NationStates Jolt Archive

I love the British sense of prim and proper and how easily they get offended.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/4953523/Barack-Obama-too-tired-to-give-proper-welcome-to-Gordon-Brown.html

But they concede that the mood music of the event was at times strained. Mr Brown handed over carefully selected gifts, including a pen holder made from the wood of a warship that helped stamp out the slave trade - a sister ship of the vessel from which timbers were taken to build Mr Obama's Oval Office desk. Mr Obama's gift in return, a collection of Hollywood film DVDs that could have been bought from any high street store, looked like the kind of thing the White House might hand out to the visiting head of a minor African state.

Ouch

Id personally much rather have my leader worrying about how to get healthcare and jobs to his people and prevent them from being kicked out of their homes en mass, then thinking about what color of tie from virgin albino silkworms in Malasia,that Gordon Brown wants for a gift.

Id personally much rather have my leader worrying about how to get healthcare to his people and prevent them from being kicked out of their homes en mass, then thinking about what color of tie from virgin albino silkworms in Malasia,that Gordon Brown wants for a gift.

Surely that's what aides are for

I think it's funny more than anything. It's pathetic how Brown (And many other British and world politicians) just can't resist trying to run over to kiss messiah Obama's arse, so it's great when he gets treated as the pathetic little nonentity that he is.

am I the only one wondering what movies he got?

The official dismissed any notion of the special relationship, saying: "There's nothing special about Britain. You're just the same as the other 190 countries in the world. You shouldn't expect special treatment."

right well then I guess he won't mind if we pull out of Afghanistan

Ouch

Heh, I was going to quote that, too.

Really, though, the diplomatic dance is part of the presidency. It's not like I don't understand that there is historic pressures mounting on the new president, but part of the job is managing all of that and sorting out the seemingly stupid pageantry of international relations. And no, I don't really expect the president to sit there and come up with the perfect gift (something I suck at, too), I do expect him to have a staff member to come up with something better than a couple DVDs.

Not that this is some sort of major failure of his presidency or anything. Just one of those things.

Well.... honestly, DVDs to a foreign dignitary? Especially the prime minister of a country with whom we have enjoyed immensely good relations for the past sixty years?

Don't you think something, I don't know, a bit more personal... perhaps engraved... would have been less, "Oh fuck it, give him a Virgin Superstore gift Card? or socks?"

For heaven's sake -- a gift with historical significance comes to the US -- and we sent Brown home with "Shaun of the Dead?"

The British government couldn't get their noses far enough up Dubya's ass, and now they're offended Obama's too tired to greet them properly because he's trying to fix the shitstorm that Dear Leader left behind?

Sheesh.

Talk to him once everything's cleaned up.

The British government couldn't get their noses far enough up Dubya's ass, and now they're offended Obama's too tired to greet them properly because he's trying to fix the shitstorm that Dear Leader left behind?

Sheesh.

Talk to him once everything's cleaned up.

Yup the British government have it so easy these days it's no wonder they had time to all get together and work out what they should give. PMQs was just a brainstorming session for it

Well.... honestly, DVDs to a foreign dignitary?
Don't you think something, I don't know, a bit more personal... perhaps engraved... would have been less, "Oh fuck it, give him a Virgin Superstore gift Card? or socks?"

It kinda smacks of the, "Oh fuck, we gotta give him a gift? Um um um...hey, pick up those DVDs over there and wrap them up."

To be fair, I'd rather have DVDs than a pen holder made from some old boat.

Well.... honestly, DVDs to a foreign dignitary? Especially the prime minister of a country with whom we have enjoyed immensely good relations for the past sixty years?

Don't you think something, I don't know, a bit more personal... perhaps engraved... would have been less, "Oh fuck it, give him a Virgin Superstore gift Card? or socks?"

For heaven's sake -- a gift with historical significance comes to the US -- and we sent Brown home with "Shaun of the Dead?"

Does this mean that Obama next is obligated to bring two kickass gifts next time?

But seriously, at the very least he could have given Blu-Ray.

Don't you think something, I don't know, a bit more personal... perhaps engraved... would have been less, "Oh fuck it, give him a Virgin Superstore gift Card? or socks?"

well at least its not another bank :p

It kinda smacks of the, "Oh fuck, we gotta give him a gift? Um um um...hey, pick up those DVDs over there and wrap them up."

it was wrapped? (if I was president I would have a little good bag set up with a piece of cake and other cool stuff)

When our PM is putting the same effort into stopping our economy going down the pan as Obama is in America, then he can get whiney about the quality of his gift.

Our unemployment figers are rapidly climbing and all the government do is provide more crappy training courses (that don't give practical experience or qualifications) and tell us we have to try harder to get jobs.

it was wrapped? (if I was president I would have a little good bag set up with a piece of cake and other cool stuff)

Next time Brown sees Obama he's getting one of these:

http://img.alibaba.com/photo/214573643/surprise_bag_for_boys_toys_candy_.jpg

I think it's funny more than anything. It's pathetic how Brown (And many other British and world politicians) just can't resist trying to run over to kiss messiah Obama's arse, so it's great when he gets treated as the pathetic little nonentity that he is.

Hur, hur.

Bushevik that didn't mind British kissing the ass of Dubya and getting into the Iraq clusterfuck with him now gets annoyed when people visit Obama and see him as much better by comparison with Dubya, and laughs when they snark at a gift.

Hur, hur.

Geez, as an American I find this situation embarrassing.
If this is the best the White House Diplomatic Corps can muster...

Geez, as an American I find this situation embarrassing.
If this is the best the White House Diplomatic Corps can muster...

I'm sure someone on NSG will turn this non-incident into "OMG SAURON ADMINISTRATION IZ PHAILYUR!!" before the week is out.

I'm sure someone on NSG will turn this non-incident into "OMG SAURON ADMINISTRATION IZ PHAILYUR!!" before the week is out.

I think it's funny more than anything. It's pathetic how Brown (And many other British and world politicians) just can't resist trying to run over to kiss messiah Obama's arse, so it's great when he gets treated as the pathetic little nonentity that he is.

