Paromita Das
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 24th September. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent diplomatic discussions with President Biden in Wilmington, Delaware, brought to light Bharat’s unique positioning in mediating the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Modi’s recent trips to Kyiv and Moscow place him in a pivotal role where both the West and key conflict participants look to Bharat for a possible solution. The geopolitical landscape of this conflict is becoming more nuanced, with Modi emerging as a global leader who could influence peace efforts. His refusal to follow Western mandates regarding Russia, while maintaining humanitarian support for Ukraine, showcases Bharat’s independent foreign policy, one that seeks pragmatic solutions rather than alignment with any major power bloc.
Bharat’s Position in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Bharat has carefully balanced its relationship with both Russia and Ukraine throughout the conflict. Despite pressure from Western powers to cease oil imports from Russia, Bharat has continued its economic relationship with Moscow. At the same time, Bharat has provided humanitarian aid to Ukraine and has called for dialogue and negotiations as the only viable solution to end the war.
During Modi’s discussions with President Biden, it is likely that he highlighted the contrasting perspectives between Russia and Ukraine regarding a potential ceasefire and peace negotiations. Russia’s pre-conditions for negotiations, as shared with Modi, likely focus on retaining territorial gains made during the war, whereas Ukraine, bolstered by Western support, demands the complete restoration of its territorial integrity. Modi’s unique position as a leader who has engaged both Moscow and Kyiv gives him a nuanced understanding of the conflict’s complexities. His pragmatic stance reflects Bharat’s broader foreign policy, which avoids taking sides while advocating for peace and stability.
Russia’s Faith in Bharat’s Mediation Role
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s statement at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in early September, where he named Bharat, alongside China and Brazil, as potential peace negotiators, underscores Russia’s trust in Modi’s diplomacy. This endorsement from Moscow not only reinforces Bharat’s credibility but also reflects a broader shift in global power dynamics. Putin’s willingness to engage with Bharat in potential peace negotiations is significant, especially as Russia has categorically refused to participate in Western-led peace summits. Russia views Bharat as a reliable partner, particularly as New Delhi has resisted Western pressures to isolate Moscow.
Moreover, Bharat’s balanced approach is evident in its handling of Russian media networks like RT and Sputnik, which have been criticized for attempting to drive a wedge between Bharat and the West. Bharat’s cautionary stance towards these networks, while refusing Western demands to block them, showcases its diplomatic maturity. New Delhi prioritizes its own strategic interests, refusing to be swayed by external influences.
Ukraine’s Expectations from Bharat
On the Ukrainian side, President Zelensky has expressed hopes that Bharat would play a key role in peace negotiations. Bharat has maintained a neutral stance, emphasizing the need for both Russia and Ukraine to come to the negotiating table. The Ukrainian Ambassador to Bharat, Oleksandr Polishchuk, has even suggested that Bharat’s aspirations for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council could be bolstered by its involvement in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. However, Bharat remains cautious, acknowledging that any peace summit without Russia’s participation would be futile.
Bharat’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has echoed this sentiment, reiterating that Bharat is always willing to offer advice but that the onus is on the warring parties to negotiate. Bharat’s hesitancy to organize a peace summit without Russia’s involvement underscores its pragmatic approach. Hosting such a summit without Russia would undermine the credibility of the process and lead to little substantive progress.
Global Calls for Bharat’s Mediation in Other Conflicts
Beyond the Russia-Ukraine war, there are increasing global calls for Bharat to play a role in mediating other conflicts. The Israeli Ambassador to Bharat, Reuven Azar, recently highlighted Bharat’s potential in contributing to peace efforts in West Asia, specifically the Gaza war. Bharat’s growing influence in the region, coupled with its non-aligned stance, makes it a valuable partner for countries seeking to resolve conflicts.
Bharat’s role in West Asia has evolved significantly in recent years, with New Delhi strengthening economic and strategic ties with key regional players like Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. This growing influence, combined with Bharat’s neutral foreign policy, positions it as a mediator that can navigate the complex dynamics of the region. As with the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Bharat’s approach to the Gaza war would likely focus on facilitating dialogue and negotiations, rather than taking sides.
Bharat’s Independent Foreign Policy
One of the key aspects of Bharat’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Modi has been its independence from major power blocs. Despite close ties with the United States and other Western nations, Bharat has consistently refused to be pressured into actions that contradict its own national interests. A prime example of this is Bharat’s decision to continue importing Russian oil despite Western sanctions, a move that reflects Bharat’s pragmatic approach to its energy security.
Bharat’s refusal to ban Russian state media outlets like RT, despite requests from the United States, further highlights its independent stance. New Delhi has made it clear that it does not adhere to unilateral sanctions not approved by the United Nations. At the same time, Bharat has not shied away from calling out Russian media when necessary, particularly when false reports attempt to create tensions between Bharat and the West.
This balancing act is a testament to Bharat’s foreign policy doctrine, which emphasizes strategic autonomy. Modi’s government has demonstrated that Bharat will not be swayed by external pressures, whether they come from the West or from Russia. Instead, Bharat seeks to chart its own course, one that prioritizes its national interests and the welfare of its people.
Conclusion: Bharat’s Path Forward
Bharat’s role in global diplomacy, particularly in conflict resolution, is growing steadily. Prime Minister Modi’s efforts to mediate the Russia-Ukraine conflict, alongside calls for Bharat to play a role in West Asia, signal a shift in Bharat’s global standing. As a nation that represents the voices of the Global South, Bharat has a unique platform to advocate for peace and stability in conflicts that affect not only the warring parties but also millions of people around the world.
However, the road to peace is fraught with challenges. As Modi engages with global leaders, including Putin and Biden, the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine conflict will require delicate diplomacy. Russia’s trust in Bharat, combined with Ukraine’s expectations, places Modi in a position of significant responsibility. Bharat’s strategy will need to be patient and calculated, seeking a ceasefire as the first step towards a more permanent resolution.
Bharat’s refusal to be coerced into choosing sides is a strength. Its independent foreign policy allows it to mediate conflicts without the baggage of alliances or biases. Modi’s ability to maintain relationships with both Moscow and Kyiv positions Bharat as a credible mediator, one that can genuinely contribute to peace efforts. The world should recognize Bharat’s evolving role in global diplomacy, not just as a regional power but as a key player in the quest for global peace.
Bharat’s voice, representing billions from the Global South, is increasingly important in a world dominated by the interests of great powers. By staying true to its principles of strategic autonomy and neutrality, Bharat can continue to serve as a beacon of hope for peace and stability in a turbulent world.
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