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The Foreign Policy Group

of Washington, D.C.

The Foreign Policy Discussion Group (FPDG) was created to promote greater knowledge and understanding of problems affecting foreign policy among its members. It was established to offer a platform and a framework conducive to frank discussions of problems of foreign policy.

The activities of The Foreign Policy Discussion Group consist principally of regular monthly dinner meetings held at a private club (except in July, August and September). These off-the-record meetings, at which a previously-announced topic of foreign policy is presented by a qualified speaker, are followed by discussion from the floor. Great emphasis is placed on the discussion, which is not restricted to questions and answers. Additional meetings may be scheduled, either to welcome guests arriving in Washington or to discuss topics of special interest. The Foreign Policy Discussion Group may also sponsor debates on certain controversial topics of foreign policy representing opposing points of view or as a panel discussion. It is not contemplated that the presentations to the Group nor the discussions will be published.

The Foreign Policy Discussion Group also functions as host to foreign guests coming to the United States, enabling them to meet formally and informally with members of the Group and to participate in the discussion meetings. On the other hand, The Foreign Policy Discussion Group will assist any of its members going abroad to meet people engaged or interested in foreign affairs. Ideally speaking, it would serve as a bridge of understanding. The Foreign Policy Discussion Group will consider establishing informal relations with other organizations abroad interested in and devoted to foreign affairs.

The aims and activities of The Foreign Policy Discussion Group are complementary to those of the Council on Foreign Relations in New York City and the Washington Institute of Foreign Affairs. The Foreign Policy Discussion Group is not affiliated with either of these or any other organizations. It welcomes, however, cooperation with any organization having similar purposes.