India’s Foreign Policy: Priorities and Challenges

India, with its rich history and dynamic geopolitical stature, plays a pivotal role in South Asia. Its foreign policy shapes the contours of regional stability, economic growth, and diplomatic engagement. However, when viewed from the lens of Pakistan—a neighboring country with shared histories but divergent paths—India’s foreign policy brings both opportunities and challenges.

Priorities in India’s Foreign Policy

1. Strategic Autonomy and Global Positioning

India aims to maintain strategic autonomy, balancing its relationships with major powers such as the U.S., Russia, and China. It actively participates in multilateral forums like BRICS, the G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), emphasizing a multipolar world order.

2. Economic Diplomacy

Trade and investment are central to India’s foreign engagements. Its “Act East” and “Neighbourhood First” policies prioritize regional economic integration, aiming to boost trade and connectivity with ASEAN, SAARC nations, and beyond.

3. Counterterrorism and Security

Ensuring internal and external security remains a top priority. India seeks global support to counter terrorism, particularly in the wake of past incidents attributed to cross-border tensions.

4. Energy and Technology Partnerships

India’s growing economy requires robust energy partnerships. The country is also heavily investing in technology collaborations to advance in fields like AI, space exploration, and green energy.

Challenges in India’s Foreign Policy

1. Relations with Pakistan

The India-Pakistan relationship has been fraught with mistrust and conflict, stemming from historical disputes such as Kashmir. Both nations have pursued differing narratives, and the lack of sustained dialogue exacerbates tensions.

2. Rising Regional Competition

China’s growing influence in South Asia and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) challenges India’s ambitions in the region. Pakistan’s strategic alignment with China adds a layer of complexity.

3. Internal Political Dynamics

Domestic issues, such as communal tensions and economic disparities, sometimes influence India’s foreign policy stance, making it harder to project a unified narrative globally.

4. Global Perception and Diplomacy

India’s foreign policy has occasionally faced criticism for being overly assertive or inconsistent, particularly in its handling of neighboring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

The View from Pakistan

From Pakistan’s perspective, India’s foreign policy presents both challenges and opportunities:

• Regional Stability: A cooperative approach could significantly enhance South Asia’s economic potential. Pakistan advocates dialogue and diplomacy over hostility.

• Kashmir Issue: Pakistan views India’s policies in Jammu and Kashmir as a fundamental challenge to peace. It urges international mediation and adherence to UN resolutions.

• Economic Cooperation: Shared trade corridors and energy pipelines could benefit both nations. However, political hurdles hinder progress.

• Countering Extremism Together: Pakistan emphasizes joint efforts to counter terrorism and extremism, fostering mutual trust.

The Path Forward

A balanced and inclusive foreign policy by India, focusing on dialogue, economic cooperation, and mutual respect, could redefine its relationship with Pakistan and other neighbors. As two nuclear-armed neighbors, India and Pakistan share a responsibility to ensure peace and prosperity in South Asia.

In conclusion, while India’s foreign policy reflects its ambitions for global leadership, addressing regional concerns, especially with Pakistan, remains a critical challenge. A future grounded in collaboration, rather than conflict, could usher in a new era for both nations.