Source: The post “What 2026 Delhi Declaration tells about India’s approach to the Middle East” has been created, based on “What 2026 Delhi Declaration tells about India’s approach to the Middle East” published in “Down to Earth” on 03rd February 2026.
UPSC Syllabus: GS Paper-2-International Relations
Context: The 2026 Delhi Declaration was issued after the second India–Arab League Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in New Delhi. It reflects India’s pragmatic, balanced, and stability-oriented approach towards a region facing multiple conflicts and power rivalries. The Declaration highlights India’s preference for sovereignty, dialogue, and strategic autonomy in West Asia.
Key Features of the Delhi Declaration
1. Emphasis on Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity
- The Declaration reaffirmed support for the unity and territorial integrity of Sudan, Libya, and Somalia.
- It rejected foreign interference in the internal affairs of these countries.
- It supported internationally recognised governments in these states.
- It condemned atrocities committed against civilians in conflict zones.
- This shows India’s commitment to international law and regional stability.
- Position on Major Regional Conflicts
a) Yemen Conflict: The Declaration explicitly condemned Houthi attacks on navigation in the Red Sea. It supported Yemen’s unity and territorial integrity. This position aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s regional policy.
b) Syria Issue: The Declaration made only a limited reference to Syria, focusing on counter-terrorism efforts. This reflects India’s cautious and low-profile engagement with post-Assad Syria.
c) Israel–Palestine Conflict: The Declaration reaffirmed support for the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002. It supported the Two-State Solution based on pre-1967 borders. It emphasised Palestinian sovereignty and rights. It avoided endorsing the US-led “Board of Peace” initiative.
d) Iran Issue: The Declaration did not mention the US military build-up near Iran. It reflects India’s attempt to balance its relations with both the US and Iran. India continued diplomatic engagement with Tehran through high-level visits.
3. Strategic Silence on Sensitive Issues
- The Declaration avoided direct references to major power rivalries in the region.
- It remained silent on US pressure on Iran and intra-Gulf tensions.
- This indicates India’s use of strategic ambiguity to avoid diplomatic confrontation.
- It helps India maintain working relations with all regional actors.
- Focus on Economic and Institutional Cooperation: The Declaration reaffirmed cooperation in economy, energy, education, media, and culture. It highlighted bilateral trade of more than 240 billion US dollars. It strengthened the institutional framework established in 2002. This shows India’s emphasis on economic diplomacy.
- Balancing Rival Regional Camps: The Middle East is divided between Saudi-led and UAE–Israel–US aligned blocs. India maintained friendly relations with both camps. It avoided taking sides in conflicts in Sudan, Libya, Yemen, and Somalia. This reflects India’s policy of multi-alignment in foreign affairs.
India’s Broader Diplomatic Approach Reflected
1. Normative and Status Quo-Oriented Policy: India consistently supports territorial integrity and recognised governments. It opposes secessionism and violent regime change and promotes peaceful resolution of disputes.
2. Strategic Autonomy: India followed an independent policy on Palestine, Iran, and Yemen. It avoided joining US-led military or political initiatives and preserved decision-making autonomy in foreign policy.
3. Transactional and Issue-Based Engagement: India’s regional relations are driven by trade, energy security, and diaspora interests. Political disagreements are kept separate from economic cooperation. Engagement is based on mutual benefit.
4. Risk-Averse and Cautious Diplomacy: India avoided controversial positions that could invite sanctions or pressure. The absence of budget allocation for Chabahar reflects this caution. India prefers gradual and low-risk engagement.
Challenges for India
- India faces difficulty in balancing relations between the US and Iran.
- It must manage rivalry between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
- It needs to ensure maritime and energy security.
- It has to protect its large diaspora in conflict-prone regions.
- Its influence in conflict resolution remains limited.
Way Forward
- India should continue its policy of strategic autonomy while deepening diplomatic engagement with all Middle Eastern powers.
- It should enhance economic and energy partnerships to safeguard trade and energy security.
- India should actively participate in regional multilateral platforms to promote stability and conflict resolution.
- It should invest in intelligence and maritime security to protect its strategic interests in the Gulf and Red Sea.
- India should strengthen cultural and educational ties to maintain long-term influence and soft power in the region.
Conclusion: The 2026 Delhi Declaration reflects India’s balanced, pragmatic, and stability-oriented approach to West Asia. It prioritises sovereignty, economic cooperation, and strategic autonomy. It avoids ideological alignment and regional entanglements. This approach strengthens India’s image as a reliable and responsible partner in the Middle East.
Question: What does the 2026 Delhi Declaration indicate about India’s approach to the Middle East?
Source: Indian Express
