3) HISTORICAL FACTORS AS DETERMINANTS OF INDIA'S

FOREIGN POLICY (Continuation) - (01:13 PM)

 India has been a colony of Britain for 200 years leading to
Independent India being a keen supporter of anti-colonial movements
in Africa and Asia.
 Having faced Racial discrimination under british rule India was an
ardent supporter of the Anti-Apartheid movement in South Africa.
 The bloody history of partition continues to sour India-Pakistan
relations.
4) ECONOMIC FACTORS AS DETERMINANT OF INDIA'S FOREIGN
POLICY - (01:19 PM)
 India adopted a new economic policy in 1991, and
consequently, India reformed its foreign policy.
 We launched policies such as 'Look East Policy', to encourage
economic cooperation with South East Asia.
 Economic goals are increasingly identified as constituting a
country's national interest and hence foreign policies are formulated
to achieve economic goals such as export promotion, energy
security, resilient supply chains of critical goods, etc.
 This is also evident in the fact that business delegations often
accompany ministerial delegations abroad.
 It was because of the lack of competitiveness of the Indian
manufacturing sector that India ultimately decided to withdraw from
RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, It is an
economic partnership between ASEAN+5 FTA Partners - Australia,
New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Japan).
 Following Pakistan's defeat in the 1971 war and its consequent
partitioning, India emerged as the unquestioned leader of South Asia
for almost two decades.
 However, This regional ascendence in power was not
accompanied by India becoming a global power.
 Reason -
 Economic underperformance - India's GDP was caught in
the 'Hindu Growth Rate' (3-4% of the annual GDP growth rate).
 India could emerge as a global power only when its economy
started performing well after the adoption of the 'New Economic
Policy'.
MILITARY POWER AS A DETERMINANT OF INDIA'S FOREIGN
POLICY - (01:42 PM)
 Since the end of the Cold War India Prioritized befriending the
US, the then single superpower.
 India succeeded in it only after undertaking 'Operation
Shakti' (May 1998) and emerging as a defacto Nuclear Weapon
State.
 Within two years, India and the US began summit-level
Diplomacy.
WORLD ORDER AS A DETERMINANT OF INDIA'S FOREIGN
POLICY - (01:51 PM)
 i) Bipolar - India followed the Policy of Non-Alignment and Co-
founded NAM (NAM was founded in 1961).
 ii) Unipolar - India sought to befriend the then-single superpower
the USA.
 iii) Multipolar world - There are multiple powers like China,
Germany, etc.
 India chooses to engage with Multiple countries on different
issues or cooperate on different issues.
 It is also said that India is pursuing multiple alignments and
issue-based politics.
 The nature of engagement is advancing prosperity. 'Sabka saath,
Sabka Vikas'.
 The aim is to safeguard India's strategic autonomy.
 Therefore, on one hand, India is pursuing cooperation with
countries like the US, and Japan through platforms of QUAD, I2U2,
and Japan- America-India Trilateral dialogue, and on the other hand
India is engaging with countries like China and Russia through
groupings such as BRICS, SCO, The Russia-India-China Trilateral.
INDIA AND THE NEIGHBOURHOOD - (02:03 PM)
 One should pursue good relations with one's neighboring
countries and good neighbourly relations are important because -
 1) Peace and security.
 2) Economic development.
 3) People-to-people ties.
 4) Transboundary resource management.
 5) Immediate Assistance in times of economic/natural crisis.
 6) To prevent external power interference in one's region.
 7) To eventually emerge as the 'acceptable leader of the
region'.
SOME IMPORTANT STATEMENTS - (02:14 PM)
 1) Statement by PM Modi, A nation's destiny is linked to its
neighborhood.
 2) Statement by Manmohan Singh, 'The real test of a country's
foreign policy, is its handling of its neighborhood'.
 3) Statement by Former PM, Atal Bihari Vajpayee - 'One can
choose one's friend but neighbors have to live together'.
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA'S POLICY WITH RESPECT TO THE
NEIGHBOURHOOD - (02:17 PM)
 Gujaral Doctrine -
 1) It emphasized 'the principle of Non-Reciprocity'.
 That is, India will do what it can in good faith for the neighboring
countries without expecting reciprocity from them.
 India would not demand quid-pro-quo nor would it encourage the
transactional nature of relations with its neighbors.
 The only condition is that the neighboring countries should not
allow misuse of their territories against India or other South-Asian
neighbors.
 2) Gujral Doctrine is a set of 5 principles that combines
the 'Punchsheel Principles' with the Principle of Non- Reciprocity.
 Relevance of Gujral Doctrine -
 a) It is relevant in the pursuit of good relations with the
neighbors.
 b) It would help check the 'Big-Power-Small-Power
Syndrome' - It arises because of huge size Asymmetry - be it in
terms of the geographical areas, the population size, economic or
military size- between India and its neighbors.
 c) To help counter India's image as a Bullying big brother.
 d) To limit the scope of rising Chinese influence in South Asia.
 e) Ultimately, It would help India lay claim to regional and
consequent global leadership.
NEIGHBORHOOD FIRST POLICY - (02:34 PM)
 1) It was adopted in 2014, by the Modi Government.
 2) It comprises four tenets (Primary features), namely -
 a) Diplomatic and political priority would be extended to the
neighboring countries.
 b) Support would be provided in terms of resources for their
development.
 c) Promotion of connectivity, so as to allow free flow of goods,
services, investments, and ideas.
 d) Ultimately, to promote a model of 'India-led
Regionalism' with which the neighboring countries are
comfortable.
 3) It uses the principles of 'Samman (respect), Samvad
(Dialogue), Shanti (Peace), Samriddhi (Prosperity), and Sanskriti
(Culture) for better engagement.
 4) It represents a consultative approach based on Non-
Reciprocity and is outcome-oriented.
INDIA- PAKISTAN RELATIONS - (02:55 PM)
 The two countries are referred to as 'each other's brother
enemy'
 They have fought three full-fledged wars (1947-48, 1965, 1971)
and one limited war (1999-Kargil War).
 The 1947-48 war came to an end through the Karachi
Agreement.
 The 1965 came to an end through the Tashkent Agreement.
 The 1971 war came to an end through the Shimla Agreement.
 Shimla Agreement -
 Signed in 1972.
 It is important because -
 a) The ceasefire line demarcated through the Karachi agreement
was renamed as the 'Line of Control' under the Shimla
Agreement.
 b) It emphasized that all the bilateral disputes between the two
countries would be resolved through a bilateral mechanism without
any third-party involvement.
 1971 War and the consequent defense and foreign policy of
Pakistan -
 The 1971 war, was a major defeat for Pakistan's army, within two
weeks of India's involvement there was the mass surrender of
Pakistani armed forces along with the partitioning of Pakistan to
create independent Bangladesh.
 Thus, Pakistan's defeat in the 1971 war was a watershed in
Pakistan's defense and foreign policy vis-a-vis India.
 a) It realized it could not win conventional wars against India.
 Therefore it decided to pursue proxy warfare or sub-conventional
warfare by sponsoring cross-border terrorism.
 (The strategy of bleeding India through a thousand cuts was
adopted).
 b) To overcome the strategic disparity in conventional weapons,
they decided to pursue nuclear weapons to gain strategic parity with
India.
INDIA'S PAKISTAN CONUNDRUM - (03:23 PM)
 It is the intractable rivalry between the two that sums up the
conundrum.
 Despite attention at the highest political level with every Indian
PM paying personal attention to India-Pakistan relations, this
relation follows a 'dialogue-disruption-dialogue cycle', that is,
whenever India pursues dialogue with Pakistan, it becomes
vulnerable to terrorist attack.
 The pursuit of dialogue is disrupted by either a war or a terrorist
attack.
 Reasons -
 1) There is a presence of vested interest especially in Pakistan
against the normalization of their relations with India -
 a) The Pakistani Deep State - unlike other countries that have
an army to safeguard their security in Pakistan, the army in
Pakistan has been given a state to govern.
 The reason for such powers of the army is its rivalry with India.
 b) The Jihadi elements - Their Raison-d-etre (reason for
existence) is in conflict with India.
 2) Since the relations follow such a cyclical approach with every
new Indian PM following his own strategy to normalize ties with
Pakistan, it seems the government of India has no coherent
Pakistan policy with a clearly identified end goal.
EVIDENCE OF DIALOGUE-DISRUPTION-DIALOGUE CYCLE -
(03:41 PM)
 Examples -
 1) 1999- The then Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government pursued
Lahore-Bus Diplomacy.
 He himself traveled to Lahore on the inaugural service bus
between India and Pakistan and he reached Lahore.
 The reason is -
 In May 1998, both India and Pakistan tested Nuclear weapons
and declared themselves to be De-facto Nuclear weapon states.
 This is a point of concern because both these countries already
have a history of three full-fledged wars.
 It is in this context it became essential to pursue peace with
Pakistan.
 It resulted in the Lahore Declaration.
 It results in a seeming Bonhomie in the bilateral ties. His visit is
well received in Pakistan.
 But this Bonhomie is severely disrupted by the Kargil
misadventure. As it represented Pakistan's 'Brinksmanship'.
 2) The second misadventure was the Agra summit of 2001
- Here Pakistan for the time accepted terrorism as a Bilateral issue.
 This is important because it is a Tacit acceptance by Pakistan
that they sponsoring terrorism.
 The Bonhomie generated by the Agra summit was disrupted by
the terrorist attack on the Srinagar assembly and the 2001 attack on
the Indian Parliament.
 3) 2004- The composite dialogue- This dialogue takes place
under a 2+6 framework.
 Here, 2 represents 2 major issues or two issues of high politics
(Resolving it would be very difficult).
 These issues are the issue of Kashmir and the issue of
Terrorism.
 And 6 are the 6 low-hanging fruits (Resolving is relatively easy) -
as this would generate the momentum to resolve high political
issues.
 These are issues of Siachin Glacier, Issue of Sir Creek, Wular
Lake navigation, etc.
 This composite dialogue has been identified as the is the most
successful bilateral dialogue.
 But this dialogue was disrupted by the Mumbai Terror attack.
 4) When PM Modi was elected to power in 2014, in his swearing-
in ceremony, he invited all the SAARC leaders including the PM of
Pakistan.
 In 2015, he pursued, Cricket diplomacy.
 In 2015, he also paid a surprise visit to Lahore to congratulate
Nawaz Sharif on his granddaughter's wedding.
 It comes to an end with repeated attacks on India's military
bases -
 1) In Gurdaspur, 2015.
 2) Pathankot in January 2016.
 3) URI- September 2016.
 Responded by a Surgical strike in POK.
 4) The Pulwama attack in February 2019 in which 40 CRPF
Jawans lost their life. This was responded to by Balakot air strikes
in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan.
 This air strike was referred to by the Government of India as a
Non-Military, retaliatory, pre-emptive air strike.
 Finally, the death nail on India's Pakistan relationship was
on -
 5th August 2019, when India abrogated Article 370.
 In October 2019, Jammu and Kashmir Bifurcated two UTs. and
with it, India -Pakistan relations enter into a state of 'deep freeze'.

International Relations Class 03

INDIA-PAKISTAN RELATIONS-1:15 PM
 Features of deep freeze-
 High-level political exchanges were suspended.
 The 2015 Lahore visit by the Indian Prime Minister was the last
high-level interaction between the two countries.
 The diplomatic missions were downgraded.
 The respective high commissioners were recalled and the
mission strength was reduced to half.
 Trade was suspended.
 India withdrew the MFN status after the Pulwama attack while
Pakistan imposed prohibitive taxes to discourage trade.
 Sports and cultural exchange Viasas were canceled except for
Kartarpur Corridor.
 Severe cross-border firing at the LOC.
 The current state of Bilateral ties-
 Presently the relations are in a state of cold peace.
 Reason-
 The LOC ceasefire agreement was renewed in Feb 2021
between India and Pakistan because of back-channel NSA-level
dialogue between the two.
 Features of cold peace-
 No warmth in relations.
 The interaction between the two countries is tactical, clinical, and
transactional.
 There is the bare minimum of bilateral contact.
 Whatever bilateral contact is there it is transactional, tactical, and
clinical.
 The contact is limited to the redressal of urgent bilateral issues.
 There is no political will for any grand relationship gesture or
political outreach to one another.
 Why cold peace-
 1. Any bilateral relationship effort requires a lot of diplomatic
energy and time without any guarantee of success.
 2. None of the key bilateral issues have been resolved between
them since the 1960 Indus Water Treaty.
 3. India today believes in deterrence by punishment ( for some
time now India has wanted to pursue a conventional war against
sub-conventional attacks, cross-border terrorist attacks from
Pakistan.
 4. The fear of a conventional war escalating into a nuclear war
because of the use of tactical nuclear weapons by Pakistan
deterred India.
 5. However the Balakot airstrike by India has called out
Pakistan's nuclear bluff.
 6. Geo-political priorities of both India and Pakistan lie
elsewhere.
 7. India is concerned with Chinese border incursions in Eastern
Ladakh and the Eastern sector of India China LAC.
 8. Pakistan is facing a severe economic crisis and is primarily
concerned with the return of the Taliban in Afghanistan and the
associated emboldened of its terrorist groups such as TTP, and IS-
Khorasan.
 Present GOI position- Talks and terrorism cannot proceed
simultaneously.
 According to India the pre-condition for dialogue with Pakistan is
that it stops sponsoring terrorism.
 Pakistan has clarified that until India reunifies the two UTs into
the single state of J&K and reverses the abrogation of Article 370,
there will not be any scope for bilateral dialogue.
 With such a maximalist position adopted by the two countries,
there is limited scope for the restart of bilateral dialogue.
WAY FORWARD- 1:47 PM
 Build international pressure on Pakistan to stop sponsoring
terrorism.
 Threaten Pakistan with greylisting or even blacklisting for its
activities of financing terrorism under FATF.
 India should pursue early adoption of CCIT by the UN General
Assembly.
 India should cooperate with other countries to get individual
terrorists and terrorist organizations listed under the UN global list.
 It is unlikely that Pakistan is going to act strongly against the
terrorist actors.
 Thus India should develop effective and credible counter-terror
capabilities which in fact can act as a deterrence against Pakistan.
 Develop international communities' stake in India's economy. It
would act as the biggest hedge against Pakistan launching terrorist
attacks against India.
 India has traditionally been reluctant to deal with Pakistan's
military establishments.
 India has recently opened direct channels of communication with
Rawalpindi.
 Any agreement with it would carry larger credence since
Pakistan is a deep state for example it was the back channel
negotiated between the NSA's and their interlocutors which led the
bilateral ties to transition from a state of deep freeze to a state of
cold peace.
 Pursue soft power in terms of sports diplomacy and cultural
exchanges.
 There should be greater emphasis on the shared commonalities
rather than the differences.
 The two countries have shared history and overlapping cultures.
 India should safeguard the spirit of pluralism, tolerance, etc
which defines India.
 Pakistan cannot win if the spirit of multicultural plural India is
protected and promoted.
 What India shall not do-
 Support the disintegration of Pakistan
 It would result in greater instability along India's western border
which would be good for India's security.
 Though Pakistan is a dysfunctional state with widespread
lawlessness its disintegration is not in India's interest.
 Internationally isolation of Pakistan- It is not possible:
 1. Pakistan is a pivotal state in international politics.
 2. Its location is geo-politically important, it shares a long coast
on the Indian Ocean and shares a border with Afghanistan and Iran
is located in proximity to central Asia.
 3. Its location would mean that Pakistan would continue to be an
important player in international politics.
 4. It shares a weather friendship with revisionist China they
define it as taller than the Himalayas, deeper than the ocean, and
sweeter than honey.
 There are close ties with the US.
 With the return of the Taliban in Afghanistan Pakistan will
become important for the US.
BILATERAL ISSUES- 2:31 PM
 ** Refer to handouts.
 Kashmir issue-
 Raja Hari Singh signed the instrument of accession and Jammu
and Kashmir became part of India.
 Pakistan attacked Kashmir and India also sent its army, Pakitan
captured Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
 The issue went to the UN and both sides settled with the region
they had in their hand.
 Recently, India abrogated Article 370 and included the Indian
territory of J&K.
 Gilgit was part of the princely state of Jammu & Kashmir but was
ruled directly by the British, who had taken it on lease from Hari
Singh, the Hindu ruler of the Muslim-majority state.
 PoK Vs Gilgit & Baltistan: In 1975, PoK got its own
Constitution, making it an ostensibly self-governed autonomous
territory.
 This Constitution had no jurisdiction over the Northern Areas,
which continued to be administered directly by Islamabad.
 In reality, PoK too remained under the control of the Pakistani
federal administration and the security establishment, through the
Kashmir Council.
 The main difference was that while the people of PoK had rights
and freedoms guaranteed by their own Constitution, which mirrors
the Pakistan Constitution, the
 people of the minority Shia-dominated Northern Areas did not
have any political representation.
 Although they were considered Pakistani, including for
citizenship and passports, they were outside the ambit of
constitutional protections available to those in the four provinces
and PoK.
 On November 1, 2020, observed in Gilgit-Baltistan as
“Independence Day”, Imran Khan announced that his government
would give the region “provisional provincial status”.
 The solution to the Kashmir issue should adhere to the
'Jhamuriyat, Kashmiriyat & Insaniyat' slogan raised by then PM Atal
Bihari Vajpayee.
 Siachen-Issue of Siachen glacier-
 It is a 75-km-long glacier located in the Eastern Karakoram
range.
 It has been identified as the second-longest non-polar glacier in
the world.
 Nubra and Shyok river, tributaries of Indus, originate in it.
SIR CREEK ISSUE- 3:13 PM
 Sir Creek is a 96-km strip of water disputed between India and
Pakistan in the Rann of Kutch marshlands.
 The Creek opens up in the Arabian Sea and roughly divides the
Kutch region of Gujarat from the Sindh Province of Pakistan.
 The dispute lies in the interpretation of the maritime boundary
line between India and Pakistan.
 It predates India’s independence. It was a dispute between the
princely state of Kutch and the Commissionerate of Sindh (it was
part of the Bombay Presidency).
 Indus Water Treaty -
 The distribution of water of the Indus and its tributaries between
India & Pakistan is governed by the Indus Water Treaty.
 The treaty was signed in September 1960 between India,
Pakistan & a representative of the World Bank.
 According to this treaty, India has limited access to the three
Western rivers Chenab, Jhelum & Indus.
 India will have exclusive rights over the Eastern rivers like Sutlej,
Beas & Ravi.
INDIA-AFGHANISTAN- 3:49 PM
 Probable questions-
 What is the current policy of India on Talian and Afghanistan?
Examine the reasons for the same.
 Highlighting the significance of Afghanistan, compare and
contrast India's current approach towards the Taliban with its
historical approach towards the latter.
 Brief timeline-
 1979- USSR invade Afghanistan
 Both the US and Pakistan trained Mujahidin to fight the USSR.
 In 1989 USSR moved out of Afghanistan
 The Communist government of Najibullah was installed by the
US and continued to be in power.
 From 1989 to 1992 there was a civil war between communists
and Mujahidin
 In 1992 Mujahidins won and came to power.
 India chose to recognize the government and Mujahidin realized
freedom.
 This made Pakistan unhappy therefore with the help of Saudi
Arabia Pakistan trained Talibans traced to Wahabi ideology.
 In 1996 Taliban occupied Kabul.

International Relations Class 04

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:06 PM)
INDIA-AFGHANISTAN RELATIONS - (01:11 PM)
 Timeline -
 1996- Taliban occupied Kabul.
 Only three countries recognized the Taliban - Pakistan, Saudi
Arabia, and UAE.
 Other countries have not recognized the Taliban.
 2001 - 9/11 - When the Twin Towers attack took place in the US
and as a consequence, the US launched the Global War on Terror.
 This war was to be fought against the Taliban because they were
providing leadership to Al-Qaeda.
 The US has chosen Pakistan as its ally in this war on terrorism.
 Why the USA chose Pakistan -
 Because Pakistan shares a long border with Afghanistan.
 Pakistan became important for logistics purposes.
 The US was dependent on Pakistan for uninterrupted
communication and supply lines.
 2001 - The Taliban was deposed from Kabul.
 2001- The US established an interim government led by Hamid
Karzai in Afghanistan.
 2004 -2005- The presidential elections were held in Afghanistan-
Hamid Karzai won and he was elected president of Afghanistan.
 2014-2019 - Ashraf- Ghani was elected as the President.
 Taliban was not conclusively defeated therefore Global War on
Terror, launched by the US, Continued until, 15 August 2021, when
the US completely withdrew from Afghanistan.
 In fact, in February 2020, the US and the Taliban
finalized/entered into the Doha Deal - As part of this deal USA
agreed to the complete withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan.
DOHA DEAL - (01:24 PM)
 Doha Deal originally had 4 point agenda -
 1) Cease Fire.
 2) Afghanistan territory would not be used to sponsor terrorism
against the US and its allies.
 3) Intra-Afghan Dialogue - Between Taliban and Ashraf Ghani
government to preserve the political gains made since 2001/2004.
 4) US force withdrawal.
 However, the four-point agenda was wilted down to a single
point, that is US forces withdrawal.
 15th August 2021, complete withdrawal of US forces.
 Ashraf Ghani fled.
 Kabul fell to the Taliban.
 17th August 2021 India closed its embassy in Afghanistan and
evacuated its personnel.
INDIA AND TALIBAN 2.0 - (01:36 PM)
 1) In June 2022, India opened a technical mission in Kabul.
 Reasons -
 a) To provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan.
 b) To provide Visa and other consular facilities.
 c) To restart and protect Indian investments in Afghanistan.
 2) India no longer views the Taliban as a terrorist organization;
Rather India considers it as a 'quasi-official entity'.
 India has clarified, that India does not see the Taliban itself as a
threat to India.
 It is the Taliban's ties with Pakistan-based Jihadi groups such as
LET (Lashkare-e-Taiba), JEM (Jaish-e-Mohammad) etc, which is a
matter of security concern for India.
 In November 2021, India hoisted the NSA-level, Regional
Security Dialogue on Afghanistan.
 It made it clear that its agenda and its aim is not to overthrow the
Taliban in Afghanistan but to prevent the revival of terrorist outfits
such as Al-Qaeda, and Islamic states- Khorasan in Afghanistan.
 In fact, at the fourth NSA-level Regional Security Dialogue, India
emphasized non-interference in Afghanistan.
 3) During India's presidency of the UNSC, 'Resolution
2593' was adopted.
 It specifies -
 a) Upholding of human rights in Afghanistan.
 b) Prevention of misuse of Afganistan territory for sponsoring
terrorism.
 c) A politically negotiated solution should be found out of the
Afghan crisis.
 India has clarified that India's foreign policy on Afghanistan would
be guided by UNSC Resolution 2593.
 4) India has provided humanitarian assistance to Kabul -
 It has provided 50, 000 tonnes of wheat and other essential food
items.
 It has provided COVID-19 vaccines etc.
 India has provided budgetary aid to Kabul of 27 million dollars for
the financial year 2022-23.
REASONS FOR SUCH AN APPROACH - (01:57 PM)
 India is pursuing limited engagement with Taliban 2.0.
 It is trying to build political communication channels with the
Taliban.
 Reasons -
 Presently there are three primary concerns of India, all of which
depend on at least limited engagement with the Taliban.
 a) Security concerns of India -
 Security of Indian investments in Afghanistan.
 Afghanistan is being used to sponsor terrorism in India - In fact,
during the rule of mujahideen and Taliban 1.0, there was an
increase in violence in Kashmir.
 Taliban remaining Pakistani satellite forever - It threatens India's
foreign policy goals.
 Taliban, if it continues to be a Pakistani satellite, would only
result in an increase in Pakistan's Geopolitical importance.
 b) Changes in international scenario -
 Unlike Taliban 1.0 (1996-2001), When only three countries in the
world had recognized the Taliban government, this time around
almost all major powers had communication channels open with the
Taliban.
 c) To prevent India's Marginalization of International
diplomacy in Afghanistan -
 In 2021, the UN Secretariat organized a 6+2+1 meeting on
Afghanistan.
 It comprised -
 6 neighboring countries of Afghanistan (Iran, Pakistan, China,
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan).
 2 Global powers (US + Russia) and Afghanistan Itself.
 India was Conspicuous by its absence.
 Officially the reason given for the exclusion of India was that
India does not share direct land borders with landlocked
Afghanistan.
 However, there was a lack of communication channels between
India and the Taliban due to India's exclusion from international
diplomacy in Afghanistan.
 d) The Taliban has emerged as the key political actor in
Afghanistan -
 Not having communication channels with those in power in
India's neighborhood would be at India's own peril/disadvantage.
 For example - The lack of communication between India and the
Taliban 1.0 was misused by hijackers of Indian Airlines aircraft from
Kathmandu to India.
 The Hijacked plane landed in Kandahar, the spiritual ground of
the Taliban.
 And since India and the Taliban were not on Talking Terms, the
availability of strategic maneuvers was limited for India, and India
was forced to release three dreaded terrorists in negotiations with
the hijackers.
INDIA'S TRADITIONAL TIES WITH AFGHANISTAN - (02:21 PM)
 The two have had historical and civilizational ties.
 India generally has had good relations with those in power in
Afghanistan except for the brief rule of Taliban 1.0 (1996-2001) in
Afghanistan.
 India considers Taliban 1.0, to be a terrorist group.
 India refused to distinguish the 'Good Taliban from the Bad
Taliban' because according to India all forms of terrorism are bad.
 In fact US accepted this distinction and the moderate version of
the Taliban was allowed to open a political office in Qatar, Doha in
2013.
 India Initially wanted to join the US in its Global War on Terror,
However, the US chose Pakistan over India since it was dependent
on Islamabad for supply and Communication lines to Afghanistan.
 Therefore, India was restricted to capacity-building efforts or
state-building efforts in Afghanistan.
 Evidences -
 a) India has provided 3.1 billion dollars as economic aid to
Afghanistan.
 It is the largest regional development partner of Afghanistan.
 b) India has built the Afghan Parliament, the Zerang- Delaram
Highway, The Salma Dam (India-Afghanistan friendship dam) etc.
 The Zaranj-Delaram connects Afghanistan to the Iranian Border
town.
 c) India has been developing the Chabahar port in Iran to
reduce Afghanistan's dependence on the Karachi port in Pakistan.
 d) India regularly trains Afghan civil servants.
 e) India has provided 'The Noida Stadium' as the home ground
for Afghanistan's cricket team.
 f) India had made a strong case for Afghanistan's entry into
SAARC.
 g) India has funded over 400 small projects across all 34
provinces of Afghanistan.
 These projects have been demand-driven and they have
generated goodwill for India in Afghanistan.
WAY FORWARD IN INDIA-AFGHANISTAN RELATIONS - (02:41
PM)
 1) India should not be in any hurry to recognize the Taliban
government -
 It is a government with the aim of establishing the Islamic
Emirate of Afghanistan based on Sharia laws.
 They have formed a men-only Pashtun government.
 They have shown regular disdain/disrespect for women's rights
and minority rights.
 They have once again banned secondary education for women,
forced traditional attire for both men and women, banned
advertisements featuring real men and women, banned non-
religious music, etc.
 2) But India's Afghanistan policy should be rooted in realism and
India should pursue limited and gradual engagement with Taliban.
 3) In fact, India should establish direct contact with all actors in
Afghan polity including the 'National- Resistance Front' (The main
opposition group to the Taliban).
 4) India should continue its policy of providing humanitarian
assistance to Afghanistan.
 5) India should rethink its student visa policy for Afghan
students.
 Currently, 14 thousand Afghan students are enrolled in India and
around 60,000 of them have completed their education in India in
the last 16 years.
 6) Afghan students studying in India add to India's soft power.
 These students would become future leaders - In politics,
business, administration, etc, providing leverage to India-
Afghanistan relations.
PAKISTAN AND AFGHANISTAN- (03:10 PM)
 Pakistan's policy vis-a-vis Afghanistan has been to
seek strategic depth in Afghanistan.
 It means Pakistan wants to establish a puppet government in
Afghanistan.
 Reasons -
 a) Security dilemma with India -
 Pakistan is concerned that in the case of good relations between
India and Afghanistan, during times of war between India and
Pakistan, New Delhi may ask Afghanistan to open a second front
against Pakistan.
 Pakistan would not survive such a two-front war.
 b) Insecurity dilemma -
 It exists in the context of the Pashtun insurgency.
 The Durand line is an imperial line that has artificially divided
Pushtuns on the two sides of the border.
 The Pushtuns demand, greater Pushtunistan or to at least join
their breathe-rance across the border in Afghanistan.
 This would threaten the territorial integrity of Pakistan.
 How did Pakistan seek to achieve strategic depth in Afghanistan
-
 By supporting Non-State Actors against the government in
Afghanistan.
TALIBAN 2.0 AND PAKISTAN - (03:28 PM)
 Though Rawalpindi was initially triumphant on the return of the
Taliban to Kabul such a feeling was shortlived.
 Taliban's return has emboldened TTP (Tehrik -e Taliban
Pakistan) which wants to establish the Islamic emirate of Pakistan
like the Taliban in Afghanistan.
 Over 40 allied groups have joined TTP and there is a surge in
terrorist attacks marked by a rise in suicide bombings in Pakistan.
 Pakistan wanted the Taliban to rein in TTP.
 However, the Taliban rather provided to act as a mediator
between Pakistan and TTP.
 Through the mediation a cease-fire agreement was concluded
between the two but it has been misused by TTP to regroup.
 Afghanistan is unlikely to rein/control TTP.
 Reasons -
 1) It would lose its strategic leverage with Islamabad.
 2) TTP in the past has provided safe havens to the Taliban
against ISAF - led by the US in Afghanistan. (International Security
Assistance Force).
 3) Strong action against TTP might lead to internal fissures within
the Taliban.
 Presently, Pakistan faces regular terrorist attacks by groups like
TTP, Islamic states - Khorasan, Al-Queda, etc.
 They have emerged as the primary security challenge for
Pakistan.
 Thus the monster of Terrorism that Pakistan created has
eventually come to haunt it.
WAY FORWARD FOR PAKISTAN - (03:39 PM)
 a) Thoroughly re-evaluate the strategy of sponsoring cross-
border terrorism for the sake of foreign policy gains.
 b) Other countries such as the US and the Gulf states which had
supported Non-state actors, have long abandoned such practice of
sponsoring global Jihadists.
 However, Pakistan has remained steadfast in using non-state
actors as foreign policy tools.
 But it has come to cast a dark shadow on Pakistan's own
strategy.
 c) Focus on economic growth and economic security.
 d) Pursue citizen-centric governance with the aim of citizen
welfare.
 Impact on India -
 It has strengthened Taliban 2.0 outreach towards India, which
wants to pursue relatively closer ties with India to counterbalance
Pakistan.
CHINA IN AFGHANISTAN - (03:48 PM)
 Why is China interested in Afghanistan?
 a) Mineral wealth of Afghanistan.
 b) China's BRI - China wants to build the 'Peshawar Kabul
Motor Way' which would make Afghanistan a participant in Chinese
BRI.
 Until recently, Afghanistan was wary of the USA's reactions but
with the USA's withdrawal, Afghanistan has emerged as an
attractive participant to China's BRI.
 c) To check the Taliban's support to the Ughurs of Xingziang
province of China.
 Traditionally, Beijing has relied upon Islamabad to productively
engage with the Taliban.
IMPORTANCE OF AFGHANISTAN - (03:53 PM)
 a) The Location of Afghanistan- It is very strategically located. It
is the roundabout of Asia.
 Through it, one can access West Asia, Central Asia, East and
South Asia.
 b) Mineral wealth -
 It is rich in mineral wealth.
 It is expected to possess trillions of dollars worth of rare earth
minerals in its mountains.
 c) Rich in Fossil Fuels.
International Relations Class 05
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:07 PM)
INDIA-BANGLADESH RELATIONS - (01:11 PM)
 Importance -
 1) Strategic location of Bangladesh -
 It is located as a strategic wedge between North-East India and
the rest of India.
 Permanent Transit Rights via Bangladesh would help India
overcome its 'Chicken's Neck dilemma'.
 (The Siliguri Corridor or the Chicken's neck is 17 KM wide at its
narrowest point ).
 2) For security and development of North-East India -
 Bangladesh provides a shorter route for sea access to the
landlocked North-East.
 Bangladesh in the past had become a safe haven for North-
eastern insurgence.
 Thereby further fuelling insurgency in India's North-East.
 3) Bangladesh is the largest trade partner of India in South Asia.
 4) It acts as India's bridge to South-East Asia.
 5) Bangladesh is critical to the success of the neighbourhood first
policy of India - Indian initiatives such as BIMSTEC, and BBIN.
 6) Cooperation with Bangladesh is essential to realize the vision
of SAGAR (Security and growth for all in the Indian Ocean region).
EVOLUTION OF INDIA-BANGLADESH RELATIONS - (01:28 PM)
 1) 1971-75 -
 Independence of Bangladesh.
 India has good relations with Bangladesh because India played a
prominent role in aiding Bangladesh in its freedom struggle from
Pakistan.
 India had supported 'Mukti Bahini', It was a group led by Sheikh
Majibur Rehman, who played a prominent role in the independence
of Bangladesh.
 He is the father of Present PM Sheikh Haseena.
 In 1975 - Majibur Rehman was assassinated by the then-military
general- Zia-Ur- Rehman. He came to power.
 So this was a period of military rule.
 Zia-Ur Rehman was further assassinated and his junior came to
power as General Ershad.
 The foreign policy of Bangladesh during this phase was about
distancing themselves from India, 1990 onwards.
 The reason for not good relationship during military rule -
 a) Because the military of Bangladesh comprises 26,000 officials
who were repatriated from the Pakistan army.
 As part of Pakistan's army, they have inherited an anti-India
attitude.
 b) The military rule emphasized on Islamic identity of
Bangladesh.
 c) Currently, there are three parties in Bangladesh - BNP, Awami
League, and Jatiyo party.
 2) In 1991 -
 Democracy returned to Bangladesh.
 There were two major political parties - Awami League and BNP.
 There is a strong element of 'Anti-Incumbancy' that means the
political party which is in power will not get elected in the next
general elections.
 In fact -
 1991-1996 - BNP
 1996-2001- Awami league.
 2001-2006- BNP
 2006-2008 - x
 2009-2014- , 2014-2019, 2019-2024- Awami league.
 Awami League supports good relations with India, But when the
BNP comes to power relations decline.
 So there is a lack of Bipartisan consensus in Bangladesh vis-a-
vis its relations with India.
 Whenever the Awami League comes to power relations improve
and when the BNP comes to power the relations deteriorate.
THE RECENT PHASE IN THE RELATIONS - (01:44 PM)
 The Golden Phase -
 Because of three consecutive terms of the Awami League
government, the bilateral ties have entered the 'Golden Chapter' of
their relations.
 (Shonali Adhaya/Sonali Adhaya).
 The two are referred to as examples of 'Model Good
Neighbourliness'.
 S. Jaishankar said No two countries have close fraternal ties as
India and Bangladesh.
EVIDENCE OF THE GOLDEN CHAPTER - (01:54 PM)
 1) Land -Boundry Agreement in 2015-
 A protocol to the Land Boundary Agreement was signed in 1979.
 In 2015, India was able to sign this agreement with Bangladesh.
 Through this agreement, we settled three disputes-
 a) Undemarcated borders - 65 KM.
 b) Adverse possessions - Because of changing river course.
 c) Exchange of enclaves.
 Through the land boundary agreement, we were able to solve
these enclaves, through the 100th Constitutional Amendment Act.
 Land Boundary Agreement of 2015 -
 A protocol to it was signed way back in 1974 between the Majib-
ur-Rehman Government and the Indira Gandhi government.
 However, the land borders could not be settled until 2015.
 Through it, the two countries have -
 a) Demarcated the disputed borders- 6.5 KM long.
 b) Settled the issue of adverse possession -
 This arose because of the changing river courses of the
Himalayan rivers, given the fact that a large section of India-
Bangladesh borders is riverine in nature.
 c) Exchange of enclaves -
 111 Indian enclaves in Bangladesh and 51 Bangladeshi enclaves
in India were swapped/exchanged and the residents of these
enclaves were given a choice of citizenship of either of the two
countries.
 This agreement was implemented through the 100th
Constitutional Amendment.
2) MARITIME BOUNDARY AGREEMENT,2014 - (02:08 PM)
 1) To settle the Maritime borders, Bangladesh took up the issue
to the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
 2) PCA ruled in favour of Bangladesh and recognized its claim
over approximately 19,500 square kilometres of the area adjoining
the Bay of Bengal.
 India did not contest the ruling of PCA.
 3) The Sheikh Haseena government adopted a zero-tolerance
policy against Indian insurgent groups who had found safe havens
in Bangladeshi territory.
 Her government dismantled their camps and arrested their
leaders who were handed over to India.
 This has substantially reduced the insurgent activities in India's
North-East.
 4) Focus on connectivity -
 a) A direct bus service has been launched between Kolkata and
Agartala (Tripura) via Bangladesh.
 This has reduced the distance to almost one-third compared to
the original route via the Chicken's Neck corridor.
 b) Bangladesh has given access to Mongla and Chattogram
Port for the transportation of goods to and from North-east India.
 c) Maitri Setu- A friendship bridge of 1.9 km Long
connecting Sabroom town in Tripoura to Ramgarh in
Bangladesh is being built.
 d) A friendship Petroleum pipeline from Numaligarh
refinery in India to Parbatipur in Bangladesh.
 e) Bangladesh has expressed interest in joining the IMT (India-
Myanmar -Thailand) highway.
 f) Bangladesh has allowed the use of Feni-River Water for
drinking purposes in Sabroom town in Tripura.
 g) India is building two coal-fired Power plants in Khulna
Bangladesh.
 h) A tri-lateral agreement has been signed.
3) TRADE RELATIONS - (02:29 PM)
 India is the largest trade partner in South Asia.
 However, since 2015, China has emerged as the largest Trade
Partner in Bangladesh.
 But even today India Constitutes the largest export market for
Bangladesh.
 In financial year, 2022-23, the bilateral trade rose to 18 billion
dollars.
 The two countries are going to conclude CEPA by 2026, that is
by the time the LDC (Least Developed Country) status of
Bangladesh would expire and therefore Bangladesh would lose the
benefit of duty-free, quota-free trade with India.
 To preserve these benefits the two countries want to conclude
CEPA, by 2026.
 According to a World Bank report, CEPA would give a push to
Bangladeshi exports to India by 182% and if it is accompanied by
trade facilitation measures it could push India-Bangladesh trade by
300%.
 MOU on the framework of defence cooperation has been
concluded between India and Bangladesh.
 India has extended a 100 billion dollar line of credit to
Bangladesh for its defence Purchases from India.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-BANGLADESH RELATIONS - (02:53 PM)
(Kindly refer to the handouts)
 Issues to Bangladesh with respect to India -
 1) Trade -
 Bangladesh has a trade deficit of 14 billion dollars, due to a
limited number of Items in the export basket of Bangladesh.
 Steps taken by India -
 India has offered Duty-fee and quota-free trade under SAFTA.
 3 SEZs have been notified in Bangladesh for Indian
Manufacturers.
 India is also providing developmental assistance to Bangladesh
through soft loans.
 2) Issue of Rohingyas -
 One Million Rohingyas have been given Refuge by Bangladesh.
 Bangladesh insisted India use its good relations with Myanmar to
pressure it to take back its people.
 Steps taken by India -
 India provided humanitarian assistance such as food aid to
Bangladesh.
 India has also undertaken housing issues for the Rohingya.
 3) NRC Exercise -
 There was an exodus of people from Assam to Bangladesh.
 4) Killing along the borders -
 Highest number of border killings by the BSF.
 Bangladesh is concerned about the absence of due illegal
proceedings and direct resort to shooting at civilians.
 Issues of India's concern -
 1) China in Bangladesh -
 It will reduce Bangladesh's dependence on India.
 It will affect Trade and investment in India.
 It will also affect defence relations - As china has emerged as the
major arms supplier to Bangladesh.
 2) The radicalization of Bangladeshi Society -
 India is concerned about the radicalization in Bangladesh by
radical groups such as Jammat-e-Islami, HUJI and HIJI-B.
RIVER-WATER SHARING - (03:20 PM)
 There are 54 transboundary rivers which are shared between the
two countries.
 1) Ganga-river sharing agreement 1996.
 Context - It was because India had built the Farakka barrage in
1975, which diverted the Ganga river water to its distributary,
Hooghly River to ensure the navigability of Kolkata port.
 This agreement was going to be valid for 30 years, that is till
2026. It was for the lean period of the Ganga River from January to
May.
 Provisions -


