There are few ironclad rules of diplomacy but to one there is no exception. When an official reports that talks were useful, it can safely be concluded that nothing was accomplished.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
In the world of diplomacy, some things are better left unsaid.
Diplomacy is more than saying or doing the right things at the right time, it is avoiding saying or doing the wrong things at any time.
To say nothing, especially when speaking, is half the art of diplomacy.
However, even during the preparations for action, we laid our plans in such a manner that should there be progress through diplomatic negotiation, we would be well prepared to cancel operations at the latest moment that communication technology would have permitted.
There is no diplomacy like candor.
Successful diplomacy is an alignment of objectives and means.
Diplomacy is fundamentally working with people, bringing people together to deal with difficult issues.
Diplomacy in general does not resolve conflicts. Wars end not due to peace processes, but due to one side giving up.
Diplomacy is not an end in itself if it does not advance U.S. interests.
I don't think that anybody should be ruling in or ruling out anything while we are conducting diplomacy.