Friends Quote by Charles De Gaulle
“No nation has friends only interests.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Address to the Nation, 1962
Nations act in self‑interest, not friendship; alliances are pragmatic.
In simple terms: Countries prioritize interests over friendships.
Key Takeaway
Navigate diplomacy with realistic expectations.
Themes
politics
international relations
realism
Mood
pragmatic
skeptical
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- foreign policy negotiations
- trade agreements
- military coalitions
Key Concepts
national interest
strategic alliances
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance ideals with national interests?
- What defines a true friendship between states?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic views may overlook practical constraints.
![“Have you ever seen a dictator on a run-off ballot? [Responding to the charges of a dictatorial bent, after being forced into a run-off against the socialist François Mitterrand in the 1965 presidential elections]” quote by Charles de Gaulle](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/246/charles-de-gaulle-2714_seen-dictator_have-you-ever-seen-a-dictator-on-a-run-o_80965.jpg)