Availability
India's Bangladesh's
of water in
share share
Ganga
If it was less
50%
than 70,000 50% share
share
cusecs
70-75,000
REST 35,000
cusecs
 If it is more
than 75,000 40,000 Remaining
cusecs
 Bangladesh's concern -
 This is based on outdated hydrological data.
 There are reports which say that during a critically dry period
65% of the time Bangladesh did not get its due share of water.
 Criticism -
 Any river water treaty should be based on Volumetric allocation,
this is known as volumetric allocation.
 This is a Reductionist approach, as rivers perform a number of
roles like WEBS.
2) TEESTA RIVER - (03:34 PM)
 It starts from Sikkim, flows through Bengal and enters
Bangladesh before joining the Brahmaputra River.
 Teesta River - Over the years, Bangladesh demanded that the
Teesta River be shared.
 1896, Adhoc agreement for two years- Divided the waters of
Teesta River.
 India is expected to get 39% of Teesta water, 36 % of
Bangladesh, and 25% flow.
 2011- Interim agreement for 15 years-
 India's share is 42.5%, Bangladesh's share is 37.5
 However, India could not enter into this Interim agreement.
 Bangladesh's demand with respect to the Teesta River is - equal
sharing because Teesta is an important river for Bangladesh
because 14% of its total cropped area and 7.3 % of its population is
supported through direct livelihood.
3) KUSHIYARA RIVER - (03:42 PM)
 Kushiyara River - An MOU with Bangladesh have been
concluded on the Kushiyara River.
 It is a distributary of the Barak River.
 Bangladesh will be able to withdraw 135 Cusecs out of the 25,00
Cusecs.
 It is important to Bangladesh, as it will help in Boro rice.
 Bangladesh already built the Rahimpur canal system.

International Relations Class 06

INDIA-NEPAL RELATIONS (01:10 PM)
 Questions:
 Despite the unprecedented closeness between India and Nepal at the
level of Culture, language, and geography, the relations between the two
countries are fraught with challenges. Examine.
 Examine whether India-Nepal relations, despite a history of difficult
ties, is entering a phase whereby it is touching 'Himalayan heights'.
 Discuss the need and ways to reimagine India-Nepal Relations.
Background (01:16 PM)
 India-Nepal relations are unique in the fact that there exists
unprecedented closeness at the people-to-people level. However, such
closeness is not reflected at state to state level.
 The state-to-state ties between the two countries has been marked by
several challenges:
 Evidences of people-to-people ties:
 1. In terms of religion, both countries practice Hinduism and Buddhism.
The connect between New Delhi and Kathmandu runs from Kashi
Vishwanath to Pashupatinath and from Bodh Gaya to Lumbini.
 2. Nepali, Bhojpuri, and Maithili are the prominent languages spoken in
Nepal. They trace their origin in Sanskrit, Hindi, and Pali respectively.
 3. Geographically, the two countries form a contiguous geographical
subunit. The Tarai region of Nepal opens into the Northern Indian Plains.
 4. The Shah Kings of Nepal who ruled Nepal from the 18th century
until 2006 were originally Sisodia Rajputs of Rajasthan.
 5. The two countries and their ties are unique since they have open
borders. This has facilitated easy movement of the people on both sides of
the borders.
 6. Nepali citizens enjoy National treatment in India and Vice versa.
Consequently, 7 million Nepalis of the 27 million live and work in India.
 7. The People of the two countries also have the tradition of inter-dining
and cross-border marriages. Thus, the two countries are set to have Roti-
Beti ka Rishta/ Sambandh.
 To Highlight, the unparalleled closeness between India and Nepal, S.D.
Muni an Academic expert has famously commented that the two
countries 'are lodged in each other's intestines'
 Then why State to state relations remain difficult:
 1. India does not have an independent Nepal policy. India looks at
Nepal through the lens of China. It is therefore India has sought to
micromanage affairs in Nepal.
 It is at times compared to Pakistan, Afghanistan Policy.
 Given India's grave security dilemma with respect to China, India wants
a Puppet government in Nepal.
 Even India's First PM has no hesitation in declaring in the Indian
Parliament (in December 1950) that "India's security will enjoy primacy
over Nepal sovereignty"
 2. Nepal's Founder king had compared Nepal to a 'Yam' stuck between
the two Asian giants - India and China. Therefore, to safeguard its strategic
autonomy, he suggested that Nepal should follow a diversified foreign
policy.
 Even the policy of equidistance is unacceptable to India and India wants
Nepal to prioritize its relation with India, but Nepal is" too big a country"
(45th in terms of Geographical size; twice the size of Sri Lanka) and is too
proud of its non-colonial history to serve as any other countries Vassal
state.
 Other Reasons:
 1. Political Instability in Nepal:
 a) Modern Constitutional history in Nepal is traced since 194. Since
then Nepal has had 6 formal constitutions and 2 interim constitution. The
latest constitution was adopted in 2015.
 b) Polarized Polity-Multiple power centers in Nepal: In the 1950s there
were 3 Power centres, namely the King; the Rana's (PM and Nepali
congress). In early 2000 Maoists emerged as a new poll.
 In 2006, through a comprehensive peace agreement, the monarchy was
abolished and Nepal became a Constitutional Republic.
 Since 2008, with an adoption of an interim constitution, Nepali
politicians are said to be playing musical chair with the PM seats.
 Thus, India has not been able to formulate a coherent Foreign policy
w.r.t to Nepal.
 c) India's Failure to adhere to diplomatic protocols in its relation with
Nepal has often hurt the Nepali pride.
 For instance, the Friendship Treaty of 1950 was signed by Nepal's PM
and India's Ambassador, hurting Nepali ego.
 d) Domestic interference: For instance, in 2015 India imposed an
unofficial economic blockade in Nepal. Nepal which is India locked along
the three sides of its borders is dependent on India for its imports or
essential commodities including cooking gas and other petroleum
products.
 The Unofficial economic blockade led to economic hardships in Nepal,
fuelling anti-India sentiments.
 Inability of India to complete infrastructure projects abroad in time.
Steps taken by GOI to improve India-Nepal relations (02:50 PM)
 Political priority to Nepal:
 The BJP led government has generally emphasized that close societal
ties can become the basis of strong state-to-state ties.
 PM Modi's 2014 visit to Nepal was the first visit by an Indian PM in the
last 17 years.
 During the first term of Modi government, PM Modi visited Nepal 4
times in the 5 years.
 Focus on Connectivity:
 To counter the prospect of strong China-Nepal ties, especially in terms
of the framework on trade and transit agreement between the two
countries, India is trying to build better connectivity with Kathmandu.
 The India has laid down an electric rail link between Raxaul in Bihar
to Kathmandu.
 India has built a Petroleum Pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to
Amlekhaganj which is ti be extended to Chitavan
 Another Petroleum Pipeline: Siliguri in West Bengal to Jhappa in
Nepal
 Until these pipelines' petroleum exports from India to Nepal would take
place via tanker trucks subject to Vagaries (uncertainties) of road
transport.
 During the recent 2023 visit by Nepali PM -Prachanda to India, the two
countries have renewed their transit treaty.
 Also, they have inaugurated multiple integrated checkpoints to ease
bilateral trade.
 Hydropower cooperation:
 Presently, Nepal Hydropower potential is estimated at 83000 MW of it
40000 MW is feasible at the current technology level.
 However, given Nepal's reluctance to cooperate with India, its
Hydropower sector has been underdeveloped, with even Kathmandu facing
hours of Power cut.
 However, recently, there is a growing willingness between the two to
cooperate on the Hydropower sector.
 a) In the Financial Year 2022, Nepal for the first time exported 450
MW of electricity to India, which helped it earn 12 billion dollars in
Forex.
 b) Building on this momentum, the two countries in 2023 have signed a
long-term agreement whereby Nepal is to supply 10000 MW of electricity
to India in the coming 10 years.
 Under the Deuba government, the Mahakali treaty has been revised
DTR (detailed project report) has been finalized. This treaty includes the
5000 MW Pancheshwar dam project.
 Also, there is a push to expedite Arun III; Arun IV hydropower
projects; the Karnali dam project, etc.
 In fact, the Private sectors of India and Nepal have entered into a power
trading agreement.
 India for the First time will allow Nepal to export 40MW of electricity
to Bangladesh via Indian territory. It is major breakthrough in the
relations.
 In fact, in 2014 the two countries entered into a Power trading
agreement. It allows for greater cooperation in Transmission, grid
connectivity and power trade.
 Emphasis on Cultural connect
 To balance China's Hard power through India's soft power.
 The Ramayana and Buddhist circuit has been envisaged, connecting
cities between India and Nepal.
 Sister city agreement have been signed between Varanasi - Kathmandu;
Bodhgaya - Lumbini; Ayodhya- Janakpur.
 Step-up Humanitarian and developmental assistance:
 Vaccine Maitri
 Budgetary aid; line of credit; etc
 PM Modi gave the hit formulae to boost connectivity and transform
India-Nepal relations.
 It stands for H-Highways; I- Information Gateways and T- Transways.
 PM Modi commented the relations to have become a superhit and the
aim is for the relations to touch the 'Himalayan Heights'
Bilateral ties (03:39 PM)
 Expansionist China- a cause of concern for India and China. In
this context, they wanted special relations such that Nepal would
serve as India’s
buffer while close India-Nepal relations would guarantee Nepal’s
security against Chinese aggression.

International Relations Class 07

India and Nepal Relations: (1:12 PM)
Territorial Disputes:
 Kalapani Issue.
 Susta region: Champaran District, Bihar.
 Pittorgarh District, Uttarakhand.
 Kalapani Issue:
 It is 35 square km of land, located at a trijunction of the India-
Nepal-China border.
 The origin of this issue is traced to the Treaty of Sugauli.
 Which was concluded between British rulers and Nepal.
 As per this, River Kali was supposed to demarcate the boundary
of Nepal.
 The origin of River Kali is disputed.
 According to India, River Kali originates at Lipulekh.
 According to Nepal, River Kali originates northwest of Lipulekh,
in Limpiyadhura.
Susta issue: (1:25 PM)
 Origin of dispute: It is the shifting river course of River Gandak,
which is one of the bordering rivers between India and Nepal.
 It is known as the Narayani River in Nepal.
China and Nepal: (1:28 PM)
 Why is China interested in Nepal?
 1) To control Tibetan activism.
 2) To check India’s influence in Nepal.
 Evidence of China in Nepal:
 Nepal finalized the trade and transit agreement protocol with
China.
 Nepal joined BRI in 2017.
 The first flagship BRI initiative was CPEC, then CMEC, and then
the ambitious cross-Himalayan connectivity network.
 Xi Jinping’s 2019 visit: Changing Nepal from a Land-locked to a
land-linked country.
Limitations of China-Nepal relations: (1:42 PM)
 Geographical Challenges:
 Chinese ports are located 3000 km away from Nepal.
 Indian ports of Bengal, Odisha, etc. are more viable for Nepal.
 Economic viability:
 Nepal wants grants, not loans, like Chinese loans to Pakistan
and Sri Lanka.
 Interference in internal matters of Nepal: Nepal does not want
China’s interference.
 Chinese expansionist policy: China is an irredentist state, and
wants to incorporate more territories.
India-Sri Lanka Relations: (2:04 PM)
 Importance of Sri Lanka,
 India’s Foreign Policy wrt Sri Lanka.
 Challenges in India-Sri Lanka Relations.
 Sri Lanka: its strategic location, in proximity to SLOCs.
Importance of Sri Lanka:
Geostrategic importance of Sri Lanka:
 Sri Lanka is a geostrategic location.
 Sri Lanka straddles (sits across) important SLOCs of the Indian
Ocean.
 50% of the bulk trade and ⅔ of the world’s oil trade passes
through the south of Sri Lanka.
 Sri Lanka is located in proximity to India.
 Sri Lanka is referred to as a permanent ‘aircraft carrier’ docked
10 miles from the Indian coast.
2. Geopolitical Importance of Sri Lanka: (2:12 PM)
 It is an essential partner of India in India’s Neighbourhood First
policy, in BIMSTEC, and for the vision of SAGAR (Security and
Growth for all in the Region) in the Indian Ocean region.
3. Economic importance of Sri Lanka:
 The first country with which India concluded its FTA was Sri
Lanka.
 This FTA was signed in 1998, and it entered into force in 2000.
 Economic aid provided by India during Sri Lanka’s economic
crisis in 2022 served as the lifeline of Sri Lanka.
4. Cultural Importance of Sri Lanka:
 The Sinhala race was founded by the Eastern Indian prince,
Vijaya after he was exiled from his own kingdom.
 The relations are traced to Buddhism over 2500 years ago
when Buddhism spread from India to Sri Lanka.
 The earliest mention of Sri Lanka dates back to Ramayana.
 Ravana was the king of Lanka, who had abducted Goddess
Sita.
India’s Foreign Policy wrt Sri Lanka: (2:23 PM)
 The majority community is Sinhalas (which constitute around
70-75 % and practice Buddhism).
 Another major community is Tamil (of two types: Sri Lankan
origin (11%), or Indian origin (4%)).
 Other minorities such as Christians, etc. comprise 10%.
Concerns of India:
 Geostrategic concerns:
 Security concerns, India does not hostile presence in Sri Lanka,
hence India needs to be in good books with those in power there.
 Tamil Connect:
 We have a cultural connection. And India wants the grievance
redressal of Tamil minorities.
 There have been 4 wars, referred to as Eelam wars (Eelam
means homeland).
 In the Fourth Eelam War, the Sinhalese came out victorious.
 India follows a two-pronged foreign policy with respect to Sri
Lanka.
 India’s foreign policy with Sri Lanka is motivated by two aims
which are not always in line with one another.
 1) Geostrategic concerns:
 Because of the geostrategic importance of Sri Lanka, India seeks
to have good relations with those in power in Sri Lanka, i.e. the
Sinhalese majority.
 It aims to keep Sri Lanka away from hostile influences.
 2) Domestic Concern of India:
 The sentiments of Indian Tamils lie with their brothers across the
border in Sri Lanka.
 They are concerned about the discrimination and injustices that
the Tamils face in Sri Lanka.
 Such discrimination had resulted in the rise of the separatist
movement of Tamils in Sri Lanka.
 India feared it spilling over onto the Indian side.
 As a consequence, India wants the redressal of genuine Tamil
grievances.
 India has supported greater devolution of power to the Tamil
majority provinces, and for it negotiated with the Sinhalese majority
government.
 Given the Sinhalese-Tamil dispute, the two foreign policy goals
of India and Sri Lanka are not always in line with one another,
complicating India-Sri Lanka relations.
 Unlike India, China’s foreign policy on Sri Lanka is shaped by
the geostrategic importance of the island nation.
 It remains uncomplicated by any domestic concern per se.
 And is relatively straightforward.
 India’s Sri Lanka policy which tries to cultivate good relations
with the Sinhalese majority government while pressurizing it to
meet the demand of the Tamil minority is akin to ‘one trying to ride
on two boats simultaneously’.
 In the process, India has failed to gain the complete trust of
either of the two communities.
Challenges in India-Sri Lanka Relations: (3:00 PM)
Ethnic Crisis in Sri Lanka and the Role of India:
 Sinhalese majority believes in the centralization of power.
 Came out with laws such as the Citizenship Act of 1948.
 This made the Tamils stateless.
 India’s Role:
 India during the time of Nehru, called the Indian Diaspora to
remain in respective countries.
 When the Colombo blockade Jaffna, the Indian government
under Operation Poomalai Air dropped food aid violating Sri Lankan
Air Space.
Provisions of India Sri Lanka Accord 1987: (3:24 PM)
 External dimensions:
 It prohibits Sri Lanka from allowing foreign warships to dock.
 Also prohibited the presence of military and intelligence
personnel of foreign countries to be present in Sri Lanka.
 Domestic Provisions:
 Provincial autonomy for the Tamil majority provinces.
 Three language solutions: official recognition of Sinhalese Tamil
and English.
 LTTE to join mainstream politics.
India’s role in Sri Lankan Tamil question: (3:35 PM)
 India is more into countering the Chinese threat.
 No pressure was put on Sri Lanka to reform issues related to
Tamils.
 2022 Sri Lankan Economic Crisis:
 It went bankrupt.
 Defaulted 31 bn USD loan.
 Market borrowings, ADB, China, and Japan loans.
 Currency collapsed by 80%.
 Making imports difficult.
 Sri Lanka was fast moving towards bankruptcy.
Reasons for the Sri Lankan Economic Crisis:
 Switching to Organic farming, led to the failure of crops.
 COVID-19 pandemic.
 The collapse of the tourism industry due to lockdown.
Role of India: (3:45 PM)
 Currency swap,
 Line of credit.
 India provided 44,000 tons of Urea.
 Food grains and medical supplies were provided.
 India approached IMF on behalf of Sri Lanka, for the bailout
package.
 India was the first country for debt restructuring of Sri Lanka.
China’s support to Sri Lanka:
 To counter China.
 China provided offensive weapons.
 Sri Lanka was looking to China when the West was threatening
to sanction Sri Lanka over war crimes.
Evidences of China in Sri Lanka:
 Sri Lanka has joined the BRI of China.
 Hambantota Port is being developed by China.
 Colombo Port City Project, terminals, etc. developed by China.
 China is also the biggest bilateral creditor to Sri Lanka.
 China’s debt became 16% from 0.3% by 2022.
 It amounted to 19.6% of Sri Lanka’s public debt.
 China has diversified investments in plantation, agriculture, etc.
Response of Sri Lanka: (3:51 PM)
 Sri Lanka follows a neutral policy.
 However, follow India's first policy when it comes to security.
 However, violated, e.g. Chinese nuclear submarine docked in
2019.
 India is trying to increase its economic footprint in Sri Lanka.
 Trincomalee Oil Farm, Matalla port to be developed.
 Buddhist connect is being explored.
 India will allow pilgrimage to Kushinagar from Sri Lanka.
 Ferry services are to be provided for connectivity between India
and Sri Lanka.

