The "Link West" policy represents a strategic shift in India's foreign policy, complementing the "Act East" strategy. By enhancing diplomatic, trade, defense, and cultural ties with West Asian nations, India aims to reposition itself from a peripheral player to a central figure in the region.
West Asia is crucial for India’s economic landscape. This region supplies nearly half of India's crude oil and is home to over 9 million Indian expatriates. The remittances from these expatriates play a vital role in supporting the Indian economy.
India's evolving West Asia policy has notably strengthened its relationships with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. In 2023-24, Saudi Arabia ranked as India’s fourth-largest trading partner, while the UAE held the third position, with trade figures soaring to $43 billion and $84 billion respectively.
The establishment of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council in 2019 marked a significant enhancement in cooperation across key sectors such as defense, energy, and counterterrorism. Although Prime Minister Modi's visit in 2024 was shortened due to the Pahalgam attack, it underscored India's strategic objectives in the region.
The UAE has emerged as a pivotal investor in India’s energy and infrastructure sectors. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022 has further amplified trade and investment flows. Additionally, the UAE is a significant participant in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
The IMEEC aims to connect India to Europe via the Gulf, enhancing trade and digital infrastructure. This initiative serves as a counterbalance to China’s Belt and Road Initiative and strengthens India's ties with both the United States and the European Union.
India’s strategic partnership with Israel encompasses cooperation in various sectors including agriculture, defense, and cybersecurity. Modi's 2017 visit marked a historic moment as the first by an Indian Prime Minister, reinforcing a robust bilateral relationship.
India adopts a balanced approach in its relations with Iran, despite ongoing U.S. sanctions. Investments in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and the Chabahar Port facilitate trade with Central Asia, circumventing reliance on Pakistan.
India has continued its diplomatic outreach to Afghanistan post-Taliban takeover, focusing on humanitarian aid, education, and development projects. This engagement aims to counterbalance the influence of China and Pakistan in the region.
Following the recent terror attack in Kashmir, West Asian countries expressed strong condemnations and solidarity with India. This marks a significant shift in their diplomatic stance, reflecting the impact of India's consistent outreach and engagement.
Q1. What is the "Link West" policy?
Answer: The "Link West" policy focuses on enhancing India's diplomatic and economic relationships with West Asian countries, aiming to elevate India's role from a peripheral to a central player in the region.
Q2. Why is West Asia important for India?
Answer: West Asia is vital for India's economy as it supplies nearly half of India's crude oil and hosts millions of Indian expatriates, whose remittances significantly contribute to the national economy.
Q3. What is the IMEEC and its significance?
Answer: The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) is a strategic initiative that links India to Europe through the Gulf, enhancing trade and serving as a counter to China's Belt and Road Initiative.
Q4. How has India managed relations with Iran?
Answer: India maintains a balanced approach towards Iran by investing in trade routes like the INSTC and the Chabahar Port, ensuring economic ties while navigating U.S. sanctions.
Q5. What was the response of West Asia to the Kashmir attack?
Answer: After the Kashmir terror attack, West Asian nations condemned the incident and expressed solidarity with India, showcasing a shift towards a more supportive diplomatic stance.
Question 1: What is the primary goal of India's "Link West" policy?
A) Enhance military cooperation
B) Strengthen economic ties
C) Promote cultural exchanges
D) Isolate West Asian nations
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which country is India's largest trading partner in West Asia?
A) Iran
B) Saudi Arabia
C) UAE
D) Iraq
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the purpose of the IMEEC?
A) Increase military presence in West Asia
B) Establish a trade route to Europe
C) Form an alliance with China
D) Isolate Iran economically
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: How has India responded to the Taliban's return in Afghanistan?
A) Ceased all diplomatic ties
B) Focused on humanitarian aid
C) Increased military intervention
D) Strengthened ties with Pakistan
Correct Answer: B
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