xiao Tian Shi, на котором в Россию везли два модуля для «Арктик СПГ 2», возвращается обратно в Китай с грузом на борту. Об этом сообщает портал gCaptain, посвящённый морскому и шельфовому судоходству.Читать https://barentsobserver.co/ru/arkticheskiy-spg/2024/07/moduli-dlya-arktik-spg-2-vozvrashchayutsya-v-kitay Телеграм-канал https://t.me/BarentsObserver
Don't miss our newsletter! Mike and Jake host Captain John Konrad to talk all things Merchant Marine. We talked about the Merchant Marine Academy, being a merchant mariner, and how they fit into national security. What is the Military Sealift Command thing, and why does it keep confusing the counting of Navy ships? What is the Jones Act, and why is it so political? The US has a ghost fleet of ships staged on both US coasts in case WWIII kicks off—but where are the people? Who were the most famous merchant mariners? What went wrong with the USS Bonhomme Richard fire response? Why is Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge still not cleaned up? Which US military branch is the biggest merchant mariner customer? Hint….its NOT the Navy. Tune in for answers to all of the above—and more! John is the founder and CEO of gCaptain and author of Fire on The Horizon. He is licensed to captain the world's largest ships, has sailed from ports worldwide, and managed billion-dollar offshore construction projects in some of the world's harshest marine environments. This episode is PACKED with intel, but we still had some fun along the way. You should expect nothing less! For those interested in #military #navy #mariner #sealift #warfare #shipping #nationalsecurity #defense #nationaldefense ---- Links • Sign up for our amazing newsletter! • Support us on Patreon! • Mike Benitez (LinkedIn) • Jake Chapman X (@vc) • John Konrad X (@johnkonrad) • gCaptain newsletter • Fourth Arm of Defense (free book!) ---- Follow us on... • Instagram • Facebook • X (Twitter) • LinkedIn • Website ---- Show Notes (01:21) Intro (03:01) larger than aircraft carriers (04:15) Military Sealift Command (05:30) peacetime vs wartime (06:18) WWII merchant mariners (09:54) counting ships (10:58) US-flagged ships (11:25) Captain Phillips (11:48) the shift away from US flags (12:17) 85 of 50,000 ships (13:10) The Jones Act (14:57) railway to nowhere (18:02) where are the people? (20:28) Secretary Pete (21:00) manning crisis (23:59) 3,000 people short (25:56) WWIII (27:46) divested support ships (28:58) USS Cole attack (29:51) USS Bonhomme Richard fire (31:19) Baltimore bridge cleanup (32:33) USNS ship shortages (33:28) no support, no projection (34:26) the Air Force!?! (35:06) the miracle of shipping containers (35:50) Vietnam logistics log jam (37:20) famous merchant mariners (39:30) sea story time! (42:27) outro
Christine has Dr. Sal Mercogliano on the podcast today. Sal is Chair of the Department of History, Criminal Justice, and Political Science at Campbell University. He is also an adjunct professor at the US Merchant Marine Academy and a former merchant mariner. He hosts the "What's Going On With Shipping" channel on YouTube and contributes to Sea History, Naval Institute Proceedings, and GCaptain.Sal and Christine delve into the recent events surrounding Yemen's Houthi rebels seizing an Israeli-linked cargo ship along a vital Red Sea shipping route, resulting in the capture of its 25 crew members. As Sal provides insights into the ongoing situation, he highlights the immediate repercussions. Approximately 40% of the usual traffic passing through the area has dwindled. Moreover, the frequency of attacks has escalated, leading insurance companies to refrain from insuring ships navigating through the region. Consequently, vessels are opting for alternative routes, albeit at considerable expense. Tune in now as Sal elaborates on the unfolding developments and their implications.Link to Sal's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@wgowshippingHave a Listen & SubscribeThe Women Offshore Podcast is available on Apple, Google Play, and most podcast apps. Remember to subscribe to your favorite app to avoid missing future episodes.**Did you know that all these captivating podcasts are created and managed in-house? Our dedicated team at Women Offshore puts their hearts into bringing you inspiring and valuable stories every episode. Your generous support throughout the year makes this possible.Your contributions enable us to continue our mission of empowerment and advocacy for women in the maritime industry. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in our ability to amplify voices and create positive change. Join us in making a difference and spreading awareness by donating today. Together, we can chart a brighter future for women offshore. Click the link below to contribute!**https://womenoffshore.org/donation/
Welcome to the CavasShips Podcast with Christopher P. Cavas and Chris Servello…a weekly podcast looking at naval and maritime events and issues of the day – in the US, across the seas and around the world. This week…there were more Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, as well as counterattacks and preemptive strikes by the US and its allies–we discuss the latest with Sal Mercogliano of What is Going on With Shipping and gCaptain's John Konrad. Please send us feedback by DM'ing @CavasShips or @CSSProvision or you can email chriscavas@gmail.com or cservello@defaeroreport.com.
Host Tracy Shuchart @chigrlGuests this week:Ross Kennedy @maphimanintent Ross Kennedy is the founder of Fortis Analysis, a strategic consultancy that serves public- and private-sector clients operating at the nexus of geoeconomics and national security. He is a logistics industry veteran, with seventeen years of direct experience operating agribusiness, chemical, energy, humanitarian, food, defense, and water supply chains. John Konrad @JohnKonradCaptain John Konrad, founder and CEO of gCaptain, is a seasoned maritime and offshore professional with hands-on experience in the energy sector. As a licensed captain for the world's largest ships, John has navigated drills hips and oil tankers, working closely with energy operations in various ports worldwide. His expertise extends to building cutting-edge ships and overseeing billion-dollar offshore construction projects in the most challenging marine environments. John is author of "Fire on the Horizon: The Untold Story of the Gulf Oil Disaster" and is a distinguished alumnus of New York Maritime College.Be sure to follow us on Twitter: @MicDropMarkets
On today's episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is talking to gCaptain's John Konrad V about the escalating conflict in the Red Sea and how it is already impacting freight. FreightWaves market expert Donny Gilbert breaks down the trucking data driving rates. Capacity is leaving the market at an accelerated pace but is it helping rates? The Road to Autonomy's Grayson Brulte talks about this year in autonomous trucking. What advancements are we seeing, who is viable and will this be the year autonomous trucks take off? Reliance Partners' Jessie Merritt represents the Tennessee Trucking Association. She shares what it's got planned this year and talks about its growing Young Professionals Council. Plus, a missing cat goes for the long haul; why you shouldn't take your 30 at the fuel island; German farmers strike back; and why everyone wants a Stanley water bottle. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On today's episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is talking to gCaptain's John Konrad V about the escalating conflict in the Red Sea and how it is already impacting freight. FreightWaves market expert Donny Gilbert breaks down the trucking data driving rates. Capacity is leaving the market at an accelerated pace but is it helping rates? The Road to Autonomy's Grayson Brulte talks about this year in autonomous trucking. What advancements are we seeing, who is viable and will this be the year autonomous trucks take off? Reliance Partners' Jessie Merritt represents the Tennessee Trucking Association. She shares what it's got planned this year and talks about its growing Young Professionals Council. Plus, a missing cat goes for the long haul; why you shouldn't take your 30 at the fuel island; German farmers strike back; and why everyone wants a Stanley water bottle. Watch on YouTube Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On today's episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is joined in the studio by special guest co-host F2F Transport's Chris Gonzalez. With only 90 days until Wreaths Across America Day, we'll find out how the organization is gearing up for the 2023 season and how you can help. Life at sea can be grueling. GCaptain founder John Konrad V tells us about the sacrifices seafarers make to keep the world's freight and economy moving. Trucker Abe Notlinkin shows up for an ask-a-trucker-anything session during which we'll find out about relationships on the road, Crocs on docks, driver shortages, parking shortages, making money and if truckers are switching to UPS. Load Secure Systems' Victor Louis is building a new location tracking and digital documentation platform. We'll find out how this founder is developing a new FreightTech offering. Plus, an F-35 goes missing; the FreightTech 100 is announced; capacity bleeds out of the truckload market; rate the strap work; robots get licked; CEOs go synthetic; and more. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On today's episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is joined in the studio by special guest co-host F2F Transport's Chris Gonzalez. With only 90 days until Wreaths Across America Day, we'll find out how the organization is gearing up for the 2023 season and how you can help. Life at sea can be grueling. GCaptain founder John Konrad V tells us about the sacrifices seafarers make to keep the world's freight and economy moving. Trucker Abe Notlinkin shows up for an ask-a-trucker-anything session during which we'll find out about relationships on the road, Crocs on docks, driver shortages, parking shortages, making money and if truckers are switching to UPS. Load Secure Systems' Victor Louis is building a new location tracking and digital documentation platform. We'll find out how this founder is developing a new FreightTech offering. Plus, an F-35 goes missing; the FreightTech 100 is announced; capacity bleeds out of the truckload market; rate the strap work; robots get licked; CEOs go synthetic; and more. Watch on YouTube Visit our sponsor Visit our sponsor Subscribe to the WTT newsletter Apple Podcasts Spotify More FreightWaves Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For today's COBT, we had the pleasure of hosting Captain John Konrad, Founder and CEO of gCaptain and Author of "Fire on the Horizon." John is a highly experienced US Merchant Marine officer with a diverse background and has worked on container ships, oil tankers, and offshore supply vessels across the world. gCaptain is a leading global maritime and offshore industry news platform offering insights, information, and resources on shipping, offshore drilling, safety, technology, and more. We are struck by how important the relationship is between energy and shipping and John proved to be the perfect expert to help us explore shipping, energy, global trade, geopolitics, technologies, inflation, regulatory impact, and more. John first shares his journey from an interest in sailing and computers to attending the Naval Academy (and then the Merchant Marine Academy) to becoming a captain, his experiences in the offshore oil industry, and the inspiration behind "Fire on the Horizon." We discuss the gCaptain platform and the importance of raising awareness about the shipping industry and its role in the global economy, key geopolitical challenges in shipping, the importance of ton-miles, shipping efficiency, and the shortage of shipyard capacity globally. John explains shipping's recent impact on inflation, the challenges of using alternative fuels, how the uncertainty of future regulations is impacting construction of new ships today, and how countries are preparing for new routes opening across the Arctic. We also cover the critical "choke points" around the world, the aging workforce in shipping, the need for increased attention from the US government, as well as the space's increasingly numerous and attractive investment opportunities. As you will see, the time flies as we go from one interesting angle to another. Shipping may be one of those industries you just think you understand, until you realize how much you are missing. To start the show, Mike Bradley highlighted key economic events over the next week and noted that Brent and WTI prices surpassed $92/bbl. and $89/bbl. respectively, due to concerns of a widening global crude oil supply deficit in Q4'23 of 3mmbpd. He pointed out that the last time the global crude oil supply deficit was this wide was Q3'21 and that the US SPR was over 600mm barrels and today it's 350mm barrels, which provides little price manipulation latitude this go around for the Biden Administration. He also noted the last time 12-month crude oil time spreads were this deep in backwardation was June 2022 when WTI price was trading over $110/bbl. He concluded by noting that energy equities have generally lagged behind the current surge in crude oil price mostly because equity investors want to see how crude oil price trades when Saudi eventually begins pushing crude oil barrels back into the market. Arjun Murti mentioned a recent opinion piece predicting peak fossil fuel demand this decade (by Fatih Birol in the Financial Times) and highlighted the math of global energy needs for long-term demand, the need to depoliticize energy discussions, and the importance of a healthy North American oil and gas sector. We greatly appreciate John's thorough tour of the complex and multifaceted world of shipping. John is not only incredibly knowledgeable, but the experience of talking with him was a reminder that sometimes the best way to understand energy better is to go to an adjacent industry and look back with a different vantage point on all these questions the world has on energy, the environment, and national security. Simply put, the discussion with John was outstanding! We certainly hope you enjoy. Our best to you all!
