Monday, Nov. 03, 2008
4. Remind America's Friends: Diplomacy is Back
President Bush, thanks in large part to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, backed off the worst of his unilateral instincts long ago. But no matter who wins, the new President will have a rare opportunity to seize the moment and win concessions from allies overseas as he changes the tone in foreign affairs. Whether it's coordinated action on the economic crisis, more European forces in Afghanistan or pressure from regional allies in Middle East peace talks, the President-elect should study these opportunities during the transition so that he may capitalize on them quickly. Honeymoons don't last long — at home or overseas.