In the modern world, those who are weak will get unambiguous advice from foreign visitors which way to go and what policy course to pursue.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
Foreign policy is effectively the assertion of many individual countries intersecting on the global marketplace. And you have to figure out how to get your interest served in a way that meets the interests and needs of these other folks.
Most foreign policies that history has marked highly, in whatever country, have been originated by leaders who were opposed by experts.
I challenge anybody to say that I wouldn't know how to approach foreign policy because, unlike some of the other people, I at least have a foreign policy philosophy, which is an extension of the Reagan philosophy. Peace through strength, and my philosophy is peace through strength and clarity.
Foreign policy is all about a universe of bad decisions, imperfect decisions; every situation is different. The dynamics, the atmospherics, the people, the pressures, the geopolitical realities shift.
The principles that should guide American foreign policy are simple: the world is safer when America leads, only strength ensures peace and freedom, and America must stand with its allies and challenge its adversaries.
I always spend time exploring the customs and attitudes of the countries I'm using for locations, and interviewing the people who live there. I've visited over 90 countries thus far.
Travel teaches as much as books.
Travel works best when you're forced to come to terms with the place you're in.
The best way to travel abroad is to live with the locals.
When you travel, remember that a foreign country is not designed to make you comfortable. It is designed to make its own people comfortable.