Dealing with Senior Foreign Officials in the Islamic World

PKSOI, 8 Aug 08: The American Military Advisor: Dealing with Senior Foreign Officials in the Islamic World

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.....In today’s Iraq and Afghanistan, the role of the military advisor has expanded greatly, and the relationships established by American officers at the strategic level with local Governors, Cabinet Members and other civilian policymakers are easily as important as any strictly military officer to military officer role. The advisory function traditionally has not been part of military preparation and training, yet the consequences of failure or success on the part of American military advisors are far-reaching for the United States.

Based on the experience of diplomats and military officers who have served in many zones of conflict, and whose duties meant daily interaction with senior foreign officials, this guide describes the preparations that an advisor should make, illustrates the questions he should ask, and explains the political and cultural complexities that affect his mission. Although most of the examples are drawn from Islamic countries, the precepts and advice apply broadly.

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Complete 95-page paper at the link.

As an interesting tidbit: the author of this paper is Michael Metrinko, former political officer in Tehran, embassy hostage for 444 days, and later (as a 60-year old), State representative to a Lithuanian PRT in remote Cheghcheran, Ghor Province, Afghanistan.

to quite good effect and he was certainly one of the good guys during the Iran hostage bit. Great guy.