

Discretion: Episode 1
Apr 11, 2025
Maria Kossecka, a newly appointed Deputy Head of Mission, navigates her first major diplomatic engagement with her boss, James Reid. They attend a rally for presidential candidate Milan Ogrisovic, who promotes unity and pro-European ideals. The conversation humorously highlights the importance of personal connections in diplomacy and the inner conflicts faced by diplomats. Tensions rise dramatically with an unexpected plane crash involving a key political figure, raising urgent questions about its impact on the upcoming election.
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Diplomatic Expertise
- Know everything about your area of expertise, whether it's a specific country or trade.
- Make a strong first impression, as you don't get a second chance.
Prioritize People
- Focus on building personal connections in diplomacy.
- Engage with people on a personal level to disarm them and build rapport.
Missed Opportunity
- A diplomat was invited shooting by a future president, but declined.
- In hindsight, she regrets this decision, highlighting the strategic importance of such invitations.