As rising tensions continue to threaten global stability, India has made clear its preference is for diplomatic means to resolve disputes. Prime Minister Modi addressed the conflict during his remarks at the time of the sinking of an Iranian warship in Sri Lanka’s maritime zone, and how that incident had heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. The prime minister’s comments were made during his meeting with the president of Finland and addressed issues of global security and cooperation, including India’s view that a strong emphasis must be placed on diplomatic engagement through the rule of law, dialogue, and diplomacy.
India and Finland believe in the rule of law, dialogue, and diplomacy. Only military conflict cannot solve any issue, whether it is Ukraine or West Asia. We are both convinced that global institutions need urgent reform,” stated PM Modi in his remarks, which exemplify India’s cautious, strategic posture.
How the conflict complicates India’s diplomatic balancing
India did not publicly denounce American military operations in the area; rather, it has an extensive history of trade/relationship with Iran and is trying to manage that relationship while keeping stability in its relationship to the US. This balancing act is the basis for India’s messaging to the international public. The war created greater sensitivity to its geography by proximity. Attackers recently targeted an Iranian naval vessel. That particular vessel has previously been part of Indian naval exercises, and officials from India stated that the Iranian Navy had previously made port calls in India.
Further, that vessel participated in a review after the Indian Navy hosted a review of ships that participated in a fleet organization in Visakhapatnam. The Government of India stated that its timeline for both previous Indian naval exercises and the Iranian ships made it clear that they departed before the beginning of the regional conflicts; however, this was clearly a subject of concern for some elements of India. This incident demonstrates how conflict in a region has a direct correlation to India’s Security interests.
Why Europe’s engagement forms part of India’s strategy
Modi related diplomacy to wider global instability. “Conflict persists in many parts of the world, from Ukraine to West Asia. In such a global environment, India and Europe, two of the world’s major diplomatic powers, are entering a golden era of their relationship,” said Modi.
As a result, India wants to establish a greater level of engagement with Europe. President Stubb of Finland fully supported this position. He complimented India on having a very pragmatic view of international relations. He stated, “You have always based your foreign policy on a pragmatic and realistic world view.” In addition to their discussions about developing greater co-operation in the areas of clean energy, technology, and trade, the two leaders also agreed to work towards global reform of international institutions. Finland expressed its support for India’s application to become a member of the UN Security Council.The challenge of India’s diplomatic balancing, therefore, reflects New Delhi’s effort to maintain strategic autonomy while engaging multiple global partners.
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