Foreign policy Quotes

"I cannot forecast to you the action of Russia. It is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma: but perhaps there is a key. That key is Russian national interest. It cannot be in accordance with the interest or the safety of Russia that Germany should plant itself upon the shores of the Black Sea, or that it should overrun the Balkan States and subjugate the Slavonic peoples of South-Eastern Europe. That would be contrary to the historic life-interests of Russia."

"It is always an error in diplomacy to press a matter when it is quite clear that no further progress is to be made. It is also a great error if you ever give the impression abroad that you are using language which is more concerned with your domestic politics than with the actual fortunes and merits of the various great countries upon the Continent to whom you offer advice."

"America’s interests determine its friends and enemies."

"China will never seek hegemony or engage in expansion"

"To be an enemy of America can be dangerous, but to be a friend is fatal"

"No country can act wisely simultaneously in every part of the globe at every moment of time"

"The greatest security for Israel is to create new Egypts"

"America’s adversaries should beware; its friends should be cautious."

"Wars are, of course, as a rule to be avoided; but they are far better than certain kinds of peace"

"I am not opposed to all wars. I’m opposed to dumb wars."

"France, though armed to the teeth, is pacifist to the core."

"I want a strong, prosperous Britain, serving as a bridge linking us to the United States."

"America has no permanent friends or enemies, only interests."

"Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far."

"True diplomacy seeks not only power but respect."