The withdrawals also raise questions about the government's ability to use private and public diplomacy to improve relations with nations shaken by the war in Iraq.

Public and private diplomacy, Page 3.

In certain instances, the officials discussed approaching governments and foreign officials in attempts to reform those groups through private diplomacy.

"We need private diplomacy and this is very bad," said one senior official.

I do not know of any other "private diplomacy" that has done so much to foster the peace process.

The secretary flew back to Washington on Tuesday afternoon after an arduous two days of private and public diplomacy.

The President has said repeatedly that the best way to effect change in China is through private diplomacy.

The countries say they prefer private diplomacy, not public rebukes.

Apart from his business, this is a kind of "private diplomacy" that few people carry out like Garnero.

We must use both public and private diplomacy, targeted economic measures, and military assistance to aid forces seeking freedom from rogue regimes.