each other's aims and concerns. And, above all, to prevent
misunderstandings.
21. Our approach is frank and open. We believe that it is in our interests
as well as in theirs that Soviet leaders should have as much first-hand
knowledge of the West as possible. Meetings will help. They will bear
fruit only in time, and only if we see to it that they involve a great deal
of calm but plain talking. We must be firm on the essentials; we must be
consistent in our assessment of what is essential; and we must work within
the Alliance to ensure that the main themes reflect the broad sense of
common purpose which exists on the Western side. It is not a question of
rigidity or uniformity, but of getting across a clear signal about the
conditions for the progress we want to see. Sweeping awkward questions
under the carpet won't help. Nor will any failure to stand up for the
principles which are founded on our belief in the freedom of the individual
and in democratic government.
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