Relations between India and China have only recently begun to thaw, and the country will have to navigate this complex geopolitical landscape to ensure that its interests are protected, all while maintaining its various bilateral relationships.
Former Indian ambassador to Canada, Vikas Swarup, told CNBC-TV18 that India has several strategic options to navigate this complex web of alliances.
Strengthening the Quad Partnership
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar (second from left) with his Japanese, American, and Australian counterparts at a recent Quad meeting. (Image: X)
One of the key priorities for India, says Swarup, is to deepen its engagement with the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or the Quad. “The Quad comprising the US, Japan, Australia, and India is a crucial platform for India to work with like-minded democracies and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he explained.
Diversifying economic and strategic partnerships
Swarup emphasised the importance of India expanding its economic and strategic ties with other regional powers. “India should continue to strengthen its relationships with countries like Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN nations. This will reduce our over-dependence on any single partner and give us more negotiating leverage.”
Maintaining pragmatic ties with Russia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin inn this file photo. (Image: AP)
While strengthening relations with the US, India must also preserve its long-standing partnership with Russia, according to Swarup. “Our partnership with Russia is a crucial element of our strategic autonomy. We need to maintain this pragmatic relationship even as we deepen ties with the US.”
Engaging constructively with China
Swarup suggests that India should seek to manage tensions with China through dialogue and diplomacy. “Maintaining stable ties with China, while standing firm on our core interests, is essential for regional stability. We must engage constructively with China to find a way forward.”
Enhancing domestic capabilities
Ultimately, Swarup believes that India must focus on building its own economic and military capabilities to become a net security provider in the region. “The key is for India to pursue a multi-aligned foreign policy that allows us to navigate the complex geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific effectively. Strengthening our domestic capabilities will be crucial in this regard.”
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