A phone discussion does sound more pragmatic. Emails, whilst they are a record of what’s been said, are, I think, problematic. I know a few people who are really lovely, kind individuals, but their email “tone” is appalling. A few years ago some European companies turned off internal email facilities, and only allowed emails to external partners. They insisted on internal people using phone contact, video conferencing or face-to face.

Good luck with your meeting.