Well, gee. Y'think?

To be fair, I'd rather have DVDs than a pen holder made from some old boat.

but its gonna be such a clusterfuck when they have to find him something next time

But seriously, at the very least he could have given Blu-Ray.

this is Gordon Brown we are talking about if anything he should of gone for betamax

Our unemployment figers are rapidly climbing and all the government do is provide more crappy training courses (that don't give practical experience or qualifications) and tell us we have to try harder to get jobs.

I hope you don't mean apprenticeships here

SNIP

maybe he would like some shackles?

Well, gee. Y'think?

who lit the fuse on your tampon?

Geez, as an American I find this situation embarrassing.
If this is the best the White House Diplomatic Corps can muster...

If the Special Relationship is as special as people like to make out then it shouldn't matter about the gifts.

If the Special Relationship is as special as people like to make out then it shouldn't matter about the gifts.
;) Tell yourself that on Valentine's Day or your wedding anniversary when you get that special someone a vacuum cleaner (either gender) or a card that says, "I didn't know what to get you so here's your present... this card!"

If the Special Relationship is as special as people like to make out then it shouldn't matter about the gifts.

Isn't that a little bit like not buying your other half a present on their birthday or Christmas or whatever and then saying "If you love me it shouldn't matter"

Does that ever work?

;) Tell yourself that on Valentine's Day or your wedding anniversary when you get that special someone a vacuum cleaner (either gender) or a card that says, "I didn't know what to get you so here's your present... this card!"

I did get my mum a kettle for Christmas.

The cold war was brief and ended after she found it it glowed blue while boiling.

If the Special Relationship is as special as people like to make out then it shouldn't matter about the gifts.

"Look not that I don't appreciate the gift, Barack. But I was hoping we could y'know, spend some time together. I...I missed you, you know."

"I can't, Gordon. I have a headache."

"You promised you'd always love me! What, don't you find me attractive anymore??"

who lit the fuse on your tampon?

Yo momma. :p

Seriously, if that kind of idiotic taunt is all you can do, I might as well answer your posts like this.

or a card that says, "I didn't know what to get you so here's your present... this card!"
...
I have to go return something at the store...

Isn't that a little bit like not buying your other half a present on their birthday or Christmas or whatever and then saying "If you love me it shouldn't matter"

Does that ever work?

These are countries, not loved ones.

Countries that are both in the middle of economic meltdown, perhaps gifts aren't that appropriate during the current situation.

...
I have to go return something at the store...
:eek:




:D

I love the British sense of prim and proper and how easily they get offended.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/4953523/Barack-Obama-too-tired-to-give-proper-welcome-to-Gordon-Brown.html

I love how Americans think that British people are all the same and still living in the Victorian era.

These are countries, not loved ones.

Countries that are both in the middle of economic meltdown, perhaps gifts aren't that appropriate during the current situation.

Diplomatic manouvering, etc would seem to be quite appropriate when facing such a situation. Can't hurt to strengthen ties at such a time. It's not as if Obama himself had to go down to the shops to pick something out.

The cold war was brief and ended after she found it it glowed blue while boiling.

omg I so have this kettle its the shit (so much better than that 60 second boil pos)

Countries that are both in the middle of economic meltdown, perhaps gifts aren't that appropriate during the current situation.

I'd be worried if the US government can't afford gifts these days...actually the gift to Russia was also rubbish so maybe they are getting a really good deal on this stuff at the dollar store

I'd be worried if the US government can't afford gifts these days...actually the gift to Russia was also rubbish so maybe they are getting a really good deal on this stuff at the dollar store

I was thinking more along the lines of the impression it gives to voters. If you've just been made redundant, your house repossesed and your bank has exploded then you won't be happy reading that the jerks who allowed the mess to happen are giving each other antiques.

your bank has exploded

:eek:

but seriously I doubt anyone would of cared (not that they do now)

I love the British sense of prim and proper and how easily they get offended.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/4953523/Barack-Obama-too-tired-to-give-proper-welcome-to-Gordon-Brown.html
Oh dear oh dear. DVDs... try harder the US...
When our PM is putting the same effort into stopping our economy going down the pan as Obama is in America, then he can get whiney about the quality of his gift.

Our unemployment figers are rapidly climbing and all the government do is provide more crappy training courses (that don't give practical experience or qualifications) and tell us we have to try harder to get jobs.
Both of our countries have totally wasted billions of pounds, and our government will be doing better off than the Americans when share prices go back up, so there we go.

doesnt obama get ANY credit for not asking mr brown to join us in a stupid and useless war in asia?

doesnt obama get ANY credit for not asking mr brown to join us in a stupid and useless war in asia?

No, it's a patriotic duty for Real Americans™ to find ways to declare Sauron's Presidency a failure every chance they get.

doesnt obama get ANY credit for not asking mr brown to join us in a stupid and useless war in asia?
He gave Gordon Brown some DVDs so no.

He gave Gordon Brown some DVDs so no.

One of them was Rambo III.

I think it was a message.

One of them was Rambo III.

I think it was a message.
Yeah well hopefully we send him Never Say Never Again in the post.

He gave Gordon Brown some DVDs so no.
NO?

i would think that not asking you to join us in folly would be enough to forgive any tacky present.

NO?

i would think that not asking you to join us in folly would be enough to forgive any tacky present.
*sigh*

Not putting any effort in just insults our sensibilities. I'm sure he's very busy, but then so's Gordon Brown.

Well, gee. Y'think?

I don't think that's what banana meant actually...

One of them was Rambo III.

I think it was a message.

"I-is this Scent of a Woman?"

"Yup.... what?"

*sigh*

Not putting any effort in just insults our sensibilities. I'm sure he's very busy, but then so's Gordon Brown.

Yeah, but Gordon's been at the game a little while. He knows how to balance his time. Obama on the other hand decided to take this Teddy Roosevelt style and grab it by the horns and beat it to death with his bare fucking hands (as opposed to his bear fucking hands--a mistake Taft would make only once) and kinda burned himself out.

