India faces a complex web of security and diplomatic challenges that demand a nuanced foreign policy to safeguard its territorial integrity, secular values, and economic prosperity, according to veteran diplomat G. Parthasarathy. Speaking on the evolving global landscape, he emphasized that while India must combat terrorism, it should avoid being perceived as a pawn in America’s geopolitical agenda, especially in the volatile Indian Ocean region, where terrorism and oil create a dangerous mix.

For decades, Pakistan has fueled low-intensity conflict and terrorism to undermine India’s unity, while China has pursued a dual strategy of negotiating border disputes with India while arming neighbors like Pakistan with nuclear and missile technology to contain New Delhi’s influence. The U.S.-led intervention in Afghanistan has further complicated matters, scattering Al Qaeda and Taliban affiliates—many linked to Pakistan-based groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed—across regions from Saudi Arabia to Indonesia. These groups have increasingly targeted Indian interests, as seen in attacks on Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia, driven by motives tied to Kashmir.

Parthasarathy cautioned against aligning too closely with the U.S., whose heavy-handed policies in Iraq have stoked anti-American sentiment across the Islamic world. “Any country seen to be acting at America’s behest will be viewed with suspicion,” he warned, urging India to cooperate globally on counterterrorism but maintain strategic autonomy. Simultaneously, he stressed that yielding to radical ideologies like Wahhabi Islam would embolden those using jihad as a foreign policy tool, threatening secular nations like India.

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Strengthening ties with major powers remains critical. The U.S., India’s largest trade partner, recognizes New Delhi’s strategic weight, with the 2002 Bush National Security Doctrine highlighting shared democratic values and interests in secure Indian Ocean trade routes. Yet, Parthasarathy noted that India must assert its independent perspective, especially on regional issues, while learning from China’s restrained approach to commenting on U.S. actions unrelated to its core interests.

Russia, a steadfast ally under President Vladimir Putin, offers complementary strengths in defense and resources, poised to reassert global influence. Meanwhile, India’s trade with China has surged to $7.6 billion in 2003, up 54%, though Beijing’s military ties with Pakistan remain a concern. Parthasarathy advocated for continued dialogue with China on issues like energy security and naval cooperation, balanced against vigilance over its regional ambitions.

Pakistan poses the most persistent challenge, with its military establishment, exemplified by General Pervez Musharraf’s dismissal of the 1999 Lahore Declaration as “hot air,” viewing India as a “hegemonic” power. Parthasarathy believes Pakistan’s hostility, rooted in its army’s mindset, will persist even if Kashmir tensions ease. He urged India to promote trade and people-to-people ties with Pakistan while staying prepared for ongoing low-intensity conflict.

Parthasarathy’s vision calls for a foreign policy that champions regional economic integration, fosters strategic partnerships, and combats terrorism—without sacrificing India’s independence or inflaming regional sentiments.

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