International Relations Class 08

CHALLENGES IN INDIA- SRI LANKA RELATIONS (CONTINUES)
(01:15 PM)
 Refer to the handout for details.
 Dispute over Katchatheevu island.
 Fisherman issue from both sides- Indian fishermen cross over
to Sri Lankan waters to have a better catch.
 They get arrested by Sri Lankan officials, their catch is dumped
in the sea and their boat is confiscated. This creates a humanitarian
crisis.
 Indian fishermen use bottom trawlers which destroy the marine
ecosystem such as coral reefs.
 Suggestions
 India may also ban the Bottom trawling.
 Dialogue and long-term solutions are needed regarding
fishermen's issues.
 The livelihood issue of fishermen needs to be kept in mind.
India- Maldives Relation (01:49 pm)
 Importance
 Location- Its proximity to India- It is barely 70 nautical miles from
Minicoy Island. In fact, Male is nearer to the Indian mainland than
Andaman and Nicobar Island. It is located near to important SLOCs.
 Indian diaspora is the second largest in Maldives.
 It is a small island nation comprising 5 lakh people.
 2013-18: President Abdullah Yameen was a pro-China leader.
 2018-23: Ibrahim Solih from the MDP party won the election and
adopted India's first policy.
 India Maldives Relation-
 India generally has had good relations with the Maldives.
 India was one of the first countries to recognise Maldives
independence.
 India emerged as net security provider for Maldives-
 1988- Operation Cactus: The Indian Navy was able to prevent a
coup against Abdul Gyub.
 India was first responder to the 2004 Tsunami crisis in Maldives.
 In 2014, there was a potable water crisis in Male. India
dispatched water tankers to Male.
 During the COVID crisis, India dispatched medicine, PPE kits,
masks etc under COVID diplomacy.
 However, the good bilateral ties were disrupted during the
presidency of Abdullah Yameen.
 Evidence of his pro-China tilt:
 He allowed three Chinese warships to dock.
 Endorsed China's BRI.
 Signed an FTA with China.
 Enacted laws to allow China to lease out small Maldivian Islands.
 During the 45-day emergency that he imposed, his anti-India
attitude became more apparent.
 He stopped issuing or renewing visas for Indian workers in
Maldives; He, in fact, asked India to take back the helicopters gifted
by India along with the personnel to man them.
 Election of Ibrahim Solih
 He, upon election in 2018, announced the India First policy.
 PM Modi attended his swearing-in ceremony.
 During his term, India was able to rebuild its ties with Maldives
and become one of the prominent development and security
partners of Maldives.
 India has committed 1.4 Billion dollars during the past 4 years
towards the socio-economic development of Maldives.
 Partner in development- India has built a number of
infrastructure projects such as the greater Male connectivity project,
Hulumale cricket stadium, Gulhifalhu port, Hanimaadhoo
International Airport etc.
 India has also extended lines of credit, budgetary assistance etc.
 India has become the second-largest trading partner of
Maldives.
 Partner in Security
 Colombo security conclave- India, Sri Lanka and Maldives
were founding members.
 60 Million Line of Credit- Defence purchases by Maldives.
 India has gifted 2 helicopters and Dornier aircraft along with 75
military personnel to maintain and operate them.
 The current president-elect is Mohamed Muizzu. There is
uncertainty with respect to how his policies will be towards India. He
 has pledged that he would be neither pro-India nor pro-China, but
rather a pro-Maldivian leader.
 However, he has committed that one of his priorities after
assuming office would be to return Indian troops. Presently, 75
Indian military personnel stay in Maldives to maintain and operate
the Dornier aircraft and two helicopters gifted by India.
 His stance stems from the India out campaign mounted by the
opposition parties against the outgoing president Ibrahim Solih's
India-first foreign policy.
 Though he has committed not to be pro-China, on several
occasions he has highlighted the benefits of Chinese assistance to
Maldives without commenting on Male's debt obligation to China.
 Govt of India's response to Muizzu's election- PM Modi was one
of the first foreign leaders to congratulate Muizzu.
 PM Modi has been invited to his swearing-in ceremony as well.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA- MALDIVES RELATIONS (02:50 PM)
 China in Maldives
 Split of MDP and Nasheed creating a separate party- Nasheed
and Ibrahim Solih were pro-India leaders who led MDP. Its split
between the two leaders was responsible for Ibrahim Solih's failure
to get 50% of the votes during the first round of the presidential
elections.
 Mohamed Nasheed fielded a presidential candidate who won 7%
of the vote in the first round reducing the chances of reelection of
pro-India leaders.
 Radicalisation of Maldivian society- Growing influence of
Islamic State and Pakistan-based Jihadist groups.
 India out campaign which was led by Yameen and his political
party. It projected the cooperation between India and Maldives to
develop a harbour on UTF atoll for the Maldivian coastguard as a
military base for India.
 The India Out campaign projected MDP to have compromised
Maldive's national interest.
 Though Solih took action against the campaign based on false
propaganda, it had gained traction among Maldivians in certain
parts of the country.
INDIA'S ENGAGEMENT WITH THE INDIAN OCEAN REGION AT
MULTILATERAL LEVEL (03:05 PM)
 Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS)
 It comprises 25 member countries and 8 observer states.
 Aim of IONS-
 Maritime security through Naval Cooperation
 The unique aspect of IONS is that the chairmanship is held by
the navies of the member countries.
 Scope of IONS-
 three working groups of IONS on Maritime Security,
Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, information sharing,
naval interoperability and information security.
 It was inaugurated in New Delhi.
 The chairmanship is held for two years and presently the chair of
IONS is France.
 Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)
 It was established in 1997 as IORARC- Indian Ocean Rim
Association for Regional Cooperation.
 The Secretariat of IORA is in Mauritius.
 Nature of IORA -
 It is an example of soft and open regionalism.
 It is tripartite in structure.
 The decision is taken by consensus and individual commitments
are on a voluntary basis.
 Open Regionalism- Unlike closed regionalism, the benefits of
trade liberalisation will not be restricted to the member countries
alone.
 Under open regionalism, tariff liberalism would result in a general
reduction of tariff rates of a country.
 It does not distort trade creation. Closed regionalism however
results in trade diversion.
 Soft Regionalism- It is cooperation among geographically closed
countries without formal institutional arrangement.
 It is based on pragmatism and such arrangements are informal in
nature. Soft regionalism can be understood in contrast to hard
regionalism which is based on legally enforceable agreements and
treaties. It results in the concrete structuralization of such
organisations.
 Members
 Founding members were 14 countries.
 Present membership- 23 countries
South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Somalia, Yemen, Oman,
UAE, Iran, India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore,
Indonesia, Australia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Comoros,
France and Maldives
 Aim of IORA
 Initially, the aim was regional economic cooperation.
 However, during India's chairmanship in 2012 and 2013, the aim
of the organisation was expanded to 6 priority areas-
 Maritime safety and security
 Trade and investment
 Disaster risk management
 Fisheries management
 Academia, science and technology
 Tourism and cultural exchange
 Apart from the 6 priority areas, two cross-cutting themes have
been identified namely blue economy and gender empowerment.

International Relations Class 09

A BRIEF REVIEW OF PREVIOUS CLASS (01:16 PM)
IORA CONTINUED (01:18 PM)
Challenges (01:18 PM)
 1. Regional diversity:
 The member countries of IORA are at different levels of
economic development.
 On one hand, there are developed countries like Australia,
emerging economies like India, and on the other hand much smaller
economies such as Seychelles, Comoros, etc.
 Hence it becomes very difficult for these countries to arrive at a
consensus with regard to economic development.
 2. Presence of non-conventional security threats and
absence of any maritime security framework:
 IOR is prone to piracy, drug and human trafficking, money
laundering, and climate change-related threats.
 3. Infrastructure deficit:
 Nations in this region do not have deep pockets like that of China
to undertake infra developments in the region.
 Even big countries like India are suffering from infrastructure
deficits.
 4. Vulnerability to the influence of external interference:
 Extra-regional powers like the USA, China, France, UK tend to
influence the polity of this region.
 It creates challenges for IORA.
Way forward (1:35 PM)
 1. IORA should develop a common security architecture to tackle
both conventional challenges.
 2. Cooperate with like-minded countries.
 3. Middle economies like India, and Indonesia should undertake
steps to make this organization a vibrant one.
 For instance, In 2017 Indonesia took the lead by inviting the head
of State to the 1st Leaders' Summit to mark the 20th Anniversary of
IORA.
 It resulted in the Jakarta concord (or IORA concord) which was
largely an aspirational document.
 It was accompanied by the IORA Action Plan which listed short-
term, medium-term, and long-term agendas.
Importance of the Indian Ocean region (1:47 PM)
 A. Geo-political importance:
 2/3rd of global oil trade and 50% of bulk trade passes through
this region.
 It is also home to important choke points like the Malacca Strait.
 B. Geo-strategic importance:
 Conventional security threats:
 1. China trying to increase its military presence in the region.
 It has established its first overseas security base in Djibouti
 Non-convectional threats: Piracy, smuggling, climate change etc
 C. Geo-economical importance:
 It is a resource-rich region.
 The region is home to 40% world's offshore hydrocarbons.
 Significant fishery resources
 Presence of polymetallic nodules on Indian Ocean seabed.
Govt of India's foreign policy with respect to IOR (02:02 PM)
 GOI has identified 3 foreign policy goals in this region:
 1. Strengthening India's bilateral ties with countries in the region
 2. Establish India as the net security provider of the region
 3. To ensure rules based stable maritime order
 GOT has articulated the mission of SAGAR (Security and Growth
for all in the region).
SAARC (02:10 PM)
 Need for regional cooperation:
 In general, it promotes regional economic prosperity and regional
peace.
 There is an interdependent relationship between the 2.
 These 2 reinforce each other.
 Rise of global challenges:
 Climate change
 Transnational criminal networks
 Global terrorist organizations
 Global pandemics like covid-19
 Locust attacks
 The decline in multilateralism is taking place along with global
challenges.
 Need for regional cooperation in South Asia in particular:
 South Asia is home to 1/5th of mankind.
 Almost half of the people are living in abject poverty.
 It is home to the World's largest number of malnourished
children.
 The countries in the region face non-conventional security
threats like terrorism, natural disasters, organized crimes as well as
growing religious radicalism.
 Origin of SAARC:
 Founded in: 1985
 Proposed by: The then President of Bangladesh Zia ur Rehman
 Aim: To check India's regional hegemony.
 Member Countries:
 Afghanistan,
 Bangladesh,
 Bhutan,
 India,
 the Maldives,
 Nepal,
 Pakistan and
 Sri Lanka.
 Observer countries:
 USA
 China
 Australia
 EU
 Japan
 South Korea etc
 Objective: The economic welfare of the region
 Principles:
 It is based on the principles of Panchsheel.
 SAARC would not take bilateral issues on its platform.
 Its focus is only on regional multilateral issues.
 All decisions are taken by consensus.
 It is unlike the EU where most of the decisions are taken by a
qualified majority.
 Achievements of SAARC:
 Launch of SAARC Satellite
 Establishment of SAARC Disaster Management in Gandhinagar
 SAARC Food Bank
 South Asian University in New Delhi
 SAARC Milk grid
 Launch of SAFTA
 Evidence of failures of SAARC:
 Irregular summits
 It is one of the least integrated regions.
 Very little intraregional trade and intraregional investment
 Reasons for the failure of SAARC:
 Size asymmetry between India and its neighbors.
 Militarily it is the most powerful nation in South Asia.
 This size asymmetry propels other South Asian Nations to
suspect hegemony motives in every proposal for greater
cooperation of India.
 This region suffers from Reverse regionalism and reductive
nationalism.
 All South Asian countries need to assert their distinctiveness
from India in particular to justify their independent existence.
 Role of external players and the cold war:
 Unlike EU and ASEAN there has been no push for greater South
Asian cooperation.
 The economies of South Asia are not complementary.
 Another important reason is the India-Pakistan rivalry.
 Several Indian proposals for greater cooperation within South
Asia have been rejected because of Pakistan's reluctance.
 Consequences:
 Several crucial but previously sidelined areas of regional
cooperation such as infrastructure, health, and energy are being
taken up at the sub-regional levels.
 For instance, through platforms like BIMSTEC, BBIN, etc.
 The connectivity initiative is being undertaken through SASEC.
 Way Forward:
 Steps that India should undertake:
 India has to cooperate with like-minded countries like Japan to
improve infrastructure connectivity in the region.
 India has to invest its diplomatic energy to bring consensus over
SACU, SAAFTA, and the reduction of tariff and non-tariff barriers.
 In the long run, India has to improve its relations with Pakistan for
any meaningful political and economic integration at the platform of
SAARC.
 To conclude, deeper economic integration will help South Asia to
sustain its economic growth by creating an integrated South Asian
Market and ensuring a free flow of goods, services, and capital.
 Thus the countries of the region have to make concerted efforts
towards achieving greater economic integration.
MEKONG GANGA COOPERATION (03:39 PM)
 Founded in: 2000 in Vientiane, Laos.
 Member Countries:
 India
 Cambodia,
 Lao PDR,
 Myanmar,
 Thailand and
 Vietnam.
 Though China is an upper riparian State of the Mekong river, it is
not a member of this grouping.
 Aim:
 To facilitate closer contacts among people inhabiting these 2
civilizational rivers.
 Areas of cooperation:
 Tourism
 Culture
 Education
 Transport and Communications
 Science and Technology
 Water resource management
 Skill development
 Capacity building

International Relations Class 10

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:20 PM)
INDIA- INDO-PACIFIC REGION- (01:21 PM)
 This region is an emerging theater of global politics.
 It is from India's perspective.
 It is the complete Indian Ocean and complete Pacific Ocean.
 From India's perspective - It is from the eastern coast of Africa to
the Western Coast of America.
 This entire region is referred to as the Indo-Pacific.
 This region has emerged as the global theater of international
politics.
 Prior to the Pacific, it was the Atlantic Ocean between America
and Europe.
INDIA-SOUTH-EAST ASIA - (01:29 PM)
 ASEAN comprises 10 member states -
 1) Myanmar.
 Indo-China peninsula-
 2) Thailand.
 3) Laos.
 4) Vietnam.
 5) Cambodia.
 6) Malaysia.
 7) Singapore.
 8) Indonesia.
 9) Brunei.
 10) Philipines.
 2 Observer countries - Papua New Guinea (It is a member of
PIF- Pacific Island Forum.), Its identity is disputed and Timor Leste
(East Timor) (In principle).
EVOLUTION OF THE RELATIONS - (01:39 PM)
 There are different phases-
 1) Historical phase -
 There were civilizational and Historical ties.
 Southern Indian kingdoms such as the Chola kingdom were able
to conquer South East Asia.
 They also had trade relations with South East Asia.
 Along with trade, there was an exchange of religion (Buddhism,
Hinduism), Language (Sanskrit), Brahminical traditions, Art and
Architecture, Dance Music, and Mythology for example Ramayana
is an Asian Epic.
 Such were the close ties that Jawaharlal Nehru in his classic
book 'Discovery of India' referred to South East Asia as 'Greater
India'.
 2) During the Cold War -
 The relations became tepid during the Cold War.
 Reasons -
 a) Cold War Politics -
 India followed the policy of Non-Allignment- was the co-founder
of NAM, while the Majority of the Southeast Asian countries were
camp allies of the US.
 b) Inward-looking Indian Economy- Import Substitution was
emphasized, and Export Pessimism marked India's Economic
policy.
 Thus there was no incentive for India to engage with South East
Asian Countries.
 c) South East Asian countries themselves were economically
weak and politically unstable.
 d) The Land Bridge between India and Southeast Asia was
broken due to post-colonial politics - Hostile east Pakistan and
Junta rule in Myanmar.
 3) Post-Cold War -
 1992- GOI- launched the 'Look East Policy.
 The P.V. Narasimha Rao government launched 'The Look East
Policy' in 1992 to build economic relations with 'South East Asia'.
DETERMINANTS/FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR LOOK EAST
POLICY- (02:05 PM)
 1) National level- New Economic Policy - Under it India
undertook LPG reforms.
 In this context, the East Asian Tigers became attractive
Economic partners of India.
 2) Global level - Disintegration of the USSR - With it, India lost its
most trusted ally and the primary economic partner.
 Therefore, India was in search of new partners.
 The emergence of the US as the sole superpower - Therefore,
India wanted to befriend the US and since South-East Asian
countries had good ties with the US, India chose to 'Look East to
Look West'.
 3) Regional level-
 Stagnation of SAARC- South Asian Countries was not
economically attractive and therefore India launched 'The Look East
Policy to economically cooperate with its extended neighborhood.
 4) Rise of China-
 To balance China in its own backyard of South-East Asia, India's
outreach to the region was well reciprocated as South East Asian
Countries look at India as a democratic, Non-threatening
counterbalance to China.
 Further, India's outreach was also well reciprocated by the US,
which was the other prominent external power in the region.
 In fact, therefore, India has been able to 'Push above its
weight' in Southeast Asia and India's Look East Policy is the most
successful foreign policy of India.
EVOLUTION OF INDIA'S LOOK EAST POLICY - (02:22 PM)
 1) It was Launched under P.V. Narasimha Rao.
 Sectoral Scope - Trade and Investment.
 2) During the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government-
 The Geographical scope was expanded - Southeast Asia + East
Asia.
 Sectoral Scope - Trade and Investment and Security cooperation
encourage connectivity to northeast India and South East Asia to
give a push to the development of northeast India.
 3) Manmohan Singh's government -
 The geographical scope was expanded to include - Pacific Island
Nations - such as Fiji.
 He added a domestic dimension to India's east through North
East.
 4) Modi Government -
 He launched the Act East Policy.
 He renamed the Look East Policy to the Act East Policy.
 The geographical scope is the Asia Pacific region.
 Sectoral scope - Three C's were emphasized -
 Culture.
 Commerce
 Connectivity.
 To promote economic cooperation, cultural cooperation, strategic
partnership, and assertive maritime diplomacy is the distinguishing
feature of India's Act East policy.
 Domestic Dimension - To promote greater connectivity of North-
East India to Southeast Asia.
COMPONENTS OF INDIA'S LOOK EAST POLICY OR ACT EAST
POLICY - (02:33 PM)
 1) They are two sides of the same coin.
 Thus the objective of Act East Policy is also to promote
Economic cooperation, and cultural ties and develop strategic
partnerships with the countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
 Geographical scope - Asia Pacific region with ASEAN at the
center.
 Areas of Cooperation - Three C's and Assertive Maritime
Diplomacy.
 Look East through Northeast. For example - Connectivity
projects - India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Kaladan Multimodel Cargo
Transport Project.
INDIA ASEAN RELATIONS - (02:38 PM)
 Achievements -
 1) Political Associations -
 1992- India became a Sectoral dialogue partner of ASEAN.
 1995 - India became a full dialogue partner of ASEAN.
 2002 - Summit Level Partnership.
 2012- The relations were upgraded to a Strategic partnership.
 2022 - Relations are further upgraded to a comprehensive
strategic partnership.
 Every decade a new milestone is reached in the political ties.
 2) Economic cooperation -
 2009- India- ASEAN, FTA in goods was signed.
 2015 - India- ASEAN free trade area was complete.
 3) India in ASEAN-led fora/organization -
 a) ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) - It is the first Security
Cooperation Organization, Established in the Asia Pacific region
under the leadership of ASEAN.
 India joined it as a member in 1996.
 b) East Asia Summit - It was established in 2005 and India is a
founding member, despite the fact that India is not an East Asian
Country and also given the fact that the US which is the prominent
external power in the region was given membership in 2008.
 This highlights the importance given to India as a balancing
power in the region.
 Membership of East Asia Sumit-
 It comprises 18 countries.
 10 ASEAN Countries + 6 FTA partners of ASEAN (China, India,
Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand) + 2 Global powers
(US and Russia).
 c) Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership -
 Negotiations on it between ASEAN and its 6 FTA partners began
in 2012.
 RCEP was suggested in 2011.
 India was part of RCEP negotiations but pulled out of RCEP in
2019.
 Present Member Countries of RCEP-
 10 Countries of ASEAN
 + 5 out of 6 FTA Partners.
REASONS FOR INDIA OPTING OUT OF RCEP - (03:04 PM)
 1) India has a trade deficit with 11 of the 15 members.
 India's trade deficit with China accounts for almost 50% or more
of India's total trade deficit.
 India Suggested 'a tiered approach to tariff liberalization' but it
was unacceptable to the other RCEP countries.
 2) Strict rules of origin -
 India demanded a minimum of 25% value addition for a good to
be considered to have originated from a particular country.
 3) Automatic Trigger Safeguard Mechanism - To protect
domestic industries from sudden Import surge of cheap goods India
wanted a mutually negotiated threshold to be agreed between
various countries such that if crossed through imports, original tariff
duties would automatically snap back to regulate the imports.
 4) Indian exports, according to a Niti Ayog report are income
sensitive rather than price sensitive.
 Therefore Tariff reductions on their own would not boost the
export of Indian goods.
 5) The developed countries want TRIPS+ Commitment while
India is of the view that the TRIPS agreement under The WTO
strikes a fine balance between incentivizing the innovator and the
innovation percolating down into the society.
 6) Provisions such as Investor-State Dispute Settlement
Mechanism are unacceptable to India.
 It would allow foreign investors to challenge India's domestic
laws abroad.
NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES OF INDIA NOT JOINING
AGREEMENTS SUCH AS RCEP - (03:38 PM)
 1) Being left out of 'Regional and Global value chains'.
 2) India misses out on becoming a rule-maker - WTO has been
stagnant since the Doha round of dialogue (2001) and presently the
US has blocked appointment to its appellate body.
 Thus, WTO is increasingly becoming ineffective as a Global
Platform to regulate International Trade.
 It is in this context that regional agreements such as RCEP,
Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership, and
IPEF are becoming increasingly important in setting the terms and
conditions of future Global Trade.
 3) Indian Manufacturers would lose the advantage to compete
and learn and adapt at the regional level to the new terms of trade
before these rules become eventual Global Rules of Trade.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-ASEAN RELATIONS - (03:46 PM)
 1) India's Regional Economic Profile is no match to other
countries in the region, like China, and US, Japan, etc.
 2) India faces/ has adverse BOT (Balance of Trade) with South-
East Asia.
 3) Delays in the completion of infrastructural projects to
strengthen India's connectivity with the region.
 For example, the IMT Trilateral Highway is only about 70% built
when in fact it was expected to be completed by 2019-20.
 4) India privileges bilateral ties over Multilateral ones.
 Note - India is a champion of Multilateralism -
 Reason -
 Through Multilateral organizations, developing countries are able
to negotiate better deals (Deals in their favor) than they would be
able to in one-to-one negotiations with the developed countries.
 They benefit from collective bargaining power)
 5) Not all South-East Asian Countries are comfortable with the
concept of Indo-Pacific.
 They are worried that they would be forced to pick sides between
the US and India on one side and China on the other.
 Reason -
 Especially the smaller economies of South-East Asia are deeply
entrenched in the Chinese economy.
 They have a large economic dependence on China.
 For example - Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar are the three
ASEAN countries that have not joined IPEF because they are
worried about the huge cost of decoupling their economies from the
Chinese economy.
WAY FORWARD - (04:01 PM)
 1) Increase trade and investment with the region, for instance in
sectors such as the digital economy.
 2) Increase competitiveness of India's manufacturing sector.
 3) Timely completion of infrastructural projects.
 4) Use India's soft power to balance China's hard power.

International Relations Class 11

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:12 PM)
INDIA -MYANMAR RELATIONS- (01:13 PM)
 Importance of Myanmar-
 1) Security of India's North-East.
 There is a porous border with Myanmar.
 North-East insurgents represent the Second frontier Dilemma.
 2) Myanmar provides sea access to India's North-Eastern
Region.
 In fact shortest route to sea for India is via Myanmar.
 3) It acts as India's land bridge to South-East Asia.
 Therefore India has taken a number of cross-border connectivity
projects.
 For example - IMT Trilateral, Kaladan Multi-Modal Cargo
Transport Project, and Aizwal Sairrang Hmawmgbuchhuah Railway
Line Project.
 4) To Counter China and its 'String of Pearls' - It is the policy of
encirclement of India by China. China wants to encircle India and
decrease India's Presence.
 For example - India is developing Sitwe Port to counter China
in 'The Kyaukphyu Port' of Myanmar. Both these ports are in the
Rakhine state.
 Sairrang Hmawmgbuchhuah Railway Line is identified as part of
India's 'Act East Policy' to counter China's Railway influence in
Myanmar.
 For example - the CMEC (China-Myanmar Economic Corridor).
 5) Myanmar is also important for India's Inter-Regional Initiatives
such as BIMSTEC.
 6) Cultural significance of Myanmar -
 The people of the North-East share close cultural and ethnic ties
with the Minority in Myanmar.
 The Mizos of Mizoram and the Kuki-Zomi people of Manipur
share ethnic ties with Chins in Myanmar.
 Mons of Nagaland are divided on both sides of the border.
 The Longwa village in Nagaland is cut across by the India-
Myanmar border.
THE POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS IN MYANMAR - (01:34 PM)
 1948 - Myanmar becomes independent.
 1962 - A military coup takes place.
 2008 - The military continued uninterrupted until 2008.
 On 8th August 1988 - The people of Myanmar led 8888 pro-
democracy uprisings in Myanmar.
 In 1990 - the military conducted an election - NLD, led by Aung
Sang Syu Ki won the election.
 Now, the Military was unhappy about it and canceled the election
results and arrested Aung Sang Syu Ki and other leaders of NLD.
 The military rule continued.
 People became strongly unhappy with the military.
 Tatmadaw (Military) is inward-looking.
 They come close to China in these circumstances.
 2008- The military conducts a referendum - if they want discipline
and flourishing democracy.
 People vote in favor of a disciplined flourishing democracy.
 2010 - Elections are held in Myanmar.
 In these elections, USDP - a military-backed party won the
elections.
 NLD did not participate in this election.
 2015 - NLD wins the election.
 2020- In this election, NLD won that too with a greater majority
while the performance of USDP further deteriorated.
 The military is unhappy once again.
 In February 2021- The military once again declared a coup.
There would be an emergency for one year after that there would
be an election and a democratically elected government would be
there.
 But emergency since then has been extended for 6 months at
regular intervals.
 Reason for a military coup in February 2021-
 The constitution adopted after the 2008 referendum - Myanmar's
military has been given a special place in Myanmar's constitution.
 For example - In an important ministerial post, 20-25% of seats in
the Myanmar legislature were reserved for the military.
 The military fears that as NLD is in Majority in Parliament they
can amend the constitution.
EVOLUTION OF INDIA-MYANMAR RELATIONS - (01:52 PM)
 1) 1948-62-
 It was a good phase.
 India has signed a friendship treaty.
 2) 1962-1998-
 This phase is characterized by Military rule.
 Our relations were marked by stagnancy, bordering on the
margins of cordiality.
 Because India did not recognize the Junta Government.
 By 1985, India realized the need to engage with Myanmar for the
sake of North-East security.
 But in 1990, the cancellation of election results by the Junta drew
a sharp reaction from India.
 3) 1998 Onwards -
 It is under the NDA government that India adopts a realist
approach with respect to Myanmar.
 Therefore GOI's foreign policy was to engage with whoever was
in Myanmar.
 And whoever is working in India's interest in Myanmar.
 4) 2010-2021 -
 Here democracy returns.
 At this time in Myanmar there exist dual centers of power.
 This is the best phase in recent times in India-Myanmar
relations.
 India could now engage with the civilian leadership without
international criticism while continuing strong security cooperation
with the Myanmar military.
 February 2021 onwards once again military coup, is a repetition
of the event of the 1990s.
 Here, the Government of India reacted by condemning violence
but not the military.
REASONS FOR A CHANGE IN GOI'S REACTION - (02:15 PM)
 1) Over the last two decades, India has built ties with the military
Junta.
 It has played an important role in countering the safe havens of
north-eastern Insurgents in Myanmar.
 2) Contrary to the general expectations, NLD rule in Myanmar
was relatively pro-China.
 Since Syu Ki wanted to end the several civil wars in Myanmar,
She was forced to reach out to China which enjoys leverage with
ethnic armed groups.
 3) Myanmar is important for connectivity and sea access to
India's North-Eastern Region.
 India has ongoing connectivity projects such as the trilateral
highway, and the Kaladan Trilateral project with Myanmar.
 Thus given the geo-economic and geo-strategic importance of
Myanmar, India cannot alienate those in power in Myanmar.
 India's national interest dictates engaging with whoever is in
power in Myanmar.
 4) If India were to replicate the Western criticism and economic
sanctions on Myanmar, it would further push the 'Junta' into the
Chinese axis.
REACTION OF INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY - (02:23 PM)
 1) The West -
 It views Tatmadaw as a power-hungry army depriving the people
of Myanmar of their democratic rights and committing human rights
violations.
 They have sponsored a resolution against the Junta in the UN
and imposed Economic Sanctions.
 2) China and Russia -
 They want to use Western sanctions as an opportunity to forge
closer ties with Myanmar.
 They abstain on the resolution or at times if need be veto them.
 3) India and Japan -
 They emphasized 'politically negotiated solutions' and 'quiet
diplomacy' as the way out of the current crisis.
 4) ASEAN -
 It has suggested a five-point consensus plan to overcome the
current crisis.
 Under the plan reached till April 2021, the Junta has promised to
stop the violence and start an inclusive political dialogue.
 It has strongly condemned the continued acts of violence.
 ASEAN has denied Myanmar the Chairmanship of the bloc,
which it was to assume in 2026.
 Reaction of Myanmaris People to the coup -
 Their reaction has been very sharp.
 Earlier the pro-democracy groups would lead a peaceful struggle
against the military.
 This time the pro-democracy movement has given up Syu
Kyian's model of 'Peaceful resistance'.
 They affirmed an underground government, a National unity
government, established a military wing, and joined hands with the
ethnic rebels.
 Such a strong reaction was not expected by the military.
 Over the two years, new political realities have emerged.
 The rebels have made substantial territorial gains, building
pressure on the Junta.
 In fact, the armed forces have surrendered in these areas.
 This has created pressure on the Junta.
 The rebels have asked the generals to retreat from politics and
then hold talks to find peace.
 They demand a federal democratic system with greater
autonomy for ethnic minority regions.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-MYANMAR RELATIONS - (03:03 PM)
 1) Military Coup-
 It has resulted in unprecedented violence in Myanmar with
people regularly protesting.
 The earlier peaceful protests have turned violent.
 The military is said to have effective control over 20-40% of
Myanmar's territory.
 India's National interest dictates to engage with whosoever is in
power in Myanmar.
 In view of the current political situation, where, NUG along with
ethnic rebels is successfully protesting against the military rule.
 Also, the Junta faces regional and international isolation.
 In such a condition engagement with it can be counter-
productive.
 2) Security challenges for India -
 The resultant instability in Myanmar is a cause of security
concern for India.
 For example - the valley-based insurgent groups in Manipur
(Comprising Meitais) are reported to be fighting alongside
Myanmar's army.
 This raises concerns with respect to the arms access they have
got and their revival.
 Also, the Manipur conflict was blamed on the ingress of refugees
such as the Chinese from Myanmar into India.
 Since, the military coup at least 54,000 Myanmaris have sought
refuge in India, primarily in the bordering states.
 3) Rohingya issue -
 Rohingyas are ethnic minorities who live in the Rakhine state of
Myanmar.
 They practice Islam and speak a dialect of Bangla.
 Origin of Rohingya crisis -
 The citizenship law of Myanmar of 1982 did not recognize
Rohingyas as citizens.
 It recognized 135 ethnic groups but not Rohingyas.
 They view them as migrants to Myanmar during colonial rule.
 Other reasons -
 The Rakhine Buddhists allege that the Rohingyas crowd out
limited economic opportunities available to them.
 They fear Demographic inversion in Rakhine because they allege
that the Rohingyas may outbreed them.
 Because of regular state-led persecution, Rohingyas have been
forced to flee undertaking arduous journeys on boats, and therefore
they are also referred to as 'boat people'.
 Recent incidences of Rohingya Exodus -
 2012, 2015, 2017, etc.. and also Recently after a military coup.
 Government of India's stand on Rohingya refugees -
 40,000 Rohingya refugees are living across India and another
15,000 have entered since the military coup.
 India considers them as illegal migrants and they are to be
deported back to their home country.
 Reason for such a position of GOI -
 India is not a signatory to the UN Refugee Convention, 1951, and
its 1967 protocol.
 So, India is not bound to provide refuge to the Rohingyas.
 Secondly, Though a non-signatory to the Refugee Convention,
India has a stellar record in providing refuge, be it to the Tamils of
Srilanka, The exiled Tibetans, etc.
 Thus the primary reason, why India has refused to the Rohingyas
is the 'apparent security risk'.
 India is sensitive to terrorist attacks by Islamic terror groups, and
the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) is known to have
definite links with ISI.
 Thus India fears the ingress of terrorists under the disguise of
Rohingy refugees.
CHINA IN MYANMAR - (03:40 PM)
 Why China considers Myanmar important -
 China considers Myanmar as its second coast.
 It provides China access to the Indian Ocean and would aid
China in overcoming its Malacca dilemma.
 Myanmar is naturally resource-rich, It is rich in mineral wealth,
has oil, and natural gas, Rich in timber and Gemstones.
 China being a manufacturing power is interested in the natural
resources of Myanmar.
 Evidence of China in Myanmar -
 1) The CMEC Corridor- It lays down a dual pipeline that would
carry offshore oil from the Arakan region to the Yunnan province of
China.
 2) Letpadaung Cooper mines.
 3) Kyuakphyu Special Economic Zone (KSEZ).
WAY FORWARD - (03:48 PM)
 India as a regional power should take steps to restore peace and
stability in Myanmar.
 According to a report the Mayanmaris have faced 2.5 times the
violence faced by the people of Afghanistan.
 India should cooperate with like-minded countries such as Japan
and ASEAN to ensure peace.
 India should not hesitate to convey a clear message to the Junta,
expressing its concerns about the escalating instability in Myanmar.
 It should exert pressure on the Junta to take decisive action
toward a peaceful resolution of the crisis.
 Use its influence to open channels of communication between
the Junta and NUG.
 Provide Humanitarian assistance and support to the people of
Myanmar.

