IMF:SELECTION

US set to meddle in EU

Selection of IMF chief hots up as the US plays footsie

“No permanent friends, no permanent enemies, just permanent interests”, is the maxim often used by the realist school of thought, to explain the constantly changing behaviour of states in the conduct of their relations within the bounds of international political economy. A good example of this reality is offered by the current Russian decision to announce its intent to pitch the former Czech prime minister and ex-Central Bank Chief, Josef Tosovsky, against the European Union’s candidate, former French finance minister, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, for the post of IMF managing director.The twist in the tale is the French candidate, who, after being backed by the US, is beginning to realise that the US commitment can hardly be counted upon. Inspired by the Russian initiative, the US has suddenly become non-committal on the issue, “We look forward to working with our colleagues at the Fund to select a new managing director who will continue the reform efforts at the IMF and provide leadership to this vital institution,” said Ann-Marie Hauser, US Treasury spokeswoman. The question: Why is Russia, considered to be close to France, out to embarrass its friend? And why is it hobnobbing with the US? Russia says that there is no politics involved in its decision; it is purely guided by professional reasons—to introduce a spirit of competition in the contest. Clearly, this unexpected Russian move has put paid to EU’s hopes to see the Frenchman elected unopposed. A few months ago the EU had embarrassed Bush by making sure that one of his closest neo-Conservative friends, John Bolton, was unceremoniously made to exit the World Bank. Now the ball is in the US court. To expect Bush not to give the ball a spin would tantamount to a flawed analysis of international relations, which is as much dependent on national, as much as it is dependent on the vested, interests of leaders. In addition, it gives the US another oppurtunity to keep an eye on its friends and foes in Europe. It always helps in the long run.