The Real Face Of Modern Diplomacy – OpEd

With eight years of experience as a Minister actively engaging with the international community, and as an Ambassador in the EU region, alongside formal study in this field, and behind the international foreign policies – I have observed a profound transformation in the principles that guide international diplomacy.

Traditional pillars such as shared faith, culture, language, or geographic proximity, once the foundation of bilateral and multilateral relations, no longer carry the influence they once did. In today’s world, diplomacy is driven by strategic interests, economic power, professional skill, and mutual benefit. The global order now favors results over sentiment; nations are judged not by their ideals, but by the outcomes they deliver.

I. The Rise of Realpolitik: Skill Over Sentiment

Historically, many nations established diplomatic ties based on common faith, cultural heritage, or regional bonds. In the 21st century, however, such sentiments alone are insufficient to sustain effective diplomacy.

Modern states and contemporary diplomacy prioritize:

• Economic opportunity: Access to markets, trade diversification, and investment.
• Political leverage: Strategic alliances to influence regional and global decision-making.
• Defense cooperation: Joint military efforts, arms agreements, and security coordination.

Religion, language, and culture, once considered fundamental to forging diplomatic alliances, have now taken a secondary role in the intricate sphere of modern international relations. Today’s era of diplomacy demands strategic thinking, negotiation skills, and reciprocity —not reliance on emotional or ideological connections. In this framework, success is measured by competence, adaptability, and the ability to exert influence on the global stage, rather than by shared identity.

II. Reciprocity: The Power of Acting in Kind

The principle of reciprocity, known in Arabic as “عمل بالمثل,” represents a cornerstone of contemporary diplomacy. This concept upholds equilibrium and mutual respect among nations by advocating for proportionate and strategic responses to the actions undertaken by other states.

In practical implementation, reciprocity manifests through:

• Diplomatic expulsions being met with equivalent actions.
• Imposition of visa or travel restrictions reciprocated in kind.
• Economic sanctions countered with appropriate countermeasures.
• Defense and security alliances adjusted dynamically in response to evolving global threats.

Reciprocity plays a crucial role in ensuring fairness and maintaining strategic balance in international relations. Recent interactions, such as those between India and Pakistan, highlight the practical application of this principle. In today’s world of shifting power dynamics and growing geopolitical complexities, reciprocity emphasizes the importance of adaptability, pragmatic decision-making, and a firm dedication to equitable engagement.

III. The Gulf Arab States: From Desert to World Stage

The Gulf Arab states, alongside Turkiya, have emerged as pivotal players in the evolving landscape of contemporary diplomacy. Previously perceived as peripheral or reliant actors, these nations have successfully transformed their roles into that of influential global stakeholders through strategic and proficient diplomatic efforts.

• Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a neutral mediator in significant global conflicts, including its involvement in the Russia–Ukraine war and its discreet efforts to facilitate dialogue between Iran and the U.S. On the domestic front, initiatives such as Vision 2030 showcase its ambitious drive to modernize the economy and reshape its global image. In terms of diplomacy, Saudi Arabia has tied normalization with Israel to the condition of recognizing a sovereign Palestinian state—a move that reflects Riyadh’s increasing strategic independence. No longer a passive player in international affairs, Saudi Arabia is now actively shaping global politics, harnessing its economic strength, religious stature, and political influence to establish itself as a key force in modern diplomacy.
• Qatar has established itself as a dynamic and influential diplomatic player, consistently surpassing expectations given its size. Emphasizing soft power diplomacy, Qatar has skillfully utilized its economic resources, media influence, and strategic facilitation of international discussions to play a pivotal role in conflict resolution and humanitarian initiatives. Notable contributions include mediating U.S.–Taliban negotiations and addressing crises in Afghanistan, Sudan, and Gaza. Additionally, Qatar’s remarkable investment of nearly $200 billion in hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022 highlights its forward-thinking approach to modern international relations.
• The UAE serves as a prime example of how a small nation can rise to global prominence through pragmatic and skillful diplomacy. Once primarily recognized for its oil wealth, the UAE has successfully redefined its role by making strategic investments, advancing tourism and technology, and establishing itself as a neutral and influential player on the world stage.
• Turkiya has firmly established itself as a dynamic regional power, adeptly navigating the complexities of modern diplomacy. Under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the nation has adopted a strategic foreign policy that emphasizes pragmatism and regional influence. Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Turkiya has harnessed its unique geographic positioning to act as both a unifier and a stabilizing force—mediating conflicts while advancing its own national objectives. Its involvement in the Black Sea Grain Initiative, ensuring vital exports during the Russia–Ukraine war, highlighted Ankara’s role as a dependable negotiator. Simultaneously, Turkiya has enhanced its influence in Central Asia, the Balkans, and the South Caucasus, and remains a critical NATO member. By prioritizing pragmatic leadership and multipolar engagement, Turkiya exemplifies how a nation can redefine its global significance in the modern era.

