The recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit held in Tianjin, China, showcased a powerful image: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi holding hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visual cliché transcends mere symbolism; it reflects the intricate web of alliances and tensions that characterize the current geopolitical landscape.
A Shifting Paradigm in India-China Relations
India’s relationship with China has been rocky, particularly following the deadly border clashes in 2020 that triggered a prolonged standoff between these two nuclear-armed giants. However, in recent months, New Delhi has made significant strides toward rebuilding ties with Beijing. The SCO platform provided an opportunity to signal a thawing of relations, although deep-seated grievances remain unresolved.
The diplomatic dance between India and China is emblematic of New Delhi’s desire to engage with major powers while seeking its own strategic autonomy. India’s stance is particularly salient in light of expanding tensions in the Indo-Pacific region and the need for regional stability.
Balancing Acts and Energy Partnerships
While striving to mend relations with China, India remains steadfast in its energy and defense partnership with Russia, igniting criticism from Western nations. In a world increasingly dominated by US-China tensions, India’s approach underscores its multi-alignment strategy—navigating complex dynamics while avoiding overt alignments.
Modi’s trip to China coincided with a period of strained US-India relations, exacerbated by increased tariffs on Indian goods by the Trump administration. This move not only affected India economically but also placed additional pressure on the longstanding partnership that both countries have cultivated.
India’s Diplomatic Strategy: Multi-Alignment
Indian foreign policy experts emphasize that New Delhi is not discarding its ties with Washington but rather attempting to balance competing pressures. Former envoy Meera Shankar describes this balancing act as a form of strategic autonomy, asserting that India is navigating these treacherous waters without succumbing to pressures from either side.
As tensions with the US deepen, the emphasis on cultivating relations with both Russia and China serves a dual purpose: it strengthens India’s bargaining position while maintaining essential partnerships. Shankar notes that disruptions in US-India ties could adversely affect both nations’ aspirations for a stable balance in Asia.
Navigating the Tightrope
India’s approach is neither confrontational nor submissive. The country aims to engage with significant powers while asserting its right to formulate independent policies. Amitabh Mattoo, dean at Jawaharlal Nehru University, aptly characterizes this as “walking a diplomatic tightrope.” Here, India seeks to hedge its bets and maintain its autonomy, recognizing that its relationship with the US remains vital despite current challenges.
The notion that India is drifting toward closer ties with China and Russia is misleading. While the outreach signifies a willingness to engage, it does not equate to a naïve alignment. The real objective is to navigate a multipolar world while retaining ties with all major world powers.
The Indispensable US Partnership
Despite the current strain, experts point out that a prolonged diplomatic impasse with the US is unsustainable for India. Sreeram Chaulia, a prominent academic, warns that India acknowledges the strategic partnership with the US as indispensable for navigating global complexities. The US remains pivotal in technological, military, and geopolitical realms.
This sentiment is echoed by Harsh Vardhan Shringla, a former Indian foreign secretary, who asserts that the bilateral relationship transcends immediate political and economic frictions. Both nations recognize the necessity of cooperation in an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape.
The Road Ahead
As India intensifies its efforts to engage with China and Russia, the path forward remains laden with complexities. The specter of tariffs, economic downturns, and job losses looms large over the relationship with the US. Yet, practical considerations dictate that friction is a luxury neither nation can afford.
In light of this intricate geopolitical tableau, India’s commitment to strategic autonomy and multi-alignment shines through. The nation’s ability to leverage relationships while remaining true to its interests is paramount in shaping its future on the world stage.
The unfolding dynamics within the SCO and the wider global context underscore the resilience and adaptability of India’s foreign policy. As the landscape changes, India’s strategic choices will continue to influence its alliances and the balance of power in Asia and beyond.