Former U.S. Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs (1997–2000); Former U.S. Ambassador to Russia (1993–1996), India (1992–1993), Israel (1985–1988), El Salvador (1983–1985), Nigeria (1981–1983), Jordan (1974–1978), and the United Nations (1989–1992); CFR Member Presider Former U.S. Acting Assistant Secretary of Western Hemisphere Affairs (2016–2017); Former U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador (2010–2011; 2012–2015); CFR Member Panelists discuss how diplomacy can be used to advance U.S. interests, and the function and responsibilities of ambassadors and embassies abroad. APONTE: Good morning. Welcome to today's Council on Foreign Relations meeting on the future of American diplomacy. I am Mari Carmen Aponte, former acting assistant secretary for the Western Hemisphere and former ambassador to El Salvador, and I have the honor of presiding today's discussion. We have fortunately more than three hundred registered for this virtual meeting and we'll do our very best to get to as many questions as possible during the question-and-answer period. American diplomacy is at a crossroads. Over the last couple of decades under-resourcing, lack of diversity, overcoming a risk-averse culture, acrimony and polarization in the foreign policy space have slowly but consistently contributed in making diplomacy less effective and cumbersome. While the last four years may have exacerbated the situation, depleted the morale of our diplomats, caused the flight of our most experienced and talented officers, and deterred the attraction of young and diverse officials into the ranks, we are now at an important fork in the road.