The correct answer to this open question is the following.
Although there are no options attached, we can comment on the following.
Exploratory discussions differ from negotiations in that exploratory discussions are held to explore, get familiar with, to know the basic or main positions of the other part. You have this exploratory discussion before starting the negotiation process to give you an idea of how the other part thinks about the issue of negotiation. If it is an open posture, a flexible one, or a closed or stubborn position. This information helps you to establish your formal position during the real negotiation process and the strategy that follows.