International Relations Class 12

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:08 PM)
INDIA-CHINA RELATIONS - (01:09 PM)
 Topic to be covered-
 Evolution - special focus on the current phase.
 Challenges in India-China Relations-
 1) BRI.
 2) Border disputes.
 3) Adverse Balance of Trade.
 4) China in IOR is a challenge.
 5) Dams on Brahmaputra River.
EVOLUTION OF INDIA-CHINA RELATIONS - (01:17 PM)
 At the time of India's independence-
 The Chinese state is an expansionist state/ foreign policy/
Irredentist state.
 China was dissatisfied with its current/existing borders.
 It lays claim through 'The palm and 5 digits Theory', The Palm
comprised Tibet and 5 digits were, Ladakh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim,
and Arunachal Pradesh.
 At the time of independence, India had limited resources.
 India had this idea of Asian solidarity.
 If India focuses on conflict with China, then resources have to be
diversified in defence etc.
 So, India has no problem with the borders, but China has a
problem with the borders.
 So Indian leadership decided to not focus on the war, rather we
will focus on peaceful co-existence.
 There was a difference of opinion between J.L. Nehru and S.V.
Patel.
 India adopted a Policy of Appeasement of China.
 Evidence of this policy of Appeasement-
 1) India becomes the first Non-Socialist country in the world to
recognize an Independent PRC.
 The world was Bipolar during this time.
 2) Korean conflict -
 South Korea was under the influence of the USA and North
Korea was under the influence of the USSR.
 The US wanted to declare that China was the reason for this war
but India opposed China being declared as the oppressor of this
war.
 3) Since communist power in China, One permanent seat was
reserved for China, But because of the communist party Taiwan
represented China in the UNSC, But during 1950-1962, India
demanded China should be given its rightful position as the
permanent member of UNSC.
 4) Tibet - In 1954, India signed the Panchsheel Agreement with
China under which India unilaterally recognized Tibet to be an
inalienable part of China, without demanding anything in return from
China.
 Eventually, In Tibet, there was a movement against China. Now
Dalai Lama was given refuge in India and this was not appreciated
by China.
 China said by giving refuge to the Dalai Lama, India had violated
the Panchsheel agreement.
 After a few years, China started building infrastructure in the
disputed region.
 Now Indian government also started building infrastructure in this
disputed region.
 This all culminated in the 1962, India- China war.
 So, This humiliating defeat in 1962 led to a change in the policy.
 During this phase, There were no diplomatic ties with China.
 5) Cold Peace in bilateral ties -
 The next phase in the relations is called the phase of Cold Peace
in the bilateral ties (1962- 1988/1990).
 The Janata Government came to power in India, this government
adopted successive foreign policy with respect to China.
 This government focuses on -
 First, resolve the border dispute without which there can be no
cooperation/collaboration between India and China.
 This was a successive approach.
 During this period, the 1970s - There was a change of
government in China - From Mao to Deng Xiaoping, he decided to
focus on the development of China.
 According to him -
 Peace is the precondition for development.
 Peace with India is needed in water-dispute resolution.
 1980-1988- There were 8 rounds of negotiations.
 At the end of these negotiations, China offered India a
packaged Deal -
 According to the Packaged deal -
 1) They proposed that India should recognize Chinese
sovereignty over Aksai China which China occupied after 1962, in
return they would recognize India's sovereignty over Arunachal
Pradesh.
 However at that point in time, India rejected the Packaged deal.
 India said India wants comprehensive Border dispute resolution
rather than Peacemeal Border Dispute Resolution.
 2) 1986 - Sumdorong Chu conflict.
 1987 - Arunachal Pradesh was given statehood by India.
 Yangtze Ridge controlled by India
NORMALIZATION OF INDIA-CHINA RELATIONS - (01:56 PM)
 1988/1990 onwards (1990/2013-2014) -
 India moves towards normalization of India-China relations.
 Rajiv Gandhi Simultaneous approach - Border Dispute resolution
and Cooperation in other areas/sectors.
 For example - In 1993 - P.V. Narasimha Rao visited China and
an agreement on the Maintainance of Peace and Tranquility on
the border was signed.
 In 1996, China's president India and Confidence building
measures on the border areas were signed.
 2003 - China unilaterally recognized Sikkim to be an integral part
of India.
 2005 - Both countries established a Special Representative
Mechanism to resolve Border Disputes.
 They also agreed on 'The political Parameters and guiding
principles' to resolve border disputes.
 There are three parameters-
 a) The border we agreed upon has to be fair, reasonable, and
mutually acceptable.
 b) The borders would be demarcated based on major
geographical features.
 c) People inhibiting a disputed territory their wish would be taken
into account.
COOPERATION AND COMPETITION CO-EXISTING - (2013-14
onwards) - (02:16 PM)
 Since 1962, this is the worst phase in India-China relations.
 Presently the relations have hit a nadir since the 1962 war.
 We are at the lowest phase of the bilateral ties.
 Evidence of cooperation -
 Informal Summit at - (No-Official agenda) (To build personal
relations with global leaders).
 a) Wuhan - 2017
 b) Mamallapuram - 2018.
 India has informal summits with Russia and China.
 Evidence of competition -
 a) Doklam crisis in 2017.
 b) China blocking India's Full Membership in NSG.
 c) Listing of Pakistan-based terrorists in the UN global terror list.
 d) Abrogation of Article 370- China supported Pakistan in the
abrogation of Article 370 in various global platforms.
 e) China BRI and CPEC. India opposed CEPC because it passes
through Gilgit Baltistan.
 Why cooperation + competition in the relations -
 Because there were three forces in operation -
 a) Decline of West.
 b) Rise of the east.
 c) Global order - WTO, etc, Primarily benefited India and China.
Presently the global order is under threat, But India and China
wanted to protect the Global order.
 So, they are forced into cooperation.
 d) Changing southeast - China is increasing its presence in
South Asia, which leads to the India and China conflict.
 Peripheral Diplomacy - China under Xi-Jingping - clearly stated
to become a global power. So they need the support of peripheral
countries. So they started pursuing close relations with South Asian
Countries.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-CHINA RELATIONS - (02:32 PM)
 1) Adverse Balance of Trade -
 India has a major trade deficit with China.
 2021- 73.3 billion dollars and it is expected to cross 100 billion
dollars in the next financial year 2023.
 In 2021, TD stood at 71 billion dollars.
 Last 10 years TD was around dollar 50 billion.
 why it is a matter of concern/?
 The imbalance has been continuously widening.
 It has ramifications on BOP.
 Reasons -
 India's narrow Trade Basket.
 China exports value-added goods, electrical devices, etc.
 In the sector where India's expertise lies, China is not giving India
access.
 Way Forward -
 Develop the competitiveness of the Indian manufacturing sector.
 India should undertake second-generation economic reforms.
 Greater market access is needed in the areas where India has
expertise.
2) BORDER DISPUTE BETWEEN INDIA AND CHINA - (02:56)
 The Sino-Indian border is generally divided into three sectors
namely- The western sector, the Middle sector, and the Eastern
sector.
 Western sector- LAC, Aksai Chin, Shaksgam valley (1963).
 British India has suggested two borderlines -
 One was the Johnson line- Akasi Chin to be part of India.
 The Macdonald line - Aksai Chin to be part of China.
 China did not respond to either of the two proposals.
 India chose Johnson Line, Aksi Chin to be part of of India.
 Middle sector- Sikkim 2003, Pockets of HP and Uttarakhand.
 Eastern sector - Arunachal Pradesh.
 1914, they called a Shimla Conference, to demarcate borders on
the easter sector.
 Tibetan conference representatives and Chinese representatives
were also invited, In the middle of the conference China's
representatives left.
 As part of this conference - Arunachal Pradesh and Tawang was
part of India.
 Reasons for Chinese claim on Arunachal Pradesh -
 On the basis of identity- They consider AP as southern Tibet.
 In fact, Tawang is home to the second-largest Buddhist
monastery in the world, and the 6th Dalai Lama was also born in
Tawang.
 Tawang is the only fertile valley in the entire Tibet.
 The hydroelectric potential of Arunachal Pradesh is very high.
 Why is Aksai Chin so important for China /Reason for
Chinese claim on Aksai Chin -
 Because Aksai Chin provides all-weather connectivity between
Aksai Chin and Xingziang provinces of China.
THE RECENT BORDER CONFLICTS - (03:08 PM)
 May 2020- Eastern Ladakh Conflict -
 It happened on -
 Pangong Tso Lake - There has been disengagement now.
 Gogra hotspring - A Buffer zone has been created in the disputed
region. Where both countries cannot Patrol.
 Galwan Valley - clash took place in June 2020, and resulted in
the death of 20 Indian soldiers and 4 Chinese soldiers.
 Depsang Valley - Soldiers continue to stand from eyeball to
eyeball.
 Demchok - soldiers continue to be engaged in.
 December 2022- Yangtse Ridge conflict.
 2013-14- Soldiers coming face to face was a matter of
coincidence.
 But now, It is pre-mediated, they have entered in large numbers
with arms and ammunition.
 Reason for the conflict/Probable reasons for Chinese
incursions -
 1) India Abrogated Article 370.
 2) Maybe China is unhappy with the close proximity between
India and the USA.
 3) They are unhappy with the QUAD.
 4) Maybe China wants to divert criticism of the failure of the 'zero'
Covid policy.
 5) China was trying to send two signals to India -
 a) Tactical Signal - to tell India that there is a huge power
asymmetry between India and China and therefore China can
unilaterally change the borders.
 b) Strategic signal- China is the Asian Hegemon.
 India's response -
 1) India soon mirrored their military build-up.
 2) We decided to take action which hurts China the most - China
is a mercantilist state, let us take economic action against China.
 India banned several Chinese Apps.
 We make sure, Chinese companies do not win competitive
bidding.
 India mandatory fix FDI through the government route.
 But India not being successful in it because -
 Economic engagements have continued despite these efforts.
 India is the largest recipient of grants from AIIB.
THE WISDOM IN INDIA CHINA RELATIONS - (03:36 PM)
 Engage with China wherever possible and balance China
wherever necessary.
 Currently Engagement scope is not there, but still, we are
engaging in global issues with China.
 Balancing - Internal balancing + External balancing.
 We need to prioritize peace along the India-China borders.
3) DAMS ON BRAHMAPUTRA RIVER - (03:39 PM)
 The Brahmaputra is also known as Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet.
 It flows through Tibet before entering India.
 This river enters Arunachal Pradesh as the Siang River.
 There are two tributaries - the River Lohit and the Dibang River,
which become the Brahmaputra River.
 Dibang and Lohit are tributaries in the state of Assam.
 India's Concerns-
 India is concerned with respect to dam-building activity by
China.
 China in its 14th five-year plan - plans to build a Dam on the
Brahmaputra river.
 However, earlier China built a Dam on the upper and middle
reaches of the river.
 Response on concerns -
 China built the Run of the River Dam. So, the Diversion of water
will not take place.
 The Brahmaputra is not completely dependent upon upstream
flows.
 The Tibetan glacial melts contribute only 18% of river water flow.
 This river is monsoon-fed.
 As part of the 14th five-year plan, China has planned to build the
Dam in the lower reaches Medong County region, where there is
huge hydro-power potential.
 They plan to build 60 GW of this Dam. This is a cause of concern
for India, as it is very close to India's borders with Arunachal
Pradesh.
 So, its closeness to AP is the concern.
 China has a history of using water as a weapon.
 For example - During the 2017 Doklam standoff, China stopped
sharing Hydrological data on the Brahmaputra River with India.
 India is worried that China can release water which can cause
floods in the Northeastern area.
 India is concerned about Ecological and seismological effects- It
might also result in earthquakes.
 RESPOINSE OF GOI- (03:53 PM)
 India has asked China to be mindful of the interests of the
downstream countries.
 India should ask other downstream countries like Bangladesh to
support this demand.
International Relations Class 13
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (09:16 AM)
(BRI) BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE - (09:18 AM)
 To foster connectivity between the Ancient Silk Route.
 Asia, Africa, and Europe wanted to revive the Ancient Silk
Route.
 In fact, BRI is also known as OBOR (One Belt One Road
Initiative).
 It is also referred to as the SREB (Silk Road Economic Belt).
 The one road is the sea/marine route, It is called as 21st century
MSR (Maritime Silk Road).
 The belt word is used for continental connectivity.
 Recently, the 'Third Belt Road Forum' was held.
REASONS FOR THE LAUNCH OF THE BRI INITIATIVE - (09:23 AM)
 It was launched under the leadership of Xi Jinping.
 1) To overcome the Malacca Dilemma -
 Under CPEC, They are developing the Gwadar port.
 Through CMEC, They are developing Kyaukpyu port.
 They have planned to dig out a canal through the Isthmus of Kra
in Thailand.
 2) During the 2008 financial crisis, the Chinese state had given
stimulus/ announced a fiscal package for the promotion of the
building of roads, highways, airports, etc.
 It was a stimulus package to the infrastructure industry so that it
generates demand in the economy etc.
 This led to an increase in the infrastructural capability of China.
 So, now they have surplus infrastructure. However, there is no
infrastructure market in China.
 So now, the government is finding an alternating market for its
infrastructure through BRI.
 3) The coastal regions of China are very developed but the
landlocked areas are not as developed as the coastal towns.
 Through BRI they are trying to stimulate the economies of
landlocked provinces of China.
 CPEC- It connects Gwadar port to Xingjing province, and the
Kyaukpyu port connects Yunnan province.
 This BRI is compared to the 20th century Marshal Plan and
called as 21st century Marshal Plan.
 The Marshall Plan was launched by the US to provide economic
aid to European countries post World War 2.
 At times this is also called 'Neo-Imperialism'.
WHAT ARE THE CRITICISMS OF CHINA'S BRI - (09:42 AM)
 1) It is an example of Debt Trap Diplomacy -
 Through it, China is practicing Credit Imperialism.
 They practice Equity for their debt Swaps.
 It is financing unviable projects, through BRI.
 China does not study the financial stability of the project before
investing in it.
 For example- Hambantota port.
 2) The opeque nature of China BRI -
 There is a complete lack of transparency.
 Here at least 15 different Chinese ministries are involved.
 Even the Chinese government cannot identify all the projects
financed under BRI.
 BRI launched around 2013, India was not to be part of BRI due
to its opaque nature.
 AIIB- India chose to be part of AIIB Because it was created in
consultation. In fact, India was the second-largest holder of AIIB.
 3) The BRI initiative does not fuel Local employment - Because
they bring in their own labor and workforce due to this only the
Chinese economy is boosting.
 4) Lack of private sector participation -
 It is an example of a 21st-century Marshal plan.
WORLD RESPONSE TOWARDS BRI- (09:53 AM)
 G7 has been providing alternatives in 2021, Under G7, US
President Biden Put forward the initiative 'Build Back Better
World' (B3W).
 In 2022, This Bild Back Better was refurnished into Partnership
For Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII).
 PGII was developed as an alternative to BRI, It is a values-
driven, high-impact, transparent infrastructure partnership, to
contrast China's BRI.
 To invest in sustainable and quality infrastructure projects in
developing countries.
 The mode of funding in all the projects is not only through the
government, so they will use public funding as seed money to
capitalize on private money.
 They have identified four priority pillars -
 They want to ensure Global Clean Energy Security - The coal-
fired power plants will not be supported.
 ICT.
 Gender Equality and Equity.
 Global Health Infrastructure.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PGII AND BRI - (10:06 AM)
(Kindly refer to the handouts)
 Clean Energy.
 Funding.
 Source of Funding - BRI is not based on public funding.
 Employment.
 Nature of Funding - Transparent and Opaqueness.
INDIA NOT JOINED BRI- (10:07 AM)
 Sovereignty- Violation of Sovereignty.
 Transparency concerns.
 India predicted that BRI would lead to unsustainable financial
debts. - It will fuel the Debt trap.
BLUE.NETWORK - (10:07 AM)
 Its members are - Australia+ Japan+ USA.
 This will certify whether a project that is financed is financially
viable or not.
 It would grade the projects on -
 Debt.
 Environmental standards.
 Employment standards.
 Promote high-quality infrastructure development.
 Us is insisting that quality is more important than quantity.
CHINA IN IOR (Indian Ocean Region) - (10:15 AM)
 This idea was first put forward by China's Booz Allen
Hamilton, in his report in 2004-05 - 'Energy Future in Asia'
 China is trying to increase its influence in IOR.
 This is referred to as the 'String of Peal'.
 China is trying to encircle India by increasing its military and
economic presence in littoral countries or the RIM countries of the
IOR.
 Evidence of string of pearls -
 China is building first and foremost 'Deep seaports'.
 For example -
 Gwadar in Pakistan.
 Kyaukpyu port in Myanmar.
 Hanbantota port in Srilanka.
 China has established its first military base in Djibouti.
 China acquired uninhabited islands in the Maldives.
 They are also developing the northernmost atoll of Maldives.
 Maldives lies in close proximity to India.
 They are going for deeper economic engagements with countries
in the region.
 They have also developed deep economic ties with Myanmar.
 China is also building a BRI initiative which is also focused on
IOR.
INDIA'S RESPONSE - (10:24 AM)
 To build stronger bilateral ties with the RIM Countries.
 India entered into a number of security partnerships with the
countries of the region.
 For example, India developed Sittwe port and is developing
Chabahar port.
 We have developed Duqm port in Oman.
 We are expanding the Changi Naval Base in Singapore.
 At the northernmost tip of Sumatra, Sabang Port is developed.
 Dual-used infrastructure in Agaléga (Mauritius) and Assumption
Island (In Seychelles).
 India entered into a Logistic Exchange Agreement with
external powers in the region.
 For example Logistics Exchange Agreement with USA and
France.
 India as an important player in IOR is very well accepted.
 India is considered as the leader of the IOR.
INDIA- JAPAN RELATIONS - (10:36 AM)
 Topics to be covered -
 Evolutions of the relations.
 Determinants of India-Japan Relations and Major Milestones.
 Areas of Cooperation.
 Challenges and India and Japan as Linchpins to rule based Indo-
Pacific.
 EVOLUTION -
 Phase I- 1947- 1974-
 The nature of the relation was -
 We had good people-to-people ties whereas state-to-state
relations were Tepid.
 The reason for good People to people ties -
 Because of Cultural connections- Buddhism and Asian solidarity.
 Japan had supported Subhash Chandra Bose's INA- Which led
to goodwill in India towards Japan.
 After Hiroshima and Nagasaki, India gifted Baby Elephants as a
symbol of smiles to the children in Japan.
 Why state-to-state relations were Tepid -
 1) Cold War politics prevented us from following good relations
with Japan as Japan was in the US camp.
 On the domestic level, India was an inward-looking economy.
 There were no economic reasons for us to reach out to Japan.
 There was no cooperation at the state level.
 Phase - II - 1974 - 2000
 1974 is a Landmark in relations - India tested a Nuclear Weapon
(Pokhran I) - Operation Smiling Buddha, given the fact Japan is
very sensitive to the issue of Nuclear.
 Japan joined the world in imposing sanctions against India.
 In 1988, Again India Tested Nuclear weapons under Operation
Shakti.
 India declared itself as the defacto nuclear weapon state and
once again sanctions were imposed by Japan on India.
 But by the time of 1988, the Indian Economy had become the
one to be reckoned with.
 Phase III - 2000 Onwards
 By 2000, India-Japan relations entered the 'Cherry Blossom
Phase'.
 Since then there has been no turning back.
DETERMINANTS/ FACTORS THAT LEAD TO CLOSE INDIA-JAPAN
RELATIONS - (10:58 AM)
 1) Improvement in India-US relations -
 Because Japan is a very important ally of the US.
 Post World War II- Japan and the US came very close.
 Japan was a Non- NATO ally of the US.
 2) New Economic Policy adopted by India and the consequent
LPG reforms.
 3) Rise of China -
 Due to China's rise, India was recognized as a balancing power
to China.
 4) Absence of historical baggage and strategic
disagreements -
 India also adopted a liberal policy like Japan, so there is no
strategic and historical baggage in India-Japan Relations.
ECONOMIC COMPLEMENTARITIES BETWEEN INDIA AND JAPAN
- (11:02 AM)
 1) Japan has capital, and India needs investment.
 2) Japan faces an aging population/ demography while India has
abandoned/surplus labor.
 3) Japan is a technology superpower, and India is in search of
innovation.
 4) India represents a large market if Japan wants to sustain its
present quality of life.
 Political Complimentarities -
 1) Both are liberal vibrant democracies.
 2) Both believe in the Rule of Law and seek a free open and
inclusive Indo-Pacific.
 3) Both have territorial rivalries with China.
 For example- LAC for India, For Japan - The Sinkaku Island,
which is also referred to as Diaoyu Island.
THE MAJOR MILESTONES IN THE BILATERAL TIES - (11:10 AM)
 2006- India and Japan enter into a Global Partnership.
 They also begin with Annual summits.
 2014 - India entered into a Special Strategic and Global
Partnership.
 2017 - We enter into an agreement on the Peaceful use of
nuclear energy.
AREAS OF COOPERATION - (11:15 AM)
 1) Trade and investment- Japan is the primary investor partner of
India.
 In the 2022, annual summit PM Modi, recognized Japan as an
indispensable economic partner of India.
 Reasons -
 a) Japanese Capital is invested in several India Startups.
 b) Japan is India's partner in Mega infrastructure projects in India
such as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train.
 It was built at the cost of 1.08 Lakh Crore of which 18,000 crore
is being provided by Japan as a 'Soft Loan'.
 Japan has also expressed interest in other Mega infrastructure
projects, such as the Delhi-Mumbai Freight Corridor, Delhi Muymbai
Industrial Corridor, Chennai- Banglore Industrial Corridor etc.
 Delhi's metro has been built using Japan's ODA (Overseas
Development Assistance).
 c) India has decided to use 'Shinkansen Technology' for its
high-speed rails. It is known for its speed, accuracy, and safety.
 d) Japan is the only country allowed by the government of India
to invest in India's Northeast region and Andaman and Nicobar
islands.
 India Japan Act East Forum is a single window to enable
Japanese Investment into North-East India.
 Japan focuses on the development of roads, bridges, forest
management, and capacity building in India's northeast.
 e) In last year's annual summit Japan promised an investment of
5 trillion yen in India over the coming 5 years.
 Also last year, the two countries announced 'Clean Energy
Partnership'.
 f) The two countries have a 75 billion dollar 'currency Swap
Arrangement'.
 India can give a rupee and in exchange get yen and any hard
currency and vice versa.
 They also hedge market sentiments.
 The purpose is to tide over intermittent BOP crisis.
 It helps hedge against the short-term volatility of Forex and
therefore is an important hedge against market sentiments.
 The two countries concluded CEPA.
STRATEGIC AREAS OF COOPERATION - (11:35 AM)
 Evidences -
 1) QUAD - Quadrilateral security dialogue.
 It was revived in 2017.
 In 2021, It has been upgraded to summit level.
 Its members are India-Japan-Australia- US.
 2) Malabar exercises.
 3) 2+2 Dialogue -
 It used to take place foreign and defence secretary level.
 It has been upgraded to the ministerial level.
 4) India has an AKA (Acquisition and Cross Servicing
Agreement) or MLSA (Mutual Logistics Supply Agreement)
( Logistics Exchange Agreement).
 5) Agreement on Transfer of Defence Technology in 2018 -
 It is an important agreement because it is unlike Japan to sign
such agreements.
 Presently, the two countries are cooperating in the development
of unmanned aerial vehicles and Robotics.
 In their 2022, summit they have agreed to go beyond these areas
of cooperation.
GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP AREA OF COOPERATION - (11:43 AM)
 UNSC reforms, in particular membership reforms.
 They have formed a group - India- Japan- Brazil and Germany.
 These countries demand permanent membership of the UNSC.
 Both demand denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.
 Given its proximity to the Korean peninsula + It has adversarial
relations with North Korea, NK is under the influence of China and
Russia.
 India is demanding the denuclearization of North Korea because
NK has earlier supplied No-dong missiles to Pakistan, which
Pakistan is using for nuclear Ghauri missiles.
 Cooperation on SDG.
 Both support free and open Indo-Pacific - to ensure rule-based
stable order in the Indo-Pacific region.
 India in this context has put forward IPOI (Indo-Pacific Ocean
Initiative) in 2019. While Japan has unveiled a FOIP plan in India in
2023.
 There exists complementarity between the two plans.
 While unveiling FOIP Japanese PM Fumio Kishida called India
Japan's indispensable partner under FOIP.
INDIA AND JAPAN AS LINCHPINS/PIVOT TO RULE-BASED INDO-
PACIFIC - (11:52 AM)
 Geographic connectivity.
 Geo-politics - This concept has its route in Shinzo Abe - in a
speech in the Indian Parliament 'Confluence of two seas'.
 Reasons -
 They both are liberal democracies.
 Both have issues with China.
 Close ties with the US.
 Economic complementarity.
 Inclusivity/multipolarity- We want the Indo-Pacific to become all-
inclusive.
 They have the economic capability to balance China.
 They have the military might to counter China.
 They should also have the intervention because both have
issues with China, both want freedom of navigation because both
are trading nations.
 If China captures Taiwan, Japan's economy will be jeopardized.
 They want to ensure the rule of law in the maritime.

International Relations Class 14

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:11 PM)
JAPAN AND INDIA AS LINCHPINS TO RULE-BASED INDO-
PACIFIC - (01:15 PM)
 The idea of a free and open Indo-Pacific traces its roots to the
famous speech "Confluence of two seas", delivered by former
Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to the Indian Parliament in 2007.
 Geographically, from India's perspective Indo-Pacific refers to the
region from the Eastern Coast of Africa to the Western Coast of
America.
 This idea of a rule-based Indo-Pacific has been articulated in the
context of Revisionist China (China wants to change the existing
status quo in terms of Global Power distribution: and wants to
challenge the USA's Global Hegemony).
 China's Growing muscular policies are evident in the Indian
Ocean Region, the South China Sea, East China Sea, With respect
to Taiwan threatening the existing stable maritime order.
WHY AND HOW INDIA AND JAPAN CAN ACT AS LINCHPINS TO
RULE-BASED INDO-PACIFIC - (01:23 PM)
 1) They both have capabilities to ensure rule-based to balance
China-
 a) Capability in terms of economic might -
 Japan is the 3rd largest economy in nominal GDP terms, and
India is the world's third-largest economy in purchasing power parity
terms.
 Japan is a technology powerhouse, India has a vibrant young
demography and represents one of the largest markets in the
world.
 India is the world's fastest-growing major economy.
 b) Capabilities in terms of Military might -
 India is a defacto nuclear-weapon state.
 As per the Global Firepower Index India ranks 4th in the world.
 The constitutional limitation imposed on Japan's military which
prevented Japanese troops from fighting abroad has been done
away with.
 Also, the former Abe government revoked a ban on the right of
Japan's military to defend a friendly country under attack.
 The 1% limit on Defence Spending has been removed and
Japan's military spending is about to touch 2% of its GDP.
 2) They both have intentions -
 a) Both are trading nations for whom freedom of navigation is of
utmost importance.
 b) Both have territorial disputes with China.
 Apart from capability and intention, they are capable of
cooperation.
 The absence of any historical dispute or ideological
disagreements enables them to cooperate to balance China.
STEPS TAKEN - (01:37 PM)
 a) 2+2 Ministerial dialogue.
 b) Revival of QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue).
 c) Japan Announcing FOIP (Free and Open Indo-Pacific) and
India Announcing IPOI (The Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative).
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-JAPAN RELATIONS - (01:40 PM)
 a) In the Russia-Ukraine war Japan has joined the West in
criticizing Russia and imposed tough sanctions on Russia.
 On the other hand, India has condemned the war but not Russia
per se.
 Also, India has not imposed sanctions on Russia.
 In fact, India has increased its oil imports from a negligible 0.2%
to 28% from Russia trying to benefit from the low-cost oil prices.
 b) Israel -Hamas war -
 Japan's position as an ally of the US has been pro-Israel while
India condemning the terrorist attack by Hamas, has supported a
state solution.
 c) CEPA - (Comprehensive Economic Partnership
Agreement, 2011)-
 Since the conclusion of the CEPA, India's trade deficit has
increased with Japan over the years and therefore India has
 demanded a Comprehensive Revision of the CEPA, but Japan has
not been forthcoming.
 The economic potential of the relationship is yet not realized.
 China accounts for 24% of Japan's imports and 22% of Japan's
exports, while India on the other hand Accounts for a mere 0.8% of
Japan's imports and 1.7% of Japan's exports.
 d) Defence trade- Despite close strategic cooperation, defence
trade is a throne in the relations.
 For example, India has wanted to purchase US-2 MFBs
aircraft from Japan for almost 15 years, but the deal has yet not
been finalised.
 India was also interested in the Soryu Class Submarine of
Japan but Japan never bid for the Indian submarine contract.
 e) RCEP- India opted out of RCEP in November 2019, but Japan
was seeking to cooperate with India under RCEP to counter China's
economic aggressiveness.
 f) Asia- Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) -
 It was announced in 2017, as a trilateral partnership between
India - Japan and Africa to develop quality infrastructure in Africa
to counter Chinese BRI.
 However, it has been a non-starter and not a single project has
been announced under it (AAGC)
INDO-PACIFIC REGION - (02:02 PM)
 Both countries want a rule-based stable Indo-Pacific.
 But Japan is more concerned about the maritime balancing of
China, while India is equally concerned if not more about the
continental balancing of China.
 Japan is a former ally of the US.
 In fact, both Japan and Australia under QUAD are former allies of
the US while India has clarified its unwillingness to enter into
alliance-based partnership with the US.
INDIA- USA RELATIONS - (02:09 PM)
 Topic to be discussed -
 Evolution.
 Areas of Cooperation.
 Disagreements and Challenges in India-US relations.
 EVOLUTION -
 Both countries are liberal and constitutional democracies, that is
there is a rule of law and limited government.
 The government's powers are also limited by the Constitution.
 Both These countries have Civic- Nationalism.
 That is our nationalism does not flow from cultural origin.
 Both these countries are the land of Immigrants, So nationalism
is based on civic nationalism.
 So ideologically speaking we have been on the same page, to
begin with, we went for liberal democracy and civic nationalism after
Independence.
 For 50 years, since India's independence, or untill 2000, India
and US were not good friends in fact they were referred to
as 'Estranged democracies'.
 In fact, our relationship began only post-2000.
 The evolution of the relations can be divided into phases -
 1) First phase - 1947-1971-
 It is known as the Phase of cooperation and competition.
 Cooperation -
 Because India was a large country. India was earlier also
considered as a crown Jewel by the Britishers.
 Similarly, the US also wanted to woo India to join the US-led
Capitalist front in its camp.
 Competition -
 Because of Cold War politics.
 Evidence of competition -
 1947-48 war with Pakistan, it was the US which got Kashmir
enlisted as the disputed territory between India and Pakistan.
 This disillusioned India towards the UN.
 In 1948, India became the first country to recognise the
communists.
 Opposed the US in enlisting China as the aggressor in the
Korean Conflict.
 The US termed this policy of Non-Alignment as India's
Opportunism.
 The US called NAM a club of dictators demanding democracy in
international politics.
 Evidences of Cooperation -
 In the 1947 war and the 1965 war, the US did not provide military
support to Pakistan, despite the fact that Pakistan was a camp ally
of the US.
 During the 1960, drought and food crisis, the US provided India
with food aid through PL480.
 They had provided technological support for India's Green
Revolution.
 2) Second Phase - 1971- 1988/2000-
 This is the face of competition alone.
 This phase is called - When India followed a policy of 'Reflexive
Anti-Americanism'.
 Reflexive thought process where we doubt the true intentions of
the US.
 As a matter of Reflex, we became anti-Americanist.
 The primary reason for reflexivity -
 1) War between Russia and China - Because they have a
territorial dispute in Russia's Far East.
 The US was happy and adopted the Policy of the
Rapprochement of China, The US reached out to China.
 Now, India has become fearful, with respect to US, China, and
Pakistan axis.
 Since 1962, China has supported Pakistan as a balancing power
to India.
 It is in this context that India signed 'Peace and Friendship
Treaty with Russia in August 1971.
 So the reason for the deterioration of Relations is the US
reproached and India US Friendship Treaty.
 2) The other reason is that by this time, the USA was completely
disillusioned with India, and they were completely disturbed by India
criticising the US for its Vietnam war.
 1971 - They sent their Naval vassal to the Indian Ocean region to
threaten India.
 In 1971 - Operation Smiling Buddha. After nuclear testing, in this
context US finalised NSG, and This marked the beginning of
nuclear apartheid against India.
 It was the US, which institutionalised the nuclear apartheid
against India.
 3) Third phase - 2000 onwards -
 1991 - Disintegration of the USSR, India lost its most trusted
economic and military partner.
 With the disintegration of the USSR, the Bipolar world order
came to an end and a unipolar world order with US hegemony was
established.
 The US emerged as the sole superpower.
 Countries have no option but to Bandwagon (Follow) or befriend
the US.
 In fact India's foreign policy, the entire 1990s decade was about
befriending the US.
 However, India was not able to befriend the US.
 Now, in 1998, through Operation Shakti, India declared itself as
the defacto Nuclear Weapon state and it is the USA's responsibility
to check the proliferation of Nuclear weapons.
 In May 1998, Within the same month, Pakistan also tested
Nuclear weapons.
 It is the USA's responsibility to prevent the Nuclearization of
South Asia.
 So, the USA was forced to enter into bilateral negotiations with
India and over the period of 2 years there were a series of such
negotiations.
 Through this, both India and the USA come to understand each
other's compulsions as well as priorities.
 So, with it from estranged democracies, we become engaged
democracies.
 1998/ 2000, onwards -
 Over the last 25 years, there have been three Indian PMs-
 During Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Clinton - we entered into
summit-level relations.
 During Manmohan Singh and Geroge Bush and Barak Obama -
we entered into Nuclear Diplomacy.
 Narendra Modi with Obama and Trump - Goes with Military and
trade diplomacy.
 Modi with President Biden going for technology diplomacy.
REASONS FOR SO FAST MOVEMENT IN RELATIONS - (02:54
PM)
 India has overcome hesitations of history - India has overcome
India's reflexive anti-Americanism.
 India has shed this and India and the US finalized the LEMOA
(Logistics Exchange Memorandum Agreement).
 US Perspective -
 Just like India's NAM, the US came up with an Alliance-based-
partnership. The US always insisted on Alliance partners.
 This was a troubling point.
 But now in 2023, the US has left this demand and now they are
sharing high technology with India despite the fact India is not their
Alliance Partner.
 They have allowed India a series of Civil Nuclear Exemptions.
 They negotiated on behalf of an NSG waiver for India, despite
the fact India has not signed the NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty).
 3) In the context of Russia, despite the threat of sanctions
CAATSA (Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act
) India decided to purchase S-400 missiles from Russia.
 The US exempted us from sanctions under CAATSA.
 4) Presently in the context of the Russia-Ukrainian war, India has
increased its oil purchase from Russia, and despite that no
sanctions on India, whereas Germany who is a friend of the US, US
has sanctioned Germany for its Nord Stream pipeline.
 China and Turkey who have also purchased S-400 missiles from
Russia have been sanctioned.
 This policy of sanctions has become even more
stark/glaring if we look at what India is doing -
 India is good friends/terms with Iran and Russia.
 India is a primary partner in SCO and BRICS, whose purpose is
to create an alternative world order.
 Still, the US is deeply interested in India-US relations.
REASONS/DETERMINANTS OF INDIA-US RELATIONS - (03:21
PM)
 1) India is going to be a more trustworthy partner against China
compared to even its Western European allies.
 It is because India has an active territorial dispute with China.
 2) Attractiveness of India as a defence buyer as well as market
for US goods.
 3) Role of the Indian Diaspora, which has also played a
prominent role India- US nuclear deal.
 4) Bipartisan Consensus.
 5) Popular people support - people of both countries have a
favourable public opinion against each other in the bilateral ties.
AREAS OF COOPERATION BETWEEN INDIA US RELATIONS -
(03:27 PM)
(Kindly refer to the handouts)
 DEFENCE -
 It has emerged as the primary pillar of India-US relations.
 After the summit-level negotiations relations improved, but after
09/11 the US chose Pakistan over India in its fight against terror.
 During this time India cooperated with Iran.
 It was during this time in 2003, that the world got to know Iran
was planning to develop Nuclear Weapons.
 Everyone is reckoning with India's growth, both the US and
China.
 The US wanted India to vote against Iran and the US will end
Nuclear apartheid against India.
 2008, they brought India an energy waiver and doors for nuclear
cooperation were opened.
 India could offer a large market to US big Nuclear Cooperates.
 India brought out the Nuclear Liability Law, according to which
private companies will be responsible in case any accident
happens.
 Defence Cooperation has come of age between India and the
US.
 Between 1965-2005 - There was zero defence trade between
India and the US.
 presently we have acquired a number of Defence equipment.
 Reasons Why Defence Trade Gathered Momentum -
 Nuclear hurdle removed due to NSG waiver.
 Strong India Diaspora in the US.
 Opening of the Indian Economy.
 Need to contain China.
 The US wants to reduce India's dependence on Russian Military
hardware.
 Four foundational agreements have been concluded with the
US -
 GSOMIA- 2002 - General Security of Military Information
Agreement.
 2016 - LEMOA - Access to each other naval bases.
 COMCASA - 2008- Access to US-led communication system
known as CENTRIXS. Without time lag, real-time communication
can be established.
 2020 - BECA on Geospatial Information.
 2018 - 2+2 ministerial dialogue. India was played on Category 1
of sharing sensitive military information.
 2023- PM Modi's state visit, India has agreed to buy 16 Drones.

International Relations Class 15

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:08 PM)
INDIA-US RELATIONS - (01:10 PM)
 High Technology Partnership -
 A new form of cooperation.
 This partnership began with ICAT (Initiative on Critical and
Emerging Technologies).
 The big deal announced during PM Modi’s state visit was the
MoU for a co-production deal between GE and HAL to manufacture
GE-F414 jet engines in India
for Tejas Light Combat Aircraft.
 With the sharing of this technology, India would become the 5th
country in the world, to be capable of developing a jet engine, It
could save decades of research.
 It will have a transformative impact.
 The deal sent a message to the Chinese that the relationship
between India and the US is not just a surface relation and it is
getting deeper.
 The US is sharing this technology because -
 The US wanted India to impose sanctions on Russia.
 India already succumbed to the US when it comes to Iran. Now,
India refused to impose sanctions on Russia in the Russia-Ukraine
War.
 We still have privileged defense relations with Russia.
 Now US wants to weaken Russia-India relations by providing an
alternative to India.
 That is why they have entered into such a deal with India.
 There should be defense capability.
 Semiconductor supply chains - Micron Technology will invest
$800 million toward a new $2.75 billion semiconductor assembly
and test facility in Gujarat.
 The semiconductor mission will fund the rest of the project.
 Under ICET, the US has still not shared the high technology.
 Jake Sullivan has said that ICET is “foundational” because “the
future of our economies societies and the security sector will be
determined by the extent to which we can effectively harness
emerging technologies.
 Finally, India joined the 11-nation Minerals Security
Partnership (MSP) meant to reduce dependence on China for
critical minerals (Minerals which are present in day life, they are
rarely found).
INDO-PACIFIC - (01:26 PM)
 Geographical Expance of Indo-Pacific -
 India's perspective - The Eastern Coast of Africa to the Western
coast of America.
 US point of view - Western coast of India to the Western coast
of America.
 Both these countries emphasize a free and open Indo-Pacific.
 India also emphasized 'Inclusive Indo-Pacific'.
 For the US it is only a maritime aspect but India also wants to
focus on the continental aspect of this region.
 Because India wants to bring it as an issue of the Indo-Pacific to
put great pressure on China.
 For the US the priority is the Pacific Ocean, For India the priority
is the Indian Ocean.
 So there are differences in Perception.
(QUAD) QUADRILATERAL SECURITY DIALOGUE AS AN AREA
OF COOPERATION BETWEEN INDIA AND US - (01:31 PM)
 Its origin is traced to the cooperation of the navies of these
countries during the Tsunami.
 US, India, Japan, and Australia - Join to provide HADR
(Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief).
 In 2007, the first meeting of QUAD took place but then it became
dormant for a decade because India and Australia were wary of the
Chinese reaction.
 Quad was revived in 2017.
 Reasons for the revival of QUAD in 2017 -
 Growing Chinese belligerence- all the four countries of QUAD
were victim to it. For example - the India - China Doklam standoff.
 All 4 countries have a vested interest in ensuring a rule-based
Indo-Pacific along with freedom of navigation and trade because for
these countries trade is very important.
 55% of India's trade passes through the South China Sea.
 Achievements of Quad -
 a) It will use satellite imagery to offer real-time maritime mapping
to check piracy, and dark shipping through (IPMDA).
 b) They will extend more than $ 50bn for Infrastructure
assistance.
 c) They agreed to distribute 1 bn COVID-19 vaccines in Asia to
counter Chinese vaccine diplomacy.
 d) They will cooperate on critical technology like the 5G network.
INDIA AND QUAD - (01:47 PM)
 To counter China in the Indo-Pacific.
 India's growing status as a middle power and ability to project its
influence beyond its immediate neighborhood.
 Challenges posed by QUAD from India's perspective -
 It might complicate our relations with Russia and Iran. Russia is
very important for the continental balancing of China.
 It can also affect our relations with Myanmar. Myanmar is very
important for our relationship with the North-East.
 QUAD is complicating our relations with SCO and BRICS.
 India is also concerned about the formation of AUKUS.
 Under it, Australia shared High technology with the US.
 AUKUS formed september 2021. They agreed to go for military
cooperation.
 From May 2022, before that, there was no clear agenda.
 With the AUKUS, the military role has shifted to AUKUS, so there
was no need to do military balancing under China.
 France being left out of AUKUS - France is a very dear partner of
India. They are willing to share high technology with India.
 France recognized India on IOR, on full membership of India on
UNSC.
CHINESE CRITICISM OF QUAD - (02:01 PM)
 China refers it to be the 'Asian NATO'.
 This is not so because -
 a) QUAD is not a defense pact, QUAD is not guaranteeing
Predetermined security- NATO is a defense pact - Its
predetermined enemy was the USSR and the communist world.
USA has clarified that QUAD is a 'Non-Defense, Non-Military'
arrangement.
 QUAD is an inclusive pact not exclusionary.
 The former Chinese foreign minister had referred to QUAD
as ‘nothing more than sea foam’ that would eventually dissipate.
That is it will not continue for long.
THE NEXT CHAPTER OF AUKUS - (02:08 PM)
 It is that the UK and the US will share/transfer technology and go
for co-production of nuclear-powered submarines to Australia (They
can remain in the water for a lifetime, that is their stealth is very high
and the enemy can't locate the enemy ).
 In the 1950s, it was the US that shared this technology with the
UK.
 US role - It would share the technology of a vertical launching
system - a set of cubes that can hold greater numbers of missiles
and more advanced ones (share the technology with Australia and
the UK) than the traditional torpedo tubes. No British submarine has
this capacity.
 Utilizing this technology Australia can produce nuclear-powered
Submarines 2040s.
CHALLENGES OF AUKUS - (02:19 PM)
 It will be a major push of Submarines in the US and UK.
 Submarines are not operated by one individual, but by a group,
Australia is facing the problem of manning these submarines. So it
would be a challenge to man these submarines.
 As false propaganda, this initiative was also popularized as It
would create an arms race in nuclear-powered submarines it is in
reaction to balance the military might of China.
TRADE AND INVESTMENT AS AN AREA OF COOPERATION
BETWEEN INDIA AND US - (02:27 PM)
 The bilateral goods and services trade between the US and India
has almost doubled since 2014, exceeding $128 billion in 2022-23.
 The USA is also one of the largest sources of FDI with $48 bn in
cumulative inward investment from 2002-2021.
 Resolution of six of seven outstanding WTO disputes between
the two countries through mutually agreed solutions.
 Relaxation in H1B visa norms for in-country renewal and more
availability of visas.
CHALLENGES IN THE INDIA US RELATION - (02:33 PM)
 1) Russia is the US prime adversary and India is a prime friend.
 India and the USA have responded to the Ukraine conflict
differently and this has created tensions in their relationship.
 2) Pakistan's Factor - The Sep 2022 US decision to provide
Pakistan with a maintenance package of $450 million for F-16
fighter jets sold by the US to it in the
past. The US has justified the package as a sustenance program.
 3) New Delhi's concern- F-16 deals have been a barometer of
their ties. F-16 has in the past been used against India in the 2019
Balakot Skirmish.
 India is worried that while India deals with aggression from China
and focuses on its resources there, any arming of Pakistan could
alter the regional military balance.
 India would be forced to deal with the threats on two fronts.
 The US deal would also cast a shadow on Indian plans to
purchase F-21 fighter jets which are seen as rebranded versions of
F-16s.
 Conclusion -
 India-US relations are not Exclusive, so we are free to also
engage with other friends.
 Both can communicate Red Lines.
 The world has changed from a Bipolar to a Multi-polar world
order.
 India - US relationship is fickle, as it is one country that shifts its
relationship very soon, it is a very pragmatic country.
 This relationship is one-sided, the US is the giver, and India is
the receiver.
INDIA AND EURASIA- (02:57 PM)
 Very Important from UPSC's main point of view.
 India Central Asia- 5 countries.
 1991 - They became independent.
 They were once part of the former Soviet Union.
 8 countries - 5 CAR ( Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan,
Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan) + 3 Caucas states - Azerbaijan, Armenia
and Georgia.
 Russia shares a border with Kazakhstan. China shares a border
with three Central Asia Republics.
IMPORTANCE OF CENTRAL ASIA - (03:11 PM)
 1) Geo-strategic location -
 It is located in the heart of Asia.
 It acts as a gateway between Asia and Europe and provides all-
around connectivity to Asia - To West Asia, South Asia, and East
Asia.
 It was located on the Ancient Silk Route (which was operational
between the 3rd century BC to the 15th century AC) and therefore it
remains critical to the Chinese BRI.
 Geo-political scholars like Makinder, who has given the 'theory
of Heartland' consider Central Asia as part of the Eurasian
heartland.
 He hypothesized that whosoever would control the heartland
would rule the world.
 It is because of such a strategic location that Central Asia is the
arena of 'great games' being played between US-China-Russia-
Turkey-Europe-India and Pakistan.
 2) Economic importance -
 a) It is a Resource-rich region -
 Kazakhstan has the world's second-largest reserve of Uranium
but is the world's largest producer of Uranium; oil and natural gas.
 Uzbekistan is rich in Uranium and natural gas.
 Turkmenistan - World's 4th largest reserve of natural gas.
 Tajikistan is rich in Hydro-power, rich in gold.
 B) It represents the near abroad market for India.
 3) It provides alternative land routes to resource-rich Russia and
the Middle East.
 4) Security importance - It acts as a buffer against 'religious
fundamentalism' and 'Narco-Terrorism'.
 Its importance has increased in the context of the Taliban's
takeover of Afghanistan.
IMPORTANCE OF INDIA TO CENTRAL ASIA - (03:29 PM)
 1) As a counterbalance to regional Hegemons -
 CARs, since their independence in 1991, have followed a 'Multi-
Vector foreign policy', to ensure their strategic autonomy against
their traditional hegemon that is Russia, and their new hegemon
that is China.
 Relations with India would strengthen their strategic
maneuverability.
 2) They want to learn from India's experience to insulate their
youth from religious fundamentalism.
 3) To cooperate with India in Afghanistan-
 CARs have expressed their support to UNSC resolution 2593
vis-a-vis Afghanistan adopted during India's Presidency.
 They have expressed their intentions that their foreign policy on
Afghanistan would be guided by this resolution.
EVOLUTION OF INDIA-CENTRAL ASIA RELATIONS - (03:47 PM)
 Historically how we have engaged with Central Asia-
 We have had civilization ties.
 Since Central Asia was en route to the ancient Silk Route along
with Trade in Goods, there was an exchange of culture, religion,
etc.
 For example - Buddhism traveled from India to Central Asia, and
similarly, Sufism traveled from Central Asia to India.
 Also, During the Mughal time, Babur the Mughal Dynast came
from the Farkhana Valley in central Asia and established the
Mughal dynasty in India.
 During Cold War -
 CARs were part of the Soviet Union, they were the Soviets.
 Since India had good relations with the USSR, It means that we
also had good relations with the Soviets.
 Bollywood was very famous including Raj Kapoor in Central Asia.
(Cultural connect).
 So India enjoyed a good Soft Power in Central Asia.
 Since their Independence (1991-2010 and 2010 onwards) -
 India had the opportunity to pursue close Economic and Strategic
cooperation with the newly Independent CARs.
 But India's domestic and foreign policy priorities lay elsewhere.
 India prioritizes befriending the Global Hegemon, The US.
 Still, India launched the 'Look North Policy' in 1995 but it was a
non-starter.
 Reason -
 India looked at this region more from a security perspective,
since for example, Tajikistan was in the midst of a civil war.
 2010 onwards -
 2012 - India launched the 'Connect Central Asia Policy' which
continues to guide India's relations with this region.
 2015 - PM Modi became the first Indian PM to visit all 5 CARs in
a single visit.
 It was a major outreach of India to Central Asia.
 2019 - It marks the beginning of the institutionalization of India-
Central Asia relations.
 The first India-Central Asia dialogue at the foreign minister level
takes place in 2019.
 In the third such meeting ( December 2021) 4 Cs of
cooperation were identified namely -
 Connectivity.
 Commerce.
 Contact.
 Capacity building.
 In January 2022 - the First India -Central Asia Summit was
organized.
 Under it, it was agreed to hold such summits once every 2
years.
 India- Central Asia Secretariat is being built in New Delhi and
India -Central Asia Parliamentary Forum is to be established to
enable Robust Deliberations amongst the parliamentarians of these
countries.
 There are growing conversions and consolidations of the ties.

International Relations Class 16

AREAS OF COOPERATION (INDIA- CENTRAL ASIA):
 Connectivity-
 The INSTC corridor.
 * Littoral countries of the Caspian Sea- TARIK countries
(Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran and Kazakhstan).
 TAPI gas pipeline.
 * TAPI- Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.
 Ashgabat Agreement-
 The aim is to link the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf.
 Founding members- Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, and Oman
(Qatar- which withdrew later).
 In 2016, Pakistan and Kazakhstan joined the Ashgabat
Agreement.
 In 2018, India became a full member.
 Development of Chabahar port as an alternative route for India to
access central Asia.
 India-Iran- Uzbekistan Trilateral-
 It was formed in December 2020, with the aim of developing a
transportation corridor around Chabahar Port.
 Security-
 Cooperate vis-a-vis Afghanistan-
 Both Central Asia and India have pledged for their foreign policy
to be guided by UNSC resolution 2593.
 Both are concerns vis-a-vis narcoterrorism in Afghanistan.
 Energy (01:29 PM)
 Central Asia is richly endowed with energy resources such as
coal and natural gas, oil, hydropower, and even uranium.
 While India is an emerging economy with ever-growing energy
needs.
 Therefore there is rich scope for energy cooperation between the
two.
 Central Asian countries have shown interest in Indian initiatives,
such as the International Solar Alliance, One Sun One World, and
One Grid.
 The latter aims to promote grid connectivity for harnessing solar
energy.
 Health-
 India's vaccine diplomacy.
 India has proposed the One Earth One Health initiative under
India- Central Asia relations.
CHALLENGES (INDIA- CENTRAL ASIA) (01:36 PM)
 Absence of direct land-border connectivity with the landlocked
central- Asia.
 Low volumes of bilateral trade (Reasons)-
 Lack of overland connectivity.
 The shortest route to Central Asia passes through hostile
Pakistan and unstable Afghanistan.
 The other route through which India has accessed Central Asia is
China, with which our relations have hit its northern since the 1962
war.
 China in Central Asia (Evidence)-
 China is a new hegemony specifically in the context of the
decline of the capability of Russia to exert its influence overseas in
the context of Western sanctions on it.
 China is the new leading trade partner and investor in the region.
 China has surpassed Russia to emerge.
 Chinese BRI is well received by all CARs.
 20 % of China's energy needs are met through Central Asia.
 A network of pipelines runs from west to east carrying
hydrocarbons to China.
 China shares a border with three out of five CARs.
 Institutionalization of China- Central Asia relations.
 The C+C5 Foreign Minister Meeting Mechanism was established
in 2020.
 they have announced the building of a China-Central Asia
community with a shared future.
 The C+C5 Summit was organized virtually in 2022 and in May
2023 it was held in Xian China.
 It resulted in the Xian declaration and they have agreed to
organize such a summit once in 2 years.
 They have declared their relations to be closely interdependent
like lips and teeth.
 They share their joys and sorrows.
WHY CHINESE PRESENCE IS A MATTER OF CONCERN FOR
INDIA (01:54 PM)
 India fears complete encirclement by China.
 China is already present in the Indian Ocean Region and in
South Asian and Southeast countries.
 Challenges in China- Central Asia relations:
 Adverse BOT (balance of trade) of CARs.
 Expanisionist nature of the Chinese state.
 Nature of Chinese investment- extractive nature and the
associated ecological damage.
 Also, Chinese investment rarely generates local employment.
 Suppression of the Kazaks, Kyrgyz minorities along with the
Vighurs in China Xinjiang provinces.
SCO (02:04 PM)
 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
 SCO's origin is traced to Shanghai-5 founded in 1996.
 Shanghai-5 (China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and
Tajikistan).
 Aim- to secure China- Central Asia borders, adopt CBMs along
the border, and demilitarize the border.
 In 2001 Uzbekistan decided to join Shanghai-5 (SCO now).
 In 2017- India and Pakistan joined in the Astana Summit.
 In 2023- Iran joined in New Delhi Summit.
 * Turkmenistan has not joined SCO, as it follows a neutral foreign
policy.
 Observer members- Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia
 Headquarters in Beijing, China.
 Shanghai Spirit (02:11 PM)-
 It is the guiding principle for SCO.
 Sovereignty and territorial integrity.
 Noninterference in the internal affairs of member countries.
 Non-alignment.
 Cultural cooperation.
 The West considers SCO as an anti-west and anti-Nato
organization to counter Western influence in the region.
 Since India is an ally of the West, the West is critical of India's
membership of SCO.
 India has clarified that one of the working principles of SCO is
non-alignment.
 That is though India has joined SCO it is not aligned to Russia
and China.
 Its worldview is not aligned with that of Russia and China.
 Aim of SCO (02:19 PM)
 The aim is to counter the triple evils of Terrorism, separatism,
and Extremism.
 RATS- Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure.
 It is headquartered in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
 RATS is the other permanent body of SCO apart from SCO
secretariate.
 It comprises professionals to gather intelligence on terrorist
organizations and terrorist activities.
 Regional profile of SCO-
 It represents 1/3rd of the global GDP, 1/5th of the global trade,
1/5th of global oil and resources, and 1/4th of global gas resources.
 It comprises two of the P-5 countries.
 It comprises four out of nine nuclear weapon states.
 Challenges faced by India in SCO (02:30 PM)
 India has to accept its role as a second fiddle in SCO.
 SCO is led by China and Russia.
 All the SCO country except India has accepted Chinese BRI.
 Russia- China- Pakistan axis: the growing closeness between
Russia and China and Russia and Pakistan, further aggravates
India's concerns about China-Pakistan access.
 The growing anti-west image of SCO-
 Because of the membership of China Russia and Iran joining it
recently aggravates its anti-West image.
 These countries have adverse relations with the West.
 Belarus which has submitted its application to become a full
member country, if admitted would aggravate SCO's anti-west
image further.
 India's growing partnership with the West for instance close
cooperation under Quad.
 It complicates the balancing act of India.
 One of the factors that motivated India to join SCO was the
possibility of anti-terrorism cooperation through RATS.
 However, RATS is not an effective platform to deal with the
challenge of terrorism faced by India.
 India and CAR define terrorism differently.
 India defines it as cross-border sponsored terrorism.
 Whereas Central Asia defines it as homegrown groups that
threaten and target the established political regime.
 The terrorist organization on which RTAS gathers information like
the ETIM(East Turkistan Islamic Movement) is of negligible
relevance to India.
 India is primarily concerned with groups like- LeT, JeM, IS-
Khorasan, and al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent.
 Decision-making within SCO is by consensus.
INDIA- RUSSIA RELATIONS (02:59 PM)
 Major milestones in the relation:
 August 1971- they enter into a Peace and Friendship Treaty,
which is a mutual security pact.
 1991- India- Russia signed a Friendship treaty.
 2000- India concluded its first Strategic Partnership Agreement
with Russia.
 Since 2000, India and Russia had have annual summits.
 2018 1st/only informal summit at Sochi Russia.
 2022- 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.
 Important Statements about the nature of the relationship-
 Russia is considered India time tested ally.
 S. Jayashankar- he has defined the relationship as the steadiest
of all major relations, despite all the conflict in the world.
 There is no hidden agenda in India-Russia relations.
 Both countries are genuinely interested in each other's rise.
 Areas of Cooperation (03:08 PM)
 Defense:
 Despite defense import diversification pursued by India, Russia
continues to supply 45 % of India's military hardware.
 Even now 70% of India's military arsenal is Soviet/Russian-
made.
 The relationship is not merely that of a buyer and the seller rather
it has been upgraded to co-development and joint production
targeting exports to third countries.
 For example, the Brahmos missile was exported to the
Philippines.
 Defense imports from Russia have been important to India,
because:
 It is the trusted supplier of advanced military equipment to India.
 For example- during the Ladakh crisis, India reached out to
Moscow to expedite the supply of arms.
 China, a close partner of Russia has requested it delay the
supply of S-400 supply to India, but Moscow rejected any such
request.
 It is the strategic partnership between India and Russia that has
effectively vetoed ever close strategic embrace of China by Russia.
 India Russia's defense relation is privileged because no two
other countries in the world lease out the nuclear-powered
submarine.
 Russia however, has leased out Akula class nuclear-powered
submarine to India.
 Under the next chapter of AUKUS, the US and the UK have
agreed such submarines intermittently to Australia.
 India finalized the S-400 Triumf missile purchase, despite the
threat of sanction by the US under CAATSA.
 However, in recent times Russia's prolonged involvement in the
Ukraine war has raised concerns about its ability to supply defense
equipment, and effectively meet India's defense requirements.
 Moscow as a strategic partner of New Delhi (03:27)
 On the Kashmir issue-
 India has repeatedly relied on Russia to veto resolutions against
India's interest in Kashmir.
 Also recently in the context of the abrogation of Article 370,
Russia was the first country to declare it as an internal matter of
India.
 Other countries of the world, including Saudi Arabia followed the
Russian lead.
 On oil imports-
 In the context of the Russia-Ukraine war, India has not only
rejected the Western sanctions against Russia but has increased its
oil imports from 0.2% to 28% of its total oil imports.
 India has been refining this oil and exporting it to Europe as well.
 India has justified such large oil imports from Russia on grounds
of low prices which is beneficial for Indian consumers.
 India wanted to draw Russia into the Indo-Pacific framework
(Reasons):
 For continental balancing of China
 Unlike the Quad, both India and Russia have generally been
interested in the continental and maritime balancing of China.
 Russia's far east has the coast on the Pacific Ocean.
 Vladivostok an important port city of Siberia is on the Pacific
Ocean.
 Overlap in Russian and Indian aims in this region.
 Both the countries want to counter hegemony be it the US or
China in the region.
 Both want a multipolar world and India emphasizes multipolar
Asia at its core.
 The 20th Annual Summit of India and Russia was held in
Vladivostok in Siberia in 2019.
 During it India launched its Act Far East Policy.
 India has also announced 1 billion dollars as a line of credit to
Russia's Far East (RFE).
 PM Modi became the first highest-level foreign dignitary to visit
the port city.
 India was the first country to open its consulate in RFE.
 India is exploring the feasibility of the Chennai- Vladivostok sea
link as an alternative route for India to access Russia's Far East.
 It would allow India to reach RFE in 24 days and would cut the
distance short to 10300 km.
 Reason for India being interested in Russia's Far East (RFE)
(03:50 PM)
 The region is rich in hydrocarbon resources, timber, diamonds,
and other minerals.
 However, it is sparsely populated, while India has abundant labor
to harness the resources of the region.
 China's growing presence in RFE.
 It is a matter of concern for both India and Russia.
 Space-
 India's first satellites namely the Arya Bhatta and the Bhaskara
satellites were launched by the USSR.
 The USSR shared with India the cryogenic technology that was
essential for GSLVs.
 Even presently Russia has expressed support for India's first
manned space mission - the Gaganyan mission.
 Nuclear Energy Cooperation-
 Russia has established India's largest Civil Nuclear power plant
in Kudankulam, TN.
 The West has been critical of India's nuclear liability law which
puts a part of liability on nuclear power plants in case of a nuclear
accident.
 The Russian state has taken the responsibility of liability if and
when it was to arise freeing the Russian PSUs to build power plants
in India.

