The year 2024 marked a significant chapter in India’s foreign policy. Key diplomatic strides across regions underscored India’s growing global influence and commitment to peace, prosperity, and multilateralism.
Regional Diplomacy: Neighborhood First and SAGAR Vision
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic third-term swearing-in ceremony underscored India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘SAGAR Vision’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region), with leaders from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Mauritius, Bhutan, Nepal, and Seychelles attending. The Prime Minister emphasized deepening people-to-people ties, enhancing connectivity, and amplifying the voice of the Global South on international platforms.
Relations with China witnessed progress with an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), followed by a high-level meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Russia. Discussions focused on maintaining border peace and preventing further standoffs.
With Pakistan, despite External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit for the SCO Summit, bilateral dialogue remained stalled. India reiterated its stance that “talks and terror cannot go hand in hand,” urging Pakistan to demonstrate a sincere commitment to counter-terrorism efforts.
In Bangladesh, political turmoil following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina and concerns over rising violence against minorities strained ties. India called for safeguarding the rights of minority communities and reiterated its commitment to supporting a stable and democratic Bangladesh.
Relations with Bhutan flourished with reciprocal visits by leaders and India’s support for key developmental projects, including the Gelephu Mindfulness City. PM Modi was honored with Bhutan’s highest civilian award, the Order of the Druk Gyalpo.
Maldives witnessed diplomatic recalibration under President Mohammed Muizzu, who initially pursued an ‘India Out’ policy. However, persistent Indian diplomatic efforts realigned ties, with agreements on civilian replacements for Indian troops and enhanced economic cooperation.
Engagement with the Middle East and Africa
India deepened ties with the Middle East, with PM Modi visiting the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. A significant diplomatic victory came when Qatar commuted the death sentence of Indian naval personnel. The UAE emerged as a key partner, with agreements on financial cooperation, digital infrastructure, and cultural exchanges.
India’s Africa outreach gained momentum, particularly following the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20. President Droupadi Murmu’s visits to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi symbolized India’s intent to strengthen trade, security, and development partnerships across the continent.
Strategic Ties with Major Powers
India’s ties with the United States remained robust, with agreements on semiconductors and defense acquisitions, including a $4 billion deal for MQ-9B drones. The Quad meeting reiterated a shared commitment to regional security and global governance. However, tensions arose over the alleged assassination attempt on Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, with both sides committing to address concerns diplomatically.
Relations with Russia remained strong, with PM Modi visiting Moscow for the India-Russia Annual Summit and receiving Russia’s highest civilian honor, The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle. In a historic move, PM Modi also visited Ukraine, signaling India’s balanced diplomatic approach and reiterating its commitment to peace.
Act East Policy and ASEAN Engagement
India’s Act East Policy celebrated a decade of success, with PM Modi emphasizing ASEAN centrality in regional architecture. Trade with ASEAN surpassed $130 billion, and new initiatives in disaster resilience and technology cooperation were launched.
Cultural and Diaspora Diplomacy
Indian culture resonated globally, from the inauguration of the BAPS Hindu Temple in the UAE to promoting Kabaddi in Poland. Indian diaspora engagements, including Hala Modi in Kuwait and Alhan Modi in Abu Dhabi, showcased India’s deep people-to-people ties worldwide.
Technological Leadership and Global Platforms
India’s digital public infrastructure, particularly UPI, gained global recognition, with services launched in UAE, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. India’s leadership on AI governance and renewable energy initiatives, including Mission LiFE and the Green Credit Initiative, also gained prominence on global platforms like the G20 and BRICS.
2024 was a testament to India’s strategic diplomacy, balancing regional priorities with global aspirations. From stabilizing ties with neighbors to asserting leadership on global challenges, India demonstrated resilience, vision, and a commitment to fostering a multipolar world rooted in peace and sustainable development.