Welcome to the CavasShips Podcast with Christopher P. Cavas and Chris Servello…a weekly podcast looking at naval and maritime events and issues of the day – in the US, across the seas and around the world. This week…Russia is threatening to widen the war on Ukraine into attacks on merchant shipping in the Black Sea. A major ship fire at Port Newark, New Jersey was extinguished after four days, but what are the wider implications for the maritime world? And the Maritime Administration's management of US shipping is under question. Sal Mercogliano of What The Ship and gCaptain's John Konrad are with us to dive into these important issues.
This week we were reminded, again, that the world relies on the free flow of goods at market prices across its oceans to maintain a reasonable standard of living.Most of the world consumes more food and fuel than it can produce locally. Most of the world's people live from paycheck to paycheck, and entire societies' stability rely on the grain and oil that economically can only be moved internationally at sea.In a story as old has time, there are power who are using that need as leverage by threatening - or proposing to threaten - access to the seas they have access to.In this case it is the Russians threatening grain shipments through the Black Sea, and the Iranians the shipments of oil and gas.Joining us for the full hour to discuss this threat and how to address it will be returning guest Captain John Konrad.John is the founder and CEO of gCaptain and author of the book Fire On The Horizon. He is licensed to captain the world's largest commercial ships and has sailed from ports around the world. John has built some of the world's most advanced ships and managed billion-dollar offshore construction projects in some of the world's harshest marine environments. John is a distinguished alumnus of New York Maritime College.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3270000/advertisement
By Anna McNiel John Konrad, the CEO and founder of gCaptain, discusses rebuilding Loran-C and argues that GPS' vulnerabilities necessitate a redundant system. Konrad also advocates for the introduction of AI into the Loran system to allow for greater accuracy and improved overall performance. Download Sea Control 428 – “Could AI-fueled Amateur Radio Rebuild Loran-C?” … Continue reading Sea Control 428 – Could AI-Fueled Amateur Radio Rebuild Loran-C? with John Konrad →
On today's episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is breaking down the data behind the freight recession with FreightWaves' Donny Gilbert.Capt. John Konrad V, CEO of gCaptain, reviews “War Sailor”; talks about what's going on with ocean trade; shares the importance of investing in U.S. shipping; weighs in on the probability of China invading Taiwan; decides if Miller High Life really is champagne; and predicts if another Evergreen vessel will get Suezed.Renowned photographer Nick Souza shows off his latest work and shares the stories behind capturing some of the most captivating images in the business. Plus, insiders say Flock Freight is a ‘toxic dumpster fire' with only months of cash left; retail innovation at the ballpark and more. Visit our sponsorWatch on YouTubeSubscribe to the WTT newsletterApple PodcastsSpotifyMore FreightWaves Podcasts
On today's episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Dooner is breaking down the data behind the freight recession with FreightWaves' Donny Gilbert.Capt. John Konrad V, CEO of gCaptain, reviews “War Sailor”; talks about what's going on with ocean trade; shares the importance of investing in U.S. shipping; weighs in on the probability of China invading Taiwan; decides if Miller High Life really is champagne; and predicts if another Evergreen vessel will get Suezed.Renowned photographer Nick Souza shows off his latest work and shares the stories behind capturing some of the most captivating images in the business. Plus, insiders say Flock Freight is a ‘toxic dumpster fire' with only months of cash left; retail innovation at the ballpark and more. Visit our sponsorWatch on YouTubeSubscribe to the WTT newsletterApple PodcastsSpotifyMore FreightWaves Podcasts
Captain John Konrad - Founder and CEO of gCaptain, the world's largest source of maritime news, shares how being able to connect with people from all walks of life has opened doors throughout his life and career. Listen to how his love of ships took him from the Bronx to the far reaches of the ocean in search of adventure.With fully furnished state-of-the-art repair trucks and a full array of roadside tools, you can expect the safest, fastest, and most painless response for your fleet from Love's Truck Care & Speedco. To learn more about our roadside assistance, please visit www.loves.comFollow The Bootstrapper's Guide to Logistics on Apple PodcastsFollow The Bootstrapper's Guide to Logistics on SpotifyMore FreightWaves Podcasts
Captain John Konrad - Founder and CEO of gCaptain, the world's largest source of maritime news, shares how being able to connect with people from all walks of life has opened doors throughout his life and career. Listen to how his love of ships took him from the Bronx to the far reaches of the ocean in search of adventure.Follow The Bootstrapper's Guide to Logistics on Apple PodcastsFollow The Bootstrapper's Guide to Logistics on SpotifyMore FreightWaves Podcasts
Captain John Konrad is the founder and CEO of gCaptain and author of the book Fire On The Horizon. John is licensed to captain the world's largest ships and has sailed from ports around the world. He has also built some of the world's most advanced ships and managed billion-dollar offshore construction projects in some of the world's harshest marine environments.In this episode we cover:How John got into the maritime industryHis biggest lessons learned on leadership as a captain and crew member The founding story on gCaptain and how he scaled to be one of the largest maritime sites in the worldWhat's going on in the international maritime policy, and how it will shape the shipping industry going forwardPartnership and A d enquiries?For business and partnerships enquiries email christopher@bynorthernnorway.com or use the contact form at www.christophervonheim.comFollow Vonheim on Twitter and YouTube:YouTube: Christopher VonheimTwitter: @chrisvonheimThe Frantzen & Vonheim LetterJoin our letter to receive first hand insights from us: eepurl.com/htJXsT See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Captain John Konrad is the founder and CEO of gCaptain and author of the book Fire On The Horizon. John is licensed to captain the world's largest ships and has sailed from ports around the world. He has also built some of the world's most advanced ships and managed billion-dollar offshore construction projects in some of the world's harshest marine environments.In this episode we cover: How John got into the maritime industryHis biggest lessons learned on leadership as a captain and crew member The founding story on gCaptain and how he scaled to be one of the largest maritime sites in the worldWhat's going on in the international maritime policy, and how it will shape the shipping industry going forwardPartnership and ad enquiries?For business and partnerships enquiries email christopher@bynorthernnorway.com or use the contact form at www.christophervonheim.comFollow Vonheim on Twitter and YouTube:YouTube: Christopher VonheimTwitter: @chrisvonheimThe Frantzen & Vonheim LetterJoin our letter to receive first hand insights from us: eepurl.com/htJXsT See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Sal Mercogliano is the Chair of the Department of History, Criminal Justice and Political Science at Campbell University in North Carolina. He is a former merchant mariner, and the author of Fourth Arm of Defense: Sealift and Military Logistics during the Vietnam War. Sal is a frequent contributor to gCaptain and other maritime outlets. Lastly, he is also the brilliant host of What's Going On With Shipping on YouTube. The popular Maritime Show that breaks down global shipping in an exciting way,In this highlight we cover: - The difference between working afloat and ashorePartnerQuartr is the new way of doing company research. Their first mission is to enable access to conference calls, investor presentations, transcripts and earnings reports as frictionless as possible – straight to your pocket. Their second mission is to create a completely new way for companies to reach their investors, and vice versa - to change the way people look at Investor Relations. Our initial core product is now available for both iOS and Android, and stay tuned for additional features during the coming year. Quartr is 100% free, include companies from 12 markets today, and plan to add more during the year. Download the app here: https://quartr.se and follow them on twitter here.Follow Vonheim on Twitter and YouTube:YouTube: Christopher VonheimTwitter: @chrisvonheimThe Frantzen & Vonheim LetterJoin our letter to receive first hand insights from us: eepurl.com/htJXsT See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Sal Mercogliano is the Chair of the Department of History, Criminal Justice and Political Science at Campbell University in North Carolina. He is a former merchant mariner, and the author of Fourth Arm of Defense: Sealift and Military Logistics during the Vietnam War. Sal is a frequent contributor to gCaptain and other maritime outlets. Lastly, he is also the brilliant host of What's Going On With Shipping on YouTube. The popular Maritime Show that breaks down global shipping in an exciting way,In this episode we cover: - How Sal got the shipping bug- The difference between working afloat and ashore - Why Japan, China, and Korea dominates ship building- The role of US in Maritime and Shipping going forward- Sal's best advice to make a great career in the industryPartnerQuartr is the new way of doing company research. Their first mission is to enable access to conference calls, investor presentations, transcripts and earnings reports as frictionless as possible – straight