In archaeology you uncover the unknown. In diplomacy you cover the known

In archaeology you uncover the unknown. In diplomacy you cover the known

Thomas Pickering is a seasoned diplomat who has served in various high-level positions within the United States government, including as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and the Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs. Throughout his career, Pickering has been known for his ability to navigate complex diplomatic situations and build relationships with foreign leaders.

The quote "In archaeology you uncover the unknown. In diplomacy you cover the known" can be applied to Pickering's approach to diplomacy. As an archaeologist uncovers ancient artifacts and pieces together the past, a diplomat like Pickering works to uncover the underlying motivations and interests of foreign governments and leaders. By delving into the unknown aspects of a situation, Pickering is able to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities at play and develop strategies to address them effectively.

However, diplomacy also involves covering the known aspects of a situation. This can involve managing public perceptions, negotiating agreements, and representing the interests of one's own country. Pickering has demonstrated a keen ability to navigate these known elements of diplomacy, using his expertise and experience to build consensus and find common ground among diverse stakeholders.

One of Pickering's most notable diplomatic achievements was his role in negotiating the Iran nuclear deal in 2015. As a key member of the U.S. negotiating team, Pickering worked tirelessly to uncover the motivations and interests of the Iranian government, while also covering the known aspects of the negotiations to ensure a successful outcome. The Iran nuclear deal was a complex and contentious issue, but Pickering's diplomatic skills were instrumental in reaching a historic agreement that helped to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Overall, Thomas Pickering's career exemplifies the delicate balance between uncovering the unknown and covering the known in the field of diplomacy. By combining his skills as a diplomat with his ability to navigate complex situations, Pickering has made significant contributions to U.S. foreign policy and international relations.