The Raisina Dialogue is India’s premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics held annually in New Delhi. The 2024 edition of the conference was held from February 26-29 and saw participation from over 115 countries.
About the Dialogue
- Initiated in 2016
- Hosted by the Observer Research Foundation in partnership with Ministry of External Affairs
- Aims to address the most challenging issues faced by the world through multi-stakeholder participation
- Aligned with India’s “intelligence diplomacy” to play a bridging role globally
Key Facts
- Theme for 2024: “Chaturanga – Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create”
6 thematic pillars for discussions
- Tech Frontiers: Regulations & Realities
- Peace with the Planet: Invest & Innovate
- War & Peace: Armouries & Asymmetries
- Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions & Inclusion
- The Post 2030 Agenda: People & Progress
- Defending Democracy: Society & Sovereignty
- Over 2500 participants including heads of state, ministers, policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, media persons etc.
Inaugural Session
- Greece Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis was Chief Guest
- Emphasized importance of connectivity projects like India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor
India’s Stance
- India referred to itself as a “bridging power” using multi-vector policies for common ground
- Playing the role of a global “Vishwamitra” or friend
Key Discussion Areas
Geopolitical Shifts
- Evolving dynamics between US, China, Russia, Europe
- India’s strategical adaptations and alliances
India as Bridging Power
- Leveraging strategic autonomy for cooperative ties
- Avoiding formal alliance blocks
Economic Connectivity
- Potential of India-Middle East-Europe corridor
- Enhancing trade and transport links
Global Conflicts
- Russian invasion of Ukraine
- Dealing with an assertive China
- Resolving regional disputes
Technology and Innovation
- Shaping geopolitics and global governance
- Cybersecurity, digital governance, AI etc.
Climate Action
- Investments and partnerships for sustainability
- Supporting vulnerable geographies
Participation at Raisina Dialogues 2016-2024
| Year | Number of Countries | Total Participants |
| 2016 | 40 | 350 |
| 2017 | 65 | 550 |
| 2018 | 93 | 600 |
| 2019 | 108 | 1300 |
| 2020 | NA | NA |
| 2021 | 100 | 1200 |
| 2022 | 120 | 1900 |
| 2023 | 130 | 2200 |
| 2024 | 115 | 2500 |
Key Outcomes
Strategic Autonomy
- Emphasis by India on practicing strategic autonomy amid global divisions
- Leveraging partnerships without formal alliances
Regional Outreach
- First time participation from the Baltic-Nordic Forum
- Scope for trade and investment partnerships
Ukraine Situation
- Condemnation of Russian invasion by European countries
- Calls for India to rethink Russia ties and support Ukraine
Enhanced Ties
- Platform for strengthening economic, political, security and technological cooperation
- Sets stage for collaborative initiatives between participants
India’s Economic Priorities
As the world’s fastest growing major economy, India outlined its key economic priorities during the dialogue to maintain the growth momentum.
Ensuring Energy Security
- Meeting growing demands amid climate change and geopolitical uncertainty
- Increasing share of renewables, forming strategic hydrocarbon partnerships
- Securing reliable access and diversified supply chains
Leveraging Technology
- Expanding India’s technology and manufacturing capacity
- Investments in digital infrastructure, emerging tech ecosystems
- Policies for IT exports and global tech participation
Attracting FDI
- Sustaining flows by improving ease of doing business
- Generating jobs and integrating with global value chains
- Highlighting incentives in renewable energy, electronics manufacturing etc.
Shaping Global Agendas
India emphasized its role in leading economic discussions at global high tables like G20 to shape collective outcomes on shared priorities.
- Building consensus among members for cooperation in finance, trade, technology, healthcare etc. will be key.
- Partnerships with international organizations and developing country groupings can also enhance the impact.
Strategic and Security Priorities
As India expands strategic ties and security cooperation to protect national interests, it also outlined focus areas going ahead.
Maritime Security
- Combating threats in the Indian Ocean, South China Sea
- Naval exercises, information sharing with Quad, ASEAN etc.
Tackling Terrorism
- Fighting cross-border and state sponsored terror activities
- Enhancing intelligence sharing, border controls
Reformed Multilateralism
- Demanding greater representation and voice for global south
- Democracy, pluralism, shared benefits as guiding principles
The Raisina Dialogue has grown remarkably over the years to become one of the most prominent global conferences. The 2024 edition saw significant participation and crucial discussions on pressing issues facing the world. India reiterated its position as a bridging power that can play a key role through cooperative strategies. Going forward, the Dialogue is well-placed to drive constructive debates and shape narratives on global governance and geopolitics through a multi-stakeholder approach.
