India is the largest mango producing country in the world. Every year more than 2 crore tonnes of mangoes are produced here and hundreds of varieties of mangoes are found in different parts of the country. In such a situation, if the neighboring country Bangladesh sends mangoes to India, then it is natural to raise the question that what is the need for it? Is this just a gift or is there a bigger strategy hidden behind it? In international relations, cultural and emotional symbols other than weapons, agreements and trade are often used to increase friendship and trust between countries. Mango has also become one such symbol. This is called “Mango Diplomacy”. In fact, Bangladesh recently sent Bangladeshi mangoes to the Chief Minister of West Bengal and Chief Minister of Tripura, after which it started being discussed. In diplomacy language, it is also considered a method of soft power. What is Mango Diplomacy? When has Bangladesh used it before and what efforts do other countries of the world also make for soft power? Let us know about each one one by one.
Mango diplomacy means that a country tries to strengthen relations by sending its special and popular mangoes as gifts to leaders, diplomats or citizens of other countries. This is a method of soft power, in which influence is increased through culture, food and traditions rather than military force or economic pressure. In South Asia, mango is not just a fruit but also a symbol associated with culture and emotions. In such a situation, the gift of mango is often considered a sign of friendship and goodwill more than a political message. This is the reason why mango has become a part of diplomacy in countries like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Recently Bangladesh has sent Hadibhanga variety of mangoes to West Bengal and Tripura of India. This step is not just a matter of sending fruits, but its aim is also to strengthen friendship and trust across the border. Cooperation between India and Bangladesh is continuously increasing in the fields of trade, security and connectivity. At such a time, efforts to further strengthen relations through cultural symbols are considered beneficial for both the countries. Things like mango create positive emotions among people and this also strengthens political relationships.
Bangladesh has already used Mango Diplomacy
- Bangladesh has used mangoes as a diplomatic gift many times before, so this is not a new initiative.
- In the year 2021, Bangladesh had sent about 2,600 kilograms (2.6 tonnes) of Hadibhanga mangoes to India as a symbol of friendship, which was considered a sign of strong relations between the two countries.
- Even in the year 2025, Bangladesh sent about 1,000 kilograms (1 ton) of mangoes, which clearly shows that mangoes are being used as a diplomacy.
Why is soft power so important for countries?
American scholar Joseph Nye is credited with popularizing the concept of soft power in international relations. He believed that a country does not become influential only by its military strength or economic capability, but its culture, values and lifestyle also influence the world. China has used “Panda Diplomacy” to increase its soft power. China has been sending giant pandas to zoos in many countries of the world. Pandas are considered part of China’s national identity. Sending pandas to a country is not just a matter of wildlife conservation, but is also considered a sign of friendship and strategic partnership. Many analysts believe that China has achieved great success in creating its positive and gentle image in the world through Panda.
Japan strengthens its identity with cherry blossoms
Japan strengthens its identity across the world through its cherry blossom i.e. sakura culture. Every year millions of tourists reach Japan during the cherry blossom season. Apart from this, Japan organizes cultural programs, language training and events related to traditional art in many countries of the world. Anime, manga and Japanese food have also become a big part of his soft power. Through these initiatives, Japan presents itself as a country rich in technology as well as culture and traditions. South Korea has increased its soft power in an unprecedented manner in the last decade. K-pop music and K-dramas are popular in almost every part of the world today. K-pop bands and Korean TV series have not only made South Korea famous in the entertainment industry but have also greatly benefited the tourism, fashion, cosmetics and food industries. Today, South Korea’s cultural influence has increased so much that many countries see its entertainment industry as a successful soft power model.
The biggest advantage of soft power is that it creates trust and positive environment between countries. When a country has a good image among the people, its products, tourism and investment also benefit. Apart from this, cultural bonding also helps in reducing political tension. Many times, on issues where formal dialogue is difficult, cultural and human relationships make the path of dialogue easier. It will be interesting to see in the coming years whether this cultural diplomacy of Bangladesh plays a role in further strengthening the political and economic relations between the two countries.
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