Common Interest

In his article (Opinion, March 15), “Kissinger on Gorbachev’s New Challenge,” former Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger suggests that “ . . . it might be possible to arrange a code of coexistence . . . “ and then Secretary of State George P. Shultz could say to Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, “ . . . Obviously, whatever is done has to be in the common interest.” Such language is very encouraging.

Coexistence implies mutual survival and is the basic common interest. By starting with this, other common interests could be noted, discussed and expanded. Imagine a summit meeting where the goal is to come away with a document of common interests! Such a product could be the basis for evolving guiding principles for global action.

For example, on seeing how extensive our common interests are we could then agree to make all decisions in the future based on our common interests, based on win/win solutions. Win/win is possible because we’ve used it before and, in fact, we benefit from such agreements daily.

We’ve sold grain to Russia when they’ve had a need and we’ve had a surplus. We’ve enjoyed cultural exchanges to our mutual delight. We have met and have shaken hands in space, sharing technology and enthusiasm for a common goal.

Thinking in terms of common interests does not assume an abrogation of our national interests. It means we’re willing to look at the bigger picture, to push ourselves to discover new alternatives, and to take the time to develop a code of coexistence.

MARGARET H. CHRISTENSEN

Thousand Oaks