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India In 2024: The Great Balancing
Context:
India’s foreign policy landscape is marked by a delicate balancing act, navigating complex geopolitical dynamics to secure its strategic interests. Recent events highlight India’s ability to strengthen partnerships while addressing challenges in various regions, including West Asia, major global powers, and its immediate neighborhood. Additionally, India has amplified its voice as a champion of the Global South, enhancing its global stature.
How India is Balancing Relations in Recent Times:
- a) West Asia
Historic Engagements and Strategic Partnerships
- PM Modi’s Visit to Kuwait: The first visit by an Indian PM in 43 years resulted in a strategic partnership across key areas:
- Politics & Trade: Expansion of bilateral ties to foster economic cooperation.
- Energy Security: Strengthened partnerships to secure reliable energy supplies.
- Defense & Security: Enhanced collaborations for regional stability.
Balanced Approach Amid Regional Tensions:
- India has managed to maintain relations with all major stakeholders in West Asia, including:
- Gulf Arab States: Enhanced trade and energy partnerships.
- Israel: Strategic defense collaboration and technology sharing.
- Iran: Continued cooperation on the Chabahar Port despite geopolitical challenges.
Strategic Footprint: India’s balanced diplomacy ensures energy security while positioning it as a credible partner in a region rife with fault lines.
- b) Balancing Relations With Major Powers: China, Russia, and the USA:
Balancing Relations with China :
- Breakthrough in Border Standoff: Agreement in October 2024 allowed for patrolling of disputed areas along the LAC, ending a four-year standoff post the 2020 Galwan clash.
- Firm Diplomatic Position: India’s insistence on restoring the 2020 status quo ante as a precondition for normalization of ties.Diplomatic success in securing China’s acknowledgment of its role in derailing relations.
Balancing Relations with US :
- Strengthened Bilateral Ties:Continued upward trajectory despite minor frictions over issues like the alleged Sikh separatist assassination plot.
- Enhanced cooperation in defense, technology, and climate.
- Future Prospects:Donald Trump’s possible return to the White House could further align interests, especially in counterbalancing China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Balancing Relation with Russia :
- Balanced Stance on Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Advocated for political negotiations, avoiding alienation of Russia or the West.
- High-Level Engagement: PM Modi’s visit to Moscow post his re-election underscored India’s commitment to the partnership. Collaboration in energy, defense, and technology sectors remains strong.
- Strategic Shifts: A potential Trump-brokered peace in Ukraine may create a wedge between Russia and China, benefiting India’s strategic environment.
c)Balancing Relations in India’s Neighborhood:
Bangladesh
- Post-Hasina Turmoil:
- Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in August 2024 after violent protests led to anti-India rhetoric from the interim administration.
- Rising violence against Hindus and attacks on temples strained societal ties.
- Challenges Ahead:India must navigate these turbulent waters to preserve the historically strong partnership.
Maldives and Sri Lanka
Stabilized Relations:
- India’s proactive diplomacy in these key maritime neighbors helped stabilize ties.
Strategic Outlook Behind These Steps:
India’s actions are guided by a pragmatic strategy to:
- Strengthen energy security and trade ties with West Asia.
- Maintain a stable and secure neighborhood.
- Leverage partnerships with major powers while safeguarding autonomy in foreign policy.
- Elevate its global stature by advocating for the Global South.
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- India’s balanced and independent foreign policy has enhanced its image as a reliable partner.
- Examples include:
- The G20 presidency focused on inclusivity and development.
- Outreach initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and Vaccine Maitri during the pandemic.
- Key initiatives include infrastructure development, disaster management support, and defense cooperation.
- d) Championing the Global South:
Advocacy for Fair Representation
- India has emerged as a leading voice for the Global South, pushing for:
- Equitable Representation: Advocating for reforms in global institutions like the UN Security Council.
- Debt Relief: Supporting debt restructuring for struggling economies.
- Climate Justice: Emphasizing financial support for developing nations to tackle climate change.
Success and Failures in India’s Balancing Strategy:
Successes:
- West Asia: Strengthened ties with Gulf countries and energy security ensured.
- Global Diplomacy: Amplified voice in the Global South and enhanced global partnerships.
- China Reset: Secured agreements on border management while adhering to diplomatic red lines.
Failures:
- Bangladesh: Anti-India sentiments in the interim administration indicate strained societal and diplomatic ties.
- Economic Dependence on China: Persistent trade imbalances underscore a critical vulnerability.
Challenges Faced by India in Balancing Relations:
- Geopolitical Tensions: Managing competing interests in West Asia and South Asia.
- Border Flashpoints: Continued challenges along the LAC with China.
- Economic Dependencies: Reducing reliance on Chinese imports while fostering domestic alternatives.
Global Rivalries: Navigating the US-China-Russia triangle without alienating any major power.