to your pocket. Their second mission is to create a completely new way for companies to reach their investors, and vice versa - to change the way people look at Investor Relations. Our initial core product is now available for both iOS and Android, and stay tuned for additional features during the coming year. Quartr is 100% free, include companies from 12 markets today, and plan to add more during the year. Download the app here: https://quartr.se and follow them on twitter here.Follow Vonheim on Twitter and YouTube:YouTube: Christopher VonheimTwitter: @chrisvonheimThe Frantzen & Vonheim LetterJoin our letter to receive first hand insights from us: eepurl.com/htJXsT See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Sal Mercogliano, host of the Youtube show "What's Going On With Shipping?”, speaks with Troy Mix, Associate Director of the University of Delaware's Institute for Public Administration (IPA), about the state of maritime shipping as we navigate our way out of both the pandemic and a supply chain crisis. Topics covered in this April 21, 2022 interview include major takeaways from the recent groundings of the container ships Ever Given and Ever Forward and the need to raise the visibility of the maritime industry in the United States. Sal Mercogliano is an Associate Professor at Campbell University and the Chairperson of the Department of History, Criminal Justice and Political Science. He's a graduate of the State University of New York Maritime College and a former merchant marine. He also earned an MA in Maritime History and Nautical Archaeology from East Carolina University and a Ph.D. in Military and Naval History at the University of Alabama. In addition to his Youtube show, he is a frequent contributor to the industry news sites gCaptain and Freightwaves. To track Sal's work, follow him on Twitter (https://twitter.com/mercoglianos) or check out his YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/c/WhatisGoingonWithShippingwSalMercogliano). This episode is a special #FreightFriday edition of First State Insights made possible by the Delmarva Freight Working Group—an ongoing transportation planning and economic development partnership coordinated by IPA, the Delaware Department of Transportation, and Delaware's three Metropolitan Planning Organizations: the Dover/Kent County MPO, the Salisbury/Wicomico MPO, and WILMAPCO. To learn more about the Delmarva Freight Working Group, visit wilmapco.org/Delmarva. Visit ipa.udel.edu for details on IPA. Opening and closing music: "I Dunno" by Grapes, used under Creative Commons 3.0 License
This week we discuss the 1983 sinking of the SS Marine Electric, a pivotal moment in the history of ship safety and the US Coast Guard's rescue capabilities. Intro/outro music clip: "The Mary Ellen Carter" - Stan Rogers (1979)Sources:"Marine Casualty Report - SS Marine Electric O.N. 245675, Capsize and Sinking in the Atlantic Ocean on 12 February 1983 with Multiple Loss of Life." U.S. Coast Guard. "SS Marine Electric: The Ship That Changed The Coast Guard." gCaptain, 12 Feb 2019Frump, Robert. Until the Sea Shall Free Them: Life, Death, and Survival in the Merchant Marine. 2002. US Coast Guard Swimmer Rescue ProgramSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/beyondthebreakers)
From DailyPodcastPractice.com Today is Susan B. Anthony day because today is her birthday. From the website Gcaptain.com, we learn that First Offshore Wind Project in New York Breaks Ground. Quote from Susan B. Anthony: “I distrust those people who know so well what God wants them to do, because I notice it always coincides with their own.”
On today's episode Dooner and The Dude are covering a Kickstarter shipping crisis horror story with a happy ending. FORT founder Conor B. Lewis tells us why bootstrapping a company and crowdfunding millions in 2021 created an “impossible situation” for his magnetic pillow fort company and how he knows it will survive.Captain John A Konrad V, CEO at gCaptain, tells us the story behind his site, the prominence of freight media during this perpetual peak season, and tells us about the most difficult editorial he has had to write.Angus Pacala, co-founder and CEO of Ouster, tells us who will survive in the lidar space and why this tech is important to trucking.Plus, the Ryan Zimmerman shipping crisis bobblehead is here and a look at the ports of Los Angeles and Houston.Visit our sponsorSubscribe to the WTT newsletterApple PodcastsSpotifyMore FreightWaves PodcastsShow Less
On today's episode Dooner and The Dude are covering a Kickstarter shipping crisis horror story with a happy ending. FORT founder Conor B. Lewis tells us why bootstrapping a company and crowdfunding millions in 2021 created an “impossible situation” for his magnetic pillow fort company and how he knows it will survive.Captain John A Konrad V, CEO at gCaptain, tells us the story behind his site, the prominence of freight media during this perpetual peak season, and tells us about the most difficult editorial he has had to write.Angus Pacala, co-founder and CEO of Ouster, tells us who will survive in the lidar space and why this tech is important to trucking.Plus, the Ryan Zimmerman shipping crisis bobblehead is here and a look at the ports of Los Angeles and Houston.Visit our sponsorSubscribe to the WTT newsletterApple PodcastsSpotifyMore FreightWaves Podcasts
Today is the Labor Day holiday in the United States of ‘Merica https://nationaltoday.com/labor-day/ Today's word is agrarian https://www.merriam-webster.com/ Born on this day in 1888, Joseph P. Kennedy, patriarch of the Kennedy family and father of three political leaders in the United states: President John F. Kennedy, U.S. Representative Ted Kennedy and Senator Robert Kennedy, three of his nine children https://www.onthisday.com/people/joseph-p-kennedy Let's go to a news item from GCaptain.com, which, I'm sure you remember, is all about shipping and things nautical. https://gcaptain.com/americas-fourth-largest-container-port-savannah/?subscriber=true&goal=0_f50174ef03-ee5ebcb38a-170342678&mc_cid=ee5ebcb38a&mc_eid=e63aecb13b
Episode 82 This is the first part in a series of videos where Leadosophy explores leadership within the U.S. Navy as outlined in a recent report delivered to the U.S. Congress on the second week in July of 2021. The report is linked below, but in this episode, Leadosophy uses an article which was written by Captain John Konrad (Licensed Ship Master in the Commercial Maritime Industry and founder of the gCaptain website) to help set the stage for a leadership discussion as it applies to perceived problems within the Navy Surface Fleet and amongst Navy leaders.Leadosophy weighs in briefly on Konrad's article, but in this episode refrains from offering analysis which will be saved for the next few parts, coming over the course of a week or so.Referenceshttps://www.cotton.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/navy_report.pdfhttps://gcaptain.com/senate-report-navy-toxic-culture-seamanship/Season One: Foundations of Leadosophy Leadosophy is the fusion of leadership and philosophy. We use philosophical thought to deepen our understanding of leadership together.
Shipping Podcast - listen to the maritime professionals in the world of shipping
Captain John Konrad is THE influencer in the maritime industry. He started the gCaptain, which is currently the largest media outlet in the maritime domain. John is equally interested in changing the narrative for the maritime industry as I am. We agree that we need to work together to create sustainable marketing for and about the maritime industry. No one speaks about Über in the Silicon Valley anymore, they talk about Flexport, and they talk about the maritime industry." John is a big fan of Greta Thunberg; she says things people don't want to hear. But, that is what we also need to do; talk about the good and the bad in our industry. If we don't acknowledge the problems we have as an industry, then we cannot solve them - and become better. We discuss so many things in this episode, I learned a lot, and I think John gave some real food for thoughts. What is your view? Give us a shout-out, we are on social media, and we each have a webpage where you can comment. This is a discussion worth having. Thank you for listening. Stay safe.
The world economy hangs in the balance as engineers and naval architects struggle with freeing the grounded container ship Ever Given. This is maritime drama at its best! We visit GCaptain.com to learn of present-day piracy on the high seas. And the random question is about me. It's all about me.
Please comment, like, and subscribe to support the podcast/channel. Podcasts are available on all major platforms (Apple, Spotify, Google).Links to topics discussed in description below!Institute of Chartered Ship Brokers - https://www.ics.org.uk/US Customs Broker License - shorturl.at/crLRY--Maritime News --Splash247 - https://splash247.com/Trade Winds - https://www.tradewindsnews.com/Freight Waves - https://www.freightwaves.com/Gcaptain - https://gcaptain.com/--Socials--LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/openwaterspodInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/openwaterspod/
The neglected American merchant fleet and industry is a problem long standing. The realization of the growing challenge on the other side of the Pacific, and the knowledge of what is needed to support it, has brought the problem in sharp relief.Like most long neglected problems, the causes are many and deep. Ships, personnel, legal, regulatory, and the latest punch from COVID-19 have all intensified an already gathering storm.Returning to Midrats this Sunday to discuss this critical foundation of maritime power will be Captain John Konrad. John is the founder and CEO of the maritime news site gCaptain.com and author of the book Fire On The Horizon. He is licensed to captain the world's largest ships and has sailed from ports around the world. John is an adviser at MassChallenge, SeaAhead, and the MIT startup blkSAIL. He is a distinguished alumnus of New York Maritime College.
