📷 Image Credits: EurAsian Times
In the evolving global power structure since the early 2010s, China and Russia have formed a strong alliance to counter the hegemonic influence of the United States. This alliance is rooted in collaborations in military exercises, defense agreements, and economic relations, particularly in energy and natural resources. The strategic partnership between China and Russia challenges US dominance and aims to create a multipolar world order. However, for India, this alliance poses a significant challenge in navigating an increasingly unstable international landscape.
India finds itself facing a changing geopolitical scenario where a multipolar world with a strategically relevant Russian pole serves its interests best. Despite its historical defense ties with Russia, India is cautious about the growing closeness between Russia and China. This friendship may marginalize India in regional infrastructure projects and diminish its influence in global forums. As a result, India needs to recalibrate its foreign policy to align with its national interests.
With the emergence of the China-Russia alliance and India’s strategic aspirations, the dynamics in regional and global politics are shifting. India’s vision of a multipolar world order differs from the anti-Western bloc sought by Russia and China. While India emphasizes multi-alignment and constructive partnerships, the China-Russia-Iran-North Korea grouping focuses on countering the West. This contrast highlights the complexities of the alliances and poses challenges for India’s strategic outlook.
India’s dependence on Russian defense technology and spare parts is a crucial aspect of its foreign policy. Despite Russia’s growing reliance on China, Moscow has not taken aggressive actions against India. The Indo-Russia alliance has seen several initiatives to enhance bilateral ties, including trade partnerships, joint ventures, and technology collaborations. Clear evidence of Russia’s recognition of India as a significant partner is seen through these efforts.
As India steers through the current international dynamics, it aims to maintain a balanced relationship with the US, Russia, and China. By leveraging partnerships and managing divergences, India seeks to secure its national interests in a multipolar world. The strategic autonomy and flexibility in foreign policy decisions are crucial for India as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of the global order in the 21st century.
