| Demand of the question Introduction. Contextual Introduction. Body. 5 principles. Why these principles are more important than ever before? Conclusion. Way forward. |
The Panchsheel or “Five Principles of Peaceful Existence” was a joint statement issued during Chinese premier Zhou Enlai’s visits to India in 1954. It was the period marking end of colonialism and emergence of new nations in Asia and Africa.
These five principles were as follows:
- Mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Mutual non-aggression.
- Mutual non-interference in internal matters.
- Equality and mutual benefit
- Peaceful co-existence.
Why Panchsheel principle hold more relevance than ever before?
- Today Panchsheel principles hold relevance as it is important for India to preserve her independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity.
- Panchsheel is needed to protect established relations which are diminishing with some countries at equal footing
- It hold relevance to reduce tensions in the region and reduce threat of confrontation and wars.
- It is important to establish India as an equal partner and reliable neighbour to countries like China.
- Panchsheel is a framework of basic tenets of engagement between the two sovereign countries and withstands the test of the time. It is equally relevant for all times.
- It is important to send message to the world that India is a mature democracy and is not an aggressive nation.
- Panchsheel is important for Greater role at the global level for regional cooperation and connectivity.
Panchsheel was never renewed after its expiry. India’s development priorities will determine the engagements with the world. India’s secular, plural and liberal democracy should inspire the world. The above five principles have the potential to transform India’s role in shaping the emerging world order.