Links1. "Stranded Seafarers Refuse to Sail on Three Ships in Australia," by Aaron Clark, Bloomberg, August 6, 2020.2. "Supply Chain Risk Grows as Weary Crews Halt Ships and Clog Ports," by Aaron Clark, Bloomberg, August 6, 2020.3. "Some Chinese Ports are Jammed Again on Virus Testing of Food," by Aaron Clark, Bloomberg, July 13, 2020.4. "Rates to the US West Coast Hit Records Leaving Analysts Puzzled," by Sam Chambers, Splash247, August 3, 2020.5. "How are tankers coping with floating-storage hangover?", by Greg Willis, FreightWaves, Aug 6, 2020.6. "Chinese port congestion approaching record levels," by Sam Chambers, Splash247, Jul 24, 2020.7. "Australia's soaring exports to China at risk in diplomatic rift," by Fumi Matsumoto, Nikkei Asian Review, August 7, 2020.8. "Three Modern Cruise Ships Scrapped in Turkey," CruiseIndustryNews, July 29, 2020.9. Shipbuilding through to 2024, Splash247, May 27, 2020.10. Risk to Global Supply Chain Grows as Overworked Seafarers Halt Ships, by Aaron Clark and Annie Lee, Bloomberg, August 7, 2020.11. Propeller Club Asks Congress for $3.5 Billion in COVID-19 Relief for U.S. Maritime Industry, by Mike Shuler, gCaptain, August 7, 2020.12. COVID-19 has exacerbated pressure on the delivery economy, by Vishnu Rajamanickam, freightwaves, July 13, 2020.13. "Sea Control 158 - COVID-19's Impact on International Maritime Industry with Dr. Sal Mercogliano," Jared Samuelson, CIMSEC, February 17, 2020.
Captain John Konrad is the founder and publisher of gCaptain, the maritime industry's leading trade publication, and the CEO of freight data startup gShip. He joined the show to discuss those two projects - plus, offer his take on how COVID-19 may spur innovation in the global shipping industry.
Join us in this episode as Yeagermeister tells us about his life as a seafarer. He grew up in a tugboat dispatch office and now Captains an articulated tug and barge. He goes over some good sea stories and some sad sea stories. We remember and honor ghosts of years past who only live on in the stories that are told about them. He has worked with the brother of a notorious killer, become an educated man, and even schools the shows host on some basic celestial navigation. Along the journey of this conversation, Yeagermeister shares the story of his wild older brother and how he met his unfortunate end overseas. This brother left behind a daughter, Faith, in Bulgaria that has broken her back and needs financial assistance. You can donate to help her get the medical care she needs at https://www.facebook.com/HelpFaithWalkAgain/ That link will take you to the Facebook page that is set up to help her in her struggle to walk again. Anything helps. Later on, we talk about Covid-19 (Corona Virus) and why mariners need to be careful of it. Bull riding, why he likes Jeeps, and the Jones Act are some other topics that are touched upon. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/theshipslogpodcast)
What if they gave a war in WESTPAC and we couldn't come?It is easy to talk tactics, weapons, and warship numbers - but on balance, that is not what ensures victory in any major war. For a maritime nation, nothing can last very long without a large, sustained, scalable, and resilient merchant marine. When you look at our numbers, we are not ready.Our guest for the full hour will be John Konrad, using his recent editorial at gCaptain, Admiral, I'm not Ready for War, as a starting point for our talk. Captain John Konrad is the founder and CEO of gCaptain and author of the book Fire On The Horizon. John is a USCG licensed Master of Unlimited Tonnage, has sailed a variety of ships from ports around the world and is a distinguished alumnus of SUNY Maritime College.
Producers/Hosts: Alan Sprague & Mike Joyce Engineer: Amy Browne Key Discussion Points : a) houseboats offshore, b) Writing for gCaptain c)sailing and cooking d) racing around the world, e) more guests: Jon Johansen Maine Coastal News Emily Whebbe Sailing the Bakery The post BoatTalk 5/17/19: houseboats, cooking, captaining first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.
WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives
Producers/Hosts: Alan Sprague & Mike Joyce Engineer: Amy Browne Key Discussion Points : a) houseboats offshore, b) Writing for gCaptain c)sailing and cooking d) racing around the world, e) more guests: Jon Johansen Maine Coastal News Emily Whebbe Sailing the Bakery
People in power tell us constantly that China is a threat but... Why? In this episode, we explore the big picture reasons why China poses a threat to those in power in the United States and what our Congress is doing to combat that threat. Spoiler alert: There's a another U.S. military build-up involved. Please Support Congressional Dish – Quick Links Click here to contribute monthly or a lump sum via PayPal Click here to support Congressional Dish for each episode via Patreon Send Zelle payments to: Donation@congressionaldish.com Send Venmo payments to: @Jennifer-Briney Send Cash App payments to: $CongressionalDish or Donation@congressionaldish.com Use your bank's online bill pay function to mail contributions to: 5753 Hwy 85 North, Number 4576, Crestview, FL 32536 Please make checks payable to Congressional Dish Thank you for supporting truly independent media! Recommended Congressional Dish Episodes CD116: TPP - The Environment Chapter CD115: TPP - Access to Medicine CD114: Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Investment Chapter CD095: Secret International Regulations (TPA & TPP) CD060: Fast Track for TPP CD053: TPP - The Leaked Chapter CD052: The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Bills/Laws H.R. 5105: BUILD Act of 2018 Became law as a part of H.R. 302: FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 BUILD Act text from FAA law Purposes for which support may be provided The new bank “may designate private, nonprofit organizations as eligible to receive support… to promote development of economic freedom and private sectors” and “to complement the work of the United States Agency for International Development and other donors to improve the overall business enabling environment, financing the creation and expansion of the private business sector.” Powers of the new development bank The bank “shall have such other powers as may be necessary and incident to carrying out the functions of the Corporation” S. 2736: Asia Reassurance Initiative Act of 2018 Sec. 101: Policy “Promotes American prosperity and economic interests by advancing economic growth and development of a rules-based Indo-Pacific economic community” Sec 102: Diplomatic Strategy To support the “Association of Southeast Asian Nations”, “Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation”, and the “East Asia Summit” #1: Emphasize our commitment to “freedom of navigation under international law” #7 : "Develop and grow the economy through private sector partnerships between the United States and Indo-Pacific partners" #8: “To pursue multilateral and bilateral trade agreements … and build a network of partners in the Indo-Pacific committee to free markets” #9: To work with Indo-Pacific countries to pursue infrastructure projects and “to maintain unimpeded commerce, open sea lines or air ways, and communications” Sec. 201: Authorization of Appropriations Authorizes $1.5 billion for each fiscal year 2019 through 2023 to be divided among the State Dept., USAID, and the Defense Dept. Congressional Budget Office: The total authorization is almost $8.6 billion The money is allowed to be used for “foreign military financing and international military education and training programs” The money is allowed to be used “to help partner countries strengthen their democratic systems” The money is allowed to be used to “encourage responsible natural resource management in partner countries, which is closely associated with economic growth” Sec. 205: United States-ASEAN Strategic Partnership Sense of Congress expressing the value of “strategic economic initiatives, such as activities under the United States-ASEAN Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement and the United States-ASEAN Connect, which demonstrate a commitment to ASEAN and the ASEAN Economic Community and build upon economic relationships in the Indo-Pacific region." Sec. 209: Commitment to Taiwan “The President should conduct regular transfers of defense articles to Taiwan” Sec 213 Freedom of Navigation and Overflight; Promotion of International Law “It is the sense of Congress that the President should develop a diplomatic strategy that includes working with United States allies and partners to conduct joint maritime training and freedom of navigation operations in the Indo-Pacific region, including the East China Sea and the South China Sea, in support of a rules-based international system benefitting all countries.” Sec. 215: Cybersecurity Cooperation Authorizes $100 million for each year (2019-2023) to “enhance cooperation between the United States and Indo-Pacific nations for the purposes of combatting cybersecurity threats.” Sec. 301: Findings; Sense of Congress Free trade agreements between the United States and three nations in the Indo-Pacific region have entered into force: Australia, Singapore, and the Republic of Korea According to the National Security Strategy, the United States will “work with partners to build a network of stated dedicated to free markets and protected from forces that would subvert their sovereignty.” Sec. 304: Trade Capacity Building and Trade Facilitation (a) “The President is encouraged to produce a robust and comprehensive trade capacity building and trade facilitation strategy, including leveling the playing field for American companies competing in the Indo-Pacific region.” Authorization of Appropriations:“There are authorized to be appropriated such amounts as many be necessaryto carry out subsection (a)." Sec. 305: Intellectual Property Protection The President “should” take “all appropriate action to deter and punish commercial cyber-enabled theft of intellectual property” and orders a report on the government’s efforts to do so. Authorization of Appropriations: “There are authorized to be appropriated to the United States Trade Representative such amounts as may be necessary to sponsor bilateral and multilateral activities designed to build capacity in the identified priority areas” in the report Sec. 306: Energy Programs and Initiatives Orders the President to create a strategy, updated every 5 years, to “encourage” Indo-Pacific countries to “implement national power strategies and cooperation with United States energy companies and the Department of Energy national laboratories” Authorization of Appropriations: $1 million per year from 2019 through 2023 Sense of Congress: “the United States should explore opportunities to partner with the private sector and multilateral institutions, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, to promote universal access to reliable electricity in the Indo-Pacific region, including Myanmar (Burma)" Sec. 409: Authorization of Appropriations $210 million each year (2019-2023) to “promote democracy” and the money can be given to “universities, civil society, and multilateral institutions that are focusing on education awareness, training, and capacity building.” This money can be spent to “promote democracy” in China. Sec. 411: Young Leaders People-to-People Initiatives Authorizes $25 million per year (2019-2023) to