Diplomacy & International Relations - The core work of an Indian Foreign Service officer, particularly an ambassador, involves navigating diverse cultural contexts with an open mind, intellectual curiosity, empathy, sensitivity, humility, and hard work [3] - Building trust with foreign counterparts requires thorough homework, open-source research, file review, and personal meetings [5] - Connecting seemingly disparate elements is crucial for achieving broader objectives in international relations [11] - Friendships between countries and individuals play a significant role in enhancing diplomatic relations [14] - Soft power, including Bollywood and other film industries, serves as a force multiplier for India's international influence [22] Economic & Trade Initiatives - Grassroots innovations based on affordable and appropriate technology can be leveraged for international development, particularly in countries with similar conditions [8] - Government grant and aid programs can facilitate the implementation of innovative solutions in foreign countries [8] - Reviving textile factories and other industries in foreign countries can be achieved through government agreements and close monitoring of project implementation [11][12][13] - "Neem diplomacy" and other unique initiatives can strengthen bilateral relations and promote goodwill [25] Humanitarian Efforts & Crisis Management - The government of India has a long and impressive record of rescuing Indian nationals from situations of distress, including civil wars and piracy attacks [19][20][21][22] - Humanitarian efforts extend to providing food, medicine, and support to affected individuals and their families [21] - Collaboration with foreign embassies and authorities is crucial for providing assistance to nationals in distress [17][18]

Ray Dalio’s observations on Anglo decline seem overstated, perhaps bc he speaks from within that perspective. He is obviously right about the UK, but to even discuss the UK and US in one breath is archaic. In Beijing itself, the currently fashionable theory appears to be the G7 -> G2 power architecture transition, which is to say that two complementary superpowers decide everything.After this period of posturing ends, the relationship likely settles back to core cooperation on shared interests. Tariffs func ...

Influence & Operations - The report suggests the CIA infiltrated media and embedded themselves inside universities [1] - The report indicates universities became soft power factories through grants, think tanks, and covert partnerships [1]