ESD Director Ekke Nõmm attended the 50th meeting ( Bečići, Montenegro) of the International Forum for Diplomatic Training (IFDT), which brings together heads of diplomatic academies and institutes from around the world.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović expressed his satisfaction with Montenegro hosting this milestone 50th IFDT, noting that the presence of more than 80 representatives from diplomatic academies across over 40 countries is a testament to the dedication and collective efforts in promoting diplomatic activities through the enhancement of knowledge, skills, and capabilities.
“In a time when challenges know no borders, the role of diplomacy is crucial for maintaining global peace and stability. In today’s dynamic environment, diplomats are expected to be more than representatives of their countries; they are bridge-builders among nations, negotiators in crises, and strategists tackling challenges that transcend national boundaries, said Minister Ibrahimović, emphasising that successful diplomacy is needed now more than ever.
The International Forum on Diplomatic Training (IFDT) was established by a consortium of academic and diplomatic training institutions in 1972 as an annual meeting of deans and directors. Since its founding, its membership has grown to include the heads of academic institutes dedicated to the study of international relations and diplomacy, and to accredited institutes for the training of official diplomats from 56 countries. The Director of the Diplomatic Academy in Vienna and the Director of the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at the Walsh School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University serve as permanent co-chairs.
The Forum’s annual meetings are hosted by member institutions and academies, as agreed by the IFDT’s Steering Committee, and are devoted to the discussion of issues of modern diplomacy and trends in diplomatic education.
