What does the term "naval diplomacy" refer to?

The term "naval diplomacy" refers to the use of naval power to achieve foreign policy objectives. This concept highlights the role of naval forces in fostering international relations, demonstrating power, and influencing diplomatic negotiations without engaging in armed conflict. Naval diplomacy can involve the presence of naval ships in international waters to signal intentions, provide humanitarian assistance, or conduct joint exercises with allied nations—all of which reinforce a country's commitment to maintaining open lines of communication and cooperation with other nations.

The options that focus on deploying ships for national defense, engaging in arms reduction, or building alliances through maritime exercises are aspects of broader strategies, but they do not encompass the full essence of naval diplomacy, which specifically emphasizes the application of naval assets as a tool for achieving specific diplomatic goals rather than purely defensive or operational purposes.