Why in the news?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anticipated visit to Ukraine next month should signify a reconfiguration of India’s strategy towards European security.

European Scenario

• The war in Ukraine has put the question of Europe right at the top of India’s international agenda, necessitating a reconfiguration of India’s approach to European security.
• India should see the war in Ukraine as an imperative for long overdue re-engagement with European peace and security, moving beyond treating it as a “pressure point” from the West or a moment for solidarity with Russia.
• Europe is facing hard geopolitical dilemmas, torn between criticizing China, pleasing the US, and dealing with a resentful Russia willing to restructure the European security order.
• India’s peace diplomacy in Ukraine, even in a limited way, would be worthwhile given the implications of the war for the Indian economy and security, as history shows that China benefits from conflicts between Russia and the West.

India’s Priorities

• Re-engagement with European Security: The war in Ukraine has prompted India to reassess its approach to European geopolitics, which has been largely neglected in recent decades. India aims to strengthen its political and diplomatic ties with Europe, recognizing it as a crucial economic partner and a significant source of technology.
• Balancing Relations with Russia and the West: India has maintained a careful balance in its relations with Russia while also courting Western powers. The historical ties with Russia, particularly in defence and energy, remain vital for India, especially as it increases its imports of discounted Russian oil.
• Addressing Security Challenges: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has complicated India’s security landscape, particularly with China’s growing ties to Russia and its strategic manoeuvres in Europe. India should navigate these complexities while ensuring its own security interests are safeguarded.
• Promoting Peace Diplomacy: India is positioning itself as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the importance of peace and dialogue. This diplomatic role not only enhances India’s global standing but also aligns with its long-term interests in promoting stability in a multipolar world.

Future outlook

• India’s evolving global priorities reflect its ambition to assert itself as a significant player in international affairs, pursuing economic growth, security, and sustainable development while contributing to the emergence of a multipolar world order.
• India’s role in shaping the future of global governance will continue to evolve as it navigates complex geopolitical dynamics and works towards its national interests and the common good of the international community.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely visit to Ukraine next month should mark a reconfiguration of India’s approach to European security, as the return of war to Europe has created multiple economic challenges for India and complicated its security challenges.

Way forward: 

• Proactive Diplomacy: India should actively engage with European countries and institutions to strengthen political and diplomatic ties.
• Peace Mediation Efforts: India can leverage its neutral stance and diplomatic relations to facilitate peace dialogues and mediation efforts in the Ukraine conflict.

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