Obama Hosts UK Prime Minister

     In a rare meeting of 2 heads of state, PM David Cameron joined Pres. Barack Obama in a press conference at the White House where both leaders took questions from a mixed group of journalists from England and the United States.  For almost an hour, these two world leaders fielded questions directly related to word events.  In a move as much to inform as much to alleviate fears, they alternately answered questions on a range of topics, most notably events in France this past week.
     It is encouraging to see these two leaders, obviously at ease with one another, engage the world community.   The topics included their bilateral response to terrorism; the negotiations with Iran on nuclear weapons development; sharing of resources and intelligence; and a resolve to protect democratic ideals in the face of a widespread onslaught against those countries that hold these ideals as necessary to peace and prosperity.
     Initially, Pres. Obama appeared to be tense, and a bit stiff.  In time, he relaxed, became at ease, and seemed to enjoy the experience of sharing the podium with Mr. Cameron.  The Prime Minister, looking poised and self assured, exuded confidence, determination, and congeniality.  Both American and British journalists were able to respond to the occasion with appropriate, pointed questions.
     All of this came as Sec. of State, John Kerry, was appearing in France, laying a wreath at the site of the recent mass murder by Muslim extremists in Paris.   He made comments, in French, that underlined the efforts by Europeans to remain steadfast in the fast of these terrorist acts.
     Pres. Obama underscored the necessity to observe social media information that is used by Muslim groups to exchange information.  He mentioned Edward Snowden, the American now living in Russya, who leaked information concerning American efforts to monitor cell phone activity around the world and in the USA.   He stated that the US security organizations are operating within established law and are observing privacy concerns within the country by citizens who question the need for NSA oversight.
     It is a prelude of what the President will say next Tuesday in his State of the Union speech.