A new determining factor in international relations has appeared in recent years; its name is the internet. Nearly 2 billion people—almost a third of the world's population—are now connected to the internet. This is the context in which the new, 21st century diplomacy is taking place.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation complements its initiatives on foreign policy—understood as relations between governments and with different international organizations—with the activity of a variety of related institutions.
As part of its commitment to modernise communications and adapt its services to the demands of modern-day society, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation implemented a Digital Diplomacy Plan in 2015, which is now fully operational.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation collaborates, within the scope of foreign policy, with Spanish and foreign Think Tanks with a triple focus on thought management, public diplomacy and the spread of the work of Spanish Think Tanks.
In a world of constant change, where new global challenges affect all countries, Science, Technology and Innovation(STI) are drivers of socio-economic progress and of globalisation, participating in the reconfiguration of tomorrow’s world. Furthermore, their growing influence in all social areas and, in particular, in international relations, gives Science, Technology and Innovation Diplomacy an increasing importance in helping strengthen a country’s international presence and its image around the world.