support the “Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative, the ASEAN Youth Volunteers program, and other people-to-people exchange programs that focus on building the capacity of democracy, human rights, and good governance activities in the Indo-Pacific region.” Sec. 412: Savings Program “Nothing in this Act may be construed as authorizing the use of military force.” HR 5515: John S. McCain National Defense Authorization for Fiscal Year 2019 Sec. 1252 Amends the NDAA for 2016, which authorized the South China Sea Initiative providing military equipment and training to Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, to change the name of the program to the “Indo-Pacific Maritime Security Initiative” and expands the authorization to include the Indian Ocean in addition to the South China Sea and the countries of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Adds India to the list of countries allowed to be paid for expenses, along with Brunei, Singapore, and Taiwan. Extends the expiration date from September 30, 2020 to December 31, 2025. Sec. 1253 Changes the name of the military build-up authorized in NDAA 2018 from the “Indo-Asia-Pacific Stability Initiative” to the “Indo-Pacific Stability Initiative”. Changes the activities authorized to include an increase in “rotational and forward presence” of the US Armed Forces and adds the prepositioning of “munitions” in addition to equipment. Expands the options for funding by removing the requirement that funding come “only” from a section 1001 transfer authority. Requires a 5 year plan be submitted to Congress by the Secretary of Defense by March 1, 2019. Public Law 115-91: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 Sec 1251 Authorized the “Indo-Asia-Pacific Stability Initiative” to “increase the presence and capabilities” of the United States Armed Forces in the region by building new infrastructure, “enhance the storage and pre-positioning in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region of equipment of the United States Forces”, and with military training and exercises with allies. Sound Clip Sources Hearing: Democracy Promotion in a Challenging World Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, June 14, 2018. Transcript Watch on YouTube Witnesses: Carl Gershman - National Endowment for Democracy: President Daniel Twining - International Republican Institute: President Kenneth Wollack - National Democratic Institute: President Timestamps & Transcripts 1:43:38 Representative Michael McCaul (TX): I had a briefing yesterday in a classified setting on ZTE and Huawei, and their efforts to conduct espionage in this country. I’ve also seen them in Sri Lanka where they have burdened them with so much debt that they had to turn over a strategic port to the Chinese. We see the Chinese now in Djibouti for the first time, and we see them leveraging the continent of Africa into so much debt that they will be able to eventually take over these countries. They exploit them. They bring in their own workers—they don’t even hire the host countries’ workers—and they export their natural resources in what is this One Belt, One Road policy. 1:45:00 Carl Gershman: In March, The Economist magazine had a cover story on China, and the bottom line of the cover story was—and this is a direct quote—‘‘The West’s 25-year bet on China has failed.’’ The bet was that if China was brought into the World Trade Organization, was encouraged to grow economically, it would become a more liberal society and be part of the liberal world order. 1:46:26 Carl Gershman: It’s a problem with the Belt and Road Initiative, which is not just an economic expansion. This is intimately tied to China’s geopolitical and military strategy precisely to get strategic ports in Sri Lanka or in Maldives because countries fall into the debt trap and pay back by leasing their ports. 1:58:05 Representative Ted Yoho (FL): They’re a form of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and, as we all know, that’s communism. Our form of government empowers the people. Empowered people reach their full potential. China empowers the government where the people are suppressed for the benefit of the government. 2:00:10 Daniel Twining: It’s the surveillance architecture. This Orwellian total surveillance state they’re building with artificial intelligence and facial recognition and all this stuff. It’s very attractive, as you say, not to people but to leaders. 2:07:52 Representative Ted Poe (TX): Globally, what do you personally see is the number-one entity that is a threat to democracy worldwide? Is it China? Is it Russia? Is it North Korea? Is it ISIS? Is it Iran? Pick one. Pick the one you think is the threat. Carl Gershman: China. Rep. Poe: China. Gershman: China. Rep. Poe: Mr. Twining. Daniel Twining: China. Rep. Poe: Mr. Wollack. Kenneth Wollack: Russia. Rep. Poe: Russia. Russia and China. Hearing: The China Challenge, Part 1: Economic Coercion as Statecraft, Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity, July 24, 2018. Witnesses: Dan Blumenthal: Director of Asian Studies and Resident Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute Ely Ratner: Vice President and Director of Studies at the Center for a New American Security Timestamps and Transcripts 33:49 Chairman Senator Cory Gardner (CO): This hearing will be the first hearing in a three-part series of hearings titled The China Challenge and will examine how the United States should respond to the challenge of a rising China that seeks to upend and supplant the U.S.-led liberal world order. 34:12 Chairman Senator Cory Gardner (CO): According to the National Security Strategy, for decades U.S. policy was rooted in the belief that support for China’s rise and for its integration into the post-war international order would liberalize China. Contrary to our hopes, China expanded its power at the expense of the sovereignty of others. According to the National Defense Strategy, the central challenge to U.S. prosperity and security is the reemergence of long-term strategic competition by what the National Security Strategy classifies as revisionist powers. It is increasingly clear that China and Russia want to shape a world consistent with their authoritarian model: gaining veto authority over other nations’ economic, diplomatic, and security decisions. 35:28 Chairman Senator Cory Gardner (CO): The question before us now is identifying the tools the United States has at its disposal to counter the disturbing developments posed by China’s less-than-peaceful rise. This is why Senator Markey and I and a bipartisan group of co-sponsors in the Senate joined in introducing the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act, or ARIA, on April 24. The legislation sets a comprehensive policy framework to demonstrate U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region and the rules-based international order. ARIA provides a comprehensive set of national security and economic policies to advance U.S. interests and goals in the Indo-Pacific region, including providing substantive U.S. resource commitments for these goals. I’m joined in this legislation on the committee by Senator Kaine, Senator Coons, Senator Cardin, Senator Markey, by Senator Rubio, and Senator Young, as well as Senators Sullivan and Perdue and Graham. 38:12 Chairman Senator Cory Gardner (CO): Our first witness is Senator—is Dan Blumenthal—I almost gave you a demotion there, Dan—who serves as director of Asian studies and resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. Mr. Blumenthal has both served in and advised the U.S. government on China issues for nearly two decades. From 2001 to 2004 he served as senior director for China, Taiwan, and Mongolia at the Department of Defense. Additionally, from 2006, 2012 he served as a commissioner on the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, including holding the position of vice chair in 2007. 38:54 Chairman Senator Cory Gardner (CO): Our second witness today is Ely Ratner, who serves as the vice president and director of Studies at the Center for a New American Security. Mr. Ratner served from 2015 to 2017 as the deputy national security advisor to Vice President Joe Biden, and from 2011 to 2012 in the Office of Chinese and Mongolian Affairs at the State Department. He also previously worked in the U.S. Senate as a professional staff member on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and in the office of Senator Joe Biden. 42:01 Dan Blumenthal: I have to state that the era of reform and opening in China is over. It’s been long over. It’s been over, probably for 10 years. And China is back to being run by state-owned enterprises that are related to the party. The private sector is diminishing. That provides the Chinese state with a lot more control over economic coercive policies. 49:27 Ely Ratner: First, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee should hold hearings on the cost and benefits of rejoining the Trans-Pacific Partnership. Rejoining TPP is among the most important things we can do to advance our economic position in Asia and erode the effectiveness of China’s economic coercion. By contrast, U.S. withdrawal has done substantial damage to our standing in the region and is facilitating the development of a Chinese sphere of influence in Asia and beyond. Rejoining TPP would renew confidence in the credibility and commitment of the United States, help to re-route supply chains in the region, open new markets for U.S. companies, and ultimately reduce China’s economic leverage. 56:28 Senator Ed Markey (MA): And through its Belt and Road Initiative, BRI, China is burdening countries receiving infrastructure loans with debts so extreme that they begin to undermine their own very sovereignty. According to a recent New York Times report, this Belt and Road Initiative amounts to a debt trap for vulnerable countries around the world, fueling corruption and autocratic behavior in struggling democracies. 59:30 Senator Cory Gardner (CO): Mr. Blumenthal, you mentioned in your opening statement, you talked about the economic opening in China being over. Could you go into a little bit more detail of what you mean by that? Dan Blumenthal: So, the period of reform and opening, which Deng Xiaoping began in 1978 and allowed for the great growth of China, the great growth of the private sector, private-sector entrepreneurs and brought so many Chinese out of poverty and benefitted the world, ended, probably 10 years ago, the Chinese we now know. The Chinese have gone back to the state sector dominating, taking out room for entrepreneurs to grow. They’ve gone back to things like price controls. They’ve gone back to things like lending on the basis of non-market, non-profitable lending but rather through patronage from the party to state-owned enterprises. They certainly haven’t moved any further than they were 10, 12 years ago on market access, things that we’ve been pressing for. They haven’t stopped subsidizing. In fact, they’ve doubled down on subsidizing their state-owned enterprises, which is probably the single biggest cause of probably the WTO stalling as much as it has. And Xi Jinping is certainly not taking China down the road of another round of market reforms—quite the contrary. He’s a statist and favoring state-owned enterprises and the subsidization of state-owned enterprises over the private sector. 