Why in the News?

India’s participation in the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, U.S., on September 21, 2024, has heightened expectations for strengthening security cooperation among the “four key maritime democracies in the Indo-Pacific.”

How can India navigate its relationships with major powers?

• Strategic Autonomy: India maintains a policy of non-alignment, balancing relations with both the U.S. and Russia. It is careful not to be drawn into formal alliances but seeks to leverage its partnerships for national interests.
• Quad vs. Russia: India’s engagement with the U.S.-led Quad strengthens its Indo-Pacific strategy, while its ties with Russia (a Quad opponent) focus on maintaining historical military and strategic benefits.
• Russia-China Dynamics: As Russia moves closer to China, India seeks to rebalance, ensuring its interests are not sidelined, particularly in the context of China’s growing influence in Asia and unresolved border disputes.
• U.S. Partnership: While deepening ties with the U.S., India is cautious about fully aligning with Washington’s agenda (for exports), especially regarding tensions with Russia.

What role does India play in Global Conflict Resolution?

• As a Peace facilitator: India is increasingly positioning itself as a peace facilitator, evidenced by the NSA (Ajit Dowal) of India’s outreach to Russia and France regarding the Ukraine conflict and peace plan.
• As a ‘Vishwa Bandhu’: India’s engagement with both Ukraine and Russia shows its willingness to serve as an interlocutor, navigating complex diplomatic terrains while pushing for dialogue in global conflicts.
  • India’s attempts to mediate in conflicts like Ukraine emphasize its independent foreign policy, aiming to project itself as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (friend to the world).

What implications do Domestic Issues have on India’s Foreign Policy?

• Economic Dependencies: India’s reliance on Russian military equipment and discounted oil affects its stance on the Ukraine war, pushing for a more nuanced approach in balancing U.S. and Russian relations.
• Border Tensions with China: Domestic security concerns, such as the standoff at the LAC, influence India’s foreign policy decisions, especially in its cautious relationship with China despite economic interdependence.
• Public Opinion and Strategic Decisions: India’s foreign policy must account for domestic perceptions of global powers, balancing national security with economic growth and political stability in a complex international environment.

Way forward: 

• Strengthen Strategic Autonomy: India should continue balancing its relationships with major powers by deepening economic and security ties with both the U.S. and Russia, while maintaining flexibility to protect its national interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and vis-à-vis China.
• Expand Peace Diplomacy: India can further leverage its role as a mediator in global conflicts, enhancing its international standing by promoting dialogue and peace initiatives.

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