"The art of statesmanship is to foresee the inevitable and to expedite its occurrence"

This quote by Charles Maurice de Talleyrand speaks to the significance of foresight and readiness in the practice of statesmanship. Talleyrand suggests that an effective statesman needs to have the ability to expect the future and take actions to make sure that the wanted result is accomplished in a prompt manner. This requires a deep understanding of the existing political climate and the capability to expect the possible repercussions of any given action. By being proactive and taking steps to make sure that the desired result is accomplished, a statesman can prevent pricey errors and make sure that their country is well-positioned to make the most of any chances that might emerge. Talleyrand's quote is a reminder that statesmanship is not just about responding to events, but also about being prepared and taking proactive steps to make sure that the desired outcome is achieved.