International Relations Class 17

INDIA-RUSSIA (01:18 PM)
CHALLENGES
 1. Weak economic ties:
 For the FY 2022-23, the bilateral trade stood at 46 billion $.
 It is in the context of large oil imports by India that such a trade
volume was achieved.
 Generally, on average, India-Russia annual trade is stagnant at
around 10 billion $.
 India's trade with Russia is its lowest trade with any P5 country.
 Both countries do not figure in each other's list of top 15 trading
partners.
 Both account for around 1% of their total external trade.
 Reasons for low economic ties:
 Issue of connectivity and physical distance
 The traditional route of trade via the Suez Canal and the
Mediterranean Sea takes about 40–50 days, compared to 7-10
days for transportation of goods between Russia and Europe and
Russia and China.
 Failure of India to operationalize alternative routes of connectivity
such as the INSTC corridor.
 Both India and Russia are known for tough government
regulations which discourage private players from engaging in
trade.
 Sanctions against Russia since its annexation of the Crimean
peninsula
 Limited trade basket especially of Indian exports.
 The trade basket is primarily dominated by defence exports and
has the presence of sectors such as nuclear energy.
 Sectors of Indian expertise such as IT Services,
Pharmaceuticals, etc do not have sufficient representation.
 This has in fact resulted in adverse BoT for India.
 Solution:
 Operationalise to full capacity
 Alternative routes of connectivity such as INSTC Corridor;
Chennai-Vladivostok ceiling
 Also, the government should incentivise the shipping industry,
such as by subsidising the insurance cost of the shipping vessels to
reduce the logistics cost between the two countries.
 To address the concerns of adverse Balance of trade which has
increased manifold since India's large oil imports from Russia,
Russia is offering greater market access to Indian road construction
and Pharmaceuticals exports.
 The two countries are also exploring the use of local currencies
and Yuan to overcome Western sanctions.
 Early conclusion of India - Eurasian Economic Union (EaEU)
FTA. (Eurasian Economic Union: Members are Russia, Belarus,
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia; It is a Customs Union led by
Russia).
 India's external affairs minister has cautioned India against
overcompliance with Western sanctions by Indian firms.
 Weak People-to-people ties:
 In the present times of ICT-driven globalisation, people-to-people
relations are essential to sustain bilateral ties.
 Recently, India and the US have ventured into technology
diplomacy with the conclusion of iCET in January 2023.
 India on its part has overcome reflexive anti-Americanism.
 This was made possible because of the close people-to-people
ties of the two countries.
 People on either side have a favourable opinion of the other and
of the bilateral ties.
 This is what is missing in the case of India-Russia relations.
 2. Defence Diversification (02:03 PM)
 Previously, the Soviet Union was the primary defence supplier to
India.
 During the Cold War era and later on, Russia continued to
dominate defence imports by India till the first decade of the 21st
century.
 However, presently India has been persuaded to active defence
diversification.
 Defence imports from Russia have fallen from 80% between
2008-12 to 67% between 2013-17 and to 46% in 2017-2021
 Russia is concerned with development, India a country with
global power ambition cannot be overdependent on its defence
imports on a single country.
 It would lead to the vulnerability of India's defence sector.
 RUSSIA - CHINA RELATIONS (02:10 PM)
 Political Disagreement between India and Russia Over China
 While China has become Russia's go-to country - 'it's all around
partner' and their relations have upgraded to a comprehensive
strategic partnership for a new era.
 The two countries are presently in the best phase of their
bilateral ties.
 While India-China relations have hit, it's another since the
normalisation of their relations/ties in the 1980s.
 Russia and China have defined their partnership 'as no limits'
partnership'
 Military cooperation between Russia and China:
 Russia's sale of advanced military equipment to China such as
kilo class submarines; Su-35 Fighter jets; S400 triumf missiles
negatively affect India's ability to deter China.
 Though India and Russia are best friends, its growing closeness
with India's biggest adversary is a matter of concern.
 RUSSIA-PAKISTAN RELATIONS (02:19 PM)
 Unlike in the past when the former Soviet Union and then Russia
used to maintain an arms embargo on Islamabad, Russia in recent
 years has concluded a military training agreement with Pakistan,
conducted joint military exercises and sold certain advanced military
equipment to Pakistan which is a matter of concern for India.
 Pakistan has also started importing discounted Russian oil and in
this context, the Russian foreign minister announced that Russia
would be interested in the expansion of ties with Pakistan.
 Pakistan along with India became a full member of SCO, and it
has confirmed that it applied for BRICS membership.
 INDIA-US RELATIONS (Russia part)
 India -USA's flourishing ties in the Indo-Pacific, under QUAD and
presently when they have entered the 'Next Generation Partnership'
is a matter of concern for Russia which has had a historical rivalry
with the USA.
 India's flourishing defence and technology ties with the US are a
matter of concern for Russia, which is reeling under the Western
sanctions.
 Moscow and Washington have been each other's historical
enemies.
WAY FORWARD (02:28 PM)
 The era of bipolarity of the world order has come to an end and
multipolar world order is upon us.
 In such an era, every sovereign nation would pursue multiple
engagements with multiple countries.
 India and Russia have a special and privileged strategic
partnership. They are each other's time-tested friend.
 India by not succumbing to Western pressures to sanction
Russia has shown that it is a country which can be relied upon by
Russia.
 Despite such close ties, the two countries cannot claim the
relationship to be exclusive.
 The concern in the ties arises because of the pursuit of close
partnership by both these countries with each other's adversaries.
 In this context, it is essential that the two countries communicate
each other's red lines i.e. for instance Russia-China relations should
not threaten India's security.
 Also, countries like India; Russia; China; and Pakistan are
cooperating on platforms like SCO; India, China, and Russia are
cooperating on BRICS; on RIC tri-lateral, etc. with respect to their
shared common concern such as reforms in the global institution of
governance, climate change, de-dollarisation of the global trade,
etc.
RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR (02:41 PM)
 On 24th February 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of
Ukraine
 It was on the same day that the UNSC had called a meeting to
dissuade Russia against such invasions.
 In September 2022, Russia annexed: Luhansk; Donetsk;
Kherson; Zaporizhzhia
 Against Russian expectation, this war entered into the 21st
month without any end in sight.
 It seems to have turned into a war of attrition.


Reasons:
o Ukraine is supported by the
West through its weapons and funds.
o The US alone is said to have
spent around 53 billion dollars within a
few months of the war.
o All the warring parties have
adopted maximalist positions:
o Ukraine: It has pledged to
continue to fight this war until it
regains its four lost provinces
including the Crimean Peninsula which
was annexed by Russia in 2014.
o It has pledged to continue to
fight until Putin is displaced from
power.
o Russia: It will continue to
fight this war until Ukraine is
completely defeated.
o West: It will support Ukraine
for as long as it takes.
 Growing concerns about nuclear safety:
 Concerns about the safety of the nuclear power plant in
Zaporizhzhia.
 The threat of nuclear war:
 Russia has withdrawn from the New START Treaty 2011.
 It is an Arms control agreement between the US and Russia that
put limits on an intercontinental range of nuclear weapons.
 This war escalated into a direct conflict between Russia and
nuclear-powered NATO (US).
 For instance, Russian fighter Jets shot down US MQ9 Reaper
drones in the black sea.
 Miscalculations and lack of trust might lead to unintended
escalations.
 Both Russia and the USA have loosely spoken of their
willingness to use nuclear weapons.
 Use of dirty bombs and cluster bombs:
 Russia is alleged to have used cluster bombs while the US
agreed to supply cluster bombs to Ukraine.
 There is a threat of the use of dirty bombs.
 Russia has recently indicated that it is moving towards revoking
its ratification of the CTBT.
Background Of Russia-Ukraine War (02:59 PM)
 Euromaidan Protest, November 2013.
 Ukraine is critical to guard the northern European plains of
Russia.
 For the longest time in history, the threat to Russian security has
emerged from the heart of Europe, except for its brief conflict with
China and Japan.
 Therefore it is essential to guard Ukraine against Western
influence.
 Russia prefers a pro-Russia Ukraine but can make do with a
neutral Ukraine.
 Pro-West Ukraine threatens Russian security.
 In 2013, the then-Ukrainian President was convinced by Russia
to choose the economic deal offered by Moscow over the one
offered by the EU.
 As a result, people in Eastern Ukraine protested against the
President.
 It turned into a mass protest called the 'Euromaidan Protest'
which forced the then-Ukrainian protest to flee.
 Consequently, the US and EU supported a pro-West leader
getting elected in Ukraine.
 Annexation of the Crimean Penninsula in March 2014:
 Moscow trying to safeguard its lost influence in Ukraine, invaded
and annexed Crimea.
 Reasons:
 i) Importance of Sevastopol's port:
 It is a warm water port, home to the Russian Black Sea fleet.
 It is essential to project Russian power in and around the Black
Sea.
 The Russian lease of the port was valid till 2042.
 However, Russia concerned with the developments in Ukraine
was wary of its continued access to the port.
 ii) Crimea is home to 80% of Ukraine's oil and natural gas
reserves.
 iii) The majority population was of Russian ethnicity.
 iv) Historical claim:
 The Crimean Peninsula was originally part of the Russian Soviet
until the then President of the Soviet Union Khrushchev chose to
gift it to the Ukrainian Soviet.
 v) By annexing Crimea, Putin wanted to make Ukraine less
attractive to the West by integrating it with the EU.
 Minsk Agreement (Feb,2015):
 Once Russia annexed Crimea, it emboldened the Rebels in the
Donbas region.
 Fighting broke out between the Rebels and the Ukrainian army.
 Russia also got militarily involved.
 Ultimately a ceasefire agreement was brokered between Russia,
Ukraine, France, and Germany.
 With all these developments, relations between the West and
Russia hit a new low.
 Sanctions were imposed on the Russian economy, pushing it to
the brink.
 Its membership in G8 was cancelled.
 While NATO continued its expansion close to the Russian
periphery, Putin pushed an imperialist nationalist worldview that
sees Ukraine as part of greater Russia.
 Immediate Reasons for Russia's Special Military Operation
On Ukraine (03:39 PM)
 a) Ukraine is critical to safeguard the northern European plains of
Russia.
 b) NATO's expansion as a politico-military alliance:
 Since 1997, NATO has undertaken five rounds of expansion
bringing within its ambit former Soviet states like Estonia, Lithuania,
etc.
 NATO troops are today deployed within 100 miles of St
Petersberg.
 Its further expansion is a matter of concern for Russia.
 Ukraine is currently a partner country of NATO.
 Future integration as a full member country
 c) To protect ethnic Russians:
 There is a law that imposes responsibility on Russia to protect
the rights of ethnic Russians in the former Soviet Republics.
 d) Both Ukraine and Russia belong to the same ethnolinguistic
group.
 Global reactions: (03:49 PM)
 Kindly Refer to Handouts
International Relations Class 18
A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:17 PM)
INDIA-EU RELATIONS - (01:21 PM)
 Topics to be covered -
 Prelims -
 Treaties.
 Structure of EU.
 Mains - India- EU relations.
 Treaties -
 1) Treaty of Paris- 1951
 It led to the establishment of the European Coal and Steel
Community.
 Countries were - France, Germany, Italy, and Benelux Countries
(Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxemburg).
 2) Treaty of Rome - 1957
 It led to the establishment of the European Economic Community
and European Atomic Energy Community (EEC+Euroatoms).
 In 1967, they all were merged to form a
single ECSC+EEC+EUROATOMS = European community.
 1979 - Marks the beginning of direct elections to the European
Parliament (European Parliament is an example of Supra-
Nationalism, there is this concept of 'pooled sovereignty', for
example - Decision making in the EU is based on a qualified
majority).
 1986, A single European Act was enacted.
 The aim was to create a common European Market.
 3) In 1993, the Maastricht Treaty/ Treaty of EU.
 It led to the formation of the EU.
 It is behind the origin of the Eurozone. That is it is after this treaty
that the countries have accepted Euro as their national currency.
 So they need the highest national bank to frame the common
policy and that would be done by the European Central Bank.
 For that, there was the Treaty of Maastricht, which led to the
formation of the Eurozone and the European Central Bank.
 The total number of member countries of the EU is - 27, The
recent entrant is Croatia.
 4) The Lisbon Treaty of 2007 -
 This treaty comprises the exit clause.
 That is for the countries who want to come out of the EU.
 5) The Schengen Agreement -
 It led to the creation of the Schengen area.
 It creates/allows for visa-free travel amongst the member
countries.
 The border restrictions at the mutual borders are done away
with.
 This agreement comprises 23 European - They are in two parts
some EU countries and non-EU countries.
STRUCTURE OF EU - (01:48 PM)
 It comprises 7 permanent bodies.
 a) 4 of which are European Parliament + European Council+
Council of EU+ European Commission.
 European Parliament - 705 MEPs, for 5 years through
Proportional representation, seats are distributed through the
proportion of their population, they represent all the citizens of the
member countries and law-making.
 European Commission - This is like a permanent bureaucratic
body, it is led by a collage of commissioners, and there will be 27
commissioners in the College of Commissioners.
 European Council - Its members are the head of the
government and the head of the state of the member countries.
 It will set broad priorities and give general directions of
policymaking to the EU.
 It comprises Ministers - One minister from each member
country. Their purpose is to uphold the national interest of their own
country.
 Council of EU - Their purpose is law-making.
 b) European Central Bank.
 c) European Court of Justice
 d) European Court of Auditors.
INDIA-EU RELATIONS - (02:03 PM)
 Timeline -
 2000 - 1st India - EU Annual Summit.
 2004 - India entered into a strategic partnership agreement with
the EU.
 2020 India-EU Strategic Partnership - A roadmap to 2025 was
adopted.
 This is important, before this, We looked at the EU only from an
economic angle not from the strategic perspective.
 In May 2021, EU+ 27, meeting with India was organized.
 This is the 2nd such meeting was organized.
 It includes -
 President of the European Commission and leaders of 27
member countries participated. It was the second such meeting that
was organized.
 The first such meeting of the EU was organized with the US.
IMPORTANCE OF EU - (02:08 PM)
 1) Economic Importance
 Currently, the EU is the second largest trading partner of India
after the US (The financial year 2021-2022).
 EU is also the 2nd biggest export destination for Indian Exports.
 2) Cooperation on Global issues-
 EU is taking the lead in designing Global rules in various new
fields.
 It has initiated a global debate on the rules to protect personal
Data. It aims to set global rules for Ethical, Human-centric
standards for the use of Artificial Intelligence.
 3) Countering China -
 It has economic and technological heft to counter it.
AREAS OF COOPERATION - (02:10 PM)
 1) Free trade negotiations -
 In 2007, negotiations on BTIA (Broad-based trade and
investment agreement) were launched, and then a 2-year limit
was set to complete the negotiations.
 However, the negotiations could not be completed. In 2003
negotiations were suspended.
 For example -
 Trade in spirits - The EU demands low tariff rates on these
products.
 Insurance sector.
 Dairy products.
 Automobile.
 IT Sector.
 Reasons-
 Disagreement over market access and access to professionals.
 In 2022 India and the EU resumed FTA negotiations.
 The FTA would involve agreement on trade, investment, and
Geographical indicators.
 Now Both countries Aim for the Trade negotiations to be broad-
based, balanced, comprehensive, and based on the principles
of fairness and reciprocity.
2) CONNECTIVITY PARTNERSHIP - (02:20 PM)
 India - EU Connectivity Partnership focused on enhancing -
 Digital connectivity.
 Energy connectivity.
 Transport connectivity.
 People-to-people connectivity.
 This connectivity is based on both public and private funding.
 Under it, both seek early 5G rollout which will be particularly used
for Rural Development.
 It will adhere to the principles of the Paris Agreement, the SDG
goals, the CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity), ILO
conventions, etc.
 Europe is committed to climate change. They have a value
system.
 But the US is not interested in dealing with Climate change.
 EU has recognized India as a "Sustainable development
partner " to jointly support resilient and sustainable connectivity
initiatives in 3rd countries such as in Africa, Central Asia, and the
Indo pacific
 It is viewed as a counter to China's BRI.
COOPERATION ON CLIMATE CHANGE- (02:24 PM)
 Both India and the EU were instrumental in the ratification of the
Paris Agreement.
 EU and its members have actively supported India and France
and co-founded the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
 EU has recently decided to join CDRI (Coalition for Disaster
Resilient Infrastructure).
COOPERATION ON LIBERAL MULTILATERAL ORDER - (02:25
PM)
 India and the EU share the ‘same multilateralist DNA’. They
know the bargaining power of Multilateral countries.
 India is a champion of Multilateralism.
 The US believes in Unilateralism. For example - during the
Second Gulf War - the US took unilateral action.
 India and the EU both have stakes in the Liberal Multi-lateral
order (Because this order is under threat) and seek to protect
Global commons such as the environment, etc.
 They have been supportive of WTO and freedom of navigation,
and both are interested in nuclear non-proliferation.
COOPERATION IN THE CONTEXT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC -
(02:31 PM)
 Prompt assistance was provided to India by the EU and its
member countries during the second wave of the Pandemic.
 India has also requested the EU's support for its joint proposal
with South Africa for a TRIPS waiver on vaccine production related
Patents in the WTO.
 The USA supported such a proposal by India.
INDIA-EU AS NATURAL PARTNERS - (02:32 PM)
 When there is a similar ideology or similar world view then we
say both are natural partners.
 In 2018 EU identified India as its natural ally.
 Reasons -
 Same world view- both regions believe in Multilateralism, rule-
based global order, democracy, rule of law, and Human Rights.
 But until recently India - EU relations were restricted to economic
affairs.
 At the international level we believe in Rule-based order and
human rights protection, We have a similar worldview.
 But both are not strategic partners rather both are economic
partners.
 India has not developed strategic partnerships because the EU is
a novel experience. So it becomes difficult for India to decipher the
EU.
 Second is the highheadedness of the EU. They go into moral
preaching.
 A major push for India-EU Strategic cooperation emerges
because of the following reasons:
 a) Rise of China -
 Growing Chinese presence in Eurasia, South Asia as well as
Europe.
 Italy Joined BRI and Chinese warships visited the Greek port- of
Piraeus.
 One-tenth of European Port Capacity is under Chinese control -
In Spain and even Belgium.
 b) Brexit -
 The exit of Britain from the EU -The UK was India's gateway to
the EU. Post Brexit India recognized its Economic growth prospect
depends on continued growth and the Internal Stability of the EU.
 EU also recognized the Importance of India as an Economic
partner.
 India will become a middle-power country.
 There is a weakness of the Trans-Atlantic Alliance.
 c) Threat to the Liberal Multilateral World Order.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-EU RELATIONS - (02:47 PM)
 i) Divergent positions on the Russia - Ukraine war.
 While Russia is a time-tested friend of India without any hidden
agenda.
 EU continues to be extremely critical of Russia. EU has
supported severe economic sanctions on Russia.
 ii) Issues in FTA -
 Such as agreement on India's IPR regime and demand for data
exclusivity of clinical trial data by the EU, Provision of investor-state
dispute settlement mechanism, nontariff barriers by EU on trade in
goods, and India's demand for designation of data secure status.
 iii) Human Rights issues in India-
 The EU is critical of the Human Rights situation in India vis a vis
the Dailts, and the religious minorities, as well as the closure of
Amnesty International offices in India
INDIA -WEST ASIA - (02:58 PM)
 There are three primary countries in West Asia.
 They are the three pillars of west Asia -
 a) Saudi Arabia - It is Sunni.
 b) Iran - It is Shia
 They both want to emerge as the leaders of the Islamic
countries.
 They are at loggerheads with one another.
 c) Israel - Jewish country, formed by taking up the territory of the
Arab country.
 SA and Israel have been good friends with the US.
 SA and Israel coming together against Iran, a nuclear weapon
developing Iran.
INDIA-ISRAEL RELATIONS - (03:03 PM)
 Topics to be covered -
 Timeline.
 Areas of Cooperation.
 Is Israel India's natural ally?
 India's Palestinian policy.
 India's stand on Israel- Hamas war.
 The Abraham Accords.
 I2U2.
 IMEC.
 Prospects of IMEC after Israel-Hamas war.
 Timeline -
 1947 - India became independent.
 In May 1948 - Israel declared itself an independent country.
 During this time India did not recognize Israel.
 In September 1950 - India recognized Israel but did not establish
diplomatic ties with Israel.
 Why India Recognise Israel -
 India was also home to the Jewish population and they wanted to
migrate and settle in Israel.
 To facilitate this migration, councilors' services were essential
and therefore we recognized Israel.
 It was only in 1992, that India normalized/established, diplomatic
ties with Israel.
 It took us 42 years between recognition and normalization,
why this long?
 Reasons -
 1) India had been partitioned on the grounds of religion, so India
could not immediately recognize/normalize ties with another country
created on the grounds of religion.
 2) Sentiments of India's Muslim population- The Indian state
wanted to be cognisant/sensitive to the Muslim population.
 3) India's interest in West Asia - such as energy security security
of the Indian diaspora.
 We are dependent on West Asia so we could not take a position
against West Asia.
 4) India's leadership of NAM - Because within NAM support to
the Palestinian cause had become a fulcrum issue.
 Because Egypt was one country going to war with Israel.
 5) India took 42 years between recognition and normalization
were they fellow years between India and the US relations?
 No, they were not fallow years as we were actively cooperating in
these years in defense and security with Israel.
 Israel became the source of advanced Western weaponry to
India.
 For example in 1974 - India took Pokhran 1.
 Israel also supported India in its 1962 war and 1971 and 1965
war with Pakistan.
 It is believed that India's National Security Guards were trained
by Israel.
 There was evidence of cooperation between RAW and Mossad.
 That is why in 1992, we normalized our ties with the US.
 1992 onwards -
 Though India normalized its ties with Israel, the relations
continued to be conducted behind the curtains.
 Evidences -
 High-level visits from India to Israel happened only in 2000-2001-
ministerial-level visits took place.
 2015 - The then president Pranab Mukherjee, visited Israel and
he became the first Indian President to visit Israel.
 2017- PM Modi became the first Indian PM to visit Israel.
 This shows the relation was not highlighted at the media level.
 The present BJP-led NDA government is the most pro-Israeli
government in history.
 Whenever the BJP-led government is in power in India the
relations between India and Israel are brought out in the open, and
whenever the Congress-led government is in power the relations
move behind the curtains.
 Reason-
 BJP finds it less ideologically difficult to engage with the Jewish
State of Israel.
 However, presently, there is a cross-party consensus in India on
its relations with Israel.
 In 2017, India also de-hyphenated its relations with Israel with
that of Palestine.
 That is India's relations with Israel would be independent of
India's support to the Palestinian cause and vice-versa.
 It would effectively mean that neither of the two countries would
enjoy a veto on India's relations with the other.
 The de-Hyphenation was achieved by a symbolic gesture
whereby PM Modi after visiting Israel in 2017, returned to India
without paying a visit to Palestine.
 In 2018, He visited Ramahhalla in Palestine.
IS ISRAEL, INDIA'S NATURAL ALLY - (03:35 PM)
 Context -
 Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee had commented that Israel is
India's natural ally.
 Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu referred to India-Israeli relations
as a marriage made in heaven.
 He, In one of the Raisina dialogues, commented that the two
countries have "a Natural Partnership" and "A Natural
Friendship".
AREAS OF COOPERATION - (03:53 PM)
 a) Defence -
 Israel is the second largest defense supplier to India while India
represents the largest defense market of Israel.
 40% of Israel's Exports are to India.
 India has benefitted from AWAKS (Air Borne Warming and
Control System, pine radars for India's Ballistic missiles, Spike Anti-
Tank missiles, etc.
 The two countries are also co-designing and co-producing
defense equipment such as Barak-8 surface-to-air missiles etc.
 b) Water management -
 Israel reuses 90% of its wastewater.
 India is going to face a major water crisis in the future.
 India is the only country where Israel has stationed a water
resource specialist as the water Attachi in its embassy in New
Delhi.
 c) Agriculture -
 Cooperating in dry-land farming.
 India seeks to learn from Israeli expertise in Drip irrigation,
verticle farming, soil solarization, and high productivity of dairy
farming, etc.
 d) Economic cooperation -
 Israel is one of the leading trade partners in Asia and the world.
 Mergers between Indian and Israeli startups have become
common.
 Adani group has acquired the Haifa port(It is the second largest
[port of Israel) for logistics infrastructure development.
 India has also welcomed Israle partnership in Indian
Manufacturing, pointing to the winning combination of India having
of 'Technology and edge' of Israel and the 'size and scale' of the
two countries.
 e) Cultural cooperation -
 India is one of the few countries where Jews have not faced any
discrimination.
 Benjamin Netanyahu had encouraged India's form of greeting
'Namaste' to be practiced during the first wave of COVID-19.
 He has invited Bollywood to shoot their movies in Israel. etc.
 Apart from wide sectors of cooperation, the India-Israel
partnership is an example of a 'win-win partnership'.
 a) India benefits from technology access by Israel.
 b) Israel benefits from India's large market size as well as draws
major intangible benefits in terms of being recognized by the liberal
constitutional democracy that is India, while it is still not recognized
as a country by 36 UN members.
 c) Despite such a nature and wide-ranging partnership, it would
not be correct to turn India and Isreal into each other natural allies.
 This is also despite that both countries face similar nature of
threats from Islamic extremism, though from different sources.
 For two countries, to be called natural allies they should share a
similar ideology and have an overlap of their world views.
 However, India is a multi-ethnic, pluralistic state, while Israel was
religiously conceptualized.
 The two also have significant policy differences over issues like
the Palestinian issue and the Iranian policy.

