Geopolitical Shifts and the Future of Diplomacy: An Interview with Bernard Valero
A veteran diplomat reflects on evolving international alliances, the Mediterranean’s challenges, and the changing nature of diplomacy itself.
The Evolving Landscape of Diplomacy
Bernard Valero, former spokesperson for the Quai d’Orsay and Ambassador of France, recently shared his insights on the dramatic shifts occurring in international relations. With a career spanning over four decades, Valero has witnessed firsthand the transformation of diplomacy and the emergence of new geopolitical realities.
Traditionally, diplomacy was frequently enough romanticized, associated with lavish receptions and intricate social maneuvering. Though, Valero notes that this perception is increasingly outdated. “Today, France is more connected to the world, subject to its turbulence, and our citizens are more interested in foreign affairs,” he explains. The scope of diplomacy has broadened considerably,encompassing areas such as environmental concerns,cultural exchange,economic partnerships,sports,and academic collaborations. These previously domestic issues are now central to international negotiations.
A World in Transition: Shifting Alliances and Emerging Power Dynamics
Valero suggests that the international order is undergoing a profound transformation, challenging the established norms and alliances that defined the post-Cold War era.
He argues that the era of predictable alliances is fading, replaced by a more volatile landscape where the “law of the strongest” increasingly prevails. The United States,once the guarantor of global security,appears to be shifting its focus,turning towards the Pacific and designating China as its primary competitor. This shift is further complex by trade disputes and strained relationships with conventional allies like Canada and Mexico.
we are changing peopel. You have to wake up. Once it is done, you have to go further and rearm. Not only on the military level, but also on the diplomatic level. And maybe one day,we will also have to rearm as a nation.
This evolving world order was perhaps symbolized by the controversial meeting between then-President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelensky. Valero characterized the encounter as a stark illustration of power imbalances, where the pursuit of personal agendas overshadowed diplomatic norms.
The Mediterranean: A Region in Crisis
As a member of the supervisory board for the Union for the Mediterranean, Valero emphasizes the critical importance of the region for the European Union. However,he paints a concerning picture of a fractured and unstable environment.
The Mediterranean faces a multitude of challenges, including heightened tensions between Morocco and Algeria, ongoing conflicts in Libya, the unresolved Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the complex situation in Syria. These issues are further compounded by disputes between Turkey and Greece, and the divided status of Cyprus. The region’s geopolitical landscape is highly fragmented, presenting notable diplomatic hurdles.
Beyond political instability, Valero highlights the vulnerability of the Mediterranean to the devastating effects of climate change. The region is particularly susceptible to global warming and the depletion of vital resources like water and vegetation.
Despite the shared threat, Mediterranean nations have struggled to cooperate effectively in addressing these environmental challenges. Valero stresses the urgent need for collaboration, emphasizing that climate change transcends national borders and necessitates a unified response. The Union for the mediterranean, as the only intergovernmental organization encompassing all Mediterranean countries, plays a crucial role in fostering this cooperation.
When we talk about global warming, we are no longer in state, borders, etc. issues, etc. global warming is the same for everyone. From there, the need for cooperation between Mediterranean countries is becoming more and more urgent.
According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), the Mediterranean region is warming 20% faster than the global average, leading to increased droughts, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss. This underscores the urgency of Valero’s call for collaborative action.
A Defining Moment: Standing Against the Iraq War
reflecting on his distinguished career, Valero identifies a pivotal moment: witnessing Dominique de Villepin’s address to the UN Security Council against the Iraq War in 2003.
He describes the experience as deeply moving, recalling the palpable tension and the unwavering stance of France in the face of international pressure. Despite knowing the likely outcome, France stood its ground, earning the respect and admiration of many. Valero remembers leaving the room with tears in his eyes, overwhelmed by the significance of the moment.