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Modi’s Three Foreign Policy Wins

Core Content

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy over the past five years has been marked by a dynamic and assertive approach, despite his limited prior experience in this area. While his style has often been characterized by high-profile visits, media-friendly gestures, and a focus on global engagement, it has also yielded three significant achievements that are shaping India's strategic landscape.

Main Achievements

1. Engagement with Saudi Arabia and the UAE

• Context: For years, the Persian Gulf states were overlooked by India due to their perceived alignment with Pakistan and their subordination to Saudi Arabia.
• Modi's Initiative: Modi recognized the shifting dynamics in the Arab world and took a proactive approach to engage with Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
• Benefits: This engagement promises both political and economic advantages, especially in countering Islamist terrorism.
• Strategic Value: As India's international stature grows, the Gulf states are increasingly interested in India's success, enhancing India's regional influence.
• Balance: Modi has managed to deepen ties with these countries without entangling India in Gulf rivalries and while maintaining a constructive relationship with Iran.

2. Strengthening Ties with Japan

• Partnership Development: Relations with Japan have significantly improved, building on earlier efforts under Manmohan Singh.
• Personal Ties: The close relationship between Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has accelerated this partnership.
• Common Goals: Both leaders share concerns about China and are committed to promoting the "free and open Indo-Pacific."
• Collaboration: Japan views India as a crucial partner in balancing China's influence and strengthening the liberal order in Asia and globally.
• Challenges: India's bureaucratic inefficiencies, hostile business environment, and hesitancy towards China hinder the realization of a comprehensive partnership with Japan.

3. Sustaining the US-India Strategic Partnership

• Historical Context: The foundation of the US-India relationship was laid during Manmohan Singh's tenure, despite internal resistance.
• Modi's Role: Modi quickly recognized the strategic value of the US and worked to reinvigorate the partnership with a skeptical Obama administration.
• Current Dynamics: Under Trump, the relationship has faced challenges due to the US's transactional approach and hesitation on China-related issues.
• Importance: Despite these challenges, the US remains India's most important strategic partner, which is a testament to both countries and Modi's efforts.
• Future Outlook: For Modi or his successor, the next step is to build on this foundation and create a more robust and enduring partnership.

Key Information

• Modi's Style: His foreign policy is marked by high visibility and media engagement, which has helped elevate India's global profile.
• Strategic Focus: Modi's achievements focus on India's neighborhood (Gulf states and Japan) and its broader international relationships.
• Challenges: India faces hurdles in fully realizing the potential of its partnerships due to domestic issues and geopolitical complexities.
• Conclusion: These three achievements, while incomplete, are crucial for India's long-term strategic success and will continue to shape its foreign policy landscape.

Summary

Modi's foreign policy has not only enhanced India's global standing but also laid the groundwork for significant strategic partnerships with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Japan. These relationships are vital for India's economic and security interests, especially in the context of rising regional and global challenges. While the US remains India's most important strategic partner, the relationship has faced obstacles due to shifting US priorities. The success of Modi's foreign policy will depend on his ability to navigate these complexities and build on the momentum of these partnerships for the long term.