Communication is one of the most effective ways to solve problems. However, the success of diplomacy depends not only on communication but also on trust.

Indonesian Foreign Minister for the 2014-2024 period Retno Marsudi said that trust is crucial not only in diplomacy but also in all lines of work.

“Trust is very important in our work, in our job, and for us to behave as human beings. Trust. Yes. When you earn trust, it requires a long investment. Trust does not fall from the sky. Trust, again, is also needed in public diplomacy, nation friendly. If you don't have trust, if there is no trust, you won't be able to,” Retno said at the World Public Relations Forum 2024 event in Nusa Dua, Bali, Wednesday (20/11/2024).

Retno revealed that communication and trust made Indonesia successful in diplomacy in 2020 when it hosted the G20.

“We are able to define what our strengths are and capitalize on them. And this ability is very important for public diplomacy, national freedom, and public relations. In 2020 we led the G20 and everyone was very pessimistic. Pressure is coming from all over the world. It was a nightmare for me as foreign minister at that time. Long story short, Indonesia was able to get through this turbulent situation in 2020. And the question is why Indonesia was able to do it. First of all, there is trust in Indonesia,” Retno explained.

Retno added, there are three things that must be done to be able to conduct diplomacy, namely know your strengths, know your weaknesses and gain trust. In addition, a diplomat must also strengthen the ability to convince others.

“Be smart. Be adaptive. Be agile. Because it all applies and greatly affects diplomacy. One thing that is no less important is to keep fighting for the truth,” Retno concluded.