Author name: Tridivesh Singh Maini

Tridivesh Singh Maini is a New Delhi-based Policy Analyst. He is faculty member of OP Jindal Global University, Sonepat, Haryana.

Trump’s Tariffs, China’s Surplus, and a Shifting Global Order

Leave a Comment / SPOTLIGHT, World /

While it is true that, for now, Beijing has managed to navigate the turmoil and unpredictability arising from Trump’s tariffs, persistently large trade surpluses could strain China’s bilateral economic relations with multiple partners. While the global attention is focused on developments in Venezuela, turmoil in Iran and the growing rift between Saudi Arabia and the […]

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Beyond Security: India’s Border Trade Debate

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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 »

G20 Johannesburg: Diplomacy, Tensions and India’s Balance

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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

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Iran, BRICS and the Push for De-Dollarization

Leave a Comment / SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

From Vizag to Frankfurt: How Andhra Pradesh is Building Global Technology and Education Linkages

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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

From Vizag to Frankfurt: How Andhra Pradesh is Building Global Technology and Education Linkages Read More »

BRICS in Transition: Expansion, De-Dollarization, and the Growing Role of the New Development Bank

Leave a Comment / OPINION, World /

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

BRICS in Transition: Expansion, De-Dollarization, and the Growing Role of the New Development Bank Read More »

BRICS+ in Transition : Palestine’s Membership Push, India-Russia Ties, and U.S. Criticism

Leave a Comment / OPINION, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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

BRICS+ in Transition : Palestine’s Membership Push, India-Russia Ties, and U.S. Criticism Read More »

H-1B Visa Shock: Trump’s $100,000 Fee Hike and Its Fallout for India and the U.S.

Leave a Comment / OPINION, World /

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 »

Trump–Modi Exchanges: Balancing India–US Ties Amid BRICS Tensions

Leave a Comment / OPINION /

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 »

Scrapping OPT American Universities

American Dream in Doldrums: Scrapping OPT, International Students to Opt out of US Universities?

2 Comments / Education, OPINION /

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.

American Dream in Doldrums: Scrapping OPT, International Students to Opt out of US Universities? Read More »

Trump De-dollarisation BRICS

What Trump Needs to Understand about De-Dollarisation and BRICS

2 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

Trump Inauguration Universities Students

US Universities Caution International Students Before Trump’s Inauguration

3 Comments / Education, Politics, World /

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 »

Maximum Pressure Iran Trump

‘Maximum Pressure’ on Iran: The Trump Redux?

2 Comments / World /

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 »

Immigration Restrictionism Trumpist World

Golden Visas, H-1B, Restrictionism: The Immigration Crossroads in a Trumpist World

3 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

Trump 2.0 India tariff

Trump 2.0 and India: Trumping Tariff Tensions, Transactionalism Amidst Geopolitical Rebalancing

1 Comment / Economy, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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.

Trump 2.0 and India: Trumping Tariff Tensions, Transactionalism Amidst Geopolitical Rebalancing Read More »

Smog Punjab India-Pakistan

Smog Diplomacy, Punjab Centrality: India-Pakistan Thawing Relations May Address Punjab Woes

Leave a Comment / Economy, Politics, World /

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.

Smog Diplomacy, Punjab Centrality: India-Pakistan Thawing Relations May Address Punjab Woes Read More »

Harris Trump USA World Order

Harris vs Trump: The Battle for USA Amidst a Changing World Order

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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 »

Subianto Indonesian Foreign Policy

Subianto Takes the Indonesian Baton: The Road Ahead for its Economic & Foreign Policy

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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 »

US-Iran Tensions: Pezeshkian's Foreign Policy, EU Role, and the 2024 Election Impact

US-Iran Tensions: Pezeshkian’s Foreign Policy, EU Role, and the 2024 Election Impact

3 Comments / OPINION, World /

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 »

India Oman FTA Gulf

FTA with Oman Likely: Catapulting Gulf-India Synergies

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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 »

Tightrope Walk for Indonesia After Elections

Subianto’s Win in a Polarized World: Indonesia’s Balancing Act Must Continue

2 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

Iranian American Chinese Russian

The Iranian Playfield: American Hostilities, Chinese Investments, Russian Cooperation

3 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

Riyadh Active Neutrality USA

Riyadh’s ‘Active Neutrality’ at Play: SCO, OPEC+ and Proposed Defence Deal with USA

Leave a Comment / Politics, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

BJP Congress 2023 elections

BJP drubs Congress in Hindi Heartland, Congress Consolidates in the Peninsula: The Larger Trends in India’s Electoral Politics post-2023 Assembly Elections

Leave a Comment / Politics, SPOTLIGHT /

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.

