It is important that the approach towards border states is not limited to a security perspective alone, but adopts a more holistic framework. While speaking in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House of Parliament), a BJP MP, Dorjee Tshering Lepcha, pushed for the re-opening of India–China land trade via Nathu-la in Sikkim, stating, “The border trade […]
Beyond Security: India’s Border Trade Debate Read More »
The US absence from the G20, even though it will be holding the presidency in 2026, clearly underlines the fact that Washington, under Trump, is likely to pay less attention to important multilateral forums. This may further push countries to re-examine their policies, seek alternative platforms, and even explore the possibility of new groupings. The
G20 Johannesburg: Diplomacy, Tensions and India’s Balance Read More »
The idea of a BRICS common currency, which is widely regarded as unfeasible, has not gained much traction, while trade in local currencies has gained momentum due to economic sanctions and a growing desire among countries to reduce their dependence upon the US Dollar. The use of cryptocurrencies, BRICS, and de-dollarisation, thus, cannot be understood
Iran, BRICS and the Push for De-Dollarization Read More »
While there is considerable scope for deepening cooperation between Andhra Pradesh and Germany in areas such as technology, agriculture, and infrastructure, both sides should also explore new frontiers in higher education, vocational training, and workforce mobility. Strengthening these linkages would not only help Andhra Pradesh build a globally skilled workforce but also address Germany’s demand
While the idea of a BRICS common currency has been ruled out by several member states, the organisation is now focusing on developing a common payment system for member countries. Apart from the Existing national payment systems like China’s Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS), and India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI), the New Development Bank is
While India recognizes the limitations of BRICS, and ties with the US remain important despite recent setbacks, it is likely to adopt an independent approach vis-à-vis BRICS. It is also important to understand that while the BRICS+ organisation has immense potential, there are several complexities that need to be understood. Developments within BRICS+ highlight its
Trump’s recent proclamation is likely to impact not just India but the US economy as well, so it is important to approach the issue without bias. It may also be premature to draw firm conclusions, as many believe that the Trump administration may reconsider the decision given its potential effects on the US economy. In
H-1B Visa Shock: Trump’s $100,000 Fee Hike and Its Fallout for India and the U.S. Read More »
Recent statements of Trump clearly indicate his attempt to undo the damage caused to ties with India. However, it is challenging to make any predictions regarding the US President’s future policy course. India, for its part, has followed a pragmatic approach by responding cautiously to earlier statements of Trump and senior officials in his administration.
Trump–Modi Exchanges: Balancing India–US Ties Amid BRICS Tensions Read More »
Beyond India-Japan ties: Agreements signed pertaining to cooperation between India and Japan are to be implemented effectively.
PM Modi in Japan: A New Chapter in India-Japan Strategic and Economic Ties Read More »
Japan’s outreach towards Africa is different from other countries i.e. cautious with the strong focus on areas linked to capacity building.
TICAD 9: Japan’s Smart Power Push in Africa Read More »
India, as Chair of BRICS, may be shaping global south agenda through reforms in multilateral institutions, technology, environment, etc.
BRICS and Beyond: India’s Foreign Policy Balancing Act Between Washington and Beijing Read More »
Amid Global Change, the Indonesia has attempted to successfully navigate a changing geopolitical and economic order.
Prabowo Subianto’s Pragmatic Diplomacy: How Indonesia Balances Geopolitics and Growth Read More »
Shifting Immigration Policy Landscape will have an enormous economic impact on several states and the changes would be felt soon.
Beyond the ‘Big 4’: Shifting Trends in Indian Migration and Remittances Read More »
Joint Efforts – Shared Future through healthy competition between states is a welcome trend and each must emulate each other’s successes.
Development Diplomacy: The South’s Investment Race and the Politics of Progress Read More »
For Indian students & professionals, the rethinking of global education trends is essential in changing education and immigration landscape.
Rethinking Global Education Trends Read More »
ASEAN member states’ engagement with BRICS: Opportunities and Roadblocks must be viewed realistically to see how do they engage.
ASEAN member states’ engagement with BRICS: Opportunities and Roadblocks Read More »
A spotlight on Singapore-China diplomatic voices shows speaking up against insular economic policies as well as growing global uncertainty.
