As India takes centre-stage on the diplomatic front, recent global developments have come with their attendant challenges. Nimisha Lakhia says that in the complex maze of international relations, Indian diplomacy stands at a crossroads even as it grapples with a number of controversies that shape its global standing. Among the most pressing issues are border disputes, terrorism, and other geopolitical concerns, each demanding nuanced analysis and strategic navigation, she observes.
A new India is also a more confident India, leading from the front on the global stage and, steering ahead using all its might and most importantly its diplomatic arsenal. In the year gone by, India has taken giant leaps across multiple forums making significant strides in economic, defence and cultural diplomacy arena where it has flexed muscles and maintained cordial and mutually-beneficial relations with other nations.
At the same time, recent global developments have presented several challenges. In the intricate web of international relations, Indian diplomacy stands at a crossroads, grappling with myriad challenges and controversies that shape its global standing. Among the most pressing issues are border disputes, terrorism, and other geopolitical concerns, each demanding nuanced analysis and strategic navigation.
Leading the way
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign visits have constantly been growing India’s clout in a rapidly-transforming world order. The outreach extended by India to the South Pacific nations is a case in point. The Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) was initiated in 2014 to further cooperation between India and Pacific Island Nations including Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Cook Islands, Naura, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, etc.
Similarly, several nations took notice of PM Modi’s presence at the G7 Meet. He was there to represent India as an invited country at the 49th G7 Summit in Japan. It was at the same time when India held the presidency of the G20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in 2023.
At the summit in Japan, India took up several engagements that were acknowledged by other nations. Today, India’s economy is bigger than that of Canada, France and Italy (of the G7 group) put together – three member nations of the group. A staggering GDP of USD 2.66 trillion cannot be ignored or overlooked. India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world and in Asia.
India’s diplomatic ventures, such as PM Modi’s meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky or visit to Australia, are being noticed by all major power centres around the world and are a reminder of how it is skilfully navigating turbulent waters and effectively preparing for the future. The year also marked India’s G20 Presidency.
Fighting terrorism
The spectre of terrorism has persistently cast its shadow over Indian diplomacy, with Pakistan frequently positioned at the heart of this challenge. The stark realities unfolded in events such as the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the 2019 Pulwama incident, both serving as crucibles that tested the mettle of Indian diplomatic endeavours.
In the aftermath of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, which left scars on the nation’s psyche, India faced the dilemma of striking a delicate balance between retaliatory measures and diplomatic restraint. The world watched as India sought justice and accountability through international forums, showcasing a commitment to diplomatic avenues even in the face of horrendous acts of terror.
The Pulwama incident in 2019, characterised by a suicide bombing that claimed the lives of Indian security personnel, brought forth another dimension to the terrorism challenge. India’s response showcased a nuanced interplay between assertive foreign policy and diplomatic pragmatism. While there was a swift military response in the form of the Balakot airstrike, simultaneous efforts were made to diplomatically isolate Pakistan and garner international support for condemning cross-border terrorism.
These responses unveil the intricate play of Indian diplomacy, navigating the thin line between defending national security and upholding the principles of international cooperation. The multifaceted approach highlights India’s commitment to addressing terrorism through both strategic force and diplomatic manoeuvring, underscoring the complex dynamics that define the nation’s stance on this pervasive global menace.
Geopolitical issues
India’s geopolitical narrative is closely knit with its evolving ties to major global powers. A focal point of this is the Indo-U.S. partnership, a strategic alliance that, while robust, is not without complexities.
Trade disputes and divergent perspectives on global issues have added layers to the Indo-U.S. relationship. The pursuit of national interests, coupled with the dynamics of economic competition, has at times strained the otherwise strategic partnership. The equation provides valuable insights into how India strategically positions itself on the world stage.
As global alliances continue to shift, India faces the ongoing task of recalibrating its geopolitical stance with major power centres of the world. The ability to do so determines not only the success of bilateral relations but also India’s role in shaping global narratives.
The neighbourhood
In July 2023, the Standing Committee on External Affairs chaired by P P Chaudhary submitted its report on ‘India’s Neighbourhood First Policy’, a concept that was first conceived in 2008 – to strengthen India’s relations with Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
India-Bangladesh ties have experienced substantial improvement in recent years, with collaboration spanning trade, security, and significant projects such as the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant.
The relationship with Nepal has witnessed fluctuations, marked by intermittent border disputes and concerns over Nepal’s growing engagement with China. Diplomatic endeavours are ongoing to address these challenges and foster stronger ties.
Although economic and cultural ties with Sri Lanka are strong, occasional geopolitical differences, particularly related to Chinese investments in Sri Lanka, present challenges that require careful navigation.
With some of the neighbouring countries, India is furthering defence cooperation as a means to bolster bilateral equations. These include Myanmar and Nepal with whom India is conducting joint military exercises. Recommendations have been made for more initiatives to enhance maritime domain awareness in India’s extended neighbourhood.
India’s key bilateral relationships in the South Asian region are intricate, shaped by historical legacies, geopolitical realities, and the continuously evolving global landscape. Effectively navigating this multifaceted international environment demands a delicate equilibrium between strategic interests, economic collaborations, and regional stability.
Multilateral organisations such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation should be strengthened and reviewed periodically.
As India assumes a pivotal role on the global stage, the diplomatic challenges and opportunities embedded within these relationships will persist at the forefront of its foreign policy agenda.
The challenges
The 2020 Galwan Valley clash epitomises the complex landscape of India’s border disputes, particularly with China. Against the backdrop of the Himalayas, the Line of Actual Control (LAC) became a flashpoint. The clash not only resulted in casualties but also initiated a diplomatic impasse, requiring astute negotiation skills to navigate the delicate situation.
India, one again, engaged in a multifaceted approach. High-level talks and diplomatic channels were activated to defuse tensions, emphasising the importance of dialogue in resolving territorial disputes. The intricacies of the border dispute were laid bare as diplomats on both sides sought common ground, balancing assertiveness with the need for a peaceful resolution.
The incident tested India’s diplomatic prowess, as it worked to safeguard its interests while maintaining a commitment to peaceful coexistence.
As India continues to navigate the global arena, these incidents highlight the perpetual challenges that demand a proactive and adaptive diplomatic approach. The outcomes of these diplomatic endeavours have been moulding India’s role in the global order, which is nothing less than ordinary.