Syllabus: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests
Background and Global Context
- The new year witnessed continued geopolitical turbulence driven by assertive actions of the United States administration.
- The United States undertook unlawful intervention in Venezuela, followed by regime change threats in South America.
- The United States announced intentions to annex Greenland, raising concerns about international norms.
- The U.S. Congress considered legislation proposing 500% tariffs on countries trading oil or uranium with Russia.
Regional Developments and External Pressures
- The United States intensified actions against Iran, including sanctions, protest-related rhetoric, and military threats.
- The U.S. proposed an additional 25% tariff on nations conducting trade with Iran.
- India faced pressure to halt operations at Chabahar Port, despite significant financial investments.
- Threats were also extended toward Cuba and Colombia, reflecting broader regional interventionism.
India’s Diplomatic Response
- The Ministry of External Affairs expressed “deep concern” regarding Venezuela without naming U.S. actions.
- Official statements avoided referencing violations of international law and sovereignty principles.
- The government issued travel advisories for Iran and Israel and prepared evacuation plans for students.
- Officials indicated further reduction of trade with Iran from already low levels.
Motivations Behind Policy Choices
- India sought improved ties after a tense year and stalled India–U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement.
- The U.S. Ambassador projected optimism through the proposed Pax Silica high-technology partnership.
- Authorities believed restrained diplomacy could prevent another downturn in bilateral relations.
Implications for India’s Interests
- Continued U.S. threats risk harming Indian citizens, trade, and economic stability.
- India faces potential reputational and diplomatic costs while preparing to host the BRICS+ Summit.
- The 2019 experience of halting Iranian and Venezuelan oil imports demonstrated limits of external appeasement.
Conclusion
- The article emphasizes that safeguarding national interests requires assertion of strategic autonomy, not compliance.
