"The primary function of the Office of External Relations is outreach, promotion and maintenance of the relations of the United Nations in civil society, including non-governmental organizations, the business world, academic institutions, foundations, professional associations, parliamentarians, trade unions and the religious community. Its work is complementary to that of the Office of Communications and Public Information. While the latter disseminates information to the press and other media and the general public, as well as providing services to non-governmental organizations associated with it, the Office of External Relations focuses on an in-depth relationship between key institutions of civil society and the Secretary-General. It chairs an interdepartmental working group that provides advice to the Secretary-General on his relationship with non-governmental organizations. It works closely with the speech writers and the Spokesman for the Secretary-General and confers with the Protocol and Liaison Service in connection with requests and visits by leaders of civil society, but does not undertake protocol functions. In close cooperation and coordination with the Office of Communications and Public Information, the Office of External Relations develops a communication strategy and core message that is consistent, compelling and well coordinated."