Diplomatic talks involve a nation-state and its representatives engaging in discussions about policy. Talks may be on a variety of topics, including trade, security and foreign aid. Diplomatic negotiations are often complex and involve several layers of power-sharing, bargaining counters and inducements, with the overall goal of reaching an agreed-upon outcome. Successful diplomatic talks are usually based on mutual respect and a shared vision of the desired outcome.
When preparing for a negotiation, it is important to understand the domestic politics of the interlocutor’s government and who influences the decision-making process within the country. It is also essential to know how the country’s national interests are shaped by the international environment in which it operates. Diplomats should also hone their communication skills to avoid sarcasm and condescension that might be misinterpreted as hostile or defensive, and to ensure that their facial expressions align with their words.
Great diplomats have a deep, thorough and sophisticated understanding of their nation’s interests as they relate to the countries in which they are negotiating. For example, a diplomat about to engage in discussions with the government of Japan regarding American military bases there must fully understand how those bases are critical to U.S. strategy and projection of power in the region. They also know exactly what points to raise and when to do so, rather than reading from a list of talking points.
Peace talks, especially in a context where conflict has already arisen, are the quintessential type of diplomatic negotiation. During the coronavirus crisis, many such talks ground to a halt or moved to online platforms. While it is difficult to assess how well virtual diplomacy works versus its physical counterpart, we can learn from the experiences of two particularly contentious examples: the peace talks in Syria and Yemen.