In her memoir "Careless People," former Facebook executive Sarah Wynn-Williams provides an insider’s view of Mark Zuckerberg's interactions with global leaders. The book highlights several instances where Zuckerberg's meetings did not go as smoothly as planned, revealing his lack of interest in international policy and awkward encounters. These moments offer a unique perspective on the challenges faced by tech moguls when engaging with world leaders.

Struggles with International Engagement

Zuckerberg's reluctance to engage in international diplomacy is evident from his initial interactions with foreign leaders. During his tenure at Meta (formerly Facebook), he often showed disinterest or discomfort in diplomatic settings. One notable instance occurred when he refused to meet New Zealand's Prime Minister John Key, despite the prime minister being present in his office. This reluctance was further exemplified in his nervous and sweaty demeanor during meetings with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and South Korean President Park Geun-hye. These encounters underscored his unfamiliarity with international protocols and policies outside the United States.

Wynn-Williams recounts how Zuckerberg's indifference extended beyond mere disinterest. When tasked with preparing for a meeting with South Korea's president, Zuckerberg treated the briefing like a casual session, even demonstrating inappropriate handshakes and greetings. His lack of preparation and understanding of cultural norms led to uncomfortable situations. For example, during a meeting with Colombia's President Juan Manuel Santos, Zuckerberg appeared flustered and unprepared, leading to an abrupt end to their joint media appearance. Such incidents highlight the importance of thorough preparation and cultural sensitivity in diplomatic engagements.

Awkward Encounters and Missteps

The memoir also details several awkward moments that occurred during Zuckerberg's interactions with world leaders. One such incident took place at the Summit of the Americas in Panama, where Zuckerberg's security detail inadvertently shoved Guatemala's president aside while trying to clear a path. This mishap left Zuckerberg unsure of the appropriate diplomatic response, causing an uncomfortable scene. Another notable misstep occurred when Wynn-Williams attempted to arrange a spontaneous encounter between Zuckerberg and Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in Lima, Peru. Despite meticulous planning, Zuckerberg was blocked from Xi's view by the Chinese leader's formidable security detail, rendering the effort futile.

These awkward encounters serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in high-level diplomatic interactions. Zuckerberg's missteps highlight the need for better coordination and preparation when dealing with world leaders. His experiences also underscore the importance of respecting cultural norms and adhering to diplomatic protocols. While Zuckerberg may be a tech visionary, these moments reveal that navigating international relations requires a different set of skills and sensitivities. The memoir provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by tech leaders when stepping into the realm of global diplomacy.