You can have peace treaties with countries near you, and you can make it for however long you like. I wouldn't suggest putting you country in the smack middle of someones empire though, that's asking for trouble.
Meatwad, get more workers by changing your education so that it there's more of them.
Most people are friendly, but there are some to watch out for. Just don't go and stock up on weapons or they'll get suspicious and there could be some conflict.