Secretary of State (DOS)

Description of Role:
The Department of State maintains the U.S. diplomatic presence around the world, conducting foreign relations and using an on-the-ground perspective to generate country- specific knowledge. As head of the department, the secretary draws on this knowledge to present an authoritative view of the United States’ bilateral relationships, the relationships between foreign countries, and the behavior and interests of foreign governments.

The secretary of state’s goals are to
  • serve as the president’s principal foreign policy advisor; and
  •  analyze how policy options will affect the interests, reputation, and relationships of the United States.
Issues for Consideration:
  • What are the major characteristics of the United States’ relationship with Pakistan? How important is this relationship to U.S. foreign policy goals, including but not limited to counterterrorism?
  • What has been Pakistan’s position on and response to U.S. drone strikes and counterterrorism raids on its territory? How have these events affected U.S. cooperation with Pakistan, and what does that suggest about the implications of different options in this case?
  • What are the major components and characteristics of U.S. military and humanitarian assistance to Pakistan? What has been the effect of this assistance, especially in the area of counterterrorism?
  • Is Pakistan a friend, an adversary, or a combination of the two? What does this suggest about the most effective approach to U.S. counterterrorism policy and broader diplomacy in that country?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of involving the Pakistani government in U.S. counterterrorism plans versus proceeding alone?
Research Leads: