Mitra: Allies and Foreign Policy in Arthashastra

Introduction

Here we examine Mitra, the seventh and final element of a Kautilyan state, focusing on allies and foreign policy. We will look at an overview of Kautilya's insights into international relations and strategies for managing relationships with neighboring states.

Foreign Policy in Arthashastra

Kautilya provides detailed guidance on foreign policy, including:

• Dynamics of relations between neighboring countries
• Relative strengths and weaknesses of neighboring kings

This is covered extensively in Books 7, 11, and 12 of Arthashastra. The foundation for these principles is laid out in Chapter 2 of Book 6.

Internal Strength and Foreign Policy

Kautilya emphasizes that a strong foreign policy depends on the health of the six internal elements of the state (Swami, Amatya, Janapada, Durga, Kosha, and Danda). Only when these internal elements are strong can a state effectively promote its interests on the international stage.

Six Methods of Foreign Policy (Sadgunya)

Kautilya outlines six methods for conducting foreign policy:

1. Sandhi: Making a treaty with terms and conditions (policy of peace)
2. Vigraha: Hostility and offensive action
3. Asana: Remaining neutral and inactive (lying low)
4. Yana: Marching on an expedition
5. Samsraya: Seeking shelter with another king or in a fort
6. Dvaidhibhava: Double policy of making peace with one king while engaging in hostility with another

Four Methods to Overcome Opposition

Kautilya also describes four methods for overcoming opposition, which can be applied in various contexts:

1. Sama: Conciliation or finding common ground
2. Dana: Placating with gifts or buying people over
3. Bheda: Sowing dissension or creating divisions
4. Danda: Use of force

The first two methods are recommended for subjugating weak kings, while the last two are for overcoming strong kings.

Relevance of Kautilya's Foreign Policy

Kautilya's foreign policy framework was developed in a context of multiple small kingdoms vying for supremacy. While the geopolitical landscape has changed significantly, many of Kautilya's ideas remain relevant for crafting foreign policy in the contemporary world.

Conclusion

Mitra, representing allies and foreign policy, is a crucial element in the Kautilyan state. Arthashastra's insights into international relations and strategies for managing relationships with neighboring states offer valuable lessons for modern statecraft.