We know that as a city and a region we’re fortunate to have a major research university in our midst. But unless we’re talking about a re-locating medical school or a revived football program, it can be easy to take USF for granted. The other night I was privy to the benefits of having a university with a Center for Strategic & Diplomatic Studies on its campus. Executive Director Mohsen Milani hosted Christopher Hill, former ambassador to, among others, South Korea and Iraq. A few outtakes:
* Chinese vested interest in North Korea: “The problem is deeper than refugee (scenarios). Many in their government see it in zero-sum terms. An American victory and a Chinese defeat (if the Koreas unite under South Korean aegis). We must deal with the Chinese and alleviate their concerns.”
* Iraq: “Will be seen historically as an enormous mistake.”
* Syria: “No victory parade in Damascus. (Look for) negotiations among exhausted parties.”
* ISIS: “There’s no negotiating with ISIS.”