Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The post-Cold War era witnessed a gradual shift in India’s foreign policy, moving away from its traditional non-alignment towards a more pragmatic approach characterized by strategic partnerships. While India historically maintained a complex relationship with both the United States and China, recent developments, particularly the border clashes with China in 2020, have accelerated a noticeable warming of ties with the US. This trend is occurring against the backdrop of increasing strategic competition between the US and China, presenting both opportunities and challenges for India. Understanding this evolving dynamic is crucial for assessing India’s foreign policy trajectory and its role in the Indo-Pacific region.
India-China Relations: A History of Constraints
India-China relations have been marked by periods of cooperation and conflict. The 1962 war cast a long shadow, leading to persistent border disputes. Despite economic engagement increasing significantly since the 1990s, with China becoming India’s largest trading partner (until recently surpassed by the US), underlying tensions remained. Key areas of contention include the unresolved border issue, China’s all-weather friendship with Pakistan, and its growing influence in the Indian Ocean region through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Galwan Valley clash in June 2020 dramatically worsened relations, leading to a military standoff and a freeze in many aspects of bilateral cooperation.
The Strengthening India-US Partnership
India-US relations have undergone a significant transformation in the 21st century. Initially hesitant due to India’s non-aligned stance and nuclear program, the relationship began to strengthen in the early 2000s. The landmark India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement in 2008 was a watershed moment, signifying a strategic convergence. This has been followed by increased cooperation in various fields:
- Defense Cooperation: Increased joint military exercises (e.g., Malabar exercises), arms sales, and technology transfer. The US has emerged as a key defense partner for India, helping to modernize its armed forces.
- Economic Ties: Bilateral trade has grown substantially, reaching over $191 billion in 2022-23. US investments in India are also increasing, particularly in sectors like technology and infrastructure.
- Strategic Alignment: Shared concerns about China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region have led to closer strategic alignment. India is a key member of the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) – comprising the US, India, Japan, and Australia – aimed at promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.
- Technology & Innovation: Initiatives like the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) aim to foster collaboration in areas like semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and space.
Connecting the Dots: India-US Ties in the Context of India-China Relations
The constrained relationship with China has undoubtedly contributed to the deepening of India-US ties. While India maintains that its partnership with the US is not aimed at containing China, the strategic logic is undeniable. The US views India as a crucial partner in balancing China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific, while India sees the US as a reliable partner in addressing its security concerns related to China. However, India is also careful to avoid becoming overly dependent on the US, maintaining a degree of strategic autonomy.
The following table summarizes the key differences in India’s relationship with the US and China:
| Feature | India-US Relations | India-China Relations |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of Relationship | Strategic Partnership, based on shared values and interests | Complex, characterized by economic interdependence and strategic competition |
| Security Cooperation | Growing defense cooperation, joint military exercises, arms sales | Limited security cooperation, border disputes, mutual distrust |
| Economic Engagement | Increasing trade and investment, focus on technology and innovation | Large trade deficit for India, concerns about unfair trade practices |
| Geopolitical Alignment | Alignment on Indo-Pacific security, membership in Quad | Divergent geopolitical interests, China’s close ties with Pakistan |
Despite the growing closeness with the US, India recognizes the importance of maintaining a working relationship with China, given its economic significance. India continues to participate in multilateral forums like the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), where it engages with China on issues of mutual concern. However, the trust deficit remains significant, and a full normalization of relations appears unlikely in the near future.
Conclusion
India’s growing relationship with the US is undeniably influenced by the constraints in its relationship with China. While the partnership with the US offers significant benefits in terms of security, economic cooperation, and technological advancement, India is navigating this complex landscape with a focus on maintaining strategic autonomy. The future trajectory of India’s foreign policy will depend on its ability to balance its relationships with both the US and China, while safeguarding its national interests and promoting a multipolar world order. A pragmatic approach, prioritizing dialogue and diplomacy, will be crucial for managing these complex dynamics.
Answer Length
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