Before beginning negotiations, what must proponents of an agreement obtain from the approving authority?

The correct response is Request Authority to Negotiate (RAN) because it establishes the necessary formal permission for proponents to engage in negotiation on behalf of the organization. A RAN indicates that the approving authority has reviewed the matter and allowed the negotiation process to proceed. This ensures that all actions taken thereafter have the backing of the appropriate level of command or authority, maintaining adherence to established protocols and regulations.

Obtaining a RAN is critical as it sets the stage for transparency and accountability in the negotiation process. It confirms that the proponents have the legal and administrative clearance to negotiate terms and conditions of the agreement, which protects both national interests and the integrity of the negotiation process.

In contrast, the other options such as negotiation consent, agreement letter, and approval to negotiate do not specifically capture the procedural requirement established within the Foreign Disclosure process. While they may be relevant to various stages of agreements, they do not serve the same formal role as the RAN in initiating negotiations.