Hillary Clinton Seeks to Strengthen Ties with Europe, Russia

It seems that the majority of Hillary Clinton's energy at this point is being directed at assuring and reassuring European nationsBush administration, the Obama administration would at least like to start a dialogue and determine if there is any possibility of mutually beneficial endeavors.

Clinton seems to sense opportunity from every angle as she held the U.S. accountable for its failings on issues such as global warming. She also reiterated the U.S. position that Israel must also make some sacrifices in the West Bank in order to bring stability and peace to the region.

It's far too soon to tell if her message of open communication will have its intended impact, but it's difficult to argue with the approach. It certainly can't hurt to attempt to strengthen diplomatic relations with as many nations as possible. The world is a large and diverse place and there are countless opportunities for U.S. growth and positive American impact in places that have yet to be explored, from a foreign relations perspective.

Clinton will be meeting soon with Russian foreign minister Sergey V. Lavrov in a meeting that is likely to focus on the Obama administration's willingness to work with Russia in spite of its objections to military actions in Georgia.