Singapore-China Diplomatic Spotlight Read More »
Gulf Cooperation Council approval to unified GCC Grand tours visa, will enable seamless gulf travel experience to tourists to 6 countries.
Seamless Gulf Travel Experience Read More »
India’s cautious engagement during the upcoming BRICS Summit – remains to be seen if there is consensus on joint statement on terrorism.
India’s Cautious BRICS Engagement Read More »
Indonesia’s pragmatic foreign policy is evinced from its strong ties with the US, China and Japan simultaneously.
Indonesia’s Pragmatic Foreign Policy Read More »
Britain’s Immigration Control Initiative aim to check inflow of immigrants, those with qualifications & skills are likely to face no issues.
From London to Dubai: How Immigration Changes Are Redirecting Student Flows Read More »
BRICS+ Expansion and Strategic Realignment on economic issues and a sense of ‘Global South’ solidarity could bind the organisation.
BRICS+ Expansion and Strategic Realignment Read More »
Diplomatic Hopes and Violent Blows are visible from PM Modi’s visit to Saudi Arab and support from Middle East in strengthening relations.
Diplomatic Hopes and Violent Blows Read More »
De-Dollarization Gains Momentum as several countries may be attracted towards the BRICS+ grouping, while some may not want common currency.
De-Dollarization Gains Momentum Read More »
In recent years, while there has been a drop in the enrolment of Chinese students in US universities due to the deterioration of ties between both countries and some changes to the visa regime, the number of Indian students in the US has risen. However, the recommendation of a new bill introduced in the US Congress on March 25, 2025 – the Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act 2025 – to scrap the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program could result in a dip in Indian enrollment in US higher education institutions. It would be important to point out that US universities are also dependent upon international students, and with a dip in the enrolment of students from China, they have become more dependent upon Indian students.
Among different areas, investor engagements across states are focussing on cooperation in higher education and Artificial Intelligence.
Kerala Investors’ Summit 2025: A New Era of Growth, Cooperation, and Global Engagement Read More »
If Trump wants to make headway with Russia and China he needs to have a more realistic approach towards the BRICS organisation and economic linkages between the organization’s member states. While the domination of the US dollar is likely to stay, countries will look at all available options given the fast-changing nature of the global
What Trump Needs to Understand about De-Dollarisation and BRICS Read More »
Subianto’s Strategic India Visit is important not just in the bilateral context, but also in the broader Asian and global context.
India-Indonesia Ties in Focus: Prabowo’s Visit, BRICS & Trump’s Tariff Warnings Read More »
Political leaders from India were at Davos for economic push and highlight their economic potential and collaborative federalism.
‘Bharat First’ At Davos: Competitive Federalism Within Cooperative Federalism Read More »
Trump Team Immigration Rift is not just even on the incoming Trump administration’s China policy, there could be a divide in administration.
Cracks in Trump Camp: H-1B Visas, China as Points of Contention Read More »
US colleges and universities have asked international students to return to the US before the inauguration of Donald Trump. According to estimates, it is the 4,00,000 international students who are undocumented who may face serious problems. Students on F-1 and J-1 Visas are unlikely to face any problems. Significantly, during the election campaign, Trump had even mooted the idea of Green Cards to international students who graduate from US universities.
US Universities Caution International Students Before Trump’s Inauguration Read More »
Putin is preparing for talks with the incoming Trump administration for ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ukraine is understandably concerned about Trump agreeing to terms skewed in favour of Russia. Many believe that Trump is likely to continue with his “maximum pressure” policy on Iran. At the same time, it is important to bear in mind that Saudi Arabia’s ties with Iran have improved in recent years as mentioned earlier, despite some differences, and Russia’s proximity with Iran has increased as well. Iran and Russia have also been working together to circumvent US sanctions.
‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran: The Trump Redux? Read More »
If one were to go by the US President-elect’s campaign speeches, he is not opposed to immigration per se but illegal immigration. During his last stint, Trump introduced several changes to the H-1B visa regulations. The biggest beneficiaries of the H-1B are Indian professionals. One of the important changes that have taken place since Trump’s
Golden Visas, H-1B, Restrictionism: The Immigration Crossroads in a Trumpist World Read More »
It is tough to make any predictions regarding Trump 2.0. While some commentators believe that his policies will be as disruptionist as in his previous stint, others are of the opinion that he may be transactional but less unpredictable. During the presidential campaign, Trump had said that he would impose tariffs on countries which are trading in non-dollar currencies. It remains to be seen if he goes ahead with such measures given that several countries with close links to the US, including India, have been favouring de-dollarisation. It also remains to be seen how Trump 2.0 would perceive the Chabahar project given the current turmoil in the Middle East.
Chief Minister of Pakistan Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, recently underscored the need for greater cooperation between both Punjabs to counter the challenge of smog. Earlier this year, while speaking to Sikh pilgrims from India at Kartarpur Sahib, she had underscored the importance of ‘Punjabiyat’. The Punjabs on both sides have played an important role in people-to-people, cultural as well as economic linkages between both countries. Since 2019, when trade links between India and Pakistan, via the Wagah-Attari land crossing, were discontinued, there have been significant job losses resulting in a major setback to the border districts of Punjab (India). Maryam Nawaz’s remarks have raised hopes of resumption of engagement – albeit incremental – between both countries via the Punjabs.
The November 5 US elections is likely to be a close one and could swing either way. The US foreign policy is likely to be driven by ground realities and will remain the same on fundamental issues. Going by his election campaign and his previous tenure as President, Donald Trump could be more isolationist – especially on economic issues. Unlike Donald Trump, Kamala Harris is unlikely to ruffle feathers with allies and partners over economic issues, though she could be more vocal on issues of human rights and freedoms even vis-à-vis friendly countries.
Harris vs Trump: The Battle for USA Amidst a Changing World Order Read More »
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was sworn in as the Eighth President of Indonesia on Sunday — October 21, 2024. He takes over at a time when the ASEAN country is passing through an important phase. On the one hand, Prabowo needs to ensure that Indonesia’s economy remains on track. On the other, he needs to
Subianto Takes the Indonesian Baton: The Road Ahead for its Economic & Foreign Policy Read More »
Ratan Tata is known for his balancing acts of ambition and morality and even his harshest critics can’t ignore his positive attributes.
Ratan Tata: The Leader Who Balanced Ambition With Morality Read More »
S. Jaishankar plans to visit Pakistan for SCO; India’s neighbourhood undergoing recalibration, renewed outreach amidst Indo-China geopolitics
India’s Neighbourhood: Recalibration, Renewed Outreach Amidst Indo-China Geopolitics Read More »
Ensuring Equitable Economic Growth through important investments in different states so that they emerge as drivers of India’s growth.
Competitive Federalism, States Attracting FDI: Key to India’s Inclusive Growth Story Read More »
Understanding the importance of UAE in the Middle East – especially in the current geopolitical situation US strengthen ties.
Pakistan Faces Pipeline Deadline Dilemma comes at a time when it faces several other challenges – in the economic and foreign policy sphere.
Pipeline Dilemma: Pakistan’s Balancing Act Amid US Sanctions and Iran Tensions Read More »
Para-diplomacy gains Indian Traction and the role of states in drawing FDI and coordination with the centre needs to be proactive.
Recent developments strengthen Malaysia and India ties and cooperation in digitalisation, semiconductors and Artificial Intelligence.
Strengthening Ties Amid Geopolitical Shifts: Anwar Ibrahim’s Landmark Visit to India Read More »
Trump’s foreign policy challenges will include that countries which have gone in for “de-dollarisation” should be penalised.
Trump’s Foreign Policy Dilemma: Navigating Global Challenges Amidst Shifting Alliances Read More »
Iran’s pragmatic engagement strategy takes care of turbulence in Middle East, US, China interventions, while balancing New Delhi-Tehran ties.
While analysts remain skeptical about the reduction of US-Iran tensions under a possible Trump presidency, the possibility of Trump altering his approach towards Iran cannot be ruled out. In an article titled “My Message to the New World” which appeared in Tehran Times (July 12, 2024), Iranian President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian criticized the European Union (EU)
US-Iran Tensions: Pezeshkian’s Foreign Policy, EU Role, and the 2024 Election Impact Read More »
There is a rise of populism worldwide while tactical compromises on certain policy issues may draw flak they become inevitable.
