In that speech he placed the need for ‘internationalism’ in a wider context: “I believe the world has changed in a... fundamental way. Globalisation has transformed our economies and our working practices. But globalisation is not just economic. It is also a political and economic phenomenon. We live in a world where isolationism has ceased to have a reason to exist. By necessity we have to cooperate with each other across nations.”

The most pressing foreign policy problem in the post-Cold War world was to identify the circumstances in which to get involved in other people’s conflicts. Blair identified five considerations for intervention: “First, are we sure of our case? War is an imperfect instrument for righting humanitarian distress; but armed force is sometimes the only means of dealing with dictators. Second, have we exhausted all diplomatic options? We should always give peace every chance, as we have in the case of Kosovo. Third, on the basis of a practical assessment of the situation, are there military operations we can sensibly and prudently undertake? Fourth, are we prepared for the long term? In the past we talked too much of exit strategies. But having made a commitment we cannot simply walk away once the fight is over; better to stay with moderate numbers of troops than return for repeat performances with large numbers. And finally, do we have national interests involved? The mass expulsion of ethnic Albanians from Kosovo demanded the notice of the rest of the world. But it does make a difference that this is taking place in such a combustible part of Europe.”

... contd.