International Relations Class 19

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:14 PM)
INDIA'S PALESTINIAN POLICY - (01:15 PM)
 We generally divide it across phases -
 1) 1948 till 1992-
 India's support of the Palestinian cause is compared to
an 'article of faith'.
 We were extremely pro-Palestine.
 Our official stand was that we support an independent state of
Palestine, co-existing peacefully alongside Israel with its 1967
borders and east Jerusalem as its capital.
 In the war, Israel was able to capture 78% of Palestinian territory,
such as the Golan Heights of Syria.
 Evidence of India's support to the Palestinian cause -
 In the 1967 and 1973 war, India lashed out at Israel as the
aggressor.
 India supported PLO (Palestinian Liberation Organisation) and its
leader Yasser Arafat.
 India became the first non-Arab country to recognize PLO as the
sole representative of the Palestinian people and invited it to open
an office in Delhi.
 It was accorded diplomatic recognition, 5 years later.
 2) 1992 till 2017 -
 India normalized its relations with Israel.
 Reasons -
 a) Madrid peace conference of 1991.
 This conference was between Israel and Palestine, and as part
of this conference, Israel accepted two-state solutions. That is the
Palestinian right to exist as an Independent state.
 b) PLO as such was losing clout in West Asian countries.
 Because PLO supported Iraq in the first Gulf War.
 c) Disintegration of the Soviet Union.
 There was the 'Oslo Accord' - signed between Israel and PLO.
 All these factors are responsible for normalizing our ties with
Israel.
 Does that mean that our support for the Palestinian cause is
downgraded?
 No, We continue to support the independent state of Palestine.
 So, the Official stand of the GOI remains the same.
 Evidences -
 a) India supported Palestine to become a full member of
UNESCO in 2011.
 b) In 2012, India co-sponsored the UN General Assembly
Resolution enabling Palestine to become a non-member observer
state at the UN.
 c) India supported the installation of the Palestinian flag on the
UN premises in September 2015.
 2017 onwards -
 India successfully de-hyphenated its Israel-Palestine policy.
 The official stand of the government of India on the
Palestinian cause -
 Official stand - India supports Independent Palestine co-existing
peacefully alongside Israel.
 India dropped the reference to east Jerusalem as its capital or
1967 borders.
 However, India has not abandoned the Palestinian cause.
 Evidences -
 In 2018, PM Modi visited Ramahllah and gave a call
for Independent Palestine.
 India voted in favor of a resolution in the UN General Assembly
opposing then-president Trump's unilateral recognition of Jerusalem
as the Israeli capital.
 India has consistently voted against Israel on its settlement policy
in occupied Palestine etc.
 The Recent Israel-Hamas war and the government of India's
stand.
 India's response -
 India condemned terrorism.
 Provide humanitarian assistance to Palestinians.
 Two-state solution.
ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR AND GOI's STAND - (01:54 PM)
 It started with the operation 'Toofan-Al-Aqsa', launched
by Hamas on 7 October 2023, which was the 'Sabbath day'- A
Jewish day of worship.
 Hamas fired 5000 rockets in just 20 minutes overwhelming
the Iron Dome Missile Defence System of Israel.
 Also, this surprise attack killed 1400 Israelis.
 Consequently, Israel launched 'Operation Iron Swords' against
Hamas militants.
 In it, more than 12,000 Palestinians have been killed and half of
them are women and children.
 Initially, Israel responded with an air strike and later with a
ground invasion.
 The disproportionate use of force by Israel has resulted in a
humanitarian crisis unfolding in Palestine.
 Government of India's position -
 India has adopted a three-fold position -
 a) India strongly and unequivocally condemns terrorist attacks by
Hamas.
 Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations should be
detested/condemned.
 b) India has provided humanitarian assistance to Palestine.
 c) India has retrieved its support for a two-state solution.
 d) India calls for direct negotiations towards establishing a
sovereign, Independent, and viable state of Palestine living within
secured and recognized borders side by side at peace with Israel.
 Two resolutions have been brought in the UN with respect to
the war -
 a) A resolution that called for "an immediate, durable and
sustained humanitarian truce".
 b) It was voted for by 120 member countries including all the
BRICS Countries and all South Asian countries including Bhutan.
 All the Arab countries except Tunisia and almost the majority of
the countries of the global south.
 However, India chose to abstain from it.
 c) This raises concern about the probable change of GOI's
Position on the Israeli-Palestinian issue.
 However, the External affairs minister explained it as the vote
being consistent with India's stand on terrorism.
 d) A second resolution that condemns Israeli settlement activities
in the occupied Palestinian territory including eastern Jerusalem
and occupied Syrian Golan Heights was introduced in UNGA.
 India along with 144 countries voted in favour of it.
 Only 7 countries voted against it (like Israel, the US, and
Canada).
 It reinstated India's official stand on the Palestinian cause.
REASONS FOR INDIA'S CONSISTENT SUPPORT TO PALESTINE -
(02:19 PM)
 1) Importance of West Asia-
 Despite energy import diversification, nearly 50% of India's
energy imports continue to be from West Asia.
 Also, India is concerned about the safety of the Indian Diaspora
in West Asia as they are a source of large remittances to India.
 2) Abandonment of the Palestinian cause would provide
traction to Pakistan to form a Pan-Islamic Alliance against India on
the Kashmir issue.
 3) India's Global Aspirations - India has a long-term ambition to
become a permanent member of the UNSC.
 The OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) countries are 57
Islamic countries, they represent more than 1/4th of the UN's total
membership (193 countries).
 Therefore, support of OIC countries would be essential to India's
ambition.
 India wants to establish itself as the voice of the global south.
 Russia and China also want to position themselves as the leader
of the global south and they have adopted a pro-Palestinian policy,
therefore India cannot abandon the Palestinian cause.
 4) In consonance with Indian values - India's policy on
Palestine is consistent with Indian values of Anti-Imperialism, Anti-
Racism, non-violence, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial
integrity of all countries.
THE ABRAHAM ACCORDS - (02:34 PM)
 This was signed between Israel and UAE and was mediated by
the US, in 2020 August.
 And later on, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan have also joined the
accord. (Sudan has not signed the agreement).
 The aim of this accord is the normalization of their ties with
Israel/the establishment of diplomatic relations with Israel.
 Since the end of World War II, the US has been the
unquestioned Hegemon.
 It was responsible for maintaining peace in West Asia, it was
doing it through the balance of power.
 In the second decade of the 21st century, the US started
producing shale gas and oil, earlier it was dependent on West Asia
for energy security.
 The reason for the USA's presence is its requirements for energy
security.
 But now the US has turned out to be one of the leading energy
exporters in the world.
 Now USA's dependence on West Asia is reduced.
 We know the US is a pragmatic power and is no longer
interested in West Asia so it decided to withdraw itself from West
Asia.
 Now, these countries realize that they have the responsibility to
maintain peace and development in this region.
 Now other countries started entering this region such as Russia
and China.
 Now, the US, using Saudi Arabia and Israel and bringing them
together against Iran.
 Saudi Arabia cannot immediately recognize Israel, so now UAE,
Bahrain, Morrocco, Sudan, etc
 Saudi Arabia announced the Arab Peace Initiative - It was
suggested by Saudi Arabia in 2002.
 Under it, Saudi Arabia offered recognition and normalization of
ties to Israel provided it accepted and enforced Palestinian
statehood.
 It should recognize Palestine as an independent country with
1967 borders.
 As part of the Abraham Accord - Consequence -
 UAE became the first Gulf country to recognize and normalize
ties with Israel.
 Gulf countries are Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Saudi
Arabia, and UAE.
 GCC - (Gulf-Cooperation Council) - All the above countries
except Iraq, that is Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia,
and UAE.
 However, the first Arab country to recognize Israel was Egypt
which did so in 1979, and later on second Arab country was Jordan
which did so in 1994.
 Egypt recognized Israel, because of the Camp David
Agreement between Israel and Egypt mediated by the US- Due to
this agreement, Israel returned the Senai peninsula to Egypt and
Egypt recognized Israel.
 Jordon-Israel Peace treaty in 1994 - Through it, it settled their
territorial dispute and Jordon also recognized Israel.
A CONSEQUENCE OF ABRAHAM ACCORD IS I2U2 - (02:56 PM)
 I2U2 - Israel-India-UAE-US.
 October 2021, when the foreign ministers of the 4 countries met.
 In July 2022, the first summit-level meeting took place.
 This is the key dividend of the Abraham Accord. This is also
referred to as the West Asian QUAD.
 I2U2 will be a platform for Geo-Economic cooperation.
 They have identified 6 focus areas under I2U2, namely -
 Energy.
 Food Security.
 Water.
 Health.
 Space
 Transportation.
 I2U2 has also announced two projects, and both are based
in India -
 a) UAE will invest 2 billion dollars in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat,
and other states of India to develop a series of integrated food
parks.
 b) I2U2, is to mobilise support for a 330 million Hybrid
Renewable Energy project in Dwarka (Gujarat).
IMPORTANCE OF I2U2 FOR INDIA - (03:02 PM)
 1) This is the first time India is participating in 'Plurilateral
grouping' in the region.
 India has traditionally engaged bilaterally with the countries of
West Asia.
 2) It would enable India to play a greater role in West Asia.
 Untill I2U2, India used to keep a distance from the Geopolitics of
West Asia and had limited its engagement to ensure the energy
security and safety of its diaspora.
 It would enhance the scope of India-US cooperation beyond the
Indo-Pacific.
 Also, It marks a break in India's Anti-west Approach.
 Though I2U2 claims itself to be a geo-economic grouping, its
geo-strategic logic to counter China in the region cannot be
ignored.
CHALLENGES OF I2U2 - (03:14 PM)
 1) Recent Israel-Hamas war - This could impact the ties of the
Arab countries with Israel, And thus can cast a shadow on the
Abraham accord which is the basis of I2U2.
 2) From India's perspective, the remaining three members of
I2U2 are critical of Iran and it could impact India's long-standing ties
with Iran.
 The conclusion from India's perspective -
 An Important Geo-Economic plurilateral grouping that could allow
India to build mutually beneficial economic partnerships with the
other 3 countries without any adverse impact on India's strategic
autonomy as of now.
INDIA-SAUDI-ARABIA RELATIONS - (03:28 PM)
 Importance of Saudi-Arabia -
 1) Energy security
 It is the second largest crude oil supplier to India.
 18% of crude oil imports and 30% of India's LPG imports are
from Saudi Arabia.
 2) Remittances and Diaspora -
 2.4 million Indians live and work in Saudi Arabia, they constitute
7% of the kingdom's population.
 India is the largest recipient of remittances from Saudi Arabia.
 3) Trade and Investment -
 Saudi Arabia is amongst the top 5 trading partners of India.
 India is the second largest trading partner of Saudi Arabia.
 During the recent September 2023 visit of the crown prince and
PM of Saudi Arabia Mohammad Bin Salman (MBS) to India, the two
countries discussed the possibility of trading in local currencies and
exploring the opportunity for cooperation in payment systems
including acceptance of Rupay cards in Saudi Arabia.
 4) During the MBS 2019 visit, he had promised 100 billion dollars
of investments in India.
 5) A trilateral project to establish the world's largest Greenfield
refiners in Raigarh Maharashtra is in process among ARAMCO (Oil
company of Saudi Arabia) ADNOC (UAE), and Indian PSUs.
 Social-cultural importance -
 Saudi Arabia is home to Islam's two holiest sites, namely, Mecca
and Medina and therefore it is the religious leader of the Islamic
World.
 India is home to the World's second-largest Muslim population
after Indonesia hence the socio-cultural importance of Saudi
Arabia.
 Strategic importance -
 The two countries have a strategic partnership and aim to
cooperate on counterterrorism.
 They have a common foreign policy agenda in Afghanistan,
whereby both countries have repeated the need for an inclusive
government in Afghanistan which represents all spectrums of
Afghan people.
 They have identified defense, energy security, space, and
semiconductors as focused areas of cooperation.
 Saudi Arabia has assured India that it would remain a reliable
partner and exporter of crude oil supply.
 The relations are evolving from purely bilateral ties into
multilateral ones.
 Given Saudi-Arabia's recent membership of BRICS as well as
the two countries along with others signing the IMEC Agreement.
SOME IMPORTANT STATEMENTS - (03:51 PM)
 PM Modi described Saudi Arabia as "one of the most
important strategic partners of India".
 "As two of the world's fastest-growing economies, our
partnership is important for Global Economic Stability".
 Statement by MBS, Saudi Arabia's PM, "India-Saudi Arabia
relation is in our DNA.
EVOLUTION OF THE BILATERAL TIES - (03:54 PM)
 1) The two countries enjoy centuries-old economic and socio-
cultural ties.
 2) In Modern times the relation is traced to the Delhi Declaration
of 2006 and the Riyadh Declaration of 2010.
 Through this Riyadh declaration, we entered into a strategic
partnership agreement.
 3) In 2016, a visit by PM Modi has been referred to as the turning
point by the Ministry of External Affairs.
 He was awarded the highest civilian honor 'Abdulaziz Sash'.
 In 2019, MBS paid a tri-nation visit and one of the stops was New
Delhi.
 It was during this visit India India-Saudi-Arabia Strategic
Partnership Council was announced under Vision 2030 of the
kingdom.
 Saudi Arabia is to form such councils with 8 countries and one of
them is India.
 Vision 2030 is the plan for socio-economic Development
including through economic diversification of Saudi Arabia.
 India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council comprises two
main pillars namely,
 a) Political, security, social, and cultural committee.
 b) Committee on economy and investments.
 In September 2023, Crown Prince MBS visited India to
participate in the G20 Summit and then stayed back for a state
visit.
 During it, PM Modi and MBS co-chaired the first meeting of the
India-Saudi Arabia SPC.
MAJOR BREAKS IN INDIA-SAUDI ARABIA RELATIONS/TIES -
(04:09 PM)
 a) Bilateral to multilateral.
 b) Cooperation in Afghanistan.
 c) Cooperation on counter-terrorism.
 d) Exploring local currency settlement of the bilateral ties.

International Relations Class 20

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:10 PM)
RATIONALE OF RELATIONS BETWEEN INDIA AND SAUDI
ARABIA - (01:13 PM)
 From India's perspective, it is energy security.
 Saudi Arabia is the primary energy partner of India.
 From Saudi Arabia's Perspective - It is its pursuit of economic
diversification as part of Vision 2030.
 That is driving the kingdom's outreach to India.
INDIA - GCC COOPERATION - (01:24 PM)
 a) In 2022, India and GCC signed an MOU to institutionalize their
relations through annual dialogue.
 b) They are to expedite negotiations for the conclusion of the
FTA.
 c) GCC is India's largest trading bloc with an annual trade of over
150 billion dollars.
 d) GCC countries contribute almost 35% of India's oil imports and
70% of India's total gas imports.
 e) GCC is a major source of FDI in India.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-SAUDI ARABIA RELATIONS - (01:29 PM)
 a) Rising Islamophobia in India-
 For example, derogatory remarks against Prophet Mohammad
were made by members of the ruling party, which resulted in public
criticism of India by the UAE and OIC.
 b) Saudi Arabia's ideological support for terrorism.
 Taliban was indoctrinated in the Wahabi Ideology of the
Kingdom.
 c) Saudi-Arabia-Pakistan relations - They are historical allies,
tied through the theological bridge (Both are Sunni majority).
 d) Saudi Arabia traditionally supported Pakistan's view on
Kashmir.
 However, Given the growing closeness between India and Saudi
Arabia, Saudi Arabia has referred to the abrogation of Article
370 by India as an internal matter of the country.
 It did not this time support (Unlike China) Pakistan's attempt to
internationalize the issue.
 Saudi Arabia has been the primary aid giver to the ailing
Pakistani economy.
 e) India-Iran relations -
 India's close ties with Riyadh's adversary may prove to be a
challenge, as it may complicate our ties with Saudi Arabia.
 f) Saudi-Arabia's aggressive foreign policy in West Asia -
 For example -
 It was engaged in a proxy war with Iran in Yemen.
 They had imposed an economic blockade on Qatar.
 Such policies result in regional instability, which does not augur
well for India's energy security.
 g) Bilateral Issues -
 The working conditions of India's blue-collar workers in Riyadh
are a matter of concern.
 Lack of human rights protection, lack of enforcement of minimum
wage provisions, abuse of female domestic workers.
 The employers forcefully confiscating the worker's passport etc,
have resulted in cases of exploitation of Indian workers.
 h) China in Saudi Arabia -
 Until recently, Saudi Arabia was the leading supplier of oil to
China.
 It is the Kingdom's major trading partner.
BEIJING AS A PEACEMAKER BETWEEN SAUDI ARABIA AND
IRAN - (02:03 PM)
 The diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia collapsed in
2016 after the Saudi Embassy in Tehran was overrun by protesters
because of Riyadh's execution of a revered Shia cleric.
 As such the rivalry between the two, dates back to pre-revolution
Iran, for regional dominance.
 Past two years, the two countries wanted to resume diplomatic
ties and were engaged in closed-door talks in Iraq and Oman.
 However, they were not successful, therefore the two countries
approached China and within five days of intense negotiations the
deal was reached.
 Reasons - Why China was successful?
 China has close ties with both Riyadh and Tehran.
 It is the leading buyer of Saudi Oil and the largest trade partner
of Iran.
 Terms of the agreement -
 It is a trilateral deal between Riyadh, Tehran and Beijing.
 Thus, China is also a signatory to the deal and is being projected
as the guarantor of the deal.
 Both have resumed diplomatic ties, while Iran also agreed to
prevent an attack on Saudi Arabia from Houthis in Yemen.
 And Saudi Arabia agreed to rein in Iran International (Pharsi
news channel) critical of Iran.
 This deal marks China's arrival as a major power in West Asia.
 All major peace agreements in the region in the post-World War
period were mediated by the US.
 This is the first time another country has emerged as the
mediator.
 Impact on India -
 If China were to emerge as a major regional player in West Asia,
it would translate into India's increasing role in the region.
 Since India is globally recognized as a balancing power to
China.
INDIA-IRAN RELATIONS - (02:16 PM)
 Importance of Iran -
 a) Connectivity -
 Connectivity is the biggest Importance of Iran.
 We believe in the idea of Increasing prosperity through
connectivity.
 For example -
 Chabahar port is essential for India's alternative access to
landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia.
 INSTC corridor - India-Russia and Iran - It connects the Mumbai
port to Bandar Abbas port via the Caspian Sea, it takes us to
Moscow and ST. Petersburg.
 b) Geo-political/Geo-strategic Importance of Iran-
 To counter China's string of Pearls in the Indian Ocean Region.
 Cooperation with Iran is important If India is to emerge as the Net
security provider.
 Iran is Important as far as Afghanistan is concerned and both are
concerned vis-a-vis stability and Taliban in Afghanistan.
 The NSA-level dialogue was an initiative of Iran.
 Both also share common concerns vis-a-vis terrorism - for
example - the fight against ISIS, Al-Qaeda, etc.
 It is an important country for ensuring stability in West Asia,
which is India's national interest.
 c) Energy Security -
 It was one's one of the crude oil suppliers to India.
 It has the world's second-largest natural gas reserves in the
world.
EVOLUTION OF INDIA-IRAN RELATIONS - (02:26 PM)
 Phases -
 1950-1979-
 1) Historical and civilizational friends -
 But relations were tepid at this phase - because of the Cold War
politics.
 Iran was the USA's camp ally and India was the leader of NAM.
 This was also the phase of the inward-looking economy of India.
 1979-1990 -
 Iranian revolution took place, It was a student-led revolution, it
established the theological republic in Iran. The element of
democracy had been introduced.
 As a result, Iran came out of the US camp.
 But because it became a religious republic, it undertook a more
pro-Pakistan stand on Kashmir, and the relations deteriorated.
 1990-2003 -
 The best phase in India-Iran relations is because of Growing
strategic convergences. (In terms of security).
 That is both became concerned about the Taliban in Afghanistan.
Iran also shares borders with Afghanistan.
 India adopted The new economic policy, so India shed its export
pessimism. So the scope of economic cooperation increased.
 India became a growing economy with growing energy needs
and once again Iran became important.
 2003 onwards -
 However, in 2003 - The US became aware of the clandestine
Nuclear Weapon program of Iran and as a consequence, it
imposed sanctions on Iran.
 And since then the US has become a factor in India-Iran
relations. Our Independent engagement with Iran comes to an end.
 Despite India's policy to not vote on country-specific resolutions,
India voted against Iran several times on the IAEA (International
Atomic Energy Agency) Platform.
 India suspended the IPI pipeline.
 However, India did not succumb to US secondary sanctions on
oil imports from Iran.
 India came out with the Ruppee-Rial mechanism to settle the oil
trade between countries, through the UCO bank.
 In this context, the Insurance cost of Oil Tankers was borne by
Iran.
 Obama regime/administration in US -
 In 2015, Under the Obama administration, Iran+P5 countries+
EU+ US signed the Iranian Nuclear Deal which is also known
as JCPOA.
 Iran agreed to abandon its nuclear weapon program and the
West agreed to steadily remove sanctions on Iran.
 Reason for the deal -
 Iran agreed because the Western sanctions were strangulating
Iran's economy.
 There was rise of ISIS took place because of the US, as the
power vacuum was created in Iraq, rogue elements rose in the form
of ISIS.
 ISIS emerges as one of the biggest terrorism threats.
 ISIS wanted to create Islamic territorial powers, even from
Western countries there were lone-wolf attacks.
 Now the US has two options -
 i) Either to go for a third Gulf war.
 ii) To co-opt Iran alongside the US to fight ISIS.
 Because of this, they signed the Iranian Nuclear deal.
 Impact of the deal on India -
 It provides an opportunity to improve India-Iran relations, with the
removal of Western sanctions against Iran.
 India signed an agreement with Iran, India-Iran agreement on
Chabahar Port.
 India also increased oil imports from Iran.
 But then the Trump administration came in -
 It was in November 2018, the US unilaterally withdrew from
JCPOA.
 It reimposed sanctions on Iran.
 With this, India this time succumbed to the USA's secondary
sanctions, and we '0' out our oil import from Iran.
 The US under Trump adopted the policy of maximum
pressure and Iran's response was the adoption of a policy of
maximum resistance to maximum pressure.
 Biden administration -
 Biden came to power on the promise of US re-entering the
JCPOA.
 But now, for all practical purposes, presently JCPOA is
considered to be dead, as there is a rightist government coming to
power in Iran, now there is no agreement reached. so the
secondary sanctions are continuing in Iran.
PRESENT RELATIONS BETWEEN INDIA AND IRAN - (03:15 PM)
 Following India's Joining the USA's secondary sanctions on Iran
and zeroing its oil imports from Iran, Iran conducted a cost-benefit
analysis of its relations with New Delhi.
 It realized India needed it more than the other way around.
 Iran is critical for New Delhi's connectivity with its western
neighborhood- Afghanistan, Central Asia, and Europe.
 Consequently, there was a deterioration in bilateral ties.
 However, in the past two years, there have been few ministerial
visits between the two.
 PM Modi, also remarked, 'That the bilateral ties are marked
by "historical and civilizational connection, including people-
to-people contact".
 Recently, In July 2023, Iran was admitted to SCO and has in
principle been admitted into BRICS along with 5 other countries.
 Thus, the primarily bilateral relations may develop multi-lateral
dimensions in the coming future.
CHALLENGES IN INDIA-IRAN RELATIONS - (03:24 PM)
 1) US sanctions on Iran-
 In 2018, India's oil imports from Iran stood at 11% of India's total
oil imports.
 However, since May 2019 India zeroed out its oil imports from
Iran.
 Oil imports from Iran are important because -
 a) Indian refineries have been built to refine Iranian crude oil.
 b) The rupee-rial mechanism under which India used to import oil
from Iran was primarily favorable to India.
 There is a fall in trade, India Iran's trade in 2018 stood at 17
billion dollars and today it has fallen to 2 billion dollars.
 The rupee that Iran got from India was used to purchase goods
from India and therefore, despite India being a net oil importer it did
not have an adverse impact on India's BOP.
 It boosted trade between the two countries.
 c) It was an important component in India's oil import
diversification.
 Why oil diversification is important?
 i) India is an emerging economy with 80% of its oil requirements
met through imports.
 ii) Recent fluctuations in oil prices because of the Russia-
Ukraine war/ India being a large oil importer remains susceptible to
such price fluctuations.
 iii) India's crude oil imports from the US, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and
UAE together roughly account for 63% of the total value of India's
crude oil imports.
 2) Challenge of Kashmir issue -
 Iran's traditional pro-Pakistan stand on the Kashmir issue.
 3) Challenge of Iran-China relations -
 a) China is the primary beneficiary of US sanctions on Iran.
 Oil imports of China from Iran have increased from 25-45% of
Iran's total oil exports.
 Therefore, the Iranian economy has become dependent upon
China.
 b) China has become the largest trade partner of Iran.
 c) China and Iran concluded a deal in 2021, under which China
promised an investment of 400 billion dollars in the Iranian economy
over the next 25 years.
 4) Challenge of India's close partnership with GCC countries
-
 India becoming part of I2U2, Joining the IMEC corridor.
 India-Israel partnership.
 5) Challenge of Internal developments in Iran-
 Such as - the ongoing economic crisis, the depreciating Rial, and
domestic protest against the moral police.
 Increase instability of Iran.
CONVERGENCES IN INDIA-IRAN RELATIONS - (03:46 PM)
 1) Afghanistan -
 Both India and Iran want an inclusive government representing
all spectrums of Afghan society.
 Both do not want misuse of the Afghan territory by terrorist
groups.
 2) The Iranian Nuclear Deal, for all practical purposes is
dead.
 And therefore any possibility of doing away with Western
sanctions on Iran.
 Thus India needs to explore taking a similar stand on Iran as
India has taken on Russia against Western sanctions.
 This could open up opportunities for oil and other trade and
increase India's significance in Iran's strategic calculus.
 3) Despite India's close relations with Israel India has not
abandoned the Palestinian cause while Iran is one of the
important Arab countries which is pro-Palestine.
 Unlike, the other Arab countries like UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and
even Saudi-Arabia which were in negotiation with Israel to
normalize their ties, Iran continues to be against Israel and
Palestine.
CONCLUSION - (03:55 PM)
 There is a need for 'need-based autonomous foreign
policy' with respect to Iran.
 India is an emerging power, we are increasingly recognized as a
middle-power country, with global power ambition, India thus cannot
be succumbed to the pressure of a third country in pursuit of its
relations with other countries, especially geopolitically vital countries
like Iran.
 Therefore, India needs to adopt a need-based autonomous
foreign policy vis-a-vis Iran.
 India should reiterate/repeat with the US that the policy of
secondary sanctions is primarily benefitting China, its strategic
adversary.
 It is enabling it to emerge as a major player in West Asia.
 India needs to rethink its abiding by of USA's sanctions on Iran
and at the earliest work towards restarting oil imports.

International Relations Class 21

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:10 PM)
INDIA-UN - (01:11 PM)
 UN SYSTEM AND FAMILY -
 1) The UN -
 UNSC
 UNGA
 The Trusteeship Council
 ECOSOC
 ICJ
 2) Special Funds and Programs -
 They have been established through a resolution by the UN
General Assembly.
 There are 6 special funds and Programs-
 UNEP
 UNDP
 UNFPA -United Nations Population Fund.
 UN-Habitat
 UNICEF
 WFP - World Food Program.
 3) Specialized Agencies -
 There are 16 specialized agencies.
 Independent agencies - They want to work with the larger goals
of the UN.
 World Bank
 ILO
 IMF
 ITU.
The UN- (01:19 PM)
 UN was established - on 24 October 1945 through the San
Francisco conference.
 Founding members - 51 member countries.
 Aim of UN - Peace and Security.
 The aim is to promote friendly relations among countries.
 The UN preamble says, "The UN aims to save the successive
generations from the Scourge of war'.
 The other aim of the UN is to protect human rights.
 The third is to promote human development.
UN ORGANS - (01:22 PM)
 1) UN General Assembly -
 All the UN Organs are headquartered in New York, except ICJ
which is headquartered in Hague Netherlands.
 Functions of UN General Assembly - Representation and
deliberations.
 It is like the parliament.
 All the member countries (193, recently most of South Sudan) of
the UN will be represented in UNGA.
 2) UNSC - United Nations Security Council -
 It is referred to as the 'Nucleus of UN'.
 It is primarily responsible for ensuring peace and security around
the world.
 It is also the only organ that has 'teeth to bite'.
 That means it can pass legally binding resolutions.
 Its membership comprises- 5 permanent members and 10 non-
permanent members.
 P5 Countries - China, Russia, US, France and UK.
 These P5 countries enjoy Veto power.
 The membership of P5 has remained consistent since 1945.
 10 Nonpermanent members - until 1965 it comprised 6 non-
permanent members, it is after that they have increased to 10.
 They cannot seek immediate re-election.
 Out of these 10 members, 5 members retire every two years, and
5 new ones are elected. The election is based on ensuring
geographical representation.
 Technically the P5 countries enjoy double veto -
 This means any issues that come forth UNSC, it is distinguished
between substantive issues and procedural issue.
 For procedural issues - 9 member countries - P5 do not enjoy
veto power.
 For Substantive issue - Need a vote of 9 out of 15 member
countries - In this case, P5 enjoys veto power.
 The second Veto P5 enjoy is in the case of the substantive
issue.
 3) ECOSOC (UN Economic and Social Council)
 Function - To promote sustainable development.
 It encourages policy discussions and deliberations on
sustainable development.
 Member countries- There are 54 Member countries.
 They are elected for three years.
 The basis is to ensure adequate geographical representation.
 They are elected by UNGA.
 The president of ECOSOC is elected from member countries for
one year.
 4) UN Trusteeship council -
 It was formed along with the UN in 1945.
 The aim/ objective of TC was to develop and promote Self
Governance Capabilities amongst its mandates.
 It was in 1994, that the 11th Mandate which was the last trust
territory attained self-governance.
 And therefore since then, it has existed without any active
mandate.
 5) The UN Secretariat -
 It comprises - the secretary general and 100s of 1000s of UN
bureaucrats.
 It is the administrative organ of the UN.
 The secretary-general is the chief of the executive offices of the
UN.
 He is appointed by the UN General Assembly based on the
recommendation of the UNSC.
 They are appointed for 5 years term and this term is renewable.
 The present secretary-general is Antonia Guterres.
 Before him, it was Ban ki-Moon, and before him, it was - Kofi-
Annan.
 The first secretary general of the UN was Trygve Lie second
was - Dag Hammar Skjold.
 6) ICJ - International Court of Justice-
 At the international level, there exist three courts -
 a) ICJ - International court of justice.
 b) PCA - Permanent court of arbitration.
 c) ICC- International Criminal Court.
 ICJ VS PCA
ICJ PCA
It is an organ of It is not an organ
UN. of the UN.
It was
It is the oldest
established in
International
1945, under the
Dispute
statute of the
settlement body
Permanent Court
established
of International
under the statute
Justice, which
of pacific
exists under the
settlement of
League of
International
Nations, of the
Dispute 1899.
UN charter.
The member
countries are
122, of which
Member
120 countries
countries - 193,
are UN members
all the UN
and the two
Countries.
other countries
are Palestine and
Kosovo.
Its jurisdiction
Jurisdiction - involves
ICJ's member
Jurisdiction is countries,
limited to international
member organizations as
countries. well as private
parties.
Nature of
Jurisdictions - It is not involved
Under ICJ they in normal
can come out dispute
with legally settlement. It
binding settles disputes
judgments or through ADR
advisory mechanisms
judgments. such as
Legally binding mediation,
in case member conciliation, and
countries of ICJ arbitration.
are involved in a The final verdict
legal dispute. is called
The advisory an award and it
will happen cannot be legally
when the contested. so
International basically no
organization appeal against
seeks legal awards.
advice from
ICJ.
Composition - It Composition of
comprises 15 PCA - It is not a
judges who are court but
elected for 9- represents
year terms, and permanent
the term is bureaucracy. It
renewable the is Tripartite in
judges can seek structure.
reelection. The A)
judges are Administrative
elected by the Council/ It
UN General oversees the
Assembly and Budget and
UNSC voting policies of
simultaneously PCA.
but separately. B) A panel of
ICJ is a Independent
permanent body, arbitrators.
therefore one- C) The
third of the secretariat. (Also
judges retire called the
 every three
years, and one- International
third are Bureau).
elected.
Headquarters - Headquarters -
Both are placed Both are placed
in Peace Palace, in Peace Palace,
Hague, Hague,
Netherlands. Netherlands.
Prominent cases
under PCJ-
Philippines VS
Prominent cases
China in the
under ICJ-
South China
1) Kulbhushan
Sea. China
Yadav case.
through an
2) Chagos
arbitrary nine-
Archipelagoes -
dash line lays
Advisory
claim to 90% of
opinion on the
the South China
reunification of
Sea. PCA gave
Chagos
the judgment in
Archipelagoes
favor of the
with Mauritius.
Philippines.

INTERNATIONAL CRIMINAL COURT - (02:16 PM)

 It is also not the UN Organ.
 Headquarter - Hague Netherland.
 It is the newest International court which has been established
under the Rome statute, which was adopted in 1998, and entered
into force only in 2002.
 Jurisdiction - It can only prosecute individuals, for four specified
crimes,
 Genocide.
 War crimes.
 Crimes against humanity.
 Crimes of aggression.
 It is meant to complement the national judicial system.
 It is meant to fight impunity enjoyed by certain powerful
individuals and bring them to justice.
 Member countries - 123.
 However, Important global powers such as the US, Russia,
China, India, and Pakistan are not members of the ICC.
 This raises questions on the effectiveness and legitimacy of ICC.
 Why India has not joined ICC -
 India was in fact, actively involved in the framing of the draft of
the Rome statute.
 India had recommended that crimes such as cross-border
terrorism, Use of nuclear weapons, and weapons of mass
destruction should be brought in within the jurisdiction of the ICC.
 India opposed their omission and consequently decided not to
join the ICC.
 India is prone to insurgency and militancy and has enacted
special laws such as AFSPA, to empower its military officials to
tackle such crises.
 India did not want to make military and civil personnel vulnerable
to international jurisdiction for any action they undertake.
 India insists that its national judicial system is competent and
tries such cases if and when they arise.
 On the ground of principle also India decided to go against ICC.
 The Rome statute provides an extraordinary clause to bind non-
members to the jurisdiction of the ICC.
 However, P5 countries are not mandated to be bound by ICC
jurisdiction.
 India believes such provisions to be violative of the Vienna
Convention on Laws of Treaties.
CHALLENGES FACED BY ICC - (02:40 PM)
 1) Lack of enforcement mechanism -
 An ICC has to depend on the cooperation of its member
countries.
 2) Important global powers are not members of the ICC.
 3) ICC is known for African bias and pro-western Bias.
 Bias against Africa - The ICC is often criticized as a tool of
Western imperialism, barring recent years ICC has generally
investigated crimes by African leaders and their countries.
 Thus Kenya proposed mass withdrawal of African countries from
the Rome statute. African Union in 2000, endorsed the plan of
Kenya.
 Biased in favor of powerful Western countries - Inability of
ICC to investigate and prosecute human rights violations by the US
and its forces in Afghanistan.
 4) The pace of investigation and trial - In 20 years of its existence
it has convicted only 20 individuals and acquitted 4.
 This raises questions about whether the resources and time
invested by the member countries are worthwhile.
THE VARIOUS MECHANISMS UNDER UN TO ENSURE PEACE -
(03:03 PM)
 1) Collective security -
 It is based on the theme 'one for all' and all for one'.
 Under collective security in case of aggression committed by one
country against the other, all members of the UN are expected to
come together and punish the aggressor.
 It is to be operationalized by the UNSC.
 However, the UNSC has from the beginning divided between P2
(Russia and China) vs P3(UK and France, US), and because of this
divide, the UNSC has not been able to operationalize collective
security.
 Collective security was operationalized first time during the first
Gulf War, in the context of Iraq invading Kuwait.
 There was a consensus that the operation should be taken
against Iraq.
 The reason, that we could operationalize collective security then
was because the USSR had just disintegrated and the US emerged
as the single superpower.
 USSR's successor Russia or China did not have sufficient power
to oppose a resolution proposed by the global hegemon.
 2) Uniting for peace resolution/Acheson plan/Un General
Assembly resolution 370 (5) -
 It suggests an alternative way to operationalize collective
security.
 In case of a deadlock in the UNSC, Acheason's plan suggested
that collective security could be operationalized through a UN
General Assembly resolution if supported by 2/3rd of the member
countries.
 However, it was unacceptable to the then USSR, since through it
the veto of the P5 countries could be overridden.
 3) UN Peacekeeping operations -
 It is the brainchild of the then-secretary general, Dag Hammar
Skjold, under it, Blue helmets/peacekeeping forces are deployed in
the warring zones to ensure the maintenance of the ceasefire.


