International policy news is focused on issues that span national boundaries. It includes domestic bills and legislation, foreign aid, diplomacy, sanctions, military/defense, intelligence, development, and global environmental policy. This field of politics is also often referred to as global public policy.
In the United States, a major focus of foreign policy is negotiating trade agreements with countries throughout the world to boost exports and encourage international investment. In addition, the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs has six standing subcommittees that oversee international issues like the promotion of democracy, poverty reduction and HIV/AIDS in foreign countries.
Diplomacy is the most important tool for resolving conflicts between nations and maintaining peace. Diplomats may negotiate treaties, make official declarations and presentations to the press about their government’s views on a particular issue, or conduct face-to-face meetings with other diplomats from different countries. Diplomacy is a pillar of international policy, and many great leaders have held both diplomatic and military roles.
