Meaning: The quote "To sum up, what has been our policy? We looked for and found friends all throughout the world" by Eduard Shevardnadze, a prominent politician, encapsulates the essence of a foreign policy approach that emphasizes building and maintaining alliances with other countries. This quote reflects the significance of fostering diplomatic relationships on a global scale and highlights the importance of international cooperation and collaboration.

Eduard Shevardnadze was a key figure in Soviet and later Georgian politics, serving as the Foreign Minister of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1991 and as the President of Georgia from 1992 to 2003. His experience in international relations and diplomacy lends weight to his words, making this quote a reflection of his own diplomatic philosophy and approach to foreign policy.

The quote implies that the speaker's policy has been one of seeking out allies and establishing friendly relations across the world. This approach suggests an understanding of the benefits of international cooperation, mutual support, and strategic partnerships. By actively pursuing friendships and alliances, a country can enhance its diplomatic standing, strengthen its position in global affairs, and promote shared interests and values with other nations.

In the context of global politics, the quote underscores the significance of soft power, the ability to influence and shape international relations through diplomatic, cultural, and economic means. Building friendships and alliances can contribute to a country's soft power by fostering goodwill and cooperation, as well as by enhancing its reputation and influence on the world stage.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the idea of multilateralism, the practice of coordinating and collaborating with multiple countries to address common challenges and achieve shared goals. By seeking friends throughout the world, a country can engage in multilateral efforts to tackle global issues such as security, trade, climate change, and humanitarian crises. This approach aligns with the principles of internationalism and underscores the importance of collective action in addressing complex global problems.

Moreover, the quote reflects a proactive and outward-looking foreign policy orientation. Instead of isolating itself or adopting a strictly adversarial stance, the speaker's policy prioritizes reaching out to other nations and building positive and constructive relationships. This approach can contribute to a more stable and secure international environment, as well as to the promotion of peace, prosperity, and common development.

In summary, Eduard Shevardnadze's quote encapsulates a foreign policy approach centered on the pursuit of friendships and alliances across the world. This approach emphasizes the importance of diplomacy, soft power, multilateralism, and international cooperation. By seeking out and cultivating friendships with other countries, a nation can enhance its diplomatic standing, promote its interests, and contribute to a more collaborative and harmonious global community.

Overall, the quote serves as a reminder of the value of building bridges, fostering mutual understanding, and working together with other nations to address common challenges and pursue shared opportunities. It reflects a vision of foreign policy that is rooted in engagement, dialogue, and the cultivation of international friendships.