Diplomatic talks are the discussions and bargaining processes between countries aimed at resolving conflicts, establishing treaties and shaping alliances. Historically, they have played a critical role in maintaining balance of power by preventing war and influencing how alliances form and change.
Conflict prevention through diplomacy starts with quiet chats that cool hot spots before they blow up. Diplomats are trained to mediate, finding common ground between even the tensest foes. The Colombia peace accord, for example, ended decades of bloodshed. And the Good Friday Agreement helped end years of strife in Northern Ireland.
A skilled diplomat will prepare for any negotiating situation, ensuring they are clear about their own country’s interests and analyzing the underlying factors that may influence the outcome of a negotiation. They also will be familiar with their adversary’s history and domestic politics, as well as how these factors are shaped by international influences.
Great diplomats truly listen to their counterparts and turn every meeting, meal, sports game and cocktail party into useful diplomatic engagement. They know what points to raise and when, and they are comfortable reading body language. They understand that trust is built through honest conversations, cultural nods and empathy. They will use their time to build trust and conduct reconnaissance. They will learn everything they can about their adversaries: where they came from, what defines and shapes them, how they view their national interests, who influences them inside and outside of government, and what their fears and hopes are.