Believe Quote by Richard N. Haass
“I believe in diplomacy; I don't believe in talking to... that talking to Iran somehow constitutes a concession or a favour.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Diplomatic Insights, 2023
He distinguishes between diplomacy and conceding, arguing that talking to adversaries isn’t a favor.
In simple terms: Diplomacy isn’t a concession; it’s engagement.
Key Takeaway
Engage without assuming weakness.
Themes
politics
international relations
negotiation
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
policy
strategic
When to use this quote
- foreign policy meetings
- peace talks
- public statements
Key Concepts
sovereignty
trust
strategic communication
Questions to Reflect On
- What benefits arise from open dialogue with rivals?
- How can trust be built without conceding?
A Different Perspective
Over‑emphasis on distrust can hinder dialogue.
![“We did drive them [Iran] to the negotiating table. And my successor, John Kerry, and President [Barack] Obama got a deal that put a lid on Iran's nuclear program without firing a single shot. That's diplomacy. That's coalition-building. That's working with other nations.” quote by Hillary Clinton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7d2/hillary-clinton-51_barack_we-did-drive-them-iran-to-the-negotiatin_1150953.jpg)
