Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Washington on February 15 for a two-day visit at the invitation of U.S. President Donald Trump. This marks Modi’s first visit to the United States since Trump began his second term in office. This visit is particularly significant as it highlights India’s rising influence in global geopolitics and the evolving dynamics of Indo-US relations.
India's emergence as a key player among emerging markets has altered the geopolitical landscape, offering a counterbalance to China, which has traditionally dominated this sphere. In light of the growing Russo-China alliance, nations are increasingly seeking to engage with India as they navigate geopolitical uncertainties, especially in the strategically vital Global South. Modi's leadership positions India as a crucial player capable of influencing these global trends.
Modi’s approach diverges from the more confrontational strategies of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Rather than aligning completely with their aggressive tactics, Modi emphasizes collaboration and economic growth. This stance was exemplified during the 2023 G20 summit in New Delhi, where Modi facilitated the inclusion of the African Union into the G20, underscoring India's diplomatic reach and its intent to reshape global governance structures.
However, Modi faces a complex balancing act in his foreign policy. While India has strengthened its ties with Russia through significant defense and trade agreements, it has resisted full commitment to the BRICS alliance. Notably, India has refused to join the Western sanctions against Russia, capitalizing instead on discounted Russian oil, which it then sells to Europe. This strategic maneuver illustrates India's pragmatic approach but also indicates ongoing tensions with China, particularly regarding their long-standing border disputes.
Internally, Modi must address India's considerable developmental challenges. With a population of 1.4 billion people, India grapples with a significant poverty rate and a substantial trade deficit estimated at $40 billion. Unlike China and Russia, which have successfully elevated significant portions of their populations into the middle class, India continues to face obstacles in its economic development and export competitiveness.
While Modi seeks to enhance relations with the West, a growing sentiment of resistance against perceived Western hegemony complicates these interactions. This sentiment, rooted in historical experiences of colonialism, has fostered a national discourse centered around "sovereign autonomy," indicating a preference for policy independence over alignment with Western interests. As India asserts its global position, this trend reflects a desire for self-determined policy pathways.
As Modi engages in talks with Trump during this significant visit, discussions are expected to center on defense agreements, economic cooperation, and regional stability, particularly in relation to China and Pakistan. By navigating these intricate international dynamics while focusing on domestic challenges, Modi aims to fortify India’s standing on the global stage and unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and strategic collaboration.
