According to the 2024 Global Diplomacy Index by Australia's Lowy Institute, China boasts the world's most extensive diplomatic network, surpassing the United States, which holds second place by just three diplomatic missions.

Released on Sunday, the data highlights China's remarkable diplomatic expansion, a trend that saw it overtake the US in 2019 in terms of embassies and consulates worldwide.

Covering the diplomatic networks of 66 countries and territories, including those in Asia, the Group of 20, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Lowy Institute's report underscores the significance of diplomacy as a crucial lever of influence alongside economic, military, and technological power.

The index reveals Turkey's rapid diplomatic growth, particularly in Africa, with 11 new overseas posts added since 2021. This expansion aligns with Turkey's increasing economic engagements in the region and its aspiration to assert leadership in the Global South.

However, geopolitical tensions have also affected diplomatic networks, as seen with Ukraine's conflict with Russia resulting in a reduction of diplomatic presence in certain countries.

Despite its prominent foreign policy agenda, demographic profile, and economic stature, India ranks 11th on the Global Diplomacy Index, signaling continued room for diplomatic enhancement.

Ryan Neelam, Director of the Public Opinion and Foreign Policy Program at Lowy, emphasizes that governments persist in investing in diplomacy to advance their interests, with the ongoing rivalry between the US and China dominating the rankings and amplifying geopolitical competition, notably in Asia and the Pacific.

Collected between July and November the previous year, the 2024 report underscores the enduring relevance of diplomacy in shaping global dynamics, reflecting the ongoing evolution of international relations.