1:11:42 Ely Ratner: China is going to use its economic clout to try to achieve its geopolitical aims, which include dividing American alliances and eroding the influence of the United States in the region. So I think that was a very important episode. It was very revealing. I think we can talk about trying to incorporate China into a rules-based order. I don’t think that’s where we’re going to be in the next several years. I think what we have to do is pull up our socks, get more competitive, slow down Chinese momentum in its efforts to develop this sphere of influence. That’s a much more urgent task than a long-term goal of developing a rules-based order. 1:13:44 Senator Todd Young (IN): Mr. Ratner, thanks for your testimony. As I reviewed your written statement, you seem to be making a pretty simple argument with very serious implications. In short, you seem to be saying we’re in a high-stakes competition with China, that China does not accept this rules-based international order we had hoped to welcome them into back in 2000. The legitimacy of that order and the institutions that were stood up to oversee that order are not respected by China. China, instead, respects power. And we as a nation have insufficient leverage, it seems, to be able to affect the sort of change we want with respect to intellectual-property theft, joint-licensing requirements, dumping, and so many other things. What we lack—and this is language you employed—is a comprehensive strategy. Is that a fair summary of your viewpoint, Mr. Ratner? Ely Ratner: Yes, sir. 1:21:05 Ely Ratner: When it looked like the United States was going to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership and that agreement was going to pass, the Chinese were starting to ask questions quietly at senior levels, with American officials about what they would need to do down the road to improve their practices to join that agreement, and obviously, those conversations are no longer happening today. 1:22:30 Senator Jeff Merkley (OR): Mr. Ratner, under WTO, is China allowed to offer subsidies to its businesses? Ely Ratner: Senator, I’m not a trade lawyer, so I can’t get into the weeds of WTO law, but I think the answer is no, and there’re several other dimensions in which they’re not in compliance with the agreement. Sen. Merkley: Under the WTO, China is required to do an annual report of all of its subsidies to different enterprises. Does it do that report? Ratner: I believe not, Senator. Sen. Merkley: So, when it fails to do the report, we are, under the WTO, allowed to do a report on their subsidies. I did an amendment a few years ago that said if China doesn’t produce a report, our trade representative will be directed to produce our report. And before that amendment, the ink could dry on it, our trade rep under President Obama produced a list of 200 Chinese subsidies, subsidies we’re well aware of but rarely kind of articulated. So that’s—so we certainly have an understanding of massive Chinese subsidies that are not allowed under WTO. How about to offer loans at non-market rates? Ratner: I believe not, sir. Sen. Merkley: Or to provide land for free as a form of subsidy? Ratner: I think that’s right, as well as forced technology transfer and a number of other practices. Sen. Merkley: And how about being required—for our companies to be required to locate in a particular part of China where the infrastructure is inferior to other locations? Ratner: Correct. Sen. Merkley: A couple years ago, when I was a part of a delegation to China, we were at a meeting of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in which many of these practices were highlighted, but one company in particular stood up and said, and I won’t name the exact company because they probably didn’t want it too much publicized at the time, but they said they were basically told, we have to put our manufacturing center in this far-western city, far from the port infrastructure; we are told we cannot build any size of item that is in direct competition with the Chinese items; they were told they only could build larger versions that the Chinese weren’t yet building, or they would be shut down and shut out of the country. Is that type of activity by the Chinese legal under the WTO? Ratner: No, sir. Sen. Merkley: And what about requiring American companies to do joint-venture arrangements in order to be able to locate in China? Ratner: Also, not part of the agreement. Sen. Merkley: So, and you’re familiar with how these joint-venture agreements are often used as a way to drain U.S. technology? Ratner: Yes, sir. Sen. Merkley: So, what does one say to the American citizen who says, “China is violating all of these rules, and the WTO has no mechanism by which we appear to be able to hold them accountable. Why shouldn’t we work intensely to create an ability to hold China accountable to the structure of the WTO?” Ratner: I think that was the intention of the Trans-Pacific Partnership. 1:45:22 Senator Cory Gardner (CO): In recent writings in the Wall Street Journal, quotes from President Xi, China has its own ideas about how the world should be run, and as he put it, “to lead in the reform of global governance.” Another quote, or another statement, “in at least eight African countries, as well as some in Southeast Asia, Chinese officials are training their counterparts in how to manage political stability through propaganda and how to control media and the Internet,” and that the China model provides “a new option for other countries who want to speed up their development while preserving their independence.” And finally this: China has committed to train 10,000 political elites in Latin America by 2020. All of this speaks to the need for what you have described, Mr. Ratner, what you have described, Mr. Blumenthal, is U.S. leadership and U.S. response, whether it’s the BUILD Act, whether it’s legislation that Senator Young has described, the legislation that we have co-sponsored together—the Asia Reassurance Initiative Act. This is a time for U.S. leadership, and it’s a time to stand boldly for our values that have empowered the world to be a better place, that has lifted up hundreds of millions of people around the globe up and out of poverty through a system of rules and standards that don’t favor one country over another but that give people a chance to participate in global governance and that global rise. Hearing: The China Challenge, Part 2: Security and Military Developments, Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity, Septemer 5, 2018. Witnesses: Dr. Oriana Skylar Mastro: American Enterprise Institute Abraham Denmark: Director of the Asia Program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars Timestamps and Transcripts 27:50 Chairman Cory Gardner (CO): Our first witness is Dr. Oriana Skylar Mastro, who is the Jeane Kirkpatrick visiting scholar at the American Enterprise Institute where she focuses on Chinese military and security policy in the Asia Pacific. She is also assistant professor of Security Studies at the Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University and serves in the United States Air Force Reserve as a political-military affairs strategist at Pacific air forces. Previously, Dr. Mastro was a fellow in the Asia-Pacific security program at the Center for a New American Security. 28:25 Chairman Cory Gardner (CO): Also joined on the panel by Abraham Denmark, who is director of the Asia program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Prior to joining the Wilson Center, Mr. Denmark served as deputy assistant secretary of defense for East Asia, where he supported the secretary of defense and other U.S. senior government leaders in the formulation and implementation of national security strategies and defense policies toward the region. Mr. Denmark also previously worked as senior vice president for political and security affairs at the National Bureau of Asian Research, a fellow at the Center for a New American Security, and held several positions in the U.S. intelligence community. 42:40 Oriana Skylar Mastro: What China is doing is they’re exploiting gaps in the order. So, we talk about the U.S.-led international order and whether China is challenging it or not. But in reality, there’s many areas of the order that lacks certainty, or ambiguous, don’t have consensus. So I would label cybersecurity as one of these areas. And so what China does is it’s trying to build consensus or work on the periphery of the order. So, for example, when they did One Belt, One Road, and they initially moved to the central Asia, they weren’t challenging the United States, because the United States was not there. And so I would say that in addition to strengthening our relationship with traditional partners and allies, the United States needs to think more broadly about its relationships with countries around the globe. Also, in terms of the security initiative, I would recommend that we think more about demand not supply, in kind of business terms. You often, at least in my experience, you think about what the United States has to offer in terms of security assistance, and then we try to put together packages, whether it’s visits, port visits, or a rotation of a squadron or what have you, instead of looking at what those countries actually demand. And so we should move away from this model of increasing advertising and hoping that countries around the world will decide they want what we have to offer, and instead try to look at what they actually want and start supplying that. 1:05:45 Senator Ed Markey (MA): Should the United States abandon the rules-based international system, and what would the concessions be that we would try to extract in order to take such a step? Dr. Mastro. Oriana Skylar Mastro: So, sir, I don’t think we should abandon it. Instead, what I’m arguing for is an expansion of that system. I think that actually the international, is very limited. If you look at the definition, the party to that order, the amount of countries that actually might be involved in certain treaties, it’s not every country possible. For example, India has very different views on things like cybersecurity than the United States does. And so I think if we could manage to build consensus in these areas of uncertainty, we could actually shape China’s choices. And to that end, that gives the United States a lot of political power because the bottom line is one of the main differences between today and maybe 10 years ago is for the United States, the security benefits that we give to our partners, allies, in the region are no longer enough to outweigh the economic benefits that they get from interacting with China. And so we need a security-benefits-plus type of strategy in which we think also about the economic benefits, which is difficult under the current administration, given the trade policy, but also those political benefits by building new international institutions and building new norms and consensus around areas where that consensus has failed to date. 1:07:08 Chairman Cory Gardner (CO): Going back to the question I started to talk about, just the investments that China has made in South America, the investments China is making in Central America. If you look at investments in Panama, El Salvador, and at least apparently in El Salvador, as perhaps part of an agreement as it relates to the decision El Salvador made on Taiwan. Look at the sale of submarines to countries—Thailand—do we see that as continued opportunity