*sigh*

Not putting any effort in just insults our sensibilities. I'm sure he's very busy, but then so's Gordon Brown.
well what about the part where we pretend that y'all are our bestest friend when everyone knows that that spot is taken by canada?

surely THAT forgives a tacky present.

One of them was Rambo III.

I think it was a message.

"I-is this Scent of a Woman?"

"Yup.... what?"

"I'm Gonna Git You Sucka"?

Yeah, but Gordon's been at the game a little while. He knows how to balance his time. Obama on the other hand decided to take this Teddy Roosevelt style and grab it by the horns and beat it to death with his bare fucking hands (as opposed to his bear fucking hands--a mistake Taft would make only once) and kinda burned himself out.
Quite.

Impetuousness of Youth - 0
Hard knock Presidential Life - 1
well what about the part where we pretend that y'all are our bestest friend when everyone knows that that spot is taken by canada?

surely THAT forgives a tacky present.
Since we basically own Canada, not really :tongue:

No, it's a patriotic duty for Real Americans™ to find ways to declare Sauron's Presidency a failure every chance they get.

Upcoming birthday present from the UK PM for the US president: a small golden ring. Keep away from fire. May hide some things from sight.

Quite.

Impetuousness of Youth - 0
Hard knock Presidential Life - 1

Since we basically own Canada, not really :tongue:
good lord!

y'all are less satisfiable than the republican party. what do we have to do? give you the freaking statue of liberty?

good lord!

y'all are less satisfiable than the republican party. what do we have to do? give you the freaking statue of liberty?
No that came from the French so we'd consider it a massive insult.

A card made by him and his family or something would've been cool. With a wee opening and closing bird's mouth on the inside (bit of card inside to do that obv.) saying "Talk is cheep, we all know we're BFFs, Regards, Pres. Obama and family".

See?

I could've improved relations with this country in about fifteen minutes.

y'all are less satisfiable than the republican party. what do we have to do? give you the freaking statue of liberty?

A puppy would do I think.

what do we have to do? give you the freaking statue of liberty?

looking at Franco-US relations these days I'd hazard at a no :p

That's because his head is too far up his OWN ass, where he's busy planning how to further the Obama Crash. Prediction: Dow Jones falls to 3000 within a year as a result of his policies.

Obama LIED, the economy DIED!

That's because his head is too far up his OWN ass, where he's busy planning how to further the Obama Crash. Prediction: Dow Jones falls to 3000 within a year as a result of his policies.

Obama LIED, the economy DIED!
besides being an indicator that you listen to sean hannity just what is that phrase supposed to mean?

That's because his head is too far up his OWN ass, where he's busy planning how to further the Obama Crash. Prediction: Dow Jones falls to 3000 within a year as a result of his policies.

Obama LIED, the economy DIED!
Eh the economy died on its knees before January you know -_-

That's because his head is too far up his OWN ass, where he's busy planning how to further the Obama Crash. Prediction: Dow Jones falls to 3000 within a year as a result of his policies.

Obama LIED, the economy DIED!

So, after Bush ran up a defcit due to an unwarranted war, destroying your economy in the process and leaving the mess to be cleaned up by its sucessor, you decide to blame the sucessor.

Whom you, to show how credible you are, call "The Dark Lord".

Showing, of course, that not only you are utterly ignorant about politics, you're also utterly ignorant about Lord of the Rings.

Showing, of course, that not only you are utterly ignorant about politics, you're also utterly ignorant about Lord of the Rings.
That's true. Sauron may have been a evil demon-tyrant, but at least he knew how to balance the Mordor budget.

right well then I guess he won't mind if we pull out of AfghanistanYou mean all, what, 7,000 of them? :p

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDiqDIWKSuw

I don't know how to react - quasi-patriotism being brought up against admiration for a leader of an other country....

Obama LIED, the economy DIED!

What exactly has he lied about? I mean, have you really thought this through or are did you just decide, "Oh yeah, well...I'm just going to say the same things they said about Bush...that'll show 'em!"

Obama's let himself down more than anyone else, by showing he either lacks the diplomtaic capability or the diplomatic staff to even pick something as small as a gift for a foreign leader. Brown had the intelligence to pick a present with meaning and a relevent meaining at that; Obama's gift is simply embarrassing.

What exactly has he lied about? I mean, have you really thought this through or are did you just decide, "Oh yeah, well...I'm just going to say the same things they said about Bush...that'll show 'em!"

Well, gee. Take a guess. :p

What exactly has he lied about? I mean, have you really thought this through or are did you just decide, "Oh yeah, well...I'm just going to say the same things they said about Bush...that'll show 'em!"
im pretty sure that its just something he picked up from listening to sean hannity that he thought sounded cool.

You mean all, what, 7,000 of them? :p

yeah but how many Americans speak with a North London accent? without us communication with the Taliban would be impossible! :tongue:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDiqDIWKSuw

and they wonder why celebrities get elected :salute:

also your avatar is awesome

im pretty sure that its just something he picked up from listening to sean hannity that he thought sounded cool.

Whew, thanks God, here I thought only I tried to make my internet posts based on characters I saw on TV.

You mean all, what, 7,000 of them? :p

8,100, thankyou very much, and if you want you can try and sort out Helmand.

Hey, if they want, we can let them harbor a few more of our Planes and Boats, lol..


But, in all seriousness, that does suck, we should at least be able to match the historic nature of their gifts, maybe a rag made out of redcoats or something, lol...

What exactly has he lied about? I mean, have you really thought this through or are did you just decide, "Oh yeah, well...I'm just going to say the same things they said about Bush...that'll show 'em!"

He lied when he claimed that he had Godly powers who could immediately fix the economy and that it certainly wouldn't take any time or effort... Oh wait.

Whew, thanks God, here I thought only I tried to make my internet posts based on characters I saw on TV.
you arent the only one but you are one of the best.

you arent the only one but you are one of the best.

Awww! :D

Obama LIED, the economy DIED!

Actually hes done almost everything hes said he was going to.

If youre going to come up with childish slogans, you should at least be original, rather then just doing the "They said this bout Bush, so I is gonna say it bout Obama!!!"

