The new normal during diplomatic engagements

Some countries downgrade their attendance to certain international meetings to convey their disagreement.

- MAJ GEN ASHOK KUMAR

It is not only a common belief but also a harsh fact that there are no permanent friends or enemies when it comes to the relationship between nation states. What is permanent is “national interest”, which remains dynamic. This highlights the nature of quality diplomacy, which should easily allow for calibrating relationships in a desired manner. Despite this, certain emerging trends question the statesmanship of various countries. These trends are emerging globally, but their presence in Indian thought processes is particularly disturbing. 

There is neither any loss of face nor a dilution of our stance on any particular issue if we remain courteous during our diplomatic interactions, even when there are serious and persistent differences of opinion on major issues. Some of the trends observed globally include:

* Absence from meetings/ scheduled events: Despite being part of regional/international groupings/events, some countries decide to be absent from these events altogether. Such trends are visible even during sports meets. One reason for this is the inclusion of activities by the host nations that are seen as adversarial by others. Both sides should avoid such conduct to ensure the organisations can fulfil their mandate efficiently.

* Downgraded attendance: Some countries downgrade their attendance, either at the level of protocol or in the size of their delegation, to convey their disagreement without being seen as a complete “absentee”. This approach dilutes the charter to a reasonable extent.