These countries demonstrate that influence in modern diplomacy stems not from shared identity, but from economic capability, diplomatic expertise, and regional significance.

IV. The Strategic Theatre: Middle East and Global Leverage

Recent developments in the Middle East highlight how diplomatic maturity and strategic vision are reshaping global politics:

• Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has strategically negotiated American concessions, including matters related to Syria and Ahmed Al-Shar’a. Additionally, he has firmly stipulated that normalization with Israel must encompass the recognition of a Palestinian state, thereby shaping the progression of the Abraham Accords in significant ways.
• Qatar’s acquisition of 160 aircraft from Boeing, valued at approximately $200 billion, represents the largest transaction in Boeing’s history. This landmark agreement not only fortified economic relations between the United States and Qatar but also exemplified the strategic application of economic diplomacy.

Such engagements are not symbolic gestures—they are calculated strategic investments with global consequences.

V. Lessons from Emerging Powers: Education, Skill & Strategy

Emerging and post-conflict nations to transit from a focus on historical identity, to embracing modern diplomatic strategies and to achieve success in the global arena, they should consider adopting lessons from emerging powers and implementing the following pivotal recommendations:

• Effective leadership plays a crucial role in shaping the destiny of a nation and organization. It is essential to select leaders who can guide their country and run their organization toward embracing modern diplomatic strategies. 
• Equally important is the ability of these leaders to unify their nation and subordinates and invest in the younger generation, who will ultimately serve as the true implementers of these strategies.
• Develop, retain, and continuously train diplomats with advanced negotiation techniques, proficiency in technological innovation, robust understanding of economic policy, and comprehensive expertise in international law.
• Ensure diplomatic appointments are based on qualifications and merit, fostering a culture of professional excellence over political favoritism.
• Focus foreign policy decisions on national interests, moving beyond ideological allegiances to secure strategic advantages.
• Optimize official visits and participation in international forums to yield measurable outcomes in areas such as trade agreements, technological collaborations, and educational partnerships.

While many nations in the region operate with constrained budgets—often under $2 billion—examples like Qatar demonstrate that strategic diplomacy enables even smaller states to amplify their global influence significantly.

Conclusion: Realism Over Idealism

We are witnessing the rise of a realist global order, where ideology is giving way to interests. 

Nations are no longer defined by sentimental alliances rooted in historical narratives, but by the strategic cultivation of mutually advantageous partnerships that prioritize present and future imperatives.

In this evolving diplomatic landscape, the principles of reciprocity, expertise, and measured engagement are pivotal to achieving enduring success. Tomorrow’s leaders in diplomacy will not be those constrained by tradition but rather those propelled by a results-oriented approach and fortified by visionary strategies.

References

1. Nye, Joseph S. (2004). Soft Power: The Means to Success in World Politics. PublicAffairs.
2. Kissinger, Henry. (1994). Diplomacy. Simon & Schuster.
3. Al Jazeera News. (2023). “Saudi Arabia calls for Palestinian state before normalization with Israel.” Retrieved from www.aljazeera.com
4. The Economist. (2024). “How the Gulf States Became Diplomatic Powerhouses.”
5. Foreign Policy. (2023). “Qatar’s $200 Billion Boeing Deal Signals Regional Soft Power.”
6. The Guardian. (2023). “Oman and Jordan’s Role in Quiet Diplomacy.”
7. BBC News. (2024). “Afghanistan Reconstruction: Regional Players and Diplomatic Roles.”
8. Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. (2022). The Strategic Evolution of Middle Eastern States.
9. United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). (2023). Modern Diplomatic Practice and Negotiation Skills.
10. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye. (2024). “Turkiye’s Role in NATO and Central Asia.” Retrieved from www.mfa.gov.tr