Dialogue amongst cultures can build peace: scholar

Political scientist emphasises the role of diplomats in developing linkages between countries

ISLAMABAD: Dialogue and understanding amongst different cultures can help improve peace and stability across the region and the world. But the process of cultural diplomacy and engagement is not instantaneous.

This was stated by Iranian-German Political Scientist Dr Fatemah Kamli-Chirani on Wednesday while addressing a seminar on “Intercultural Dialogue and Cultural Diplomacy”. The seminar had been organised by the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies in collaboration with the Riphah International University.

The political scientist specializes in cultural diplomacy while her main fields of interest are intercultural dialogue, civil society, women, migration, and refugees. In 2019, she published her first book, an abridged version of her PhD thesis, “Does intercultural dialogue matter? The role of intercultural dialogue in the foreign Cultural policy of Iran and Germany”.

Dr Fatemah said that diplomats have a critical role in developing linkages between different countries and essentially different cultures and people. For this purpose, she said that diplomats must acquire an understanding of members of the civil society where they are representing their own countries.

Envoys and even countries at large can utilize mediums such as art, literature, and heritage to develop an image of themselves, which can enhance not only the understanding of foreign public but also help the country build a long relationship with the other countries.

However, these relations cannot be forged instantly, and require one to be patient and persistent in finding and developing linkages gradually.

She added that countries across the world are linked to various values which are essential values of humanity, correlations in religion and commonalities of cultures.

For those who devise policies, they must look to strengthen these values while diplomats must see closely areas where linkages can be built. Moreover, they should encourage academics and students to engage in dialogue and collaboration to develop linkages at multiple levels.

Riphah International University Institute of Public Policy Director Dr Rashid Aftab explained the significance of dialogue amongst civilizations.

During the event, it was announced that the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies and the Riphah, International University’s Institute of Public Policy had recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to work in areas of mutual interest.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 30^th, 2020.