The best tribute to this outstanding diplomat would be the lasting peace between India and Pakistan, for which he worked so hard.
Ambassador Satinder Kumar Lamba passed away on June 30, after he and his family battled their illness with inspiring grit and fortitude. He was a thorough gentleman and a distinguished diplomat for all seasons, situations and settings. his life was a celebration of his passion nurture relationships and promote the interests of India.
I have many cherished memories of the privilege of serving as commercial representative under Lamba’s leadership in Bonn, Germany from 1995 to 1998, and of his immense affection and mentorship over the years.
My mind goes back to a beautiful summer day in July 1995. We were standing at the ambassador’s princely residence in Bon-Bad Godesburg, when Lamba arrived with his wife Neelima and children Diya and Vikram, and comforted us immediately, even served refreshments and a twinkle in his eyes. Said, “Next time you go here, we’ll be better organized.”
in a changing world
Then he fell on his head to work at the embassy. Having already started in commercial diplomacy in Germany, Europe’s technological and economic powerhouse, Lamba was pleased to hear that commercial work would be a top priority for her. What happened after three years of learning from a mentor and contributing to the expansion of our bilateral economic cooperation during an exciting period following India’s far-reaching economic reforms that began in 1991 and reunification of germany in 1990, and amid the ongoing expansion and integration of the European Union.
I remember when Indian students sang “I love my India” or when they met Indian participants at highly specialized trade fairs in Germany or when “Indo-German Business Success Stories” published by the Embassy in collaboration with the Indo-German Chamber Lamba used to be so happy when she used to sing. Off commerce was issued, citing only a few examples. Lamba and many other similar diplomatic DNA have attempted to promote “Make in India” before it became a buzz word.
a 10-point compliment
Among the many things Lamba taught me was how to produce a 10-point note, telling me with his childish smile and laughter that if I tried really hard, my piece would automatically flow into 10 points! In this tribute, I try to describe the 10 most important elements, in what I think, characterize Lamba’s school of diplomacy, which flow naturally from her most endearing personality.
In a world full of fanfare, Lamba had a natural sense of humility and silence. Unlike some others, his diplomacy had no place for arrogance, personal or intellectual, or self-righteousness. Going about the business of diplomacy with meticulous hard work, shrewd insight, elephantine memory and attentive listening, he was never in lecturing or hectoring mode with the negotiator or anyone else.
Second, there was an aura of simplicity and honesty in his diplomacy. There was a firm belief in his voice – no pretense, no jargon, no rhetoric.
Third, their warmth, decency, gesture and hospitality played an important role in their enduring relations and diplomacy.
The fourth and fifth dimensions of Lamba’s diplomacy, respectively, were goodwill and trust, and a relentless effort to take everyone along – building a consensus. He practiced everyone’s support, everyone’s development, everyone’s faith, everyone’s effort, Long before this expression was molded.
understanding others
The sixth pillar was his empathy and his appreciation for the situations, perspectives and ideas of others. Here, I am reminded of another Indian Foreign Service (IFS) veteran who has spent a long time on India’s relations with Pakistan, once recalling Prime Minister Vajpayee to him,” We should also understand the helplessness of our others. (We must always understand the compulsions of the other side).” Lamba was a seasoned practitioner of this doctrine within the broad parameters of national interest.
The next three notes in Lamba’s diplomatic symphony were an overall assessment of the situation and the pace of action; Peace even in the midst of a storm; And a remarkable sense of humour. I vividly remember the day when Germany canceled the annual bilateral development cooperation talks and imposed sanctions in response India’s nuclear tests in May 1998. A delegation led by the Joint Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs arrived in Bonn the previous evening and hosted an intimate dinner at India House, beginning with Myanmar soup made by Ms. Lamba. As we were about to leave for the Federal Ministry of Development Cooperation the next morning, the decision of the German government was received. While there was no official conversation, Lamba, who never allowed differences of national position to influence personal etiquette, asked me to proceed with that evening’s garden dinner at his home. Both sides showed great camaraderie over the dinner, with the head of the German ‘delegation’ thanking me for not canceling it! This was the only occasion when Lamba agreed to preside over my dinner, telling me: “I will not come. Hope you understand.” He was happy to get my call report that everyone is having a good time, but he is missing a lot.
In further diplomacy, the virtues of Lamba’s distinctive style were in full display, due to the increased appreciation of India’s security imperatives and the easing of sanctions. I also remember Lamba during my first visit to my house, dribbling a soccer ball with my son and saying to his wife: “What a lovely house. You can play football here!”
Last, and most important, Lamba’s diplomacy was based on his firm belief in the inherent goodness of mankind and the greatness of an inclusive India.
Ambassador Lamba has left a splendid legacy as a person and a diplomat. His diplomacy holds deep lessons for India and other nations as they navigate through a turbulent world. While the best tribute to his diplomacy would be the lasting peace between India and Pakistan for which he worked so hard, both countries should take a small step by establishing a joint annual award in his name for their best diplomatic trainee officers.
(Sanjeev Arora is a former diplomat)