I do think this was handled very poorly by the Obama staff.
For the last 50 years the UK has been the most steadfast ally we could have. No matter how stupid or ill thought out our adventures have been, the UK has never hesitated to come along with us.

Luckily, the British are very polite and forgiving of us Yanks who don't understand proper formality. So as long as Obama agrees to take back a few annoying Americans who reside in the UK currently on his visit to the UK all will be forgiven.

I do think this was handled very poorly by the Obama staff.
For the last 50 years the UK has been the most steadfast ally we could have. No matter how stupid or ill thought out our adventures have been, the UK has never hesitated to come along with us.

Luckily, the British are very polite and forgiving of us Yanks who don't understand proper formality. So as long as Obama agrees to take back a few annoying Americans who reside in the UK currently on his visit to the UK all will be forgiven.

You're taking back Ruby Wax?!??

We won't just forgive him, he'll be in the new years honours list.

You're taking back Ruby Wax?!??

We won't just forgive him, he'll be in the new years honours list.

Um....Who's Ruby Wax? lol

You're taking back Ruby Wax?!??

We won't just forgive him, he'll be in the new years honours list.

Oh god we have to do that much to be in your good graces again....


I thought we would just get away with Madonna...

Um....Who's Ruby Wax? lol

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=ruby+wax&aq=f

Watch to your hearts content.

You might want some needles to shove into your ears on hand though.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=ruby+wax&aq=f

Watch to your hearts content.

You might want some needles to shove into your ears on hand though.

*shudders* to reverse that banishment is madness.

the weird part is she has been in the UK so long and hasn't even begun to pick up the accent.

I'm all for cheering on our new President, but this is just embarrassing. I don't even know who to blame. I can see it now:

Secretary: "So you'll greet Mr. Brown and present him with a handpicked gift."
Obama: "Okay. What is it?"
Secretary: "Hmm?"
Obama: "What is the gift?"
Secretary: "I thought you picked something."
Obama: "Hell, I didn't."
Secretary: "Maybe Hillary did."
Hillary: "Sorry, I was shopping for reset buttons."
Obama: "Get me Marine One. We need to find a Best Buy."

I'm sure he'll get the hang of it, though. Give the poor guy a break.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=ruby+wax&aq=f

Watch to your hearts content.

You might want some needles to shove into your ears on hand though.

Hmmm...Well I guess the first question now is, how am I going to get these needles out?...

Second...Do we have to bring her back here, what if we, say, dump her on Canada? lol

Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait...

Wait.



Wait.

It just occurred to me that this is the worst faux pas Obama has made for now.

As opposed to "Old Europe", "sixteen words", Colin Powell making an ass out of himself at the UN, the dickwaving and cowboy diplomacy, squandering all good will the world had after 9/11...

Really, Obama could give Gordon Brown an used G-string and I wouldn't care!

Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait...

Wait.



Wait.

It just occurred to me that this is the worst faux pas Obama has made for now.

As opposed to "Old Europe", "sixteen words", Colin Powell making an ass out of himself at the UN, the dickwaving and cowboy diplomacy, squandering all good will the world had after 9/11...

Really, Obama could give Gordon Brown an used G-string and I wouldn't care!

It really is quite funny.

Hell, if I was Gordon Brown, Id feel like I got the better deal.

"Oi, we gave that bastard a gift that is purely symbolic, and that sucker gave me something I can actually use!"

You know now though, that at the next NATO Christmas party, when they do Secret Santa, no one will want Obama to get them :p

Surely that's what aides are for

Or even employees of the State department.

right well then I guess he won't mind if we pull out of Afghanistan

Wait..what? oh no, no, no The United Kingdom is an important and trusted ally of America in the war against terror.

Or even employees of the State department.



Wait..what? oh no, no, no The United Kingdom is an important and trusted ally of America in the war against terror.

Well, you know, No one Really wants to be France, lol :p

TBH, giving gifts that have stuff to do with the slave trade, or the stopping thereof, is pretty fucking patronizing and douchey.

(Even though it's not directly related to Obama in the first place).

Really, Obama could give Gordon Brown an used G-string and I wouldn't care!

Somehow H2, I have the impression that no matter what Obama does you will defend him till you are blue in the face.

You Americans may laugh for now at the slight you have delivered towards our Dear Leader. You won't be laughing when the naval bombardment and land invasion to rectify this dishonour begins next Wednesday. Your President will be captured and strapped to the ground in a public lavatory to be urinated upon by the men of our fine nation. He'll then become the personal bitch of Lord Mandelson to demonstrate to all of you filthy colonials the new "special relationship" that exists between our two countries.

Don't the US and the UK have different DVD regional areas? I certainaly hope Obama gave him ones that are compatiable with Brown's DVD player.

Not only that it is going to be a bust when Brown looks through the DVD's and sees that he already has those ones in his collection.

Somehow H2, I have the impression that no matter what Obama does you will defend him till you are blue in the face.

i think he was not happy with Clinton appointment to Secretary of state.
whom i suspect is largely responsible for the matter.

They say that it is the thought that counts when giving gifts not the actual gift itself. That could be applied in this case but it doesn't seem as if any thought when into it at all.

They say that it is the thought that counts when giving gifts not the actual gift itself. That could be applied in this case but it doesn't seem as if any thought when into it at all.

i mean he at least could have given him reels of film, to signify America's movie culture. Or something from the set of a movie.

