‘In its coverage of recent and still contentious issues, Strahan’s book breaks new ground with a distinctive and evocative narrative style which blends analysis, scene setting and the occasional withering judgement.’ Peter Varghese AO, Secretary of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 2012–16
‘A hugely enjoyable read. Strahan provides a rare and fascinating glimpse of life at the coalface of Australian diplomacy over three decades, and he only occasionally pulls his punches. The pace never slackens, and the book hums with the author’s natural sense of curiosity … some entertaining cameos from a few former Australian prime ministers as well.’ Stephen Dziedzic, ABC’s Foreign Affairs (Asia Pacific) reporter
‘Too few Australian diplomats write good books on their time on the world stage and shaping policy in Canberra, but Strahan offers a refreshing, absorbing insight into the personalities, problems and perspectives that define Australian statecraft. Required reading.’ James Curran, Professor of Modern History, Sydney University
‘A great read. Immensely helpful for anyone wanting to understand Australia’s role in international diplomacy.’ Dr Sue Boyd AM, author of Not Always Diplomatic: An Australian Woman’s Journey Through International Affairs
‘This is as good as it gets in describing the reality of mainstream diplomatic life, with all its challenges, frustrations, periodic excitement and occasional exhilaration.’ Gareth Evans, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, 1988–96
‘Strahan takes us with him all over the world, from his 1990s posting in the early years of a unified Germany through to the turbulence of his time as Australia’s leading diplomat in the Solomon Islands in his final, toughest assignment. Told with an accomplished historian’s eye for context and significance, this insider’s account will absorb anyone interested in recent Australian foreign policy, what politicians and diplomats are like when the camera is turned off, and how Australia pursues its interests in a world ruled by the dance of raw power and subtle persuasion.’ Frank Bongiorno AM
From the Indo-Pacific and beyond, a riveting insider’s account of diplomacy and politics, and Australia’s position in the world.
‘Lachlan, what do you actually do as a diplomat?’ In The Curious Diplomat, Strahan answers that question, taking readers inside the world of Australian diplomacy. From the icy heart of North Korea to the halls of the United Nations, this is a riveting insider’s account of diplomacy, politics and the evolution of Australia’s place in the world over the last 30 years.
Led by his curiosity in people and places, Strahan held some of Australia’s key postings, including India, Germany, Korea and Solomon Islands. He grappled with Australia’s big diplomatic challenges – from China’s rise, tensions with India, and Beijing’s security agreement with Solomon Islands, to climate change, biological weapons, human rights and the search for MH370. Working with prime ministers from John Howard to Kevin Rudd, Malcolm Turnbull to Anthony Albanese, and all of Australia’s foreign ministers from Gareth Evans to Penny Wong, gave him unique insights into Australia’s national interests.
In The Curious Diplomat, Strahan unwraps how Canberra sees the world, and how our allies, partners and adversaries see us. He explores the Australian way of diplomacy, and what Australia can do today to forge a path for itself in a complicated and dangerous world.