Left-Right-Centre: 2024 is Swinging the World Read More »
Naidu – Reddy appear to cooperate to resolve and exchange views on crucial policy matters and let the state benefit from the same.
Collaborative Federalism at Display: Naidu-Reddy A Healthy Trend Read More »
Broadening Singapore’s Dream Vision: Singapore to reorient its policies to a generational shift domestically and a changing world.
Dreaming Beyond Economic Progress: The Case of Singapore & UAE Read More »
Diplomacy and Pragmatism in India-Pakistan Ties must be practiced in a cautious, low key and incremental manner for global peace.
Nawaz Sharif’s Call for Introspection Fuels Debate on India-Pakistan Relations Read More »
Punjab’s crucial diplomatic role is visible between India and Pakistan in reviving economic linkages between India and Pakistan.
Navigating Strained Ties: Punjab’s Influence on India-Pakistan Trade Resumption Read More »
India has recently signed a 10-year landmark deal with Iran to take over the Chabahar Port Operations, risking US economic sanctions.
Malaysia’s pragmatic diplomatic stand is evident from its criticism of US policies vis-a-vis Beijing while relationship with Washington DC.
Malaysia’s Tiptoe: Exploiting US-China Rivalry & Pragmatic Diplomacy Read More »
Dhaka’s economic success and foreign policy are cultivating robust economic relations with major economies including Pakistan and India.
New Zealand Immigration Reforms are strengthening the link between geopolitics and immigration as well as the higher education sphere.
New Zealand’s Visa Reforms: Changing Global Landscape on Education and Work Read More »
The India-Oman CEPA will give a significant boost to bilateral trade between both countries. It will help Oman achieve its objective of reducing its dependence upon oil. The Gulf nation, which is strategically located near the oil transit point of the Strait of Hormuz, is especially important for Indian businesses — since they can set up manufacturing facilities and leverage Oman’s location and other advantages for exports to other West Asian nations and Europe.
FTA with Oman Likely: Catapulting Gulf-India Synergies Read More »
Gulf-Africa Economic Dynamics is important to study as it will economically benefit and also provide alternatives beyond China and the US.
Gulf’s Outreach to Africa: The Geoeconomics and Geostrategy of the Deepening Ties Read More »
While it is an uphill task, Indonesia under Subianto will need to stick to a balanced foreign policy, which is nimble and deft, given the ASEAN nation’s economic and strategic interests. The ability to successfully walk a tightrope between the US and China and on other complex issues will depend upon several factors.
Subianto’s Win in a Polarized World: Indonesia’s Balancing Act Must Continue Read More »
US-ASEAN ties in a possible Trump Presidency are to be speculated as there are serious implications of the likely developments.
A Possible Trump Presidency: Impact On US-ASEAN Ties Read More »
Saudi Arabia’s Global Diplomacy is evident from its domestic policies, economic and social reforms in respect to the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Zelenskyy Visits Riyadh: Saudi’s Deft Diplomacy Read More »
The US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal led to closer ties between Iran, China, and Russia. China pledged $400 billion in investments, but remains cautious due to US sanctions. Iran must balance these alliances to avoid over-dependence and navigate the geopolitical landscape with flexibility and pragmatism.
The Iranian Playfield: American Hostilities, Chinese Investments, Russian Cooperation Read More »
In March 2023, Riyadh entered the China-led Shanghai Cooperation Organization as a dialogue partner. Saudi Arabia had also signed a Beijing-mediated agreement with Iran to resume diplomatic ties. The Gulf nation has played an important part along with Russia in the OPEC+ cuts in oil production much to the displeasure of Washington DC. Yet, in recent days, Saudi Arabia has been pushing for getting a defence pact with the US ratified before the US election of 2024.
Riyadh’s ‘Active Neutrality’ at Play: SCO, OPEC+ and Proposed Defence Deal with USA Read More »
The timing of China accepting the credentials of the Afghan ambassador, appointed by the Taliban, also comes at a time when ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan have witnessed a significant deterioration.