Bad planning on Obama's part. Chalk it up to inexperience. Nice gift from Brown though.

right well then I guess he won't mind if we pull out of Afghanistan

lol. we could throw our eggs in with the basket on the Continent instead of the one over the pond, perhaps. i get the feeling in this country that we put up with a lot of America's shit and try to defend its actions when necessary (PM Blair sticking his neck out for Bush and the Iraq war, trying to bridge the gap between Europe and the US, destroying his political career in the process, etc), largely because of the longstanding 'special relationship'. removing the bust of Churchill (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/4623148/Barack-Obama-sends-bust-of-Winston-Churchill-on-its-way-back-to-Britain.html) from the Oval Office was also a bit of a blow for the relationship. i think we like the special relationship, and its a bit offputting

The official dismissed any notion of the special relationship, saying: "There's nothing special about Britain. You're just the same as the other 190 countries in the world. You shouldn't expect special treatment."

owch

lol. we could throw our eggs in with the basket on the Continent instead of the one over the pond, perhaps. i get the feeling in this country that we put up with a lot of America's shit and try to defend its actions when necessary (PM Blair sticking his neck out for Bush and the Iraq war, trying to bridge the gap between Europe and the US, destroying his political career in the process, etc), largely because of the longstanding 'special relationship'. removing the bust of Churchill (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/4623148/Barack-Obama-sends-bust-of-Winston-Churchill-on-its-way-back-to-Britain.html) from the Oval Office was also a bit of a blow for the relationship. i think we like the special relationship, and its a bit offputting





But...But but but...Idk...Those Europeans have no Anglophone in them, lol...

You Americans may laugh for now at the slight you have delivered towards our Dear Leader. You won't be laughing when the naval bombardment and land invasion to rectify this dishonour begins next Wednesday. Your President will be captured and strapped to the ground in a public lavatory to be urinated upon by the men of our fine nation. He'll then become the personal bitch of Lord Mandelson to demonstrate to all of you filthy colonials the new "special relationship" that exists between our two countries.
Two words: New Orleans.

Oh, and I will send the Dear Leader a nice golden DVD filled with the joys of 'It's a Small World After All'.

Bad planning on Obama's part. Chalk it up to inexperience. Nice gift from Brown though.

those British know how to give good gifts. always makes me feel like i didn't bring enough.

largely because of the longstanding 'special relationship'. removing the bust of Churchill (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/barackobama/4623148/Barack-Obama-sends-bust-of-Winston-Churchill-on-its-way-back-to-Britain.html) from the Oval Office was also a bit of a blow for the relationship. i think we like the special relationship, and its a bit offputting



owch

removing the bust was a really bad symbolic gesture. that sort of thing should always be accepted even if you hide it in the attic and only bring it out when British dignitaries come over.

removing the bust was a really bad symbolic gesture. that sort of thing should always be accepted even if you hide it in the attic and only bring it out when British dignitaries come over.

We might as well face it Obama just plain doesn't like the British. He holds a grudge against the British like the British holds a grudge against the Germans.

We might as well face it Obama just plain doesn't like the British. He holds a grudge against the British like the British holds a grudge against the Germans.

what did the British do to him ?
And as president he should not allow such personal grudges to get in the way of his duty.
Oh shit. just remembered he is Irish.


..... yeah just confirmed it 25% of the stimulus package went to the IRA to buy them F-22's.

what did the British do to him ?
And as president he should not allow such personal grudges to get in the way of his duty.
Oh shit. just remembered he is Irish.


..... yeah just confirmed it 25% of the stimulus package went to the IRA to buy them F-22's.

IRA, like the Irish Republican Army, IRA :confused:...Youve got to be joking or Im gonna go all :eek:, and I dont want to do that in front of my Dark Lord, lol...


he chokes you know, lol...

IRA, like the Irish Republican Army, IRA :confused:...Youve got to be joking or Im gonna go all :eek:, and I dont want to do that in front of my Dark Lord, lol...


he chokes you know, lol...

yep the Irish republican army. Obama even bought them a nuclear powered carrier and some subs for the fledgling Irish republican navy.

yep the Irish republican army. Obama even bought them a nuclear powered carrier and some subs for the fledgling Irish republican navy.

MY GOD!!!! :eek:....Better get Sean Connery on the line, We'll be needin him to take up his post as Sub Captain to fight that shit, lol...

MY GOD!!!! :eek:....Better get Sean Connery on the line, We'll be needin him to take up his post as Sub Captain to fight that shit, lol...

the Scottish independence movement tapped him already.

I do think this was handled very poorly by the Obama staff.
Yeah seriously even a nice card would've been better.
For the last 50 years the UK has been the most steadfast ally we could have. No matter how stupid or ill thought out our adventures have been, the UK has never hesitated to come along with us.
Other than Vietnam, which was just an idea so unbelievably bad even we didn't get involved. Seriously, whether we British are willing to get involved in a war or not is like the international litmus test of "is this really, honestly a good idea?".
Luckily, the British are very polite and forgiving of us Yanks who don't understand proper formality.
We try, although if these are region 1 DVDs Brown is going to be pretty pissed I can tell you now.
So as long as Obama agrees to take back a few annoying Americans who reside in the UK currently on his visit to the UK all will be forgiven.
That and stop letting Madonna talk in her horrific faux-anglais accent.

Yeah seriously even a nice card would've been better.

Other than Vietnam, which was just an idea so unbelievably bad even we didn't get involved. Seriously, whether we British are willing to get involved in a war or not is like the international litmus test of "is this really, honestly a good idea?".

We try, although if these are region 1 DVDs Brown is going to be pretty pissed I can tell you now.

That and stop letting Madonna talk in her horrific faux-anglais accent.

Now to just explain this to the President and the Secretary of state.

And of course Vietnam was a farce it began as a French matter.

Now to just explain this to the President and the Secretary of state.
*sigh*

If they'd only ring me once in a while to get a Britisher's advice on how to run their country, the world would be a better place.
And of course Vietnam was a farce it began as a French matter.
It was generally just a very poor idea.

*sigh*

If they'd only ring me once in a while to get a Britisher's advice on how to run their country, the world would be a better place.
everyone thinks the world would be better if the world simply listened to them


It was generally just a very poor idea.

Trying to finish anything the french start is a poor idea.

everyone thinks the world would be better if the world simply listened to them
Yeah, most of those people aren't British, though. We have a talent for being awesome and such.
Trying to finish anything the french start is a poor idea.
French involvement was over by the mid-50s, it only got violent again because the US created a war to stop the whole country turning communist in the scheduled elections that the North was off to win.

We definitely need to repair our relationship with Britain...Russel Brandt's special is too awesome to give back, its worth its weight in Churchill busts, lol...

