Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent engagement in the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, on September 21, 2024, has ignited renewed optimism for enhanced security collaboration among the leading maritime democracies in the Indo-Pacific region. However, a focal point for analysis is India’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval’s earlier visit to Russia for the BRICS NSA meeting, which featured a significant personal meeting with President Vladimir Putin. Notably, Doval also held crucial discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, underscoring India’s commitment to resolving the ongoing military standoff with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
As India actively engages with China while safeguarding its interests, it seeks to maintain U.S. involvement in establishing a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. The Quad, comprising Australia, Japan, India, and the U.S., aims to create a strategic coalition that enhances each nation individually and collectively counters challenges to the global order. This dynamic highlights the importance of India’s relationship with Russia, which has been skeptical of the Quad initiative.
India’s Role as a Peace Maker
Navigating this complex geopolitical landscape poses challenges for India’s security and diplomatic teams. Nonetheless, Ajit Doval is recognized for his adeptness and persuasive negotiation skills. His meeting with Putin, where he presented Modi’s Ukraine peace initiative, signals India’s intention to take bold steps in the realm of international diplomacy.
India’s aspiration to become a significant global power entails a substantial commitment to peace-making, potentially acting as a dialogue facilitator in high-stakes conflicts. Doval’s discussions with Putin followed Modi’s groundbreaking visits to Ukraine and Moscow earlier this year. Despite criticisms from Ukraine regarding India’s stance, Ukraine has also sought India’s assistance in resolving the crisis.
Following his engagement with Russia, Doval met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris during the annual India-France Strategic Dialogue, updating him on India’s mediation efforts. Several factors, particularly India’s complex relationship with Russia, have propelled India to insert itself into global peace-making discussions. While India’s ties with the U.S. are relatively new, its strategic partnership with Russia spans over six decades, with New Delhi valuing the military advantages that stem from this association. However, as Russia increasingly leans toward China post-Ukrainian conflict, this relationship faces new strains.
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From India’s perspective, a reevaluation of its approach is necessary as the strengthened Russia-China relations warrant attention. The West may have adapted to India’s continued engagement with Russian resources, yet India’s independent foreign policy incurs normative costs, notably being perceived as disengaged from critical global issues reshaping international relations. By stepping into the role of a mediator, India seeks to redefine its engagement dynamics with both Western powers and Russia, asserting its strategic autonomy while reinforcing its image as a global partner.
Russia’s Close Alignment with China
Under Modi’s leadership, India has cultivated a cooperative relationship with the U.S. while maintaining a pragmatic, non-confrontational approach to Russia. However, Russia’s foreign policy, primarily driven by its alliance with China and the desire to establish a multipolar world, complicates matters. While Beijing and Moscow share an anti-Western agenda, India’s strategic priorities do not align with those of either nation.
Russia’s failure to maintain a balanced partnership with India, particularly in light of its growing ties with China, has led to concerns in New Delhi, especially since China continues to be a source of security challenges for India. Russia’s approach to diplomacy appears increasingly one-sided, favoring China while neglecting its longstanding ties with India.
Russia’s deterioration with the U.S. has intensified its alliance with Beijing during a time when India-China relations are still fragile. Moreover, Russia’s ambition within organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS to challenge American dominance remains unfulfilled. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine complicates Russia’s ability to manage its relationship with India, prompting India to reassess its strategy concerning global partnerships.
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Revisiting Diplomatic Efforts
This reassessment does not necessitate a complete alignment with the U.S. but rather requires India to transition from past paradigms of dependency toward a more autonomous foreign policy stance. Critics voice skepticism regarding India’s capacity to mediate in the Ukraine conflict, arguing that the nation lacks the leverage to facilitate discussions. Yet, the hesitation to engage in mediation efforts does not align with India’s diplomatic aspirations. Doval’s recent diplomatic moves signal a shift toward viewing conflict resolution as integral to India’s strategic autonomy.
Ultimately, India’s refusal to fully align with America’s vision of a weakened Russia emphasizes its commitment to preserving the benefits of its diverse global relationships. Recognizing its role in the Quad while being cognizant of the existing challenges with China, India is poised to navigate its course with caution and strategic insight.
Published – October 08, 2024 01:48 am IST
