SENATE BILL: GTO Expansion Act of 2011 (On the President's desk)

[Bacon King]

A few things to say, here:

Somaliland has significant issues with its territorial integrity: in the east, they claim three separate provinces that are under the de facto control of Puntland; in the west, the province of Awdal has recently attempted secession. A Somaliland membership in the GTO would obligate Atlasia- along with all other member states- to take large-scale military action against Puntland and Awdalland.

I echo Hashemite's concerns over the inclusion of South Sudan, as well: an authoritarian one-party state is not democratic to the extent that (should be) required for consideration into GTO membership.

I do believe these two nations have shown that they are willing to improve their human rights records, and I believe that Atlasia should continue working closely with these nations, providing developmental aid and assisting them with efforts to combat extremism. However, I have reservations about offering full membership in the GTO to these nations, and I am therefore seriously considering a veto.

However, before I do that, I'd like to give the supporters of this bill a chance to respond.

[Bacon King]

Anyone at all?

[Bacon King]

Given the circumstances here, I think it's only appropriate that I refrain from taking action on this bill.