Yeah, most of those people aren't British, though. We have a talent for being awesome and such.
keep telling yourself that


French involvement was over by the mid-50s, it only got violent again because the US created a war to stop the whole country turning communist in the scheduled elections that the North was off to win.

lets not turn this into a Vietnam thread. though I admit if the US had been willing to mediate between HoChiMihn and Paris there would not have been an issue with communism to begin with.

I find it unacceptable and simply ridiculously bad diplomatic tact.

The fact is, the British are our closest allies and we need to make sure we let them know that. I don't give a shit if Obama personally dislikes the British because of his African grandfather, he's the President and should put America's foreign relations before his personal prejudices. Betweent he disgraceful way the administration treated Brown and how we sent back the bust of Churchill, I really don't know what the hell people in the White House are smoking??? Are they trying to make the British feel bad? Are they trying to make the British question the special relationship we have with them?

And seriously....denying that the UK and America have a special relationship? Not only is that insulting but it's incorrect.

While both countries maintain close relationships with many others, the level of cooperation in military planning, execution of military operations, nuclear weapons technology and intelligence sharing with each other has been described as "unparalleled" among major powers.[1]

However...having researched the topic a bit, I've found that Obama has personally stated something quite different about the UK, when he met with Brown:

"Great Britain is one of our closest and strongest allies and there is a link and bond there that will not break... This notion that somehow there is any lessening of that special relationship is misguided... The relationship is not only special and strong but will only get stronger as time goes on."

So who knows. Either way, two major diplomatic mistakes (read insults to the UK).

Worst of all, the DVDs were all Tyler Perry films. :(

Worst of all, the DVDs were all Tyler Perry films. :(

the UK is preparing for war if that's the case.

Well, Obama is going to go to the UK in the coming weeks, maybe he'll bring something more historic this time, and maybe Gordon Brown can give him some British DVDs, lol...

Well, Obama is going to go to the UK in the coming weeks, maybe he'll bring something more historic this time, and maybe Gordon Brown can give him some British DVDs, lol...

but British DVD's are better then Hollywood crap

but British DVD's are better then Hollywood crap

I wouldnt know really...Havent seen ones that arent Monty Python, to my knowledge anyway...

I can understand his being tired though, it's hard being the The Messiah. People expect a lot from you.

"a State Department official involved in planning the Brown visit, who reacted with fury... There's nothing special about Britain. You're just the same as the other 190 countries in the world. You shouldn't expect special treatment."

This guy needs to find a new job regardless of party affiliation. Newsflash, Spanky: You're a diplomat. You shouldn't be 'reacting with fury' especially over a telephone interview. And as for there being nothing special about Britain, apparently he's never heard of the Magna Carta, or watched The Meaning of Life.

Speaking of movies, maybe that's why Brown was pissed, because the DVD's we sent him home with included copies of Braveheart and The Patriot.

I wouldnt know really...Havent seen ones that arent Monty Python, to my knowledge anyway...

if they are half as good as Monty python
or do shut up
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4tU38YwYg4 (sorry about bad quality)

Geez, as an American I find this situation embarrassing.
If this is the best the White House Diplomatic Corps can muster...

Meh, they gave us some wood, we gave them some DVDs. One gift will just rot in the closet while the other will be enjoyed.

Isn't that a little bit like not buying your other half a present on their birthday or Christmas or whatever and then saying "If you love me it shouldn't matter"

Does that ever work?

No... :(

I did get my mum a kettle for Christmas.

The cold war was brief and ended after she found it it glowed blue while boiling.

I want, how do I get this?!

removing the bust was a really bad symbolic gesture. that sort of thing should always be accepted even if you hide it in the attic and only bring it out when British dignitaries come over.

Yea, it's like that shirt that grandma knitted for you. Sure it's itchy and the colors are mismatched, and for some reason Grandma thought you had two heads, but you put it on when you see her...because of something about feelings. I dunno, I never tried to deal with people's feelings.

Worst of all, the DVDs were all Tyler Perry films. :(

Nuclear War will s.....

Honestly though, this is such a non-issues. Oh no, the British got DVDs! Meanwhile the economy is in a tail spin, millions of people are out of jobs, Health Care sucks, and people are being foreclosed on. Yea, let's worried about giving Brown Fellatio. I'm sure US citizens will feel warm in their tummy about Obama giving Brown an artifact for a gift, before they burn the newspaper in the trash can fire.

Either you can accept that Obama is busy with stuff that actually matters, or you can just hand him a fiddle and tell him to play it while everything around him burns.

Either you can accept that Obama is busy with stuff that actually matters, or you can just hand him a fiddle and tell him to play it while everything around him burns.

Worked for Nero.....

Worked for Nero.....

*looks at ruins of Rome* Yea....

MY GOD!!!! :eek:....Better get Sean Connery on the line, We'll be needin him to take up his post as Sub Captain to fight that shit, lol...

We don't nade Sean Connery or de Scottish. we 'av de Oirish people!

the Scottish independence movement tapped him already.

We don't nade Sean Connery or de Scottish. we 'av de Oirish people!

lol...

You both seem to've missed the reference there, in the sense that A) He was Ukrainian in that Movie, and B) He ended up becoming an American Resident...:rolleyes:

lol...

You both seem to've missed the reference there, in the sense that A) He was Ukrainian in that Movie, and B) He ended up becoming an American Resident...:rolleyes:

Oh, I got the reference. I've just been dying to use my Irish accent translator.

The whole 'giving of gifts' seems a bit antiquated really, I recently read of a warehouse filled with a useless amount of rubbish given to some country, probably America, except it's not even rubbish, some of it is pretty valuable. There's also some rule that means most gifts can't be kept anyway.

Still, if the protocol is there then to just give some DVDs is pretty poor play.

As for the person who scoffed at the relationship, I worry that Barack Obama needs to keep his team in check when replying to media, or anyone, that the goal of partisan politics will be ruined by entitlement and/or arrogance, I'm not saying it's any more than one person mouthing off but it seems a rather basic error.

