ILLICIT GOODS

Illicit goods pose challenges to fostering diplomatic relations. The phenomenon of illicit international relations is complex and goes beyond just international crime. Factors such as the end of the Cold War, weak state structures, the emergence of new actors, and the presence of “gray areas” contribute to the expansion of this issue [1]. Diplomatic engagements, like the Shiprider Agreement between Jamaica and the US, can be effective in addressing cross-border drug trafficking [2]. The State Department has played a significant role in defining and implementing America’s foreign drug policy, highlighting the importance of diplomacy in this area [3]. Preservation diplomacy can also play a role in addressing illicit goods, as seen in China’s One Belt One Road initiative, which aims to integrate Eurasian economies and protect heritage sites from destruction and looting [4]. Overall, diplomatic efforts are crucial in combating the challenges posed by illicit goods and fostering international cooperation [5] .