This edition concerns the Cypriot National Identity and its main components: Public, Cultural, and Tourism Diplomacy, as they have been historically applied in the case of the Republic of Cyprus up to the present day.

In more detail, it attempts to answer when, in what ways, and to what extent these components have assisted a small state like Cyprus in exercising soft power and influencing internationally. This work develops the dialogue around the concept of soft power, explaining terms such as National Identity and Competitive Identity, Public and Cultural Diplomacy, and their implications, ultimately leading to Tourism Diplomacy and its contribution to a holistic Place Branding.

The work belongs to the academic field of New Public Diplomacy and diplomatic studies more broadly, placing a small European state on the research map, broadening the perspective on official Public Diplomacy, and overturning the view that only the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can conduct (Public) Diplomacy.

Indeed, this study argues that actions in the field of Cultural and Tourism Diplomacy often represent more organized efforts in the Cypriot context. Beyond theory, the study also contributes to the practice of diplomacy, as it indicates ways in which small states like Cyprus, through the design and implementation of smart diplomacy, can overcome potential deadlocks created by economic, political, or other types of constraints.

An examination of the Cypriot case aims to highlight the position that a coordinated and targeted Public, Cultural, and Tourism Diplomacy from small states can create a strong and recognizable National Identity and yield benefits. The basic starting point is the awareness that there may not be small and large states, but rather a grand or nonexistent vision, and large or small policies.