Still, the least of his worries really,

The whole 'giving of gifts' seems a bit antiquated really, I recently read of a warehouse filled with a useless amount of rubbish given to some country, probably America, except it's not even rubbish, some of it is pretty valuable. There's also some rule that means most gifts can't be kept anyway.

Obama personally cant keep the gift.
he can however accept it on behalf of the office of the presidency. Its considered part of normally diplomacy for countries to exchange gifts.
Eventually the stuff in the warehouse gets sent off to museums, to later generations they become a useful tool to history majors trying figure out international relationships.

Still, if the protocol is there then to just give some DVDs is pretty poor play.

As for the person who scoffed at the relationship, I worry that Barack Obama needs to keep his team in check when replying to media, or anyone, that the goal of partisan politics will be ruined by entitlement and/or arrogance, I'm not saying it's any more than one person mouthing off but it seems a rather basic error.

Still, the least of his worries really,
I actually consider foreign policy to be one of the presidents primary worries.
As soon as his honeymoon is over domestic law making will shift back to congress anyways.

what did the British do to him ?
And as president he should not allow such personal grudges to get in the way of his duty.
Oh shit. just remembered he is Irish.
..... yeah just confirmed it 25% of the stimulus package went to the IRA to buy them F-22's.

Now I want to know why yo are so touchy and talking sarcasm?

Perhaps if you read the article kindly that was posted in this thread about the removal of the Churchill bust you will see what the British did to his family.

Either you can accept that bama is busy with stuff that actually matters, or you can just hand him a fiddle and tell him to play it while everything around him burns.

Except Wilfrove it isn't really Obama's job to be organising this or going around shopping for presents. It is the job of the State department that organises diplomatic visits and especially if it is the head of government of a country that is far closer and more important to the US then other countries such as Suva.

And even if Obama is busy doing other things when the time comes for him to do these diplomatic visits and meet and talk with these people he needs to do it, either that or told them not to plan anything well in advance, it is not as if the economy went to shit over the past fortnight. IF he isn't able to do that well he should have thought about taking this position beforehand.

Now the reason why people are saying Obama did this and Obama did that is not because he personally did it but because he is the head and thus will have to take responisibility for it.

Now I want to know why yo are so touchy and talking sarcasm?

Perhaps if you read the article kindly that was posted in this thread about the removal of the Churchill bust you will see what the British did to his family.

that ... considering the rebellions first act were to target civilians and not British colonial authorities i think those involved got what they deserved.

Either you can accept that Obama is busy with stuff that actually matters, or you can just hand him a fiddle and tell him to play it while everything around him burns.

Worked for Nero.....

Historical myth iirc.

Historical myth iirc.

which one? or both ?

that ... considering the rebellions first act were to target civilians and not British colonial authorities i think those involved got what they deserved.

Yes, but that doesn't mean Obama and/or his family can still hold a grudge.

Yes, but that doesn't mean Obama and/or his family can still hold a grudge.

i would suspect that him holding the office of president would do that.

Does the pen holder gift seem extremely patronizing to anyone else?

Does the pen holder gift seem extremely patronizing to anyone else?

Not at all. How does it seem patronizing to you?

As an American, I honestly think that our foreign policy for the next few years should consist entirely of apologizing to the world.

America has been taking a decade-long dump on the rug of the world, and if some foreign leaders want to rub our noses in it and say, "NO! Bad America! We do NOT take a dump on the planet!" then so be it.

Not at all. How does it seem patronizing to you?

"In case you forgot that we helped free black people, and are pretty much directly responsible for you being able to be elected president, here's a pen holder made from one of the ships that helped free black people."

As an American, I honestly think that our foreign policy for the next few years should consist entirely of apologizing to the world.So random gestures without consequences beat actually doing things?

You'd make an excellent politician

So random gestures without consequences beat actually doing things?

You'd make an excellent politician
Mm hmm, when I said "apologies" I definitely meant "random gestures without consequences." Yep. That is definitely a reasonable and accurate assumption on your part.

Also, I hate freedom.

"In case you forgot that we helped free black people, and are pretty much directly responsible for you being able to be elected president, here's a pen holder made from one of the ships that helped free black people."

I think that's a bit of a leap. It seems more of a show of the effort and thought that went into choosing a gift that would, hopefully, not be thrown in a back room because it actually has some significance to an already used piece of furniture.

Well, he's President of the United States, and he can do this any way he likes, because we voted for "change".

Maybe in the old days, we might show some respect to the UK PM, but I feel that change involves no longer doing "business as usual".

"In case you forgot that we helped free black people, and are pretty much directly responsible for you being able to be elected president, here's a pen holder made from one of the ships that helped free black people."
i find it ...off...that he (seemingly) thinks that it should be personally meaningful to mr obama who is not the decendant of slaves.

i find it ...off...that he (seemingly) thinks that it should be personally meaningful to mr obama who is not the decendant of slaves.

Maybe he thought "oh, here's some American history in a gift, he'll like that". *shrugs*

i find it ...off...that he (seemingly) thinks that it should be personally meaningful to mr obama who is not the decendant of slaves.

Where does it say in the linked article that he thinks it is personally meaningful in that regard?

I would have thought the major link is the oval office desk rather than Obamas skin colour.

Edit : Ooops missed the 'seemingly'

Maybe he thought "oh, here's some American history in a gift, he'll like that". *shrugs*
which is why its not condescending.

its definitely a cool present.

Where does it say in the linked article that he thinks it is personally meaningful in that regard?

I would have thought the major link is the oval office desk rather than Obamas skin colour.

Edit : Ooops missed the 'seemingly'
did i miss something about the oval office desk?

did i miss something about the oval office desk?

The pen holder is made from the timbers of "a sister ship of the vessel from which timbers were taken to build Mr Obama's Oval Office desk."

The pen holder is made from the timbers of "a sister ship of the vessel from which timbers were taken to build Mr Obama's Oval Office desk."
oh thanks. i did miss that.

"In case you forgot that we helped free black people, and are pretty much directly responsible for you being able to be elected president, here's a pen holder made from one of the ships that helped free black people."

