Experts Kapil Komireddi, Beenish Javed, Isabel Hilton, and Ronan Lee discuss Modi's foreign-policy doctrine, strained relationships with Pakistan, China, and Myanmar, and India's regional dynamics. They delve into India's border strategies, passivity towards China, and the nuances of their relationship.
Modi's foreign policy emphasizes partnerships over alliances with major powers.
India-Pakistan tensions continue due to Modi's Hindu nationalist agenda.
India-China relations exhibit a mix of confrontations and economic ties.
Deep dives
Narendra Modi's Victory in India's General Election
Narendra Modi secured his third term as India's Prime Minister after the recent general election. The Bharatiya Janata Party faced setbacks, losing 63 of their seats and needing smaller coalitions for a Lok Sabha majority. Despite a diminished status domestically, Modi might engage more assertively in foreign policy. Issues with neighboring countries like Myanmar, Pakistan, and China pose challenges. Modi's approach, marked by fostering division, may need adjustment in dealing with volatile neighbors, especially with nuclear capabilities.
Modi's Foreign Policy Approach and the Lack of a 'Modi Doctrine'
Modi's foreign policy maintains India's traditional non-aligned stance, preferring partnerships over alliances with major powers. His emphasis on a Hindu nationalist agenda domestically contrasts with his international dealings. Modi's self-promotion as a global leader facing crises aligns with an assertive Indian role. However, India's assertiveness is also shaped by external circumstances rather than a strategic foreign policy vision.
Tensions Between India and Pakistan Post-Election Results
Post-election, tensions between India and Pakistan persist, with diplomatic relations downgraded and trade suspended. Modi's political agenda, focusing on India's Hindu identity, contributes to strained relations. In Pakistan, there's cautious observation of India's election outcomes, with continued conflict around border issues as a consistent challenge.
India's Relations with Myanmar and China
India, under Modi, plans to build a border fence with Myanmar amid concerns about non-state actors. Modi's cordial relations with Myanmar's generals contrast with a lack of condemnation for the military coup. The India-China rivalry, often confrontational, is tempered by economic ties. Tensions persist over Tibet, potential for border clashes, and disagreements over regional influence.
India-China Relations and Modi's Stance in Geopolitical Context
India-China relations are complex, marked by occasional border confrontations but also economic interdependence. Modi's nationalist rhetoric often targets perceived external threats, including Pakistan. As China's influence grows, India balances geopolitical challenges by engaging with various global powers. Modi's strategic responses to regional dynamics will shape India's role in Asian geopolitics.
Future Projections and Diplomatic Challenges for India
Future dynamics between India and China will shape regional stability. Modi's cautious approach to China, while navigating economic and geopolitical pressures, reflects a nuanced foreign policy stance. The unresolved India-China border dispute and Tibet issue add to bilateral complexities. Regional engagements, especially with neighboring countries and major powers, present diplomatic challenges for India's strategic positioning in Asia.
Narendra Modi has secured a third term as India’s prime minister despite losing more votes than expected in the country’s election. We explore Modi’s foreign-policy doctrine and his testy relationship with Pakistan, China and Myanmar. Andrew Mueller speaks to Kapil Komireddi, Beenish Javed, Isabel Hilton and Ronan Lee.
