The year 2022 marked a challenging phase on the geopolitical and diplomatic stage, primarily due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. India adopted various strategies and tactics to deal with these challenges following its Non-Alignment Policy.
India’s Approach to the Ukraine Crisis
During the Ukraine crisis, the Indian government exemplified its version of “non-alignment”. Balancing the increasing polarity between the U.S. and the European Union, and Russia was crucial. The Indian Prime Minister articulated his discomfort with the war directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, “This era is not for war.” Simultaneously, India declined to accept western sanctions, expanded military and oil trade with Russia, and pursued rupee-based payment mechanisms to facilitate trade.
India’s Stand on Multiple Resolutions
In the face of over a dozen resolutions seeking to censure Russia for the invasion and consequent humanitarian crisis at platforms like the United Nation Security Council (UNSC), United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Human Rights Commission, India opted to abstain. The reasoning behind this was that India’s policy was driven by its national interests, dismissing expectations of taking sides.
Other Key Developments in India’s Foreign Policy in 2022
In 2022, India revived Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and signed trade agreements with the UAE and Australia, hoping to advance talks with the EU, Gulf Cooperation Council, and Canada. Additionally, India joined the U.S.-led Indo-Pacific Economic Forum (IPEF), though it decided to refrain from trade discussions later.
Fostering Relations with Neighbouring Countries
Notably, India’s foreign policy was characterized by economic assistance to Sri Lanka amid its economic collapse. Regional trade and energy agreements with Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal are major steps towards a South Asian energy grid. India has also reinforced relationships with Central Asian countries, intending to enhance connectivity and restart delayed projects like the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline.
Uncertainty in Relations with Repressive Regimes and Traditional Adversaries
India maintained open channels with contentious regimes such as Afghanistan’s Taliban and the Myanmar Junta and avoided criticism of Iran amidst massive protests. However, relations with Pakistan remain flat, marked by a significant showdown at the UN.
Continued Tensions at the LAC-China Standoff
While there was some disengagement at certain stand-off points in the Line of Actual Control (LAC)-China standoff, tensions remained high. An unsuccessful attempt by Chinese PLA to capture Indian posts ended the year, hinting at potential violent clashes in 2023.
Challenges Faced by India’s Foreign Policy
India is grappling with threats from the Pakistan-China strategic nexus, China’s aggressive actions, and balancing its relations with big powers. The country also faces a refugee crisis, posing the challenge of balancing human rights protection and national interest.
Looking Ahead: Shaping India’s Foreign Policy
India should aim to create an external environment conducive to inclusive development and ensure that its voice is heard on global forums regarding issues like terrorism, climate change, disarmament, and global governance reforms. It is essential to maintain flexibility and pragmatism to respond quickly to changing geopolitics. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, politics without principles and ethics would be disastrous, underscoring the need for ethical persuasion in India’s foreign policy.