Foreign policy is a country's policy that is conceived, designed and formulated to safeguard and promote her national interests in her external affairs, in the conduct of relationships with other countries, both bilaterally and multilaterally. It is a direct reflection of the country's traditional values, overall national policies, aspirations and self-perception. Diplomacy is the instrument for implementing the foreign policy of a state.
1. Meaning, Tools and Machinery of Foreign Policy
- Foreign policy seeks to secure the best interests of the people, territory and economy of the country.
- Interdependence has been an incontrovertible fact of international relations.
- The main tools of foreign policy are treaties and executive agreements, appointing ambassadors, foreign aid, international trade and armed forces.
- The Ministry of External Affairs (also known as the Foreign Ministry) is responsible for the conduct of foreign relations of India.
- The Foreign Service Training Institute, New Delhi, established in 1986, provides training for officers of the Indian Foreign Services (IFS).