Russian diplomacy has centuries-old long-standing traditions. Every year on the 10th of February Russian diplomats mark their professional day – Diplomats’ Day to commemorate the founding of the Russian Diplomatic Service back in 1549. This commemorative date, which was established not long ago, in 2002, is closely associated with the history of Russia’s first foreign affairs office – the Ambassadorial Department (or “PosolskyPrikaz” in Russian). On February 10, 1549, the Ambassadorial Department, established by Czar Ivan IV, was first mentioned in official chronicles. Of course, the Russian diplomatic traditions date back to more distant times. For instance, the ‘Agreement on Peace and Love’ between ancient Russia and the Byzantine Empire was signed in 860, and the envoys of Russian principalities were frequent guests in the states of medieval Europe. But in the 1500s, after the creation of the strong united Russian State, the necessity of a special diplomatic department to carry out foreign policy became vital. In 1549 the diplomatic service turned to be an integral part of the Russian statehood and received a special status.

The Ambassadorial Department successfully managed Russian foreign policy throughout the XVI-XVII centuries (with the first permanent Russian diplomatic missions abroad opened in the 1600s), when in 1718-1720 it was gradually transformed into the Collegium of Foreign Affairs by Emperor Peter the Great. This went in line with the emergence of the Russian Empire and the establishment of Russia as a Great European power. The constellation of talented diplomats serving within the Collegium laid down the basic principles and methods of Russian diplomacy. Finally, in 1802, the modern form of foreign policy management – the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – was established by the manifesto of Emperor Alexander I. By 1914 Russia had a wide network of diplomatic and consular representations all over the world.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in 1917-1946 – the People’s Commissariat for Foreign Affairs) upheld state interests at every turning point in Russian and world history. Our diplomacy made crucial contributions to the strengthening of the anti-Hitler coalition during World War II and the creation of the United Nations Organization, bolstered the UN authority in governing International relations, and struggled for peace and disarmament. Today Russian diplomacy plays a significant role within the UN, BRICS, G20, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum, and other global and regional forums, promoting ties of friendship and cooperation with other states. A diplomat in our times is completely different from the one of the past centuries. Modern diplomacy has become by far diverse and dynamic. It requires a wider range of knowledge in various fields including environmental issues and climate change, arms control, fighting terrorism, and many others. While its method evolves towards multi-vector networking, the chief task remains the same – ensuring favorable external conditions for domestic development. But the best fundamental traditions of Russian diplomacy are still going strong, and among them are – highly professional culture and skills including high linguistic abilities and profound knowledge of International relations, commitment to their own country, and respect for the countries of posting.

By Vladimir Zheltov
Russian Ambassador to Kuwait