BJP drubs Congress in Hindi Heartland, Congress Consolidates in the Peninsula: The Larger Trends in India’s Electoral Politics post-2023 Assembly Elections Read More »

Biden Trump 2024 geopolitics

Biden Vs Trump 2024: The Geopolitics of Russia-Ukraine & Israel-Hamas in USA’s Politics

1 Comment / Politics, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 Tehran Israel-Palestine Tensions

The Chinese Potential: Close Ties with Tehran, Dialing Down Israel-Palestine Tensions

Leave a Comment / SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

Saudi Swing Washington Beijing

Saudi Arabia’s Changing Foreign Policy: Becoming a ‘Swing State’ or Just a Swing from Washington to Beijing Camp?

2 Comments / Politics, World /

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.

Saudi Arabia’s Changing Foreign Policy: Becoming a ‘Swing State’ or Just a Swing from Washington to Beijing Camp? Read More »

Global Indian Students Education

The Future of India’s Future: Increasing Global Education Opportunities for Indian Students

2 Comments / Education, World /

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.

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US China Spy Ukraine

Ukraine Conflict, ‘Spy Balloon’ and Evolving US-China Relationship

Leave a Comment / Politics, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

Economic Linkages in South Asia

Vicious Cycle of Economic Slowdown in South Asia

3 Comments / Economy, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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. 

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Protectionist UK Indian Students

Protectionist UK Restricting Indian Students May Backfire

1 Comment / Education, Politics, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

Odisha sports tourism paradiplomacy

Odisha: A Guiding Light for Sports Tourism and Paradiplomacy

Leave a Comment / Sports, SPOTLIGHT /

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 »

G20 Dharamshala Northeast Tourism

G20, Dharamshala Declaration and Northeast: The Trident to Boost Incredible India’s Tourism

1 Comment / Culture, World /

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.

G20, Dharamshala Declaration and Northeast: The Trident to Boost Incredible India’s Tourism Read More »

North-East Festival: A Roadmap To Domestic And Global Ties

1 Comment / Culture, Society, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

Australia China Relationship Wong

Australia-China Bilateral Relationship: Penny Wong’s Visit to Beijing

1 Comment / Politics, World /

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 »

The Growth Story Of ASEAN Powers: Indonesia and Malaysia

6 Comments / Economy, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

The New Geopolitics of Global Education

The New Geopolitics Of Global Education

2 Comments / Education, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 »

China West Golden Era

China and West Cooperation: Is the Golden Era Over?

2 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

ASEAN Great Power Politics

ASEAN’s Foreign Policy: Managing The Great Power Politics

2 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

Pakistan China USA De-hyphenation

Pakistan’s China-USA Policy: De-hyphenation or Zero Sum?

1 Comment / Politics, World /

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 »

Odisha ASEAN Connect Paradiplomacy

The Rise of Paradiplomacy: Harnessing Odisha’s ASEAN Connect to Attract Investment

2 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

Saudi Arabia UAE Balancing

Saudi Arabia and UAE: Playing the Balancing Act

1 Comment / Politics, SPOTLIGHT, World /

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 on Cooperation Road

Iran and Venezuela on Cooperation Road

Leave a Comment / SPOTLIGHT /

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 »

Tightrope for Pakistan with USA and China

Blinken-Zardari Meet: A Tightrope for Pakistan with USA and China

1 Comment / Politics, World /

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 »

Pakistan Economy Political Turmoil

Political Turmoil and Strained Ties with the West: A Double Whammy for Pakistan’s Economy

3 Comments / SPOTLIGHT, World /

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.

Political Turmoil and Strained Ties with the West: A Double Whammy for Pakistan’s Economy Read More »

Russia-Ukraine Crisis_ A Big Boost for Iran

Russia-Ukraine Crisis: A Big Boost for Iranian Economy?

5 Comments / Politics, World /

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 »

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