As the globalization of technology continues apace, nations' foreign relations are becoming more and more influenced by the advancements in this area. The interactions are bidirectional: Technology defines diplomatic matters and Diplomacy shapes the development of technology.
The most obvious way that this takes place is in the field of defense, intelligence and national security, where the use of smart interconnected systems may lead to critical superiority over adversaries or even a projection of power across the globe. This is true also in the field of soft power involving economic and cultural influence.
In this realm, many countries strive to develop and maintain high-tech industry and research capabilities. They also try to create favorable international trade conditions and invest in the creation of technologically advanced infrastructures like communications, transport and energy systems. The latter often serve as a platform for international cooperation.
It is also quite normal for governments to promote science, technology and engineering in schools as a way of building the human capital needed to develop new technologies. This is especially important in the developing world.
Multinational corporations often have a huge impact on international relations, since they generate large amounts of profits and provide different governments with technology that they need for their economic activities. This is particularly the case with the most successful technology companies which are able to demonstrate technological superiority. They also often act as a source of pressure and persuasion through the channels of their home governments as well as their host ones.
