Politics Weekly UK Catherine Ashton on the UK’s role in a changing world
Aug 4, 2025
Catherine Ashton, a seasoned British politician and diplomat who served as the High Representative for Foreign Affairs, shares her insights on today's geopolitical challenges. She discusses the complexities of global crises like the Israel-Gaza conflict and the war in Ukraine, highlighting the need for long-term strategies. Ashton opens up about her experiences with world leaders such as Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the intricacies of diplomacy and the shifting dynamics between the UK, China, and the EU.
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Foreign Policy Is Domestic Reality
- Foreign policy is inseparable from domestic issues because everything abroad affects us at home.
- Current global instability feels intense partly due to 24/7 media and short-term problem-solving approaches.
Update Diplomatic Toolkit Now
- We must adopt long-term perspectives and recognize problems migrate globally rather than remain local.
- Successful diplomacy requires coalition-building and reconnecting aid with defense efforts.
Only Woman in High-Level Talks
- Catherine Ashton was often the only woman in critical diplomatic rooms and has watched that change over generations.
- Being the sole woman is common for her generation but no disadvantage in negotiations with world leaders.