President Obama and President Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon met today and discussed a wide range of multilateral and regional issues, including security, environmental protection and the economy.

WHITEHOUSE: The White House

These arguments center largely around the idea that current air pollution regulation is good enough as-is, and that any further restrictions are aimed at tackling environmental issues and climate change, both typically seen as luxuries in a down economy.

FORBES: Two New Reasons to Worry about Air Pollution: Obesity and Diabetes

However, green economy and sustainable development debates have been largely dominated by environmental and economic concerns, while social issues have consistently received the least attention.

UNESCO: Detailview | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

It has to become more open and transparent. (At Mexico's insistence, its press officers have been gagged since May 1st.) It is increasingly asked to adjudicate on sensitive issues such as food safety and environmental protection that have become the stuff of trade disputes in a globalising economy.

ECONOMIST: Free trade in peril