A Scientist's Approach to Diplomacy -- First, Listen and Learn

The reason scientists from various parts of the world have worked so well together is that they have a single common objective -- understanding nature. Moreover, in international collaborations and scientific conferences, the goal is to listen and learn as well as share ideas and results. For this reason, international cooperation in science has often been the bridge between nations that otherwise don't get on well. There are several lessons about diplomacy that nations and their leaders could draw from science. A few examples will be provided based on the speaker's experience in government.