for China’s military expansion? Will we see military basing affecting U.S. operations in Thailand? Will we see, perhaps, an opportunity for military entrance into Central America, into South America, China, basing, even, perhaps? Mr. Denmark. Abraham Denmark: Well, I think there’s a lot that remains to be seen. I don’t think there’s a definitive yes or no answer to that question, but I do expect that Djibouti be the first overseas base that China has established. I fully expect that that will not be the last. Where additional facilities may pop up remains to be seen. I personally would expect more facilities to be established along the trade routes from the Western Pacific, through the Indian Ocean, into the Middle East. I would expect to see more there than before I’d expect to see them in Latin America, primarily because of China’s economic interests, but it remains to be seen. 1:20:00 Senator Ed Markey (MA): In September of 2013, China began a concerted effort to build artificial islands in the South China Sea by crushing coral reefs into sand. It built land features where none previously existed. On top of that, China expanded small outposts into military bases capable of conducting operations. Admiral Philip Davidson, the commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, stated this year that China’s militarization of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea means “China is now capable of controlling the South China Sea in all scenarios, short of a war with the United States.” Ms. Mastro, what considerations or challenges do these bases pose for other claimants and the United States in peacetime, in the gray zone, or in conflict? In other words, what are the implications of China’s military bases in the South China Sea? Oriana Skylar Mastro: So, militarily, sir, they expand the range of Chinese capabilities. And so I think I made the point previously that it’s difficult for us to conceive of fighting a war with China using our bases in Korea and Japan, and that’s primarily because of the range of conventional precision-guided munitions that China has that can reach those bases and render them inoperable. In the South China Sea, which is about the size of the United States, China’s power-projection capabilities historically have been quite limited. And in the report, for example, one thing that was highlighted was the H-6K, when it has ______(01:37), now China can extend its range to 3,300 kilometers. But if you actually have bases there, coupled with carriers, then China’s able to sustain combat sorties, for example, for longer periods of time and at farther ranges than it was before. And this is what allows it to be able to control, as the quote suggested, large areas of the South China Sea, the air, and the sea. I would just mention on the gray-zone side, that China can engage in gray-zone activities only because the United States allows it to. There’s nothing that, as far as I understand it, there’s nothing that tells us that, for example, if China says, “Well, this is a Coast Guard,” that we can’t respond with the use of the U.S. Navy. We are too concerned about escalation, and China knows this. They don’t believe in miscalculation and in inadvertent escalation, and so they use this to their advantage. And we should start being very clear about what our redlines are and, obviously, being then able to follow through with that. 1:42:30 Senator Ed Markey (MA): I just have one final area of questioning, if I may, and that just goes back to the Belt and Road Initiative which has resulted in a very generous policy by China of loaning money to countries, which they then can’t pay back, which then results in China being able to extract huge long-term concessions from those countries. Sri Lanka, just a perfect example where they’ve now had to give up a 99-year lease to the Chinese company, which is partially owned by the Chinese government, 15,000 acres of land. And now it appears there are more countries that are deciding to reconsider how far in debt they want their countries or companies to be to a Chinese entity. But at the same time, President Xi, just in the last few days has announced a new $60 billion program—grants, loans—around the world, on top of the $60 billion program that they’ve had in the past that now has these consequences. So, what are the implications for the United States, for global security, of these Chinese strategies in country after country to gain access, or control over, ports in countries? And what would you recommend to the United States that we do to try to make sure that we minimize the ability of this Belt and Road program to build economic and security relationships with companies in a way almost giving them offers they can’t refuse so they become deeper indebted and more entangled into Chinese foreign policy objectives? 1:48:09 Abraham Denmark: The initiative announced several weeks ago by Secretary of State Pompeo in this vein to enhance U.S. engagement, economic engagement, in these areas I thought was a good indication of seeing the problem and trying to address it, not trying to copy the Chinese system, but playing to American strengths of the free market and American corporations. Hearing: The China Challenge, Part 3: Democracy, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law, Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity, December 4, 2018. Watch on C-SPAN Witnesses: Laura Stone: Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the US Department of State Scott Busby: Deputy Assistant Secretary for Human Rights and Labor at the US Department of State Gloria Steele: Acting Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia at USAID Timestamps and Transcripts 01:23:05 Senator Ed Markey (MA): Around the world, all countries, including the United States, rely on the rules-based international order to underpin security and prosperity to help provide a level playing field, to provide the maximum opportunity for the greatest number of people, and to defend and protect certain fundamental rights. So it is of the utmost importance that we do everything in our power to ensure that this system remains. 01:30:00 Senator Cory Gardner (CO): Our first witness is Scott Busby, who serves as deputy assistant secretary of state at the Bureau of the Human Right, Democracy, and Labor. Previously, he served as director for human rights on the National Security Council in the White House from 2009 to 2011, where he managed a wide range of human rights and refugee issues. 01:36:20 Scott Busby: My bureau, DRL, is implementing $10 million of FY 2018 economic support funds to support human rights in China, just as we have done for the past several years. Nevertheless, such programs are increasingly challenged by the difficult operating environment in China, including the new and highly restrictive foreign NGO management law. 1:59:58 Senator Marco Rubio (FL): And then you see sort of what the global reaction has been to it, and there’s reason to be concerned that this post-World War II, pro-democracy, pro-human rights, global norms are being eroded and reshaped and that China is using its geopolitical heft and its economic power to push it in that direction. Meeting: Press availability at the 51st ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and related meetings, August 4, 2018. Speaker: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Timestamps and Transcripts 1:15 Secretary of State Mike Pompeo: "Throughout my ASEAN-centered engagements these past days I’ve conveyed President Trump’s commitment to this vital part of the world that continues to grow in importance. Security has been a major focus of our conversations. As part of our commitment to advancing regional security in the Indo-Pacific, the United States is excited to announce nearly $300 million in new funding to reinforce security cooperation throughout the entire region.” 4:50 - Secretary of State Mike Pompeo: "As I said earlier this week, the United States practices partnership economics; we seek partnership, not dominance. Earlier this week at the Indo-Pacific Business Forum hosted by the United States Chamber of Commerce, I outlined the Trump administration’s economic strategy for advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific, and I talked about why U.S. businesses’ engagement in the region is crucial to our mission of promoting peace, stability, and prosperity. There is no better force for prosperity in the world than American businesses. When nations partner with American firms, they can have confidence they are working with the most scrupulous, well-run, and transparent companies in the world. As a down payment on a new era in American economic commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, I announced at the forum $113 million in new U.S. Government resources to support foundational areas of the future: the digital economy, energy, and infrastructure. In addition, the Trump administration is working with Congress to encourage the passage of the BUILD Act. It recently passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now before the United States Senate. Under this bill, the government’s development finance capacity would more than double to $60 billion to support U.S. private investment in strategic opportunities abroad." Meeting: Beyond NAFTA and GATT, National Association Southern Center, April 20, 1994. Speaker: Arthur Dunkel - Director of the UN Wrote the “Dunkel Draft” in 1991, a 500 page general outline of what became the WTO 3 years later - it’s basically the WTO’s Constitution “Retired” from GATT in 1993, became a “trade consultant”, and served on the board of Nestle Is a registered WTO dispute panelist Transcript Arthur Dunkel: If I look back at the last 25 years, what did we have? We had two worlds: The so-called Market Economy world and the sadly planned world; the sadly planned world disappeared. One of the main challenges of the Uruguay round has been to create a world wide system. I think we have to think of that. Secondly, why a world wide system? Because, basically, I consider that if governments cooperate in trade policy field, you reduce the risks of tension - political tension and even worse than that." Additional Reading Article: Disney sets out international leadership team post-Fox deal by Stewart Clarke, Variety, December 13, 2018. Article: IMF delays Sri Lanka's loan discussion on political crisis, Reuters, November 20, 2018. Annual Report: U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, USCC.gov, November 14, 2018. Article: Sri Lanka's political shake-up is a win for China by Bharath Gopalaswamy, Foreign Policy, October 29, 2018. Article: Sri Lanka to secure sixth tranche of $250 million IMF's EFF, Press Reader, Sunday Times (Sri Lanka) October 14, 2018. Article: The BUILD Act has passed: What's next? CSIS, October 12, 2018. Article: Power play: Addressing China's belt and road strategy by Daniel Kliman and Abigail Grace, CNAS, September 20, 2018. Article: Taiwan's monthly minimum wage to increase by 5% in 2019 by Keoni Everington, Taiwan News, September 6, 2018. Fact Sheet: U.S. security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, U.S. Department of State, August 4, 2018. Article: Treasury weakens donor disclosure requirements for some nonprofits by Michael Wyland, Nonprofit Quarterly, July 18, 2018. Article: China is doing the same things to Sri Lanka that Great Britain did to China after the opium wars by