
Is pragmatism replacing ideology in international affairs?
Overlapping interests and conflict are shaping modern relations.
The United States and India are seeking to mend ties after a year of diplomatic see-saw during which tariffs were imposed and then quickly scrapped because of the US-Israel war on Iran.
This is just one example of how international relations and conflict have become more complex and interlinked in recent years.
So, is pragmatism replacing ideology in today’s diplomatic world?
Presenter: Scott McLean
Guests:
Brahma Chellaney – Professor emeritus of strategic studies at the Centre for Policy Research
Chris Weafer – Chief executive officer at Macro-Advisory strategic consultancy
Shaun Rein – Founder and managing director of the China Market Research Group
Published On 23 May 2026