Connie Lawn: Key in US - NZ Flag Will Fly Over Blair House

The good news is, the NZ flag will fly proudly over the Blair House. That is the official guest house of the President, and is across the street from the White House. The flag signals an important international leader is the guest of the United States.

The bad news is, the Prime Minister arrives in the midst of a debt crises that is consuming the US and much of the world. And three quarters of America are sweltering in heat which is often higher that 100 degrees Farenheidt. Combined with humidity, drought, and lost jobs, this is not a happy time for the nation. So the visit by the Prime Minister is not likely to receive much notice here, and that is a shame. At least he is here.

The highlight of the visit is the bilaterial meeting with President Obama on Friday afternoon, Washington time (Saturday morning in NZ). They are supposed to read from prepared statements; questions are not scheduled at this time. But the Prime Minister delivers an important breakfast speech to the US Chamber of Commerce the Day before. And he will have several chances to talk to the press. The main issues of the trip are trade, bilaterial relations, the earthquakes, the world economy, the wars, and Antarctica. They may even mention the fact the historic American shuttle flight conducted some of its main missions in the heavens high above New Zealand.

If America reaches a temporary settlement of the debt crises while the Prime Minister is here, New Zealand may be able to claim bragging rights. It would certainly put everyone in a better mood. Then the trip will be more successful, and the politicians in Washington can prepare to escape for their August holidays.

Connie Lawn, at the White House

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