For the past 15 years the U.S. has been recruiting pro baseball and basketball players to serve as diplomatic envoys to Muslim nations. Now with Dean Karnazes, we’ve begun sending adventure athletes abroad to build good will. [...]  The State Department launched its current sports diplomacy program after the September 11 terrorist attacks, largely to connect with and provide alternative activities to young Muslim youth who might be at risk of joining extremist groups. 

In recognition of his efforts to foster enhanced friendship and cooperation between New Delhi and Seoul, South Korea on Monday appointed business tycoon and TVS Motor Company Chairman Venu Srinivasan the Goodwill Envoy for Public Diplomacy.