The Foreign Service Journal, February 2011

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 1 / F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L 21 more efficient patterns of energy use and to develop new and renew- able forms of energy. Yet for many countries, including the United States, there is a perceived tension between effective action to pro- mote economic growth and effec- tive action to combat climate change. During the next 50 years, the State Department and Ameri- can diplomats will be engaged in shaping the international frame- works to reconcile these two vital goals. International Investment and Trade Rules A strong global economy needs an open trade system and an international investment regime with enforceable rules. In both respects the State Department will con- tinue to be the closest partner of the Office of the United States Trade Representative, which is building this international frame- work. For instance, long-term interna- tional investments are required for the transformation of the energy economy. These investments can create new renewable energy sys- tems to promote energy security by reducing dependence on im- ported oil and slowing climate change. These international in- vestments will only occur on the needed scale, however, if investment-receiving countries offer long-run and enforceable guarantees of fair regula- tory treatment. Foreign investors need to know that if they have a dis- pute with a foreign government, they have the option of seeking a resolution through binding international dispute settlement in arbitration panels. F O C U S Young FSOs with an interest in international economics can look forward to careers full of excitement and opportunities to make a difference.