Blossoming China-Afghanistan Ties, Deepening Faultlines in Af-Pak Read More »
National issues and leadership cannot be relegated totally to the sidelines in assembly elections, even though it is not possible to win state elections without strong regional leaders. What is clear from the election results of the MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Telangana is that welfare schemes, which often draw strong criticism from certain commentators, strike a chord with the voter. All political outfits have also begun to focus on welfare schemes specifically targeted at women.
A recent poll by The New York Times and Siena College found former President Donald Trump leading over President Joe Biden in five key swing states for a potential 2024 presidential election match-up. The poll suggests Biden is losing support among young and black voters, and despite improvements in economic indicators, voters appear pessimistic about the US economy. Trump’s potential win could have significant implications for the ongoing geopolitical conflicts in Russia-Ukraine and the Middle East.
Biden Vs Trump 2024: The Geopolitics of Russia-Ukraine & Israel-Hamas in USA’s Politics Read More »
Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, urges Israel to respect international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and ensure Chinese interests in Israel. Amid tensions following Hamas’s multi-pronged attack, China criticizes the killing of civilians but avoids condemning Hamas. As the conflict escalates, upcoming meetings between Wang Yi and US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, could present opportunities for dialogue. Despite increasing aggression from Iran, China’s influence in the Middle East could potentially help mitigate the situation.
The Chinese Potential: Close Ties with Tehran, Dialing Down Israel-Palestine Tensions Read More »
Stellar performance of Afghanistan currency calls for global community needs to be pragmatic and nuanced to ensure that Afghans do not suffer.
Stellar Performance of Afghanistan Currency Read More »
Japan-Nepal Soft Power indicates Japan’s commitment and role in the development of not just Nepal, but also other developing countries.
Japan-Nepal Ties: Emerging Diplomacy & Development Read More »
Mr. Ajaypal Singh Banga – New President of the World Bank from May 2023 is part of ‘Great Immigrant list’ of Carnegie Corporation of New York.
Mastercard CEO To The President of the World Bank- Shining Indians Read More »
Saudi Arabia is looking to enhance its strategic and economic clout globally. Riyadh has been showing interest in China-dominated organizations SCO and BRICS. Saudi has already joined SCO as a dialogue partner and has applied for membership in BRICS. However, its relationship with US is still economically and strategically important. US has a strong military presence in Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries. Further, Saudi Arabia’s economic and strategic interests on key issues could diverge from both Beijing and Moscow.
In recent years, several changes have taken place in the Indian and global landscape, which students seeking to pursue higher education overseas, as well as in India cannot ignore. Some overseas universities are likely to set up campuses in India. The West is seeking to attract more Indian students as a result of strained ties with China. In the imminent future, there will be many more joint programs between Indian institutions and overseas educational institutions. And most importantly, the focus will now be on technological skills and languages and not degrees. It is important for parents also to bring about a change in mindset.
Changing paradigm of BRICS witnesses collaboration on several issues amongst BRICS, mere ‘Anti-US’/anti-western posturing is not sufficient.
Changing Paradigm of BRICS: Growing Global Clout or Just an ‘Anti-West’ Platform? Read More »
In recent weeks, tensions between Beijing and Washington seem to have escalated after the incident of an ‘alleged’ Chinese spy balloon being spotted in US airspace. The Biden Administration may not want ties with China to deteriorate further and it may also seek to find common ground on important global issues. It is likely however to continue with its tough economic stance vis-à-vis China in the run-up to the 2024 US presidential election. The important factors which will influence the trajectory of the Washington-Beijing relationship are the course of the Russia-Ukraine war and China’s stance on the same as well as China’s approach towards Taiwan.
Ukraine Conflict, ‘Spy Balloon’ and Evolving US-China Relationship Read More »
Iran China Russia triangle is likely to grow due to the down sliding of the US-China ties and Iran’s economy facing serious challenges.
Raisi’s Visit & Growing China-Iran Relations: A Bridge Or A Threat to the West? Read More »
Sri Lanka and Pakistan are dealing with serious economic crises. Apart from serious domestic issues like shortage of essential commodities, and power cuts, both countries have meagre foreign exchange reserves. The excessive dependence on China is the main reason for the increasing debt trap. Both countries also had to seek International Monetary Fund (IMF) assistance despite domestic opposition against the conditionalities imposed by the IMF. It is important for South Asian countries to work towards more robust economic linkages within the region and to shed dependence upon external assistance.