Peace Keeping Collective

Operations Security
Military
Policing action
action
Aim is ceasefire The aim is
to punish
 the
aggressor
Consent of the
Consent of
warring parties is
the warring
required for the
parties is
deployment of a
not
peacekeeping
required
force
 PKO has been very successful in ensuring the relevance of the
UN to Global Peace and Security.
CHALLENGES FACING PKO - (03:29 PM)
 A) Changed nature of Global conflicts -
 With the end of the Cold War, the nature of global conflict has
changed from interstate to intra-state wars.
 Unlike Interstate wars in which nation-states were involved, the
greater involvement of non-state actors in present-day conflicts is
making PKOs increasingly dangerous.
 B) Developed VS developing countries -
 Developed countries are the primary financers of UN
Peacekeeping operations, while the developing countries are the
troop-contributing countries.
 The decision, on the deployment of peacekeeping missions is
undertaken by the UNSC.
 Therefore countries like India and Bangladesh are raising
demands for effective consultation with troop-contributing countries
before deployment of such missions.
 C) Peacekeeping to Peacebuilding -
 There is growth in the complexity of the task performed because
the peacekeeping forces do not just maintain cease-fire but perform
multiple functions such as local infrastructure building, running
medical missions, providing support to the local communities, etc.
 D) Limited resources -
 PKOs face resource constraints in terms of personnel, logistics,
and funding.
 E) Coordination -
 Such missions involve multiple actors such as the UN, the host
countries, regional organizations, and other stakeholders,
coordinating amongst them can be a significant challenge.
 F) Idea of Robust peacekeeping -
 It was suggested by developed countries that in case the need
arises, the peacekeeping forces could participate in undertaking
offensive actions.
  However, such suggestions were immediately opposed by the
developing countries.
 4) Relationship to protect mechanism -
 It is an international norm that seeks to ensure that the
international community does not fail to prevent human rights
violations or halt atrocities such as genocide, war crimes, and
crimes against humanity.
 The R2P mechanism was adopted in 2005 at the World Summit
of all UN member countries.
 It comprises three pillars and all pillars are of equal
importance.
 a) The Nation-state is primarily responsible for protecting the
human rights of its population.
 b) The international community should assist nation-states in
protecting human rights.
 c) In case the state fails to protect human rights then the
responsibility to protect it would be of the International community.
 The R2P mechanism was used only once in the case of the
Libyan crisis. Given its gross misuse, it has since not been used.

International Relations Class 22

REFORMS OF THE UN (9:14 AM)
 There are three types of reforms in the UN are required -
 A. Charter reforms.
 B. Financial reforms.
 C. Institutional reforms.
 A. CHARTER REFORMS -
 Article 107 - enemy state with respect to Axis power of World
War II.
 The event state needs to be dropped from the charter because it
goes against its nature which is its global character.
 Axis powers - Germany, Italy, Japan.
 They are now active financial contributors to the UN and military
allies of the US and the West.
 The reference is anachronistic.
 Article 2(7) of the UN charter bars the UN from interfering in the
internal affairs of the member countries.
 There has been a change in the nature of conflicts from inter-
state to intra-state.
 B. FINANCIAL REFORMS -
 The sources of finance for UN - membership fee.
 Compared to large tasks that it is to perform, the available
financial resources are not optimum.
 Apart from inadequate funding, there is inefficient utilisation of
the available resources.
 Also, member countries often tend to delay and default in
payment of their membership fees.
 One such country is the US.
 Suggestions -
 1. The membership fee cannot be increased substantially as it
would discourage the global character of the UN by discouraging
smaller countries from seeking UN membership.
 2. Efficient utilization of the existing funds.
 3. To augment the financial resources of the UN, independent
sources of funding such as the imposition of Tobin tax can be helpful.
 Tobin tax refers to the tax imposed on international financial
transactions to discourage financial market volatility.
 It proceeds can be allocated to the UN.
 C. INSTITUTIONAL REFORMS -
 i. ECOSOC - The Economic and Social Council
 It has a very wide mandate to promote sustainable development.
 Several working groups have been created under ECOSOC and
several times with overlapping mandates.
 Therefore, it is un-wieldy as a body.
 Suggestions -
 Streamline the various working groups under ECOSOC.
 ii. Trusteeship Council -
 In 1994, its mandate was over when the trust - territory attained
self-governance.
 Therefore it has existed as a UN organ without any active
mandate.
 Suggestions -
 It should be either abolished or given some new mandate.
 New mandates such as governance of global commons such as
Artic or Antarctica space, etc.
 iii. UN Secretariat -
 It consists of the UN Secretary-General and bureaucrats.
 Issues -
 There is an over-representation of the West.
 Corruption, red-tapism, bureaucratic inertia, etc.
 Suggestions -
 Adequate representation of the countries of the East (developing
countries).
 Bureaucratic reforms need to be undertaken.
 iv. UNSC -United Nations Security Council - (9:49 AM)
 Reforms required under UNSC -
 1. Veto reforms.
 2. Other procedural reforms.
 3. Membership reforms.
 1. Veto reforms -
 P5 of the UNSC have veto power.
 Veto power is primarily responsible for the deadlock in the
UNSC.
 This deadlock in the UNSC raises questions on the relevance of
the UNSC and so UN itself for global peace.
 Suggestions -
 Abolition of veto power -
 The original UN did not envisage the P5 countries.
 They were introduced only on the insistence of the then USSR,
which had conditioned its membership of the UN to veto powers.
 And since it was one of the very important powers of that time, its
absence would raise questions about the global character of the UN.
 And therefore veto power was given to all the P5 countries.
 However, the P5 countries have clarified that they would not
accept any change to their special veto powers.
 So the abolition of veto powers is not a possibility.
 Another suggestion has been that a minimum of two veto votes
would be required to nullify or veto a resolution.
 But once again the West has clarified any changes/dilution to
their privileged positions would be unacceptable.
 In such a scenario, maybe restrictions can be introduced with
respect to the applicability or use of veto power.
 The veto power used should be limited to those matters
concerning a direct threat to the national interests of P5 countries.
 Restrict the number of vetos that a country can use in one year
against the unlimited veto powers of the P5 countries presently.
 It is essential to undertake veto power reform to ensure the
relevance of the UN.
 However, it seems unlikely that the P5 would agree to any
changes or dilution of their privileged status.
 This is especially so where the world is heading towards a new
soughtof bipolarity with the US and European countries on one side
and China, Russia, Iran, and Turkey on the other side.
 2. Other procedural reforms -
 Greater transparency in the functioning of UNSC.
 Better coordination between the UNSC and the UN General
Assembly.
 Before deciding on the deployment of UN peacekeeping
missions, consult the true contributing countries.
 3. Membership reforms -
 Increase UNSC membership -
 Balanced Regional Representation -


Europe - 2nd smallest continent is over repsrenstaion by three countries- the

UK, France and Russia.
Asia - most populated countries are underrepresented through China.
Non-representation of Latin America and Africa in UNSC.
UNSC membership has not kept up with UN membership.
1945 -
UN members -51
UNSC members - P5 permanent members and 6 non-permanent membership.
1965 -
UNSC - The non-permanent membership increased from 6 to 10
UN members -117
2023 -
UN members - 193
There is an increase in 4 fold of the membership of the UN, but the permanent
membership remained unchanged.

 Anachronistic nature of UNSC -

 P5 countries' Primary power at the end of WW1.
 Since then there has been a decline in power in the UK and the
rise of countries like Germany, Japan, India, and Turkey as important
country in the world.
ASPIRING COUNTRIES / REGIONS FOR UNSC MEMBERSHIP -
(10:32 AM)
 1. G4 -India, Japan, Germany and Brazil.
 Coffee Club - oppose the candidate of G4
 Coffee Club members - Pakistan, Spain, Italy, South Korea,
Australia, Canada, Argentina, etc
 The Arguments of the Coffee Club -
 The G4 are not even regional leaders.
 Any such recognition would result in greater regional instability.
 The argument by G4 - To assuage the concern of the coffee
club, the G4 countries have clarified that they will not seek veto power
for the first 10 years of their UNSC permanent membership.
 However, the Coffee Club is dissatisfied with any such proposals.
 In fact, they have passed a Uniting for Consensus resolution,
that is they demand any expansion of UNSC membership should be
based on consensus and not through a majority.
 Therefore, the Coffee Club is also at times referred to as the
Uniting for Consensus Club (UfC club).
 *The UN charter has clarified/mentioned that consent of 2/3rd of
the total membership including the concurring votes of P5 is required
to amend the UN charter.
 Thus the P5 countries have veto power with respect to it.
 Changing the membership of the UNSC requires amending
the charter.
 2. AFRICAN UNION -
 It demands two permanent seats with veto power.
 It is through Ezulwini consensus and Site Declaration.
 However, there is no clarity on which two AU countries will
occupy the permanent seats.
 It is believed that the membership would be held by AU member
countries on a rotational basis.
 This demand by AU was led by C -10.
 C -10 Committees of 10 countries which in turn is led by Sierra
Leone.
 3. L - 69 -
 It comprises 42 countries including India and Brazil.
 They demand comprehensive reform of UNSC membership.
 They demand the expansion of permanent and non-permanent
membership of the UNSC.
 They demand greater representation for SIDS small island
developing states which comprise 20% of the UN's total membership.
 They also demand reform in the working methods of the UN.
 4. OIC - Organisation of Islamic Cooperation
 They demand representation of Islamic countries in the UNSC.
 However, their demand is weak.
 There is no provision under the UN charter to grant religious
representation.
 Conclusion -
 INGs -The intergovernmental negotiation process is the
primary framework through which UNSC reforms are discussed and
debated and it needs to be revised and re-energised.
 It was agreed in the 76th UN General Assembly Session 2022.
 The President of UNGA recommended that gradually moving the
IGN process towards text-based negotiation is a welcomed step.
CASE FOR INDIA'S CANDIDATURE IN UNSC (11:11 AM)
 Examine the case for India's candidature as permanent member
in UNSC.
 Why India wants to become a permanent member -
 1. To be recognised as a global power - UNSC permanent
membership would be an acknowledgement of India's great power
status.
 2. It has been a long-term membership of India to gain its rightful
place in the comity of nations. (tryst with destiny speech of Jawaharlal
Nehru).
 3. If the permanent membership is accompanied by veto power,
India would be in a better position to safeguard its national interests.
 4. Presently, India relies on the veto power of countries like
France and Russia to veto resolutions against India on issues like
Jammu and Kashmir etc.
 5. Also with veto power, India would gain strategic leverage in its
relationship with other countries.
 6. Also, UNSC permanent, members play a prominent role in the
internal working of the UN.
 7. India will if it becomes a permanent member gain a say in the
internal workings of the UN.
 On what ground India demands permanent membership -
 1. Based on population, India is the one of most populated
countries in the world.
 Every 6th person on the planet is an Indian.
 2. Emerging economy -


India is one of the fastest-growing emerging economies.

5th largest GDP.

3rd largest GDP in purchasing parity terms.

 3. Military strength of India

 India has the fourth-largest army, the 7th largest navy, and 3rd
strongest airforce in the world.
 India is a defacto nuclear weapon state with an operation nuclear
triad and is known for its responsible nature.
 4. One of the largest UN peacekeeping (true) contributors.
 5. Leader of the global south.
 6. India represents a liberal constitutional democracy.
 7. India is a multicultural society with pluralistic traditions.
 8. India is a unique country which is constitutionally committed to
global peace (Article 51 of the Indian constitution).
 9. Indian civilization values non-violence, Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam, etc promote global peace.
 10. India is a front-runner in global vaccine diplomacy (in the
context of the COVID pandemic, the West turned increasingly inverts,
and protectionist, while India was willing to participate in vaccine
diplomacy).
 11. India is a co-founder of the International Solar Alliance.
 How UN and UNSC will benefit from India's UNSC
membership -
 1. India is one country that has good relations with both P2 and
P3 and can therefore act as a bridge between the two.
 2. India takes principled stands based on the merit of the issue.
 This would impart greater legitimacy to the UNSC and
consequently the UN.
 3. India is the leader of the global south and with its membership
in UNSC representation of the global South will increase it, making it a
more representative body.
 4. Indian civilization values such as non-violence, respect for
diversity, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, etc
align with UN aims.
 Steps taken by India -
 1. India pursues good relations with both developing and
developed countries.
 2. India has repeated sought elections as a non-permanent
member of the UNSC.
 India has been elected as a non-permanent member a total of 8
times with overwhelming support.
 3. India is willing to accept permanent membership with or
without veto.
 4. India has put forth its candidature as part of the group -G4, L -
69, etc.
 Prospects for India's membership -
 India is a strong contender to UN permanent membership..
 However, UNSC membership reforms remain an uphill task since
the P5 countries have been unwilling to dilute their exclusive global
power status.
 P5 represents the most exclusive power club whose membership
has remained unchanged since 1945.
 Therefore until such reform of UN charter, India should focus on
its internal development.
 It would automatically strengthen the future case of India's
permanent membership.
 Until the permanent membership expansion takes place, a group
of experts have suggested another category of UNSC membership,
namely semi-permanent membership.
 Semi-permanent members will be elected for 8 to 9-year terms
and they can seek re-election.
 India should seriously consider the semi-permanent membership
in case provisions are introduced with regard to it.
 (Since P5 is reluctant towards membership expansion, a group of
experts has suggested another category of membership which is semi-
membership).
 The topic to be prepared by students themselves -
 India and its contribution to UN peacekeeping operations.

International Relations Class 23

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS - (01:08 PM)
INTERNATIONAL NUCLEAR TREATIES - (01:09 PM)
 There are 4 such treaties -
 NPT
 CTBT
 FMCT
 Nuclear Weapon Prohibition Treaty.
NUCLEAR NON-PROLIFERATION TREATY - (01:10 PM)
 It is about preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.
 The draft was adopted in 1968
 Enter into force in 1970.
 In 1995, this treaty was indefinitely extended. That is it will
remain applicable for an indefinite period.
 This also means it was Universally accepted.
 In terms of membership, 190 countries have signed and joined
this treaty.
 There are only 4 countries in the world who have never signed
this treaty- India, Pakistan, Israel, and now South Korea.
 North Korea joined but later decided to withdraw and declare
itself a de facto Nuclear Weapon state.
 Significance of NPT -
 1) The cornerstone of the 'Nuclear Non-Proleferation Treaty'.
 2) It is the only legally binding multi-lateral treaty that binds (The
Dejure) nuclear weapon states.
 3) Near Universal membership.
 The treaty has been Indefinitely extended in the year 1995.
 Aim of Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty -
 1) As the name suggests, It is for Nuclear weapon
nonproliferation.
 2) To ensure nuclear weapons disarmament.
 3) To encourage the peaceful use of Nuclear Energy.
 Working of the treaty - how the treaty is trying to achieve its
aim-
 It classifies the nations of the world into two categories-
 A) Nuclear weapon states (Dejure) -
 The countries that Tested nuclear weapons before 1st January
1967 - are called nuclear weapon states.
 It includes - the US, USSR, UK, France, and China.
 B) Other countries would be classified as Non-Nuclear
weapon states -
 They were asked to not pursue/develop Nuclear weapons.
 But why do they agree?
 If they agree, then Nuclear developed states will share peaceful
nuclear technology for civilian purposes.
 How they will prevent it?
 They will have to ensure a watchdog/scrutiny.
 So, the IAEA would be the watchdog and would regularly inspect
the nuclear plants of non-nuclear states to ensure that Nuclear
technology is not diverted to develop nuclear weapons.
 The goal is very weak as there is no timeline or well-defined
process through which the Nuclear Disarmament is to be achieved.
 Iran and North Korea are examples - they have used Nuclear
technology through NPT.
 India's stand -
 India chose not to sign this treaty.
 1) This treaty has weak Nuclear Disarmament goals.
 While India has developed Nuclear weapons, India's security is
best maintained in a nuclear-free world.
 India believed in Universal, Timebpound, Irreversible, verifiable
Nuclear disarmament.
 2) India believes that NPT is a discriminatory treaty -
 Because it divides the countries of the world into nuclear haves
and nuclear haves not.
 3) India said that this treaty bans only horizontal
proliferation (Between nations) but does not check verticle
proliferation (Within the nuclear weapons states like the US-USSR,
 no retaliation, It is allowing the nuclear countries to continue
support).
 4) This treaty does not solve the Nth Nation Problem.
 Till the time even a single country in the world possesses nuclear
weapons, till that time other countries will be motivated to develop
Nuclear weapons.
CTBT - COMPREHENSIVE TEST BAN TREATY - (01:50 PM)
 It aims to ban Nuclear weapon testing and before CTBT, there
was a partial test ban treaty of 1967. India pioneered this treaty.
 The partial test ban treaty banned Nuclear weapon testing in the
atmosphere and water.
 As a consequence nuclear weapon testing was driven
underground.
 Then comes CTBT - Its draft was adopted in 1995, but it has yet
not entered into force.
 This treaty aims to completely ban Nuclear Testing, be it for
military or civilian purposes.
 This treaty was adopted in 1995 and presently 184 countries
have signed this treaty and 168 countries have ratified this treaty.
 Still, it has yet not entered into force.
 Reason -
 Because of its special entry into force clause.
 This clause said that for this treaty to enter into force all these 44
countries who possess nuclear technology at that time, should sign
and ratify this treaty.
 Of these 44 countries, 8 countries have either not signed or
ratified the treaty. India, Pakistan, and North Korea.
 Israel, the US, China, Iran, and Egypt - signed but did not ratify
the treaty.
 Recently, it was in the news, that the Russian president has
given the call to the withdrawal of Russian ratification of this treaty.
To bring it to par with the US.
 It is in the context of the Russia- Ukraine war with the growing
rhetoric on the use of Nuclear weapons.
 Importance of comprehensive test ban treaty -
 1) It is one of the largest arms control treaties in the world.
 2) It bans Nuclear testing and thereby seeks to prevent both
horizontal as well as verticle proliferation of nuclear weapons.
 3) Nuclear Testing is catastrophic to the environment so by
banning it, it is safeguarding the environment and all living
creatures.
WHY INDIA HAS NOT SIGNED CTBT - (02:04 PM)
 1) This is despite, India being a pioneer in partial test bank
treaty.
 2) In 1954, Under PM Nehru's initiatives a standstill agreement
on Nuclear Testing was proposed to check the Nuclear Arms race
between the US and the USSR.
 3) India despite developing Nuclear Weapons has stated that its
national interest is best met in a Nuclear weapon-free world.
 4) Despite India's support for Universal Nuclear
Disarmament, India's then representative in the UN stated - That
India has not now and not in the future will sign or ratify this treaty.
 She stated, that this is because CTBT is neither comprehensive
nor a test ban.
 Reasons for not signing this treaty -
 1) This treaty is neither comprehensive nor a test ban -
 India said it only bans nuclear testing in the physical environment
and not lab-simulated nuclear testing and developed countries
developed the capability of lab-simulated nuclear testing.
 2) Discriminatory - It continues to divide the people into nuclear
have's and nuclear have's not.
 3) The nuclear disarmament goal is once again weak while India
stands for universal, timebound, irreversible, and verifiable
complete nuclear disarmament.
 4) It does not address the Nth nation problem.
 Should Indis sign/join CTBT -
 Yes, India should consider joining CTBT.
 It can be classified into two parts -
 a) Nothing to lose by joining CTBT - India since 1998, has had
a self-imposed moratorium on Future Nuclear weapon testing.
 As part of Civil Nuclear deals with the US and Japan, India has
reiterated its commitment not to test Nuclear weapons in the future.
 India can undertake lab-simulated nuclear tests.
 b) Only something to be gained by joining CTBT -
 It will further strengthen India's credentials as a responsible
Nuclear weapon state.
 India can negotiate NSG full membership for India.
 If India signs CTBT, It will create pressure on the remaining Non-
Signatories.
 Even the US, China, and Pakistan to sign and ratify CTBT.
 It can be used as a ground to demand India's NSG permanent
membership.
 Technical gains -
 CTBT has created CTBTO, which comprises -
 The International Monitoring System.
 International data center.
 Onsight verification system.
FISSILE MATERIAL CUT-OFF TREATY - (02:34 PM)
 Fissile material is an essential component of nuclear weapons.
 That is to ban the production of Highly enriched Uranium and
Plutonium.
 Unlike CTBT - Here, even the draft has not been adopted.
 There is disagreement among countries over even the draft of
FMCT.
 Dissaggrement is on -
 Verification regime.
 Existing stockpile of Highly enriched Uranium and Plutonium.
 The Shannon Mandate -
 Emphasis on consensus amongst countries before finalizing the
draft.
 Consensus-based decision-making.
TREATY ON PROHIBITION OF NUCLEAR WEAPON (TPNW) -
(02:47 PM)
 It is also known as the Nuclear Weapons Ban Treaty (NWs Ban
Treaty).
 Its draft was adopted in 2017 and it entered into force on 1st
January 2021.
 This treaty is unique -
 1) Because it has been adopted and it is a consequence of civil
society activism.
 It is a product of an International campaign for the abolition of
Nuclear Weapons, I Can-
 I CAN-
 headquartered in Geneva, and comprises -
 Civil society initiative - More than 100 grassroots NGOs have
commanded crossroads.
 2) This treaty completely bans nuclear weapons - in terms of
research and development, testing, storage, and transfer from one
place to another.
 Use or even threat to use is banned under this treaty.
 3) It has provisions for compensation as well as remediation from
the use of nuclear weapons.
 It also talks about environmental remediation and victim
compensation.
 So it is an extremely unique treaty.
 It has provisions for verification and safeguarding.
 For nuclear-armed states, if they joined this treaty it provides for
time-bound nuclear disarmament.
 Challenges -
 Not even a single nuclear weapon state or its allies have joined
this treaty.
 NATO Countries have not signed or ratified this treaty.
 The relevance and legitimacy of this treaty at times is
questioned.
 This treaty is also a multi-lateral legally binding treaty.
 The reason given by Nuclear weapon states not to join this
treaty -
 This treaty was negotiated on the platform of the UN General
Assembly and not on the platform of UNCOD (UN Conference on
Disarmament).
 This is the only platform that has been recognized directly under
UNGA.
 It is a 65-member body.
 It works based on consensus.
 They have also called this treaty completely futile because no
nuclear arsenal has been destroyed with this treaty.
 Important -
 Against the use of nuclear weapons.
NUCLEAR DOCTRINE OF INDIA - (03:22 PM)
 Doctrine means - It denotes a country's official nuclear weapon
posture and the purpose of developing Nuclear weapons.
 India successfully tested Nuclear technology - in 1979- Operation
Smiling Buddha.
 1998- Under Operation Shakti - India declares itself a Nuclear
Weapon state.
 1999- India came out with a draft Nuclear doctrine.
 In 2003, India adopted the official Nuclear Doctrine.
 Provisions of India's Nuclear Doctrine -
 1) No first use.
 2) No use against Non-Nuclear states.
 3) In case, of a Nuclear attack on India or Indian forces anywhere
in the world, India will respond through massive retaliation to inflict
unacceptable injury.
 4) If India or Indian forces are targetted chemical or biological
weapons, India will retaliate using Nuclear weapons.
 5) India believes in credible minimum deterrence.
 6) The Nuclear weapons in India will be under the control of
civilian authority, namely Nuclear commands authority.
 Nuclear commands authority comprises -
 a) Political council - Headed by the PM.
 It is the only body that can authorize the nuclear weapon use.
 b) Executive council - headed by the National security advisor.
 It is to provide input or advise decision-making by the political
council to make decisions.
 7) India's national interest is best served in a Nuclear weapon-
free world.
 Therefore India supports Universal, timebound, verifiable,
irreversable nuclear disarmament.
MECR'S - MULTILATERAL EXPORT CONTROL REGIMES - (03:44
PM)
 There are 4 MECRs-
 1) NSG -
 India has a special waiver under NSG but India wants a full
membership of NSG.
 The ground/precondition of membership of NSG - One should be
an NPT Signatory.
 The US and France argue for India's case for a special waiver
under NSG.
 However, India's membership is blocked by China and Turkey
because NSG works based on consensus.
 The grounds of the block were, China said, it is against country-
specific waiver, so China said need to come out on important
provisions NPT signatories can become Members of NSG.
 It regulates civil nuclear trade.
 Why does India want full membership?
 The waiver does not give complete access to civil nuclear trade
and it can be negated or declined at any time in the future.
 2) MTCR - China is not a member, because it does not have a
responsible country as far as its proliferation track record is
concerned.
 It regulates/restricts the proliferation of missiles that are capable
of carrying 500 kg or more payload for 300 km or more distance.
 3) Wassenaar Arrangement -
 Regulate Dual-use technology. (Civilian + military technology).
 4) Australia Group -
 It bans the use of chemical and biological weapons.

International Relations Class 24

A BRIEF REVIEW OF THE PREVIOUS CLASS AND DOUBTS. (9:22
AM)
AFRICA:
 The Maghreb refers to North West Africa and includes Libya,
Tunisia, Algeria, etc.
 Tunisia - The Arab Spring began in 2011. Spread to Libya,
Algeria, Egypt, etc.
 Sahel Region - Sub-Saharan Africa; is the most poverty-stricken
region in the world.
 Horn of Africa - SEED: Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Djibouti.
 East African Communities - There are 6 countries in this group -
South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi.
 Africa has been referred to as Dark Continents.
 India-Africa relations: Phases
 1950s-60s:
 Anti-colonial Struggles
 Afro-Asian Solidarity.
 NAM.
 1970-80s:
 UN and PKO
 1962 - India-China relations; Africa- neutrality
 India was disillusioned with Africa
 1990s-Early 2000s:
 Disintegration of USSR.
 Change in World Order.
 2008-Onwards:
 Engagement with Africa has increased and is being prioritized.
 India institutionalized its relations with Africa.
 India has an African policy.
 India has emerged as the 3rd largest trade partner of Africa.
 55 Countries are in the African Union.
 China's engagement with Africa has been increasing.
 China is the largest trading partner in Africa since 2009.
 India's comparative advantages in Africa:
 Enjoys soft power.
 Geography.
 Convergence of goals, etc.
LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES: (10:30 AM)
 America - North, Central, and South America.
 America - Culturally = Anglo-America and Latin America.
 Anglo- Canada and US.
 Latin America - Mexico, Honduras, Nicaragua, Brazil, etc.
 It is referred to as forgotten foreign policy - far off and language
barrier.
 Caribbean Islands - Lesser and Greater Antilles.
 Mercursor Group - Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina;
India has a Preferential Trade agreement with this group.
 Andean community is a customs union and has a common
external tariff.
 This community includes Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
 India wants to be a part of the Pacific Alliance.
INDIA MIDDLE EAST EUROPE ECONOMIC CORRIDOR
(IMEC): (11:13 AM)
 IMEC is important for India:
 It creates a Eurasian EConomic corridor to enhance connectivity
between Europe and Asia.
 Sub-optimal performance of INSTC because of sanctions on Iran
by the US.
 The MOU has been signed by India, the US, Saudi Arabia, the
EU, Italy, France and Germany.
 IMEC is planning a ship-to-rail network; plus a network of roads.
 Laying down of cable for digital and electricity connectivity; and a
hydrogen pipeline to promote clean energy.
 It connects India to Persian Guld to Europe
 It will create connectivity between India Arabia-Jordon-Israel and
Europe.
 It is envisaged as part of PGII, announced under G7.
 It is envisaged as counter to China's BRI; and bolsters Eurasian
connectivity.
 The aim is to shift global order towards Eurasia and more
resilient global and regional supply chains.
 Also, to promote clean energy and sustainable development.
 Enhance connectivity between India, West Asia, and Europe.
 It is promoting multi-modal communication.
BRICS: (11:35 AM)
 BRIC - Jim O Neil - coined the term in 2001.
 Timeline:
 2006 - Foreign ministers of these 4 countries met on the
sidelines UNGA Session.
 In 2009, the first summit of BRIC took place in Yeleaterindberg.
 2010 - China brought in South Africa.
 IBSA was established in 2003 through the Brazilia Declaration. It
was the brainchild of then India's foreign minister.
 China for long wanted to become a member of IBSA but its
membership was rejected by India and Brazil on the ground that it is
neither a democracy nor does it represent a multi-cultural society.
 Consequently by bringing South Africa, though a much smaller
economy compared to the BRIC countries, China made IBSA
irrelevant.
 IBSA represented 3 countries of the three continents of the
global south which were liberal democracies and represented multi-
cultural societies.
 2014: Fortaleza Declaration: It was decided to establish a New
Development Bank and establish the Contingency reserve
arrangements for BRICS Countries.
 2016: Goa summit of BRICS and Credit Rating Agency.
 2017: Xiamen Summit.; BRICS+ Format
 2019: Johannseberg Summit.
 2023: Johannseberg Summit.
 It is also the first summit since Covid and Russia-Ukraine War.
 All the Bricks countries have not joined Western Sanctions
against Russia.
 At this summit, South Africa invited all the 55 countries of the
African Union as part of BRICS Africa Outreach.
 20 other countries from Asia, South America, and Small Island
Developing States (SIDs) were invited as per Xiamen Summit's
BRICS+ Format.
 The original aim of BRICS:
 Reform of global institutions of political and economic
governance.
 Intersectoral cooperation amongst member countries, etc.