To forge alliances with distant entities while engaging in conflict with neighboring ones; a strategy often employed in diplomacy or competitive situations to consolidate power or gain an advantage.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Warring States period, King Zhaoxiang of Qin sought advice from his prime minister, Zhang Lu (also known as Fan Sui), regarding strategies for governing the realm.
Zhang Lu explained that Qin, blessed with natural defenses and a strong military, was powerful enough to assert its authority over the other feudal states. He criticized the recent decision to attack the distant state of Qi as a significant mistake.
Instead, Zhang Lu advocated for a strategy of 'befriending distant states while attacking nearby ones' (远交近攻). He warned against repeating past errors, referencing how the state of Wei's campaign against Zhongshan ultimately allowed the state of Zhao to annex Zhongshan.
Convinced by Zhang Lu's counsel, King Qin adopted this strategic approach.