As the nation navigates global issues from terrorism to climate change, India’s blend of diplomatic acumen continues to forge a more secure, stable and prosperous future
India’s rising global influence is unmistakable, as it consistently takes center stage in high-level international forums and summits. A clear example is the recent Artificial Intelligence Summit in Paris, co-chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. At this event, leaders discussed the need to increase access to AI infrastructure, ensuring that technological advancements serve the public good through inclusive policies and responsible use.
The summit underscored India’s commitment to diversifying AI applications and establishing highly safe and reliable decision-making frameworks-a testament to its forward-thinking approach in harnessing emerging technologies. India’s leadership extends beyond technology. Its prominent roles at major gatherings such as the G20 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) further solidify its status as an influential global player. In these forums, India has not only showcased its diplomatic acumen but also contributed to discussions on addressing multifaceted global challenges.
In today’s increasingly globalised world, power dynamics are often shaped by imbalances within the international economic system. The interconnectedness of socio-economic conditions across regions has amplified issues like terrorism, giving non-state actors psychological leverage and operational strength. In this context, combating the spread of misinformation and ideological distortions becomes crucial. Addressing these challenges requires a continuous transfer of talent and specialized training for experts in counter-terrorism-a process that can be significantly enhanced through dedicated foreign policy think tanks. Such institutions provide fresh perspectives and establish frameworks that harmonize diverse stakeholder interests, ensuring robust diplomatic negotiations even when perspectives differ.
India’s diplomatic journey has always been guided by a well-charted roadmap rooted in effective diplomacy. At its core, foreign policy is about making the right gestures-cooperation, coordination, and timely crisis management. As a mature democracy, India leverages its resilient leadership to seize opportunities and craft strategies that blend tactful strength with pragmatic resilience. A key challenge remains: bringing neighboring countries together at the negotiating table to forge comprehensive strategies for maritime security and the protection of economic interests.
Amid escalating global challenges, the issue of climate change has garnered increasing support. Efforts to limit environmental degradation and open gateways for renewable energy development, along with advancements in technological know-how, are paving the way for sustainable power generation.
These initiatives not only address environmental concerns but also create a mechanism to counter sudden threats posed by expansive projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Over the past half-decade, trade relations between India and its neighbors have reached unprecedented heights. This growing economic interdependence, combined with initiatives to secure the Indian Ocean Area (IOA), reinforces economic growth, strategic security, and overall stability by ensuring the free flow of goods and services.
The Quad summit’s panel discussion on “The Quad Squad: Power and Purpose of the Polygon” in early 2023 further highlighted India’s role in addressing expansionist plans and countering regional threats. The participating nations reaffirmed their commitment to support Pacific Island countries and strengthen regional institutions in combating challenges such as climate change, building resilient infrastructure, and enhancing maritime security. These discussions have played a critical role in reinforcing the framework of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), which seeks to stabilize and secure this strategically vital region.
In response to growing Chinese assertiveness-exemplified by the Belt and Road Initiative and its “String of Pearls” strategy-India has actively pursued measures to safeguard its maritime security. This includes the deployment of naval bases in key Indian Ocean locations, such as Djibouti, and the development of sophisticated coastal radar systems in collaboration with regional partners like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Maldives, Seychelles, and Mauritius. Moreover, India has established a fusion system designed to enhance situational awareness in the Indian Ocean Region.
Recent defense procurements, including the India-Russia joint venture BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and advanced aero-engines for MiG-29 jets, further bolster its military capabilities. Complementing these initiatives is the “Necklace of Diamonds” strategy, which envisions establishing naval service bases and securing strategic ports from Singapore to Oman.
India’s proactive “Act East” policy underscores its commitment to deepening economic and trade ties with East Asian neighbors. By constructing an extensive network of ports and enhancing Coastal Surveillance Radar (CSR) systems, India is setting a clear path forward. Its leadership in finalizing cooperative frameworks within the IORA in the India-Pacific region has not only earned accolades but has also paved the way for future negotiations aimed at creating a robust shield against piracy, smuggling, cyber threats, and other non-state challenges.
India’s commitment to inclusive diplomacy and international cooperation lays the foundation for a more secure, stable, and prosperous world.
India’s foreign policy has always contributing to global security and prosperity. With its visionary leadership, strategic resilience, and adeptness at forging diplomatic alliances, India is uniquely positioned to lead the world toward a future defined by collaboration and mutual progress.
(The writer is a recipient of Bharat Gaurav Awad and is a professor and an expert on strategic affairs; views are personal)