Vicious Cycle of Economic Slowdown in South Asia Read More »
Limiting the number of students from India or changing rules pertaining to the graduate post-study work visa will make the United Kingdom a less attractive destination for higher education for Indian students. The UK needs to understand that Indian students contribute significantly to the UK economy, not just in the form of tuition fees, but also through their talent and skills.
Protectionist UK Restricting Indian Students May Backfire Read More »
Hosting the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2023, Odisha is the first state in India to host the event for the second time in a row. This is an important feat and highlights the fact that Odisha — along with Punjab — has emerged as a key nursery for Indian hockey. Odisha’s focus on sports, especially hockey, also shows that every state should create its own template for economic prosperity and give a boost to tourism. Its success in hockey, where all stakeholders have worked in harmony, is important not just from the dimension of sports but also economy and para-diplomacy. Other states should seek to emulate its success!
Odisha: A Guiding Light for Sports Tourism and Paradiplomacy Read More »
Ties between India and Pakistan are complex. Dictated by geopolitical factors and domestic politics, it is tough for any third country to really bring about a dramatic change in the short run. In recent years, Gulf countries have been playing an important role in reducing tensions between India and Pakistan.
India-Pakistan: Scope Of Soft Diplomacy Read More »
There is no doubt that India’s Presidency of the G20 is an important opportunity for India to give a strong boost to its tourism sector. This will give a much-needed fillip to the country’s hospitality industry and the economy. Showcasing cities which do not get the attention they deserve and a greater focus on the North-Eastern region, by holding meetings there, is a welcome step.
North-East Festival is a festival that celebrates the beauty, diversity, and integrity of North-East India. The USP of this festival is the way in which we seamlessly integrate elements of social cohesion, cultural heritage, and economic welfare, making them an immersive experience for all. This also seeks to give a fillip to ties between North Eastern India and the increasingly important ASEAN region. The festival is important for a number of reasons. First, it highlights aspects of the region’s culture and economy that residents in other parts of India are not familiar with. Second, it can give a boost to tourism in the region. Third, it can open up new horizons for entrepreneurs from North Eastern India, and the rest of the country.
North-East Festival: A Roadmap To Domestic And Global Ties Read More »
The visit of the Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, to China could pave the way for reducing tensions between both countries, though it would be unrealistic to expect substantial progress in the short run. Any thaw between both countries will require a significant course correction in Xi Jinping’s foreign policy, which so far has been fundamentally different from that of his predecessors.
Australia-China Bilateral Relationship: Penny Wong’s Visit to Beijing Read More »
While the Malaysian economy has been adversely impacted as a result of political instability, the Indonesian economy has benefited immensely from political stability. Also, Malaysia has been lagging behind Indonesia in terms of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). But still Malaysia continues to be one of the most attractive investment destinations in ASEAN.
The Growth Story Of ASEAN Powers: Indonesia and Malaysia Read More »
Geopolitical issues have affected the people-to-people links and higher education adversely. While the UK, like other developed countries in the West, is keen to attract talented professionals as well as students who could contribute positively towards its economy, it is mooting the idea of restricting the inflow of international students who get admitted into ‘low-quality degrees’, and also bring in their dependents through the student visa route. On the other hand, Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy makes a clear reference to strengthening people-to-people contact with different parts of Asia and seeks to enhance Canada’s international student program with permanent residence and job opportunities for students from the Indo-Pacific.
The New Geopolitics Of Global Education Read More »
It is important that China and the West ensure that their relations do not slide further. It is important for both sides to refrain from a zero-sum approach and that they cooperate on important global issues. At the same time, countries wary of China’s increasingly aggressive behaviour, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, need to come up with a cohesive strategic and economic vision to counter the same.
China and West Cooperation: Is the Golden Era Over? Read More »
It is true that the US needs to strike a balance between domestic priorities and its global commitments, but it cannot have meaningful engagement with the rest of the world, including ASEAN, if it is insular on economic issues. In other words, the US needs to realize that both ‘America First’ and globalisation – with some checks – can co-exist.
