This global pandemic has somewhat changed the way in which diplomats have conducted diplomacy. Where once there used to be daily receptions, dinners, lunches and other get-togethers, these days things have to be carefully orchestrated so that guests are limited, contact is minimised, and all necessary protocols (both diplomatic and health-wise) are adhered to.

At the recent National Day of India, which had to be turned from a traditional reception to a sit-down dinner, there were quite a number of ‘no-shows’, even at the VIP tables. Normally if a guest does not attend a reception, it is barely noticed. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of formal dinners. When a seat at a table is empty, it is only natural for the other guests to crane their necks around the centrepiece floral arrangement to see the name emblazoned on the seat tagging.

More and more often these days, people accept invitations only to not turn up on the day. This makes it difficult to seat guests and VIPs. Spare a thought for the protocol department that has to constantly change the arrangements; at the least, spare a thought of how your non-attendance will reflect on you. If our bond is our word, then we should, of course, show that that word is reliable, no?

Strong diplomatic tip: If you accept a diplomatic invitation, then subsequently find that you cannot attend, please have the decency to call ahead to the RSVP number to inform them of this fact.