If I have learned one thing from dealing with transactional people (and this is widely regarded as a transactional government) is that you absolutely never give them anything for free.

Not only will that by definition be forgotten two minutes later, they will also think of you as stupid for making a concession without demanding anything in return. When you then negotiate again, their mind is already set in “this is an idiot” mode and they will make the most ridiculous demands, and be incredibly upset and surprised when you stand your ground.