Interested members of the community are invited to learn about and weigh in on eight of the most important foreign policy issues facing the United States today at the latest Great Decisions at the Library lecture series, beginning Saturday, Jan. 7.

The lecture topics are: “U.S. Foreign Policy and Petroleum Conflict in the South China Sea,” “Latin America’s Political Pendulum,” “Saudi Arabia in Transition,” “Prospects for Afghanistan and Pakistan,” “Trade and Politics” and “The Future of Europe and Nuclear Security.”

The lively discussions take place from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday mornings at Bethany Lutheran Church. All events are free, with donations appreciated. Refreshments will be provided.

The 2017 series will lead off on Jan. 7 with a special viewing of “America’s Diplomats,” a Foreign Policy Association film about the history and workings of the U.S. Foreign Service. The 60-minute film will be followed by a question-and-answer session with local retired foreign service officers.

Now in its 12th year, Great Decisions at the Library is part of a nation-wide, non-partisan program of the Foreign Policy Association intended to broaden public involvement in foreign affairs. While enjoying coffee and pastries, participants first view a 30-minute Foreign Policy Association DVD on the topic under consideration that week and then engage in a discussion lead by an informed moderator.

Visit Kitsap Regional Library’s online program calendar at www.KRL.org for more information about each topic in the series.