India “non-West” but not “anti-West” alignment -Express View on India’s Foreign Policy

Source: The post India as “non-West” but not “anti-West” has been created, based on the article “Express View on India’s foreign policy: Non-West, not anti-West” published in “Indian express” on 19th February 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper 2-International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

News: The article discusses how India is redefining its relationship with Western countries. India is not against the West, but has a distinct, non-Western identity. The US supports this approach, indicating strong India-US relations. India’s domestic politics are shifting away from anti-Western sentiments. Express View on India’s foreign policy

What is India’s new approach to international relations?

Non-Western Identity: India, led by External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is positioning itself as non-Western, not anti-Western. This contrasts with other BRICS nations like Russia and China, which often appear more opposed to Western perspectives.

Flexible Alliances: India advocates for flexible international relationships, avoiding alignment against the West despite being a part of BRICS.

Stronger Ties with the West: India is strengthening its relationships with Western nations, particularly the US. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recognizes and supports this growing bond.

What is the US’s perspective on India’s position?

Support for Flexibility: The US, through Secretary of State Antony Blinken, endorses India’s flexible approach to international relations, valuing diverse collaborations over rigid blocs.

Recognition of Strong Bilateral Ties: US acknowledges the strength of the US-India relationship, stating it is the strongest it has ever been, despite India’s leading role in BRICS.

No Conflict with BRICS Membership: The US does not see India’s membership in BRICS as a hindrance to their bilateral relationship.

Encouragement for Variable Geometry: US emphasizes the importance of “variable geometry” in current global contexts, supporting India’s stance of maintaining multiple partnerships.

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How is India’s domestic politics influencing its foreign policy?

Shift in Political Perspective: The present government in India has transcended the traditional anti-Western paradigm. This marks a significant shift from previous governments’ approach.

Strategic Engagement with the US: The present government ‘s administration is actively engaging with the United States, building a strategic partnership that is described as deeper and broader than ever before.

Decline of Traditional Resistance: With the weakening of the Congress party and the decline of the left in India, resistance to engaging with Western countries, particularly the US and Europe, has diminished.

Balancing Domestic Sentiments: The government’s characterization of India as “non-West” but not “anti-West” aligns with the rising conservative nationalist sentiments. This stance facilitates India’s foreign policy in balancing domestic and international interests.

Expanding Foreign Policy Horizons: This approach allows the government to maintain support from various domestic political factions while expanding India’s foreign policy horizons, especially in its relations with Western nations.

Question for practice:

Discuss how India’s shifting domestic politics are influencing its approach to international relations, particularly regarding its stance on Western countries and its alliances within BRICS.