asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the criteria used for the establishment and maintenance of diplomatic relations with other countries; the changes, if any, which have been made or are planned in these criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Diplomatic Relations.
30.
The principal criterion applied to proposals to establish diplomatic relations with other countries is the extent to which such moves can assist in the achievement of the State's foreign policy objectives in the political, economic, consular and other fields. The availability of the financial and personnel resources necessary to implement a proposal is also an important factor.
There have been no changes in these criteria.