Never avoid opportunities by cultivating peace with all nations, no matter their system of governance. Nations have always grappled with the intricacies of diplomacy and the pursuit of peaceful coexistence with other states. Washington’s admonition to embrace diplomatic opportunities resonates profoundly, highlighting the value of engaging in dialogue and negotiation to address differences and pre

The Argument

Never avoid opportunities by cultivating peace with all nations, no matter their system of governance. Nations have always grappled with the intricacies of diplomacy and the pursuit of peaceful coexistence with other states. Washington’s admonition to embrace diplomatic opportunities resonates profoundly, highlighting the value of engaging in dialogue and negotiation to address differences and prevent conflicts. By fostering peaceful relations with all nations, states can contribute to global stability and promote mutual understanding. In today’s interconnected world, characterized by diverse political ideologies and competing interests, diplomacy plays a pivotal role in resolving disputes and advancing common goals. The example of successful diplomatic initiatives underscores the importance of Washington’s counsel, demonstrating how dialogue and cooperation can lead to meaningful outcomes even in the face of adversity. Many nations we view as “permanent” adversaries today are often products of short-term strategies and reactions to recent wrongs perpetuated by one side or the other. History has shown that generational change, coupled with peace and trade, can reduce tensions between formerly belligerent nations. Vietnam is a prime example of this reality. By being patient, maintaining a defensive posture, and allowing nations that may seem belligerent today to evolve, we can nurture the notion of liberty that will grow in the hearts of future generations who feel safe and prosperous. I witnessed this firsthand in the Soviet Union in 1990. I met Russians who were ready for a more open society, and I am convinced that fostering this openness would have led to a more peaceful Russia. However, the expansion of the NATO military pact undermined this opportunity. As of February 2023, almost 65% of Iran’s population was under 35 years old. The restlessness of this younger generation is evident in the recent spate of uprisings that have occurred in Iran over the past decade. These young people are ready for change and we as a nation need to build our policy around the goal of inspiring their sense of freedom rather than being goaded by the hardline element in the current government to react in a way that could alienate the more liberal elements in the country. We must find a balance to contain the aggressive nature of the current government while allowing opportunity to cultivate a positive relationship with a new generation of leaders.