Several nations are turning their attention to India as a means to navigate around the China-West dichotomy. India stands out as unique, and the G20 is viewed not merely as a non-alignment moment but as a re-alignment moment. Many countries are wary of being caught in the crossfire of the China-West dichotomy; they are focused on developing their nations, ensuring security, and pursuing objectives similar to those of India. The Indian economy is highly compatible with numerous economies worldwide. Consequently, India has the potential to provide a model, along with technologies and techniques, that sidestep the authoritarian communist system and the Western model. This approach allows countries to chart their own course while fostering collaboration, Cleo Paskal, a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies in Washington, DC, told StratNews Global, a sister digital platform of BharatShakti.
India can share its expertise in the Pacific region, offering a pathway that avoids the constraints imposed by the two dominant dichotomies. Paskal emphasised the importance of engagement, particularly in the education, health and private sectors. This approach enables India to facilitate people-to-people interactions. She explained that such engagements are vital for Southeast Asian nations facing challenges in presenting a unified front against China’s assertiveness. She underscores the need for India to actively engage with smaller Pacific Island nations, providing them with a credible alternative to withstand Chinese pressure.
Promising India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMAC) Entangled in Present Middle East Turmoil in China’s Favour
Discussing China’s advantages in the current Middle East scenario, Pascal highlighted the promising concept of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMAC) as a strategic move to sidestep the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, recent developments have put the IMAC project in a precarious position. Investors conducting a cost-benefit analysis now find it less appealing due to the escalating situation.
Qatar Naval Incident Adds Complexity
The incident involving Indian naval officers in Qatar has introduced a new layer of complexity. The uncertainty surrounding the charges, rumoured to be linked to Israel, triggers concerns of potential anti-Semitic sentiments. This narrative not only dampens the enthusiasm of Indians to work in these locations but also makes employers in the region hesitant to hire Indians, creating a ripple effect. Examining the broader picture in the Middle East, beyond the conflicts, reveals a narrative that plays in China’s favour.
Pascal observes that a country’s stance towards India often reflects its level of concern about China. Nations deeply worried about China’s influence recognise the significance of India, while those less concerned may engage in actions that create friction with India, inadvertently benefiting China in the process.
Note: Click the following web link to watch the full interview
‘Fentanyl Is China’s Chemical Warfare Ops Against US’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CeWSsej3xHk
Team BharatShakti