U.S. diplomacy is an instrument of power, essential for maintaining effectiveinternational relationships, and a principal means through which the United Statesdefends its interests, responds to crises, and achieves its international goals. TheDepartment of State is the lead institution for the conduct of American diplomacy, amission based on the role of the Secretary of State as the President's principal foreignpolicy adviser.

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State Magazine is published to facilitate communication between management and employees at home and abroad and to acquaint employees with developments that may affect operations or personnel. The magazine is also available to perons interested in working for the Department of State and to the general public.

Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department decides, based on all relevant information, to recommend that Americans avoid travel to a certain country. Countries where avoidance of travel is recommended will have Travel Warnings as well as Consular Information Sheets.

Country Commercial Guides (CCG's) are prepared annually by U.S. embassies with the assistance of several U.S. government agencies. These reports present a comprehensive look at countries' commercial environments, using economic, political and market analysis. The CCG's were established by recommendation of the Trade Promotion Coordinating Committee (TPCC), a multi-agency task force, to consolidate various reporting documents prepared for the U.S. business community.