Economic interdependence will increase. Private enterprise will be the primary driver, although the role of government in maintaining stable macroeconomic conditions and promoting opportunities will remain critical. New centers of economic growth and power will emerge, trade and financial flows will accelerate, but distribution of the economic benefits, both internally and internationally, will be uneven. A clear understanding and articulation of foreign policy goals must be based on recognizing how these six trends affect U.S. conduct of its international relations. Security, political, economic, and global priorities are not uniformly fixed, but vary with time and circumstance, are interlinked, and often involve difficult tradeoffs.
Diplomacy is America's first line of defense.
Sustained military strength and flexibility are necessary to assure national security, but the conduct of U.S. relations with the rest of the world through an effective international presence and discerning leadership is what makes the United States a force for peace. Relatively small investments in diplomacy and sustainable development now to prevent conflict, create the conditions for economic growth, promote democracy, enhance communication, and protect the environment decrease the possibilities of much more costly conflict later and help ensure the prosperity and well-being of the American people. Foreign affairs today has many dimensions in addition to national security, trade, and other traditional concerns. The number of nation-states, international organizations, and other involved partieseach with their own interests and objectiveshas multiplied. Direct interaction and communication with foreign and domestic nongovernmental organizations and publics is an increasingly essential responsibility.