John Winston Howard, born 26 July 1939, served as Australia's Prime Minister between March 1996 and November 2007. He is the nation's second longest serving Prime Minister, was a Member of Parliament for 33 years, and was Treasurer in an earlier government.
Previous experience
Prime Minister: Under his leadership Australia enjoyed continued economic growth averaging 3.6 percent per annum. His government delivered major economic reform in the areas of taxation, workplace relations, privatisation and welfare. $96 billion of government debt was repaid during the time in office of the Howard Government. When it left office in November 2007 the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia had no net debt, and its budget was in surplus. This strong fiscal position was a major reason why Australia suffered relatively few consequences from the global financial crisis.
Under John Howard's leadership Australia strongly supported the United States and other nations in the fight against terrorism. Australia contributed military forces to operations in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Australia also led the United Nations sanctioned Interfet force following East Timor's vote for independence. The Howard government strengthened bilateral ties between Australia and many nations in Asia. During Mr Howard's time as Prime Minister China became Australia's largest export destination.
Accolades: Mr Howard is a Companion of the Order of Australia and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States by President George W Bush. In January 2012 Queen Elizabeth II appointed Mr Howard to the Order of Merit. In 2013, on the recommendation of the Japanese Government, he was awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun.
Talking Points
International Leadership
As prime minister of Australia for four terms, John Howard provided a global approach to leadership. He delivered economic vision and strategies for international security that raised Australia's profile on the world stage while gaining the respect and gratitude of the world. Howard discusses the role of world leaders in a new century, detailing steps for handling the growing concerns of globalisation and global economics, the environment, and threats to international security.
International Leadership
Global Challenges
A leader of tremendous courage and character, Howard understands that security at home requires vigilance abroad. Under his leadership, Australia was a consistent and resolute ally in the War on Terror. Howard discusses the need to build stability in less-fortunate countries, maintain strong international relationships with allies and manage immigration as key factors in strengthening security.
Global Challenges
China and the Global Economy
Under Howard's leadership, Australia's economy grew every year, even during the Asian financial crisis that devastated its neighbours. His administration pushed for unprecedented expansion in Australia's economic relationship with China by initiating negotiations for a free trade agreement with China. Howard candidly describes why he forged ahead with these efforts and what the economic future - for both the Pacific Rim and the world - may hold.
China and the Global Economy
Leadership in the New Century
Steering the ship of what is the most prominent Western stronghold in the Asian-Pacific Rim requires visionary and forward-thinking leadership. Australian Prime Minister John Howard approached his responsibilities to his country from a uniquely global viewpoint, providing economic vision and security strategies that raised Australia's profile and impact around the world. Howard discusses the role of world leaders in a new century, detailing steps for handling the growing concerns of globalisation and global economics, the environment, and threats to international security.
Leadership in the New Century
The Global Economic Future
Providing economic leadership in today's world means re-envisioning old economic models to discover new ones. Prime Minister John Howard did precisely that, and so much more, for Australia: in the face of criticism from many, Howard initiated efforts to broker a free-trade agreement with China, a strategic move that was completely unprecedented and, when ratified, will add further credibility to China's willingness to participate in a free market. Howard candidly discusses his vision for the global economic future, and in what ways, and to what degrees, China, India and the Pacific Rim will participate.
The Global Economic Future
John Howard was very personable and very accommodating of his time interacting with our guests during this executive luncheon. His speech was relevant for the audience and was very well rece ... keep reading Technology One
