India’s Diplomatic Engagements 

Syllabus:GS2/IR

In News

2024 was marked by a series of incoming and outgoing visits, with significant emphasis on global insecurity and neighborhood shocks, especially in Bangladesh.

High Points in External Relations:

• China: Disengagement negotiations at the Line of Actual Control were the most difficult.
  • The first formal Modi-Xi meeting in five years marked a turning point.
• France: French President Emmanuel Macron attended Republic Day, reaffirming strong bilateral ties.
• European Free Trade: The India-European Free Trade Association agreement was concluded, India’s first with Europe.
• Neighborhood Diplomacy: Visits by leaders of neighboring countries, including Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, strengthened ties.
  • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan for the SCO summit was significant.

Challenges for India in 2024:

• Bangladesh: The estrangement of Bangladesh after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s political upheaval was a significant shock.
• Canada: Diplomatic ties soured due to allegations of Indian involvement in the Nijjar killing, leading to tensions with PM Justin Trudeau’s government.
• U.S. Relations: The U.S. The Department of Justice filed indictments against the Adani group and an Indian official, complicating ties with the U.S. despite its pro-India government.

Navigating Global Conflicts:

• Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visits to both Russia and Ukraine fueled speculation about India’s potential mediation role.
• Israel-Palestine: India maintained a balanced stance, calling for an end to civilian casualties while hedging on UN resolutions regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza.
• Middle East Relations: Multilateral initiatives like IMEC and I2U2 faced challenges, and India sought to engage West Asian countries bilaterally.

Future Outlook  

• U.S. Relations: S. Jaishankar’s visit to Washington and meetings with the Trump team signal a focus on U.S.-India ties.
  • President Trump is expected to visit India for the Quad Summit.

• Iran: A ministerial visit from Iran is expected to kick off 2025.
• Russia: Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Delhi is expected in early 2025, marking his first since the war began.
• Republic Day: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will be the guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations.
  • The main challenge for India’s foreign policy in 2025 will be navigating global uncertainty while adapting to change.

Source  :TH