Tech Diplomacy: Reshaping Global Power Dynamics?

EVN Report

3 days ago

When Denmark appointed Casper Klynge as the first tech ambassador to Silicon Valley, it wasn't just a novel diplomatic move, it helped launch the concept of 'tech diplomacy', a new frontier in international relations. But is this the beginning of a transformative shift in global power dynamics, or a symbolic gesture in an increasingly digital world?
Evolution of 'Tech Diplomacy'
Foreign policy is undergoing profound transformation, making active engagement with technology crucial for states to remain effective global players. The Fourth Industrial Revolution, driven by technological advancements, is advancing rapidly. Tech giants like Google, Amazon, Meta and Microsoft now influence international norms and regulatory landscapes with a reach that rivals, and in some cases surpasses, that of traditional state actors. In this fluid era, a new arms race centered on technological advancement is emerging between nations, reshaping their international relationships.
Traditional diplomatic attachés struggle to keep pace with rapid technological change. In response, governments are appointing tech, digital and cyber diplomats to assert influence in the digital realm. Though these roles have distinct definitions, they are commonly grouped under the single umbrella term of 'tech diplomacy.'
Techplomacy, Denmark's term for 'tech diplomacy', reflects the country's goal to establish a presence and gain access to major tech corporations, ensuring it has influence in shaping global technological trends. Based in Silicon Valley, the Danish tech ambassador focuses on regulatory matters, cybersecurity, and expanding Denmark's soft power in developing countries. The role also provides early insight into emerging technologies, enabling it to assess risks and collaborate with the private sector on national defense priorities including cybersecurity, data protection, and digital infrastructure. A key objective is to engage directly with companies responsible in these domains, such as Microsoft for tech ethics, OpenAI for AI governance, and Cisco Systems for digital infrastructure.
Alongside these bilateral efforts, multilateral and community-based tech diplomacy approaches are also gaining momentum. The Tech Diplomacy Network and NASA's Artemis Accords exemplify this trend. These platforms bring together governments, civil society, academia, and the tech industry to collaborate in both technological and geopolitical spheres. They promote international cooperation in space by establishing standards for transparency, sustainable space exploration, and shared regulatory frameworks. These initiatives demonstrate how tech diplomacy is evolving beyond bilateral engagements into broader, more inclusive models that address shared global challenges and ambitions.
'To put it bluntly,' Casper Klynge stated , referring to the vital alliance between technology and diplomacy, 'there is a need to stick together because any alternative is quite frightening.'
Others Soon Followed: UK, China, UAE
Joe White, the UK's former tech envoy to Silicon Valley, described his role as a clear signal that Britain was reasserting itself on the global stage. The UK sees tech envoys as a way to deepen ties with the tech industry, attract investment, influence regulatory frameworks, and support national defense strategies. Building on this approach, the government later appointed James Cleverly as tech envoy to the Indo-Pacific to strengthen partnerships with India and South Asia, broadening the UK's global tech presence.
China offers another illustration, with tech envoys deployed to nearly 50 countries under its Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST). These envoys carry out 'standard' responsibilities: monitoring technological advancements, identifying investment opportunities, and promoting collaborations beneficial to China. Additionally, Jin Zhuanglong was appointed as a special tech envoy to President Xi Jinping, participating in various tech related events, highlighting the important role of technological influence in China's foreign policy.
Not all tech diplomacy is formal, however. In the Gulf, the UAE has bypassed official tech envoys in favor of strategic investments. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE National Security Adviser and Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi, chairs G42 , an AI and cloud computing company in Abu Dhabi, and MGX , an AI and advanced technology investor, and directs major investments in AI infrastructure and development, including partnerships with global tech giants like Microsoft, which has contributed $1.5 billion. The initiatives range from Arabic-language AI systems and climate technology solutions with NVIDIA (a global leader in AI and GPU technologies), to the establishment of data centers. Through these efforts, the UAE extends its influence and positions itself as a key player in the emerging global AI order.
Armenia's 'Quiet' Strategy
