Culture as a Sphere and Instrument of Mexico’s International Relations

Carlos Ortega’s analysis of cultural diplomacy is based on the premise that this form of diplomacy has been underexploited by Mexico, a conviction that he backs with references to the role culture has played in diplomacy and the bearing it has had on the course of national life at certain periods in the past. He reflects on the deeper meaning of culture and cultural practices in our day, particularly how these have been increasingly undermined and overlooked, both in Mexico and abroad, as we concentrate on dealing with the economic obstacles of the modern world. After commenting on the function of the post of cultural attaché, he suggests ways in which staff members can be better trained to meet the degree of professionalism required of them, but which he feels they do not currently meet. The model he recommends is that of a cultural institute to represent Mexico, conceived more as a concept, an official operating model, rather than a complex network of offices and staff, which he considers both non-viable and unnecessary. In Ortega’s view, what we need are permanent efforts, both overseas and in Mexico, aimed at coming up with constructive ideas and solutions to the most pressing problems of our age, a task in which he feels culture plays an undisputable role.