The Foreign Service Journal, September 2009

relations with China, Japan and India. But I foresee much more outreach to places where diplomacy didn’t work well during the past several years, such as Russia and the Middle East. The perception of the United States around the world is more im- portant than ever, especially when you consider the amount of money we’re currently borrowing. If foreign governments don’t have confidence in the strength of the U.S. economy and the dollar, then our finances will be in some jeopardy. The reason we’re able to undertake these large fiscal stimulus programs, whether or not you agree with them, is because there is still a residual confidence overseas in the U.S. dollar and finan- cial system. And increasing that con- fidence is part of the charge not only of the Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve, but also the State Department. I’m also encouraged that the image of President Obama is so positive around the world. That has greatly strengthened U.S. diplomacy. FSJ: Any final thoughts? SN: I’d like to reiterate my appre- ciation for the professional Foreign Service. For many years they have done a tremendous job; I’d call them the unsung heroes of our federal gov- ernment, who don’t get the credit they deserve. Dean Acheson was once asked his definition of foreign policy. He thought for awhile before replying, “It’s one damn thing after another!” I think that’s the challenge we face today: a long agenda of action items. Our diplomats already work closely with their military colleagues and, speaking as someone who has been close to a lot of military people over the years, I think there is a keen ap- preciation among military leaders — probably more than in any other branch of the government — of the importance of skillful diplomats. FSJ: Thank you very much. ■ 46 F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 9 “There is a keen appreciation among military leaders — probably more than in any other branch of the government — of the importance of skillful diplomats.”