convey - v. to make (something) known to someone
patrol - v. to walk or go around or through especially in order to make sure that it is safe
plateau - n. a large flat area of land that is higher than other areas of land that surround it
sovereignty - n. a country's independent authority and the right to govern itself
accordance - n. in a way that agrees with or follows something, such as a rule or request)
access - n. a way of getting near, at, or to something or someone
mutual - adj. shared between two or more people or groups
face-saving - adj. done to keep someone from looking foolish
status quo - n. the way things are now