New Delhi: Amid complex geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, and diplomatic skirmishes involving Canada, the recent BRICS summit saw India perform a balancing act post the recent thaw in India-China relations after a border agreement Monday. The summit spotlighted India’s role as a swing state and a mediator.
In Episode 1539 of #CutTheClutter, Editor-in-Chief Shekhar Gupta, along with Swasti Rao & Sana Hashmi—domain experts in Europe & China, respectively—discuss India’s multi-alignment strategy, relationship with China post LAC agreement & the balancing act among Russia, China and the West for its future standing.
Rao emphasises that while multi-alignment is useful, it should aim at enhancing India’s national power with clear objectives. In contrast, Hashmi notes that China views India through the lens of its alignment with the US, seeing it as a threat, adding that China also recognises India as a key counterbalance in the Indo-Pacific region. She says, China is wary of India’s growing relationship with Taiwan—especially given Taiwan’s rising importance in the semiconductor space—and the West, pitching it is a reason behind the recent LAC border agreement.
Despite the recent diplomatic exchanges between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping, both experts believe a significant reset in relations is unlikely without tangible changes, including more budget allocation in defence & military infrastructure. India’s strategic position also requires careful navigation of its relationships with Russia, China and the West. As global dynamics evolve, India’s ability to maintain equilibrium among these major powers is also essential for its future standing.
Also Watch: India, China end 4-yr LAC standoff. CutTheClutter on the new protocols & political implications