Perkins seems to object to the new global economy in which the USA and others have an enormous stake. American aid is little more than an adjunct to economic development. Sometimes it helps, sometimes it hinders, but it is certainly not driving nor steering the event. Bottom line, the only way for countries such as Iraq to develop is to trade and, in its case, oil is the best alternative, since pearls have a limited market.

Leo Cecchini
Ft Myers Beach, Florida