The art of maintaining peaceful relationships between states, groups or individuals mostly comes about as a result of the activities and functions of

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which group is mainly responsible for the "art of maintaining peaceful relationships between states, groups or individuals." The key phrase is "art of maintaining peaceful relationships between states."

Step 2: Explain the concept In Government, diplomacy is the art or practice of conducting negotiations and maintaining peaceful relations between countries (and other groups). People who carry out diplomacy are called diplomats, such as ambassadors, high commissioners, consuls, and attachés. Their functions include:

• Representing their country abroad
• Negotiating treaties and agreements
• Promoting friendly relations, trade, and cultural exchange
• Protecting the interests and citizens of their home country
• Reporting on developments in the host country

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. The legislature: It makes laws and oversees the executive. It does not primarily manage relationships between states.
• B. Security agencies: They maintain law and order and defend against threats. They often deal with force rather than the "art" of peaceful relations.
• C. Diplomats: Their core job is building and maintaining peaceful relations through dialogue and negotiation. This fits perfectly.
• D. The media: It informs and educates the public, but it is not responsible for conducting relations between states.

Step 4: Answer The correct answer is C. diplomats.

Tip: When you see the phrase "the art of..." together with "relationships between states," think diplomacy → diplomats. Also remember that diplomacy = peaceful negotiation, while security agencies = enforcement and protection.