In a couple of recent postings I have tried to elaborate the notion of a nation brand, to identify some of the salient issues surrounding the relationship between public diplomacy and branding, and to illuminate the more subtle distinctions.

METI hopes to facilitate the global entry of some of Japan's small and midsize companies, while luring their creative foreign counterparts here to give them a competitive edge. It is hoped that the increased presence of Japanese cultural products will attract more international travelers and boost domestic tourism, METI said.

Over the years, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations has sent me to many countries to perform. Unlike professional engagements...the ICCR tours usually put you directly in the hands of Indian ambassadors in various countries, who then use you as best they think, besides having certain fixed arrangements at festivals.