DAP: Nick Adams doesn’t fit the criteria to be US’ top envoy

In rejecting the appointment of Nick Adams as US ambassador, DAP’s secretary for international affairs, Kasthuri Patto questioned whether Adams fit the criteria required for one to be an ambassador, even more so as US’ top envoy

“The role and functions of an Ambassador or High Commissioner includes being the highest-ranking official representing his or her country in another.

“An Ambassador shapes foreign policy, facilitates interactions, attends meetings and cultural events and is kept in the loop of latest developments in the country he or she is residing in and in their own.

“An Ambassador serves as the official spokesperson of the government, partaking in the negotiations of treaties, as a primary focal point to their citizens abroad, as a direct link between the country they are in and the government they are serving in which they speak on behalf of the Government.

“Ambassadors require diplomatic skills, leadership abilities, cultural sensitivity and an acute sense of wisdom and discernment to navigate through many political waters to create an impact and also legacy to be filled by his or her successors.

“An Ambassador’s service or disservice is a litmus test on not just the sustainability of diplomatic ties between nations but the continuity of relationships, friendships and camaraderie between all actors in the structure of the foreign office.

“These attributes are clearly outlined on www.pathtoforeignservice.com which is a preparatory website to serve in the US Government as a Foreign Service Officer (FSO).

“How many of these criteria has Nick Adams fulfilled? What are his views on foreign policies and diplomacy? What is his opinion on multilateralism, human rights, gender and migrant issues? What is his stand on crimes against humanity, religion and social cohesion?” she asked.

The term ambassador and high commissioner refers to the same role. The only difference is high commissioner is the term used for top envoys from Commonwealth nations.

Yesterday, DAP secretary general Anthony Loke said that his party would be joining its Pakatan Harapan coalition partners in voicing up against the appointment of American conservative Nick Adams as the US ambassador to Malaysia.

Kasthuri who also sits in the CEC doubted Adams ability to function as US’ number one envoy in Malaysia.

“Does Nick Adams, who became an American citizen only in 2021, merely 4 years ago, and a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump, has what it takes to not only be the eyes and ears of his Government but also as a bridge between our two nations, notably in this turbulent time between trade agreements, human rights as well as peace and security?

“Will Nick Adams courageously carry out his duties without fear or favour as the Ambassador of the US representing the multi-cultural, multi-lingual, multi-religious people of America?”