Focusing on differences doesn’t help

You don’t need to read a book about negotiation to realize that stressing differences will not move opposite parties closer but finding common ground will: discussing things that are important to both sides.

Imagine: Two estranged neighbours come together to talk out their differences. Tom says, “What I don’t like about you is 1, 2 and 3.” And Sam replies, “What I don’t like about you is A, B and C.” Both may add, “I don’t even know why I’m talking to you!” They exchange insults, spit in each other’s face and return home, bigger enemies than before. By focusing on differences, they made things worse.

Apparently, this is what the media wanted Trump and Putin to have done in Helsinki — criticizing each other and making things worse. The differences between America and Russia are well-known and need no highlighting. That was not the point of the meeting.

Trump’s departure point is that America, Europe Russia, and China are the main world players regarding the balance of political, economic and military power, and should therefore co-operate to make things better, not worse. They don’t have to agree on domestic policies, but they must work together for the common good: peace, growth, and work to feed the masses.

Russia has been penalized with sanctions because of unacceptable moves by Putin in Ukraine and Syria. Trump explores ways to undo these wrongs and get Russia back on the world stage to keep world powers in balance.

Trump has changed his practical approach a little. He no longer tries to achieve big decisions with one summit; he is content to mark out the direction, put things into motion and allow his team to work out the details with other teams. This approach recognizes the complexity of the problems and gives many knowledgeable people the opportunity to make meaningful contributions.

While the media think nothing has been achieved, Trump goes home satisfied, knowing an important process has begun.

Jacob Van Zyl

Lethbridge