Panos Mourdoukoutas, Forbes, June 28, 2018. Article: Chinese firm pays $584 million to secure 99-year lease of Sri Lanka port by Reuters, GCaptain, June 26, 2018. Article: How China go Sri Lanka to cough up a port by Maria Abi-Habib, The New York Times, June 25, 2018. Article: China's use of cercive economic measures by Peter Harrell, Elizabeth Rosenberg, and Edoardo Saravalle, CNAS, June 11, 2018. Article: China's military escalation by The Editorial Board, WSJ, June 4, 2018. Article: China owns US debt, but how much? by Investopedia, April 6, 2018. Article: China's military facilities in South China Sea 'almost ready' by Raul Dancel, The Straits Times, February 6, 2018. Report: China's economic rise: History, trends, challenges, and implications for the United States by Wayne M. Morrison, Congressional Research Service, February 5, 2018. Article: U.S. leadership needed in the Asia-Pacific by James W. Fatheree, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, November 17, 2017. Article: China's new island-building ship raises the stakes in South China Sea by Dan Southerland, Radio Free Asia, November 10, 2017. Report: Taiwan: Issues for Congress, Congressional Research Service, October 30, 2017. Article: Inside the fight for OPIC reauthorization by Adva Saldinger, devex, February 21, 2017. News Release: Charles A Kupchan and Ely Ratner join CFR as Senior Fellows, Council on Foreign Relations, February 15, 2017. News Report: PG&E receives maximum sentence for 2010 San Bruno explosion by Kate Larsen, ABC 7 News, January 26, 2017. Article: Lockheed Martin scores $395M DHS security operations center contract by Billy Mitchell, Fed Scoop, September 9, 2016. Article: Terror in Little Saigon by A.C. Thompson, ProPublica, November 3, 2015. Article: Taiwan multinationals serving a broader role by Molly Reiner, Taiwan Business TOPICS, October 28, 2015. Article: China's island factory by Rupert Wingfield-Hayes, BBC News, September 9, 2014. Article: Why was the Dalai Lama hanging out with the right-wing American Enterprise Institute? by David Rose, Vanity Fair, February 26, 2014. Article: The secret foreign donor behind the American Enterprise Institute by Eli Clifton, The Nation, June 25, 2013. Article: Inside the secretive dark-money organization that's keeping the lights on for conservative groups by Walt Hickey, Business Insider, February 12, 2013. Article: How Beijing won Sri Lanka's civil war, Independent, May 23, 2010. Article: The one-year review: Obama's Asia policies by Daniel Blumenthal, Foreign Policy, November 3, 2009. Article: Former high-ranking Bush officials enjoy war profits by Tim Shorrock, Salon, May 29, 2008. Report: ChoicePoint sold to LexisNexis parent, Atlanta Business Chronicle, February 21, 2008. Article: Scientists offered cash to dispute climate study by Ian Sample, The Guardian, February 2, 2007. Article: The man who said to much by Michael Isikoff, Newsweek, September 3, 2006. Article: Put a tiger in your think tank, Mother Jones, May/June 2005 Article: What I didn't find in Africa by Joseph C. Wilson, The New York Times, July 6, 2003. Article: Armitage is ready to step into ring by Steven Mufson, The Washington Post, February 14, 2001. Article: Advocacy and lobbying without fear: what is allowed within a 501(c)(3) charitable organization by Thomas Raffa, Nonprofit Quarterly, September 21, 2000. Resources About Page: The CNA Coporation About Page: Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP About Page: The National Bureau of Asian Research About Page: Oriana Skylar Mastro AEI Scholar List: Dan Blumenthal AEI Scholar List: Oriana Skylar Mastro Alexander Hamilton Society: Our Principles American Enterprise Institute: Annual Report 2017 American Enterprise Institute: Board of Trustees American Enterprise Institute: Jeane Kirkpatrick Fellowship and Scholars Program American Enterprise Institute: Leadership American Enterprise Institute: Scholars Armitage International: Our Team Biography: Scott Busby, Deputy Asst. Secretary, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Cambridge University Press: Think Tanks, Public Policy, and the Politics of Expertise Center for New American Security: About CNAS Center for New American Security: Victoria Nuland, CEO CRS Report: U.S. Security Assistance and Security Cooperation Programs Center for Strategic & International Studies: Richard L. Armitage, Trustee Interactive Map: China Belt and Road Initiative IRS: Exemption Requirements - 501 (c)(3) Organizations LinkedIn Account: Oriana Skylar Mastro LinkedIn Account: Scott Busby LinkedIn Account: U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Lockheed Martin: Board Members - Daniel F. Akerson OpenSecrets: American Enterprise Institute Park Hotels & Resorts: Board of Directors ManTech: Mission, Vision, and Values Report to Congress: U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, November 2018 Right Web: American Enterprise Institute Search Results: Paul | Weiss Professionals Security Cooperation Programs: Fiscal Year 2017 Handbook Special Emergency Authorities Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative SourceWatch: American Enterprise Institute Ties to the Koch Brothers SourceWatch Infographic: Donors Trust Infographic Tesla Investors: James Murdoch Biography Website: American Enterprise Institute Website: Chartwell Strategy Group Website: CNAS Website: U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission Website: Wilson Center Whitehouse Publication: National Security Strategy of the United States of America, December 2017 Wilson Center: Abraham Denmark Wilson Center: Corporate Council World Trade Organization: Overview and Future Direction, updated Nov 29, 2018 Community Suggestions See more Community Suggestions HERE. Cover Art Design by Only Child Imaginations Music Presented in This Episode Intro & Exit: Tired of Being Lied To by David Ippolito (found on Music Alley by mevio)
In the latest episode of Beyond the Margin, host Michael Shields, with help from BTM regular Brian Sachson, delves into life as a ski bum and the profound benefits of a livelihood brimming with travel in an interview with Timothy Konrad, Founder and CEO of Unofficial Networks. Unofficial Networks hails itself as a “ski bum's guide to outdoor news and entertainment” and is an increasingly popular outdoors website with a focus on skiing and snowboarding. In addition to his work with Unofficial Networks, Tim advises on strategic growth and development at gCaptain, currently the world’s largest online maritime publication, and produced the cult-classic ski-film G.N.A.R. The Movie. He also works in association with SkiDUCK, a volunteer based non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of disadvantaged and financially underprivileged youth through teaching and sharing the joys of skiing and snowboarding. In this latest outdoors-themed episode, Mike, Brian and Tim delve into the pacifying effects of a life spent deeply immersed in nature, expound upon the astonishing expanse of The Dolomites in Northern Italy, and Tim, ultimately and impactfully, provides an answer to the question: Where can one go to embark upon the ultimate ski adventure? So dive deep as Beyond the Margin takes you on a whirlwind adventure around the globe, and takes a closer look into the heart and soul of a lifelong, passionate ski bum.Subscribe to Across the Margin: The PodcastCheck out Across the Margin for further amazing stories & much, much more! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
#41. Mario Vittone is a Navy vet and retired USCG rescue swimmer with a resume that will blow your mind. Andy got in touch with him via a mutual friend, and had an interesting chat about his experience in helo rescues at sea, cold water immersion, safety offshore and more. They discussed the recent Cheeki Rafiki search, the sinking of the Bounty and how Mario's career has recently transitioned from on-the-scene rescue ops to consultancy work and a successful writing career. Mario writes regularly on gCaptain.com and for various industry magazines and publications. Check out his own website at mariovittone.com. Enjoy episode 41!
Fire on the Horizon James Tweed talks to Capt. John Conrad about his book on the Deepwater Horizon accident. Link to buy the book from Amazon : http://amzn.to/hWHpcq
Messing About in Ships podcast is back! Last night I interviewed Captain Doug Pine who told an amazing sea story about what happened to him after replying to this ad. Here’s the rest of the story. Grab a beer and popcorn because it’s a long but good one! Leadership Lessons from a Modern Day Mutiny(download) […]
Download MP3: Messing About In Ships Episode 36 April 1, 2009 (41 minutes) This week Peter interviews Ben Strong from Amver (Twitter @amver) about the 2009 Connecticut Maritime Association Shipping Conference in Stamford, CT. Music: The World The People Together by The Dandy Warhols and Invisible by Wendy & Lisa (Podsafe Music Network) Subscribe Via […]
Download MP3: Messing About In Ships Episode 35 March 19, 2009 (61 minutes) Interview This week I interview Nick Jaffe (Twitter @bigoceans) about his solo sailing adventures and sponsorship challenge from the social media / online crusing guide BlueMapia. Please register (for free) for BlueMapia and plot a few points of interest on their online […]
Download MP3: Messing About in Ships episode 34, March 12, 2009 (52 minutes) This week John interviews Stas Magaronis, President of Santa Maria Shipowning and Trading about green and short sea shipping and the marine highway. Music: Radioghost by Norwegian Recycling from Mashuptown.com Subscribe Via iTunes HERE Shownotes @ Messing About In Ships blog Technorati […]
(68 minutes) Download MP3: Messing About In Ships podcast episode 32 Subscribe Via iTunes HERE Shownotes Lazzara Yachts website and blog Rich Lazzara on Twitter
(64 minutes) Download MP3: Messing About In Ships podcast episode 32 Subscribe Via iTunes HERE This episode features initial thoughts on US Airways Flight 1549 incident (Sea Fever Coverage HERE) and an Interview with AMVER. Technorati tags: Messing About In Ships podcast, Captain John Konrad, gCaptain.com, US Coast Guard, AMVER, social media, US Air 1549, […]
Captain John and Peter talk pirates and Vendee Globe. Peter interviews Captain Kim Carver publisher of Jacktar magazine and the Women of Maritime calendar. Podsafe music from The Dandy Warhols.
Sea Stories Peter Google Catches Sea-Fever, Too Significant loss for sail training – The sinking of the Irish Asgard II Waypoints 500 and 99 Days at Sea, Respectively Roz Savage makes it to Hawaii after 99 rowing from San Francisco and Reid Stowe passed 1/2 point of 1000 Days at Sea. John Blogging in the […]
Sea Stories John A Cruise Ship For The Seasick Updates on the salvage of the MSC Napoli and incident investigation. Peter From friend Roger Enright of Speaking from the Gulch blog: Olympic 49er Class story Internet Ports of Call Peter NBC’s Olympic web coverage – sailing and ADMIRAL Thad Allen is my friend. (30 minutes) […]
(28 minutes) Download MP3: Messing About In Ships podcast episode 28 Subscribe Via iTunes HERE Shownotes coming soon! Technorati tags: Boing Boing, BBtv, Telstar Logistics, Todd Lappin, SS Jeremiah O’Brien, USS Pampanito, GMDSS, Tall Ships Chalenge, American Sail Training Association, Everywheremag.com, David Byrne, Brian Eno, Strange Overtones, Everything That Happens Will Happen Today
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