Abstract
The world order that we have come to experience since the end of the Second World War is undergoing notable strategic shifts. Major power competition is intensifying. Global socio-economic norms that were negotiated through decades long diplomacy are being ignored. Advent of President Trump has expedited the pace and intensity of these emerging strategic shifts. His “America First” approach is sharpening polarization in the world. Diplomacy seems to be on the retreat in many regions, such as South Asia. One of the test cases of success or failure of diplomacy is Afghanistan, which remains in deep turmoil. Despite setbacks, diplomacy remains our best hope for a peaceful world.
