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Synopsis The ambassador is a symbol of the foreign state and personifies international relations. He is also the object of myth, envy and frequent misreading of utility. In spite of significant lack of understanding about the role of the ambassador, few scholarly studies have addressed this issue. As the first book of its kind written by an Indian scholar-diplomat, this volume looks closely at the diplomatic process and its major constituents. Blending conceptual clarity and practical experience, Rana analyses the traditional roles of ambassadors, their relevance in the context of changing international relations, and their redefinition. Is the ambassador a political representative of his/her country or a businessman trying to market his country in a foreign location? What has happened to the traditional roles the ambassador was expected to fulfil? The preface looks at the way Indian envoys have served their country, and the evolution in their performance. Liberally sprinkled with anecdotes from diplomatic lore, this engaging and incisive study will be of immense interest to political scientists, scholars of international relations and foreign policy, students of diplomacy, professional diplomats, journalists and the informed lay reader.