Table of Contents
THE CONTEXT: In his first international trip during his third term as Prime Minister, Narendra Modi will attend the G7 summit in Fasano, Italy. This event marks a significant opportunity for Modi to strengthen India’s relations with the US and Europe, a notable achievement from his first decade in office. The summit, celebrating its 50th anniversary, will also highlight the growing geopolitical tensions between the West and the Sino-Russian alliance, presenting opportunities and challenges for Indian diplomacy.
THE ISSUES:
- Strengthening India’s Relations with the West: The G7 summit presents an opportunity for Prime Minister Modi to reconnect and reboot India’s relations with Western leaders, building on the improved ties during his first two terms. This is seen as an important legacy of his previous tenure.
- Managing India’s Ties with China and Russia: India faces the challenge of balancing its conflict with China and cooperation with Russia while expanding ties with the West amidst the escalating conflict in Ukraine and tensions in the Western Pacific.
- India’s Role in Global Governance: The West has a stake in drawing India into the structures of global governance driven by the G7, as India confronts challenges on multiple global fronts. India’s participation in the G7 gatherings reflects its growing collaboration with the “collective West”.
- Regional Engagement and the Global South: Italy’s focus on engaging with Africa and the Mediterranean at the G7 summit aligns with India’s interests in its extended neighborhood. India and Italy also share a priority of reshaping the G7’s relationship with the Global South.
- Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies: The discussions on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies at the G7 summit are of significant interest to India, which has actively participated in the debate on global regulation of AI.
- Global Issues and Governance Challenges: The summit will address global issues such as food and energy security, migration, and the consequences of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. India’s perspectives on these issues are expected to shape the discussions and contribute to global governance efforts.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Strengthening Multilateral Engagements: India should leverage its participation in multilateral forums like the G7 and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to enhance its diplomatic influence and address global challenges collaboratively. Engaging in multilateral diplomacy allows India to balance its relationships with both Western and Eastern blocs, ensuring it remains a pivotal player in global governanc
- Balancing Relations with Major Powers: India should continue pursuing a balanced foreign policy that maintains strong ties with the West and vital Eastern powers like Russia and China. Maintaining strategic autonomy allows India to navigate the complexities of global power dynamics without being overly dependent on any single bloc.
- Promoting AI Ethics and Regulation: India should lead in the global regulation of artificial intelligence, advocating for ethical standards and responsible use of AI technologies. As AI becomes increasingly integral to global governance, India’s proactive stance on AI ethics can position it as a leader in this critical area.
- Enhancing Food and Energy Security: India should advocate for comprehensive strategies to address global food and energy security, leveraging its major consumer and producer position. Addressing food and energy security is crucial for global stability, and India’s contributions can help mitigate the impacts of conflicts like the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
- Facilitating Legal Migration and Talent Mobility: India should work with G7 nations to develop frameworks that facilitate legal migration and the mobility of skilled talent while curbing illegal immigration. Facilitating the legal movement of talent can boost economic growth and innovation in India and host countries.
THE CONCLUSION:
As global power dynamics shift, the upcoming weeks will be crucial for Prime Minister Modi and his advisors to engage with major international actors and navigate the complex geopolitical landscape. India’s enhanced position on the global stage allows it to influence outcomes in economic, political, and technological arenas. The world anticipates proactive Indian diplomacy to address the pressing global issues of our time.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 The virus of conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO. Considering the above statement, the role of India in mitigating the problems is pointed out. 2023
Q.2 The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India.” What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. 2023
Q.3 Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? 2021
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 How can India balance its relations with the West, China, and Russia while addressing global issues such as AI ethics, food and energy security, and migration?
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