George Bush won't attend the World Summit

WE all remember when Bill Clinton visited South Africa a few years ago and the country virtually came to a standstill. I recall that several manholes around his hotel were sealed and his official cavalcade caused major traffic disruptions. So perhaps it's somewhat of a relief that current US President George W Bush has announced his intention not to attend this month's World Summit. Apparently his Secretary of State, Colin Powell will attend on his behalf. Bush's decision has, according to a news item published on Jowsco's official website, been welcomed by conservative American activists. They claim the Summit "will be widespread with anti-US sentiment and anti-freedom, anti-people, anti-globalisation and anti-western agendas." However, how important is it for the outcomes of this Summit that Heads of State attend? Also how important is American buy-in for the outcomes to be effective? What is your view? Click on 'reply to the editor' for your comments. (Miguel de Sousa)