Communications Matter: The Silent Language of Diplomacy.

By Amir Jahangir and Irfan Aamir

During Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif's recent visit to China, while he made headlines as a true diplomat, the perception of him and his team by the Chinese government and its people was notably different. In the intricate theatre of international diplomacy, attire plays a silent yet profoundly eloquent role. Attire in diplomacy is not merely a personal choice or an aesthetic exercise; it is a potent instrument reflecting respect, tradition, and identity. It serves as a bridge to transcending cultures, communicating significance, and forging bonds of international understanding.

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif's preference for black ties or combinations of black was noteworthy. Traditionally, black ties symbolize formal evening occasions; however, wearing them during the daytime can convey somber or negative connotations. Surprisingly, his choice of tie colors did not include the more diplomatic and positive Pakistani Green or the Chinese Red and Yellow, which could have conveyed messages of vitality, growth, and prosperity—aligning closely with the goals of fostering positive international relations and being more appropriate for high-level engagements.

Adding another layer to the diplomatic visual narrative, Shahbaz Sharif often wore dark blue or a combination of blue and black ties. While dark blue is generally seen as a color symbolizing trust, stability, and calm in Pakistan and many other nations, it carries different connotations in China. In Chinese culture, blue can be associated with immortality and progress, but the combination of blue and black may not be perceived as favorable, potentially implying a lack of harmony and balance. This cultural nuance underscores the importance of understanding and respecting the host country's traditions and symbols in diplomatic attire.

PM Shahbaz Sharif's choice of brown and off-white suits, along with semi-formal and casual attire, added another dimension to his appearance. While these choices might reflect a more approachable and grounded persona, they could also be perceived as lacking the gravitas and formality expected in high-level diplomatic engagements. In diplomacy, where every detail is scrutinized, the choice of attire can send powerful messages about a leader's approach, respect for the occasion, and cultural awareness.

The PM's frequent use of religious terminologies and references might have been ill-suited for a country grappling with Muslim insurgency issues. China's sensitivity to religious rhetoric, given its internal challenges, means that such references might not be appreciated and could even be counterproductive. Diplomacy often requires a careful balance of language to ensure inclusivity and sensitivity to the audience's context.

The absence of note-taking or the use of any paper or pens by the PM and his team was a stark contrast to their Chinese counterparts, who actively took notes on both paper and digital tablets. This difference in approach could be interpreted as a lack of preparedness or seriousness about the discussions. In high-stakes diplomatic meetings, the act of taking notes signifies engagement, attention to detail, and a commitment to follow up on discussions.

A significant moment during the visit was the meeting with President Xi Jinping, who consistently wears a dark suit with a white shirt and varies his ties according to the occasion and messages, always keeping them light in feel. President Xi did the same with a light blue tie, conveying trust, stability, and confidence.

During the meeting with President Xi, the PM wore an elegant dark suit with a Pakistani green color and a black floral tie. In the Chinese diplomatic cultural context, black flowers can symbolize elegance, mystery, and the blending of tradition with modernity. This subtle symbolism may convey an appreciation for the rich historical ties and the contemporary aspects of China's diplomatic relationships with Pakistan, suggesting a nuanced approach to diplomacy that values both the depth of tradition and the dynamism of modern international relations.

In contrast, General Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff, was seen in a smartly tailored black suit paired with a gold tie. A gold tie signifies the ability to handle any situation while maintaining the demeanor of a gentleman, often worn to convey strength and approachability simultaneously.

An interesting moment occurred when the PM introduced the Pakistani delegation to the Chinese Prime Minister, Li Qiang. While the PM wore an outdated, tight whitish-grey double-breasted suit with a brown-lined tie and a light blue shirt, the Chinese PM Qiang confined himself to a black suit with a white shirt and a red tie. The occasion saw the Chinese PM introduced to the Pakistani delegation, with the Foreign Minister joining the top official later on. A surprising element was the COAS’ joining in the line after the foreign minister’s intro and taking the first diplomat in the line, slipping in quietly and discretely.

The Prime Minister’s entourage, consisting of more than a dozen ministers from various sectors, failed to offer insights into how Pakistan could provide value to its investors. The Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, appeared burdened, seeking assistance from the Chinese explaining the world, and what inherited problems he is facing, instead of offering an incentive to explore and engage. While the Foreign Minister lectured on global governance and atrocities. His focus on visions of tunnels and pipes highlights constraints in his vision around global conflicts. This showcased a team unprepared to present Pakistan as a hub of investment opportunities, lacking a coherent and compelling narrative to attract international investors beyond the CPEC vision.

In the grand theatre of international diplomacy, attire plays a silent yet profoundly eloquent role. Attire in diplomacy is not merely a personal choice or an aesthetic exercise but a potent instrument reflecting respect, tradition, and identity. It serves as a bridge to transcending cultures, communicating gravitas, and forging bonds of international understanding.

Diplomatic uniforms are rich in tradition and symbolism, worn by ambassadors on formal occasions to signify their roles and the traditions they uphold. Accessories like ties, lapel pins, and pocket squares can carry significant diplomatic weight. A red tie may symbolize passion or power, while a blue tie evokes trust and stability. Lapel pins can signify national pride or commitment to specific causes.

Evolving dress codes in diplomacy reflect gender equality, with female diplomats celebrated for their professionalism and attire that mirrors their male counterparts.

In the evolving world of diplomacy, attire is a potent language conveying respect, intent, and identity. Through careful selection of attire and accessories, diplomats can transcend borders and foster international understanding. The meticulous choice of attire is not just about fashion but a statement of diplomacy, bridging cultures and forging unity in a diverse world.

As we move forward through the stories behind suits, robes, pins, and scarves, we find ourselves in the heart of diplomacy's visual dialogue. In diplomacy, as in life, even the smallest details can make the biggest impact. Attire is not a superficial concern; it's an integral part of the intricate dance of diplomacy. It reminds us that beyond the language of words, there exists a universal language woven into the very fabric of our existence—a language of attire, a language of diplomacy.