Out of all the people there, John hadn't honestly expected to hear Shakar ask that particular one.  He nodded and grew serious, as he had when they had been under fire in the Market districts of Omega.  "The reason you're all here is to try to bring in new allies, new friends, and learn all we can about each other, our races, our cultures much like our Atlantican friend here unless I miss my mark Michelle.  Promises of aid during war, epidemics, and the like, trade expanded, technology hopefully shared with one another eventually if things go well, I could go on and on.  The Council wishes to expand our diplomatic influence in good will with our galactic neighbors, and this is the first step down a road that will hopefully lead to a better tomorrow.  If you want to simplify it to its barest meaning, it's a 'meet and greet' on a galactic scale."