As bilateral and multilateral relationships become increasingly interwoven, the view that constructive engagement must go hand in hand with avoiding weakness and passivity is being put forward as an important principle.
According to the perspective outlined, constructive engagement does not mean making concessions or accepting a position of dependence. Instead, it requires initiative, vigilance and the ability to protect one's interests in the course of interaction.
This view stresses that if one falls into a weak or passive position, the process of engagement will find it difficult to achieve genuinely constructive goals, and could even lead to unfavorable consequences. Maintaining the initiative is therefore seen as a necessary condition for ensuring effectiveness and balance in relationships.
The point is offered as a note on principles of conduct, implying that constructive engagement must be tied to capability and mettle, avoiding passivity or weakness in any situation.
