Muslims and Democracy

Diplomacy is normally understood in the context of international relations or relations between states which communicate for purposes of cooperation, rivalry or strategic advantage, and regulating exchanges for mutual benefit. Historically, diplomatic relations between states were marked by competition and strategic exchanges (e.g. impressive gifts), promoting trade and commerce, as well as gathering intelligence. Diplomacy could also be a prelude and preparation for warfare, and/or for arbitration and negotiating terms of peace to end war. Diplomats, spies, and merchants often mingled their activities in searching for a comparative advantage against another ruling polity.