"You know, the same sort of ship your desk is made of".

I'm sure he'll get the hang of it, though. Give the poor guy a break. coming from a man who's campaign included "repairing the US' relationship with our allies"? I'm surprise those planning the visit didn't do their homework.

It just occurred to me that this is the worst faux pas Obama has made for now.

As opposed to "Old Europe", "sixteen words", Colin Powell making an ass out of himself at the UN, the dickwaving and cowboy diplomacy, squandering all good will the world had after 9/11...

Really, Obama could give Gordon Brown an used G-string and I wouldn't care! except President Obama is supposed to be the Primary diplomat when dealing with Foreign Leaders. one wonders what 'gifts' he gave when he visited other nations?

Meh, they gave us some wood, we gave them some DVDs. One gift will just rot in the closet while the other will be enjoyed. Historically significant wood that was probably hand crafted by some artisian.

Either you can accept that Obama is busy with stuff that actually matters, or you can just hand him a fiddle and tell him to play it while everything around him burns.
So... are you saying International Relationships don't matter?

Does the pen holder gift seem extremely patronizing to anyone else?
no.

"In case you forgot that we helped free black people, and are pretty much directly responsible for you being able to be elected president, here's a pen holder made from one of the ships that helped free black people." or...
"You are a Historic President, achieveing a goal many once thought would be impossible. The path you stand on now, began at a time when this ship sailed the seas and was on a purpose that your success exemplifies. The duties that the ship this wood is from performed, the men who gave their lives in the course of those duties are now given to the Office of the US President as a symbol of the success of not only their actions, but the actions of all those who fought for the cause of Freedom."

This looks bad for whomever planned the welcoming event. They bascially insulted the President and the British PM.

Mm hmm, when I said "apologies" I definitely meant "random gestures without consequences." Yep. That is definitely a reasonable and accurate assumption on your part.I know. That's why I wrote it. You strike me as exactly the type who's into that sort of nonsense.Also, I hate freedom.You're American. That goes without saying.

now that I posted my serious bit... here's my not-so-serious post.

if this is what happens when he's tired... my god! can you imagine what will occure when he gets that 3 am call? :eek:

TBH, giving gifts that have stuff to do with the slave trade, or the stopping thereof, is pretty fucking patronizing and douchey.

(Even though it's not directly related to Obama in the first place).

Obamas desk is made from wood from a sister ship. It seems like a well though out gesture to me.

Id personally much rather have my leader worrying about how to get healthcare and jobs to his people and prevent them from being kicked out of their homes en mass, then thinking about what color of tie from virgin albino silkworms in Malasia,that Gordon Brown wants for a gift.

Get past the details and see the big picture. Obama just doesn't have the experience to run a nation. He doesn't know anything about it. His 180 days in the Senate hasn't even prepared him to select advisors that know anything. He's winging it and we'll all pay - and pay, etc.

Get past the details and see the big picture. Obama just doesn't have the experience to run a nation. He doesn't know anything about it. His 180 days in the Senate hasn't even prepared him to select advisors that know anything. He's winging it and we'll all pay - and pay, etc.

And we have a guy who was the second most powerful guy in the country for years and look what a hash he's making of running the UK.

Obama may not be experienced but he's very smart, these small errors will happen but he'll learn very quickly.

And we have a guy who was the second most powerful guy in the country for years and look what a hash he's making of running the UK.

Obama may not be experienced but he's very smart, these small errors will happen but he'll learn very quickly.
All I will admit to is that Obama is a very good speaker when he is delivering a speech from a teleprompter. I have no way of telling if he is smart or stupid. There just isn't enough history.

All I will admit to is that Obama is a very good speaker when he is delivering a speech from a teleprompter. I have no way of telling if he is smart or stupid. There just isn't enough history.

He's the POTUS. He's smart.

You don't get there unless you're both smart and politically savvy when it comes to US politics. The foreign relations stuff will come and he has plenty of time, the rest of the world is just so fucking glad they don't have to deal with Bush anymore they'll forgive him a fair number of gaffes.

http://www.gettyimages.pt/detail/84992091/DDP

TBH, giving gifts that have stuff to do with the slave trade, or the stopping thereof, is pretty fucking patronizing and douchey.

(Even though it's not directly related to Obama in the first place).

you do realize it was from a ship that help end the slave trade, by force.
to be honest it should fit in with Obama's history interest with emancipation.
So to me this seems like a very well thought out gift.

He should have given him the entire Monty Python box set on DVD - everything they ever made.

so all agreed impeach Obama for the gaff and find a random republican to be president.

right well then I guess he won't mind if we pull out of Afghanistan
The only people who think we should go all-in militarily in Afghanistan are neocon armchair hawks and non-retired generals. Every other nation is going "NOOOOOO" because they have already tried it and failed.

The only people who think we should go all-in militarily in Afghanistan are neocon armchair hawks and non-retired generals. Every other nation is going "NOOOOOO" because they have already tried it and failed.

going all in would be bad. right now the Afganis view us as just some assistance. if we start putting in large numbers again they will view us like Russians circa 1980.

so all agreed impeach Obama for the gaff and find a random republican to be president.

Yes, we need to impeach Sauron and replace him with Sarah Palin, Bobby Jindall and Joe the Plumber.

Yes, we need to impeach Sauron and replace him with Sarah Palin, Bobby Jindall and Joe the Plumber.

like the way you think your now Secretary of state.

He should have given him the entire Monty Python box set on DVD - everything they ever made.

Nah, send him a Top Gear box set. Brown would love it.

He's the POTUS. He's smart.

You don't get there unless you're both smart and politically savvy when it comes to US politics. The foreign relations stuff will come and he has plenty of time, the rest of the world is just so fucking glad they don't have to deal with Bush anymore they'll forgive him a fair number of gaffes.

BUsh made a couple fo mistakes, he is still pretty smart.

Oh, I got the reference. I've just been dying to use my Irish accent translator.

Lol, I suppose it still fits, afterall, he still used the Scottish Accent for no reason :p