A country manages its relationship with foreign governments, international organizations, and the people of other countries. The management of all of these relationships is called diplomacy.
History of diplomacy
Diplomacy is not a phenomenon exclusive to the modern world; it has existed since the dawn of civilization, when early human societies began interacting to exchange raw materials, ideas, and cultural practices. One of the key aspects of diplomacy is trade and we know that Harappan civilization had trade relations with Egyptians and Mesopotamians. As early as 900 BCE, during the Mahajanapada period, rulers began using marriage as a diplomatic tool to forge alliances, secure peace, and expand their empires—a practice that became a recurring feature in ancient Indian polity. Unlike empires that expanded through conquest, Buddhism spread across Asia through dialogue, missionary efforts, and royal patronage—especially under Emperor Ashoka—making it a timeless example of how religion can serve as a powerful tool of diplomacy and soft power. The major objective of diplomacy throughout history has been to protect the interest of king by making peace with neighbouring kings and by expanding the empire by using methods like matrimonial alliances.
Even in the modern world the major objective of diplomacy is to protect the interest of the nation but the areas of diplomacy has changed now countries are partnering with each other at various levels, extension of boundaries is no more a concern instead economic progress has taken a central role in diplomacy in the modern world. Another form of diplomacy witnessed in the modern era is the global effort to address climate change and safeguard the Earth’s flora and fauna through international cooperation.
But the important question here is why do we need diplomacy? How important is diplomacy for a country?
This world is ever changing, these changes present both opportunities and challenges. Here are some points explaining the importance of diplomacy-
- In certain circumstances where a country fails to find a solution to a problem, diplomacy can help countries to seek help from technologically advanced countries. While Corona India offered help to underdeveloped countries, free vaccines were supplied to many neighbouring countries and African nations.
- During conflicts and wars nations often seek mediation from other countries so that war extremities can be avoided and a middle path can be achieved.
- When countries face economic challenges, diplomacy allows for the negotiation of trade deals, loans, and partnerships. For instance, India’s diplomatic ties have enabled free trade agreements with ASEAN and other nations, boosting exports and reducing dependency.
- Problems like climate change, pandemics, and terrorism transcend borders. Diplomatic platforms like COP summits or G20 meetings allow countries to share resources, set common goals, and work collaboratively for global benefit.
- Diplomatic missions like embassies and consulates assist in protecting citizens during emergencies such as natural disasters, war, or political unrest in foreign countries. For example, India’s Operation Ganga helped evacuate Indian students from Ukraine during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- Through diplomacy, countries form strategic alliances for defense, intelligence sharing, and joint military exercises. For example, the QUAD alliance (India, USA, Japan, and Australia) is a diplomatic initiative to ensure regional security.
- Diplomatic efforts help countries ensure access to critical resources like oil, gas, and rare earth minerals through agreements and joint ventures, essential for economic development and technological advancement.
There are many such examples that can explain the need for diplomacy in the modern world. World has turned into a small village in this modern world, we all are dependent on each other for our survival, diplomacy acts as the bridge that connects diverse interests, resolves conflicts, fosters cooperation, and ensures that no country is left isolated.