The Back Channel
A Memoir of American Diplomacy and the Case for Its Renewal
What's it about
Ever wonder what really happens in the closed-door meetings that shape world events? Get an unprecedented look inside American diplomacy and learn how the deals that define our era are actually made, from a man who spent decades at the center of it all. Discover the untold stories behind pivotal moments in recent history, from secret talks with Iran to navigating the complex relationship with Russia. You'll gain practical insights into the art of negotiation, crisis management, and the subtle power of "back channel" communication, giving you a masterclass in strategy from one of America's most seasoned diplomats.
Meet the author
William J. Burns is a career ambassador and the current Director of the CIA, having previously served as Deputy Secretary of State, the second-highest-ranking U.S. diplomat. His nearly thirty-five-year tenure in the Foreign Service took him from Moscow to the Middle East, offering him a rare, firsthand view of global power shifts. This unparalleled experience from the front lines and back channels of American diplomacy provides the foundation for his urgent case for its renewal in a rapidly changing world.
The Script
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