President Barack Obama is known for many things. He’s a dedicated family man, a gifted politician, and even a pretty good basketball player. But add one more to the list — PEACEMAKER!
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On Thursday, President Obama had to step into the middle of a spat between French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Hu Jintao, President of the People’s Republic of China. During the final session among G-20 summit attendees, Sarkozy and Hu were having a heated disagreement about tax havens. But at one point the exchange became so loud and heated, it was threatening the unity of the G-20 leaders’ meeting. According to a senior official, Mr. Obama stepped between the two men, urging them to try to find consensus and giving them a “pep talk” about the importance of working together. He then pulled Mr. Sarkozy aside, took him to a corner, “and discussed possible alternatives,” the senior official said. Once they arrived at one, President Obama sent a message to the Chinese that a counter offer was on the table. The Chinese spent some time considering the offer, which took quite a few minutes. So Mr. Obama, with the assistance of translators, suggested that he and Mr. Hu have a conversation as well. They, too went to a corner to talk. After a few minutes, Mr. Obama called upon Mr. Sarkozy to join them. “Translators and sherpas in tow, they reached an agreement,” the official said. “There was a multiple shaking of hands.”
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President Barack Obama — the peacemaking hero — saved the day!
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President Barack Obama — the peacemaking hero — saved the day!
