
(By Nilesh Shukla)
The Narendra Modi government has faced persistent criticism from opposition parties and critics over its handling of foreign relations, particularly with neighboring countries such as Pakistan and China. These critics argue that strained relations with these nations adversely impact India’s export-import business and overall economy. However, India’s past efforts to foster better relations with these countries have often been met with challenges, necessitating a more strategic approach under Modi’s leadership.
Historical Context: Lessons from the Past
India has long strived to establish peaceful and cooperative relations with its neighbors. During Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure as Prime Minister, a notable attempt was made to strengthen ties with Pakistan. Vajpayee’s historic bus journey to Lahore in 1999 symbolized India’s goodwill and commitment to peace. However, the Kargil War, orchestrated by then-Pakistani military chief Pervez Musharraf, shattered these aspirations. This experience underscored the duplicity that can sometimes characterize international relations.
Narendra Modi, known for his pragmatic and assertive approach, has adopted a more cautious yet strategic stance in dealing with Pakistan and China. Recognizing the complexities of geopolitics, Modi has leveraged diplomacy, regional partnerships, and strategic outreach to safeguard India’s interests.
Strategic Engagement with Afghanistan
A significant development in India’s foreign policy has been its recent outreach to the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan. This marks a shift from India’s earlier reluctance to engage with the Taliban. In a historic meeting in Dubai, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with the Taliban’s Acting Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi. This engagement highlighted India’s readiness to address Afghanistan’s urgent developmental needs and reaffirmed its commitment to the Afghan people.
During the meeting, India’s humanitarian assistance, including shipments of wheat, medicine, and other essentials, was acknowledged and appreciated by the Afghan side. India’s emphasis on its historic friendship with Afghanistan and strong people-to-people ties further reinforced its goodwill.
Beyond humanitarian aid, the discussions also covered critical regional security concerns. India conveyed its apprehensions regarding the presence of Pakistan-based terrorist groups in Afghanistan, while the Afghan side acknowledged these security issues. By engaging with the Taliban, India aims to prevent Afghanistan from becoming a safe haven for terrorist activities against India.
Countering Pakistan and China’s Influence
India’s engagement with the Taliban serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it seeks to limit Pakistan’s influence in Afghanistan. Historically, Pakistan has sought to leverage its ties with the Taliban to advance its strategic interests in the region. However, India’s proactive outreach challenges this dominance, signaling to Pakistan that India remains a key player in Afghanistan’s reconstruction and development.
Secondly, India’s move is aimed at countering China’s growing presence in Afghanistan and the broader region. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its strategic investments in Afghanistan pose a challenge to India’s regional interests. By strengthening ties with Afghanistan, India is not only securing its economic and security interests but also sending a clear message to China that it will actively defend its strategic space.
Development Projects and Humanitarian Efforts
India’s involvement in Afghanistan’s development has been multifaceted. Notable projects include the Salma Dam, a $290-million initiative that generates 42 MW of power and supports irrigation. India has also constructed a strategic road in the Nimroz province, connecting Delaram to Zaranj, enhancing regional connectivity. Additionally, India has provided scholarships to Afghan students and organized capacity-building programs for Afghan civil servants, diplomats, and police personnel.
These initiatives underscore India’s long-term commitment to Afghanistan’s stability and development, while simultaneously enhancing its soft power in the region.
Reactions from Pakistan and China
The reactions from Pakistan and China to India’s strategic engagement with Afghanistan are likely to be nuanced. While Pakistan may initially welcome India’s dialogue with the Taliban, it is likely to view India’s growing influence in Afghanistan with suspicion. For Pakistan, India’s active involvement represents a challenge to its traditional dominance over Afghan affairs.
China, on the other hand, might see India’s outreach as both a challenge and an opportunity. While it may perceive India’s engagement as a counterbalance to its own influence, China’s broader strategic objectives could lead it to seek areas of cooperation with India in Afghanistan.
A Masterstroke in Regional Diplomacy
India’s outreach to the Taliban represents a calculated and strategic move in its foreign policy. By engaging directly with the Taliban, India has demonstrated its willingness to adapt to changing geopolitical realities and prioritize its national interests. This approach not only strengthens India’s position in Afghanistan but also compels Pakistan and China to reassess their strategies in the region.
The Modi government’s diplomatic initiatives underline a broader vision for regional stability and cooperation. While challenges persist, India’s proactive engagement and commitment to Afghanistan’s development serve as a testament to its resilience and strategic acumen.
Criticism of the Modi government’s foreign policy often overlooks the complexities of geopolitics and the challenges of dealing with adversarial neighbors. India’s outreach to Afghanistan and its strategic engagement with the Taliban exemplify a nuanced and forward-thinking approach. By balancing humanitarian efforts with strategic interests, India is reinforcing its role as a regional leader and sending a clear message to Pakistan and China. India will remain vigilant, resilient, and proactive in defending its interests and fostering regional stability.