Behind the Smiles and Protocol: How 3 Ambassadors Are Shaping Diplomacy and Bilateral Relations with India

Three diplomats, three nations, and decades of experience converged under one roof as India welcomed its newest foreign representatives. On December 15, 2025, Rashtrapati Bhavan, the emblem of India’s ceremonial grandeur, played host to a crisp display of diplomacy as President Droupadi Murmu accepted the Letters of Credence from envoys of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Brunei Darussalam, and the Federated States of Micronesia.

As trumpets heralded the start, India’s first citizen entered the hall, settling into the ceremonial chair with the poise of centuries of tradition. A brief exchange of smiles between the President and the envoys lightened the otherwise solemn proceedings, hinting that diplomacy is as much human as it is formal.

A Ritual Rooted in Protocol

Accreditation of foreign diplomats in India follows a precise, time-bound protocol. First, the sending state seeks agrément or the host nation’s formal consent. Upon approval, the diplomat arrives in India as Ambassador-designate or High Commissioner-designate, limited to unofficial engagements until formal recognition.

Next comes the submission of Letters of Credence to the Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of External Affairs. The process culminates at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the envoy hands over the official credentials from their Head of State. Acceptance by the President signifies full accreditation, granting the diplomat the ability to fully operate as head of mission, with all privileges and responsibilities.

Dr. Mohammad Fathali: Iran’s Strategic Voice

Dr. Mohammad Fathali, appointed Ambassador of Iran to India, brings over three decades of experience in foreign affairs. Beginning his career in 1990, he later navigated crisis diplomacy as Consul General in Peshawar during the early 2000s. Subsequent ambassadorial postings in Uzbekistan and Lebanon cemented his reputation for balancing strategic interests with on-the-ground realities.

President accepts credentials from Ambassador of Iran Mohammad Fathali

Known among colleagues for meticulous preparation, Fathali reportedly reviewed India’s regional economic initiatives while en route to New Delhi, signaling his commitment to understanding the host country before even stepping into Rashtrapati Bhavan. His impressive academic background with an MSc in Islamic Thought and Political Science and a PhD in Strategic Management positions him to tackle energy, connectivity, and regional engagement issues with finesse.

Siti Arnyfariza Haji Mohd. Jaini: Brunei’s Quiet Diplomatic Force

Appointed High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to India, Siti Arnyfariza Haji Mohd. Jaini brings a wealth of regional experience, including coordinating ASEAN delegations, which is a background now proving invaluable in navigating India’s multilateral platforms.

President  accepts credentials from Siti Arnyfariza Haji Mohd. Jaini, High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam

Though new to the Indian diplomatic stage, Jaini carries a quiet confidence. She reportedly shared a light moment with fellow envoys about adjusting to Delhi’s winter chill, showing a personable side behind her formal role. Tasked with enhancing political, trade, cultural, and educational ties, she also oversees Brunei’s concurrent accreditation to Sri Lanka and Nepal, expanding her influence across South Asia.

John Fritz: Micronesia’s Connector Across Asia-Pacific

John Fritz, Ambassador of the Federated States of Micronesia, has spent decades strengthening ties across the Asia-Pacific. From his ambassadorial tenure in Japan to a recent posting in the Philippines, Fritz emphasises bilateral cooperation, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

President  accepts credentials from John Fritz, Ambassador of the Federated States of Micronesia

A seasoned diplomat with a reputation for warmth, Fritz greeted local embassy staff with familiarity, reflecting his belief that personal connections often cement long-term partnerships. He previously conducted a workshop in Japan connecting Pacific island nations with renewable energy experts. This is what he aims to adapt for South Asia. His presence signals Micronesia’s interest in deeper collaboration with India in regional diplomacy and sustainability initiatives.

Diplomacy in Motion: Fresh Conversations Ahead

As global geopolitics shift, the arrival of new envoys signals renewed conversations, recalibrated partnerships, and fresh diplomatic priorities. Each envoy brings a unique mix of experience, vision, and personal touch, from Fathali’s strategic expertise to Jaini’s multilateral acumen and Fritz’s climate diplomacy insights.

The ceremony, lasting only minutes, captures a fleeting moment of tradition. Yet its implications will ripple through bilateral relations, shaping dialogues on trade, energy, climate, and regional cooperation for years.

A Human Side to Statecraft

Amid the grandeur, brief human gestures reminded attendees that diplomacy is more than protocol. Smiles exchanged between the President and envoys and friendly greetings underscore that behind the formalities lie personalities, ambitions, and curiosity, the lifeblood of international engagement.

In the end, the Letters of Credence are more than ceremonial paper. They symbolise trust, commitment, and the promise of dialogue. The moment lasted only minutes, but its implications will shape bilateral ties for years to come.

As India opens its doors to fresh perspectives, the question remains: how will these envoys redefine engagement in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape?