KSR Diplomacy Diary: 12. A Diplomat’s Qualities

12. A Diplomat’s Qualities

‘Clever, skilled in observation,
and in judging the minds of others,
in speech precise, and also wise,
such should the king’s ambassador be.

‘Eloquent, and a talker wise,
able to handle opposition,
steadfast, speaking as instructed,
such should an ambassador be.’

[Kautilya Arathashastra, translated by AND Haksar, Chanakya Niti Penguin Classics, New Delhi, 2020].

1. Harold Nicholson focused on four qualities that a diplomat needs: truthfulness, precision, calmness and modesty. We may add to this a need for integrity, persuasive skills, and a sense of hospitality and welcome. I learnt from an outstanding Singapore diplomat, Ong Keng Yong, the value of creating a wide network of international friends, and investing in long-term relations with them.

2. An old debate: should the diplomat be a generalist or a specialist. It is not a matter of choosing one over the other; the modern diplomat needs both, to be a ‘specialised generalist’. Thus, after eight or 10 years in the profession, she will perhaps speak two foreign languages (with the related area specialization) and will hold one or two functional specialities, covering the fields that are vital international affairs, be it environment issues, trade negotiations, financial affairs or others. No individual can master all specialities, but the foreign ministry or an embassy will have access to a range of specialities. The official must also master information and communication technology (ICT) including the social media, and have broad interest in technology issues

3. As for professional skills, the list is long. One also needs a sense of curiosity, genuine interest in other people, and intercultural skills. The diplomat, especially an Ambassador cannot afford to be over-identified with a special cluster of personal friends, because this can indirectly inhibit contacts with others. Further, their own diaspora will closely observe their conduct. It is essential to be open to all. It is also important to show respect to the embassy’s local staff, who are now used in quasi-diplomatic roles, be it in economic or public diplomacy, and for contact building. An example: Botswana had in New Delhi in 2009-12 an exceptional High Commissioner, Dorcas Kgosietsile. She and her deputy, Zenene Sinombe were among the best diplomats at that time. My fruitful relationship with them began with a simple query about the flag-pin that the High Commissioner wore at a reception.