The dawn of the Obama era has generated great hope all over the world. The unprecedented world attention that his swearing-in drew was a testimony to the fact that everyone was interested in what primarily was a US episode. In his inauguration speech Obama said, “The challenges we face are real but they will be met.” He also said, “America is friend of all nations and we are ready to lead once more.” He appeared to strike right chords when he said, “We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan.” All these are good words indeed, but the real test will come when Obama’s policies will be tested. But, for a start, Obama represents hope for the entire world.
Md Ziyaullah Khan
New Delhi