America is Back – Or is it? Read More »
ASEAN is likely to be the driver of economic growth in the imminent future. While a number of ASEAN member states have stated that they do not subscribe to the US vision of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific, they are also aware of China’s increasingly expansionist tendencies and its aggressive stance over the South China Sea Issue. While ASEAN has numerous opportunities, it needs to ensure that differences within the bloc do not impact its functioning.
ASEAN’s Foreign Policy: Managing The Great Power Politics Read More »
In order to put its economy back on the rails, Pakistan needs to maintain good relations not just with China, but also put its bilateral ties with the US back on the rails. Given the deterioration in Washington-Beijing ties, it remains to be seen if Islamabad can manage the same. While Pakistan, like many other countries, has said that it does not want to be pushed into making any choices, it remains to be seen whether this will be possible in the changing geopolitical landscape.
Pakistan’s China-USA Policy: De-hyphenation or Zero Sum? Read More »
There has been a paradigm shift in practices of wooing investors for boosting the economy. States have been attempting through special summits. Indonesia and Odisha have shared historical links. Every year in November, the festival of ‘Bali Yatra’ celebrated commemorates the maritime history of Odisha and Bali (Indonesia). In this regard, India’s outreach and connectivity vis-à-vis ASEAN should focus on harnessing the historical linkages and geographical advantages which states possess with respect to the ASEAN region.
The Rise of Paradiplomacy: Harnessing Odisha’s ASEAN Connect to Attract Investment Read More »
Two Gulf countries – Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAE) – have re-oriented their external relations significantly in recent years. The improvement in ties between both these Gulf countries, especially UAE, and Israel is a strong reiteration of the same. UAE along with Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan normalised ties with Israel via the Abraham accords signed in 2020. Even at a global level, not just the Middle East, both Saudi Arabia and UAE are trying to re-position their foreign policy. One important change has been the strengthening of UAE-China and Saudi Arabia-China relations, much to the discomfort of the US.
Saudi Arabia and UAE: Playing the Balancing Act Read More »
Iran and Venezuela recently signed a 20-year agreement that sought to strengthen cooperation in a number of areas – though the focus of the agreement is on bolstering ties in the finance and energy sectors. The agreement will be closely watched by the West since both countries have been facing US sanctions and have repeatedly lashed out at western imperialism. While Venezuela and Iran share close ties with Russia and China, the agreement sends a strong message that the countries that are part of the Russia-China camp need to have an independent foreign policy and economic vision.
Iran and Venezuela on Cooperation Road Read More »
During the May 18 meeting, both Blinken and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari focused on strengthening not just US-Pakistan security ties but also economic linkages. The US could nudge IMF towards imposing less stringent conditionalities on Pakistan in order to prevent political instability. The US remains an important destination for Pakistani exports and this is one of the reasons why the business community in Pakistan, along with the Pakistan army as well as the political class, was not particularly comfortable with former PM Imran Khan’s rhetoric against the West, in general, and the US, in particular. There is a growing realization in Pakistan that while ties with Beijing may be important, it can not afford to allow relations with the US to deteriorate any further.
Blinken-Zardari Meet: A Tightrope for Pakistan with USA and China Read More »
Apart from Pakistan’s army and opposition political outfits, the business lobbies in Pakistan have been flagging the point that strained ties with the US and the EU will have an adverse impact on Pakistan’s economy. While the Pakistan Army Chief, Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa, had alluded to the importance of Pakistan’s ties with the US in his address on April 2, 2022, Pakistan’s business has expressed its apprehensions with regard to the current political situation and the potential souring of ties with the West, in general, and the US, in particular. The current economic crisis in Sri Lanka also underscores the pitfalls of being excessively dependent upon China and the need for an astute foreign policy.
While analysts focus on wrangling between great powers, the economic and geopolitical relevance of countries like Iran often gets relegated to the sidelines. The revival of the JCPOA, and closer economic ties between Tehran and the West, especially the purchase of Iranian oil by the US and other western countries, could actually result in Tehran re-orienting its foreign policy. If Iran and other signatories do manage to come up with an agreement, Iran’s sagging economy could get a big boost.
Russia-Ukraine Crisis: A Big Boost for Iranian Economy? Read More »