Diplomacy isn't always about official titles. Sometimes, a nation's influence is shaped by the quiet power of expertise and global networks. In the early 17th century, when Shah Abbas I of Persia relocated thousands of Armenians from Julfa to a newly established district in Isfaha, called New Julfa. This wasn't simply displacement––it was a calculated political strategy.
The Armenians possessed valuable skills the Safavid Empire desperately needed: expertise in long-distance trade, silk cultivation, and textile production. Through their extensive commercial networks, they became essential in strengthening Persia's global economic position. In exchange, they were granted autonomy, religious freedom, and exclusive trade privileges. This episode shows how a small, skilled community—armed with knowledge rather than military might—can rise to diplomatic prominence. It's a legacy that continues in new forms today.
Armenia is working to gain recognition as a regional tech hub. Organizations like the Union of Advanced Technology Enterprises ( UATE ) lead this effort, aiming to transform Armenia into a 'high-tech powerhouse.' Through initiatives in business development, education, and international expansion, Armenia's approach relies heavily on collaboration. UATE strengthens Armenia's global tech presence indirectly through Armenia-founded companies and international partners. By aligning with tech diplomacy, Armenia leverages diaspora and international partnerships as multipliers of influence, ensuring a seat at the table without having to build it alone.
With significant diaspora communities in Los Angeles and San Francisco, Armenia benefits from influential diaspora-led companies––a form of 'diaspora diplomacy.' Startups like ServiceTitan , Picsart , and Krisp AI serve as informal tech ambassadors, connecting Armenia to international markets, investments, resources, and recognition. Even without official tech diplomats, this strategy allows Armenia to leverage its voice through global corporations. A prime example is the recent partnership between NVIDIA, Firebird (a tech company driving innovation in Armenia), and the Armenian government. This collaboration includes a $500 million investment to establish AI factories in the country. Beyond creating a regional supercomputing AI hub and data processing center, this initiative showcases Armenia's active participation in global AI advancement and confirms its position as a regional center for innovation and technology.
The Armenian Virtual Bridge , launched in 2020 by the Ministry of High-Tech Industry and AGBU Silicon Valley, was an early attempt to formalize connections between tech communities in Armenia and Silicon Valley. The program aimed to connect Armenian tech startups with international ecosystems through incubation, acceleration, and mentorship opportunities. Despite its early promise, supporting 15 startups and partnering with Draper University, the initiative failed to develop into a sustained platform. This case serves as a warning that without sustainability, the full potential of diaspora and global tech collaboration remains unrealized. Yet, relying solely on diaspora ties may not be enough in a competitive global landscape where major tech firms prioritize large markets. The key challenge is balancing informal networks with the need for an official presence and a clear strategic direction.
The Diplomatic School of Armenia, operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, increasingly focuses on equipping diplomats with technological knowledge. This ensures representation in global tech policy discussions and advocacy for national interests. Armenia's recent joining of the 'Artemis Accords' demonstrates the country's growing engagement in tech diplomacy—a strategic priority area.
Additionally, public-private initiatives like the nationwide flagship edtech program Armath and the Center for Creative Technologies TUMO are gaining international recognition. These programs have already become tools of Armenia's soft power in the global tech and education landscape, projecting the country's influence and values worldwide.
'The Game Is Changing, Whether We're Ready or Not'
Emerging technologies are becoming as influential as politics. In contemporary society, citizens need a basic understanding of technology, much like they need a foundational awareness of political systems.
Diplomats, whether serving as ambassadors to Silicon Valley or as tech envoys abroad, benefit from a strong understanding of technological developments. The future of tech diplomacy likely belongs to those with hybrid profiles: engineers who possess management experience and diplomatic skills. New programs like the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy and the increasing focus on technology in state diplomatic schools reflect this emerging standard.
Small countries can strengthen their foreign policy by training all diplomats in technological literacy. This doesn't mean learning programming, but rather developing a deep understanding of the strategic importance of digital assets like data centers and local cloud infrastructure. The goal is to equip diplomats with the knowledge needed to identify and engage with key institutions that can support their states' technological development.
'The game is changing,' and we'd better be ready for it.