Answer:

India’s aim to promote a multi-polar world order while maintaining balanced relations with global powers has become a cornerstone of its foreign policy. In the current geopolitical climate, India navigates complex relationships with nations like Russia and the U.S., aligning with both in strategic forums like BRICS and the Quad. As seen in the Prime Minister’s participation in the 2023 BRICS Summit and the Quad Leaders’ Summit, India’s diplomatic strategy is geared towards preserving strategic autonomy and enhancing global peace.

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India’s Role in Promoting a Multi-Polar World Order

• Strategic Autonomy in Diplomacy: India prioritises maintaining strategic autonomy, fostering balanced relations with both traditional allies like Russia and emerging partners like the U.S.
  For example: India’s Quad participation exemplifies this balance, focusing on Indo-Pacific security while preserving its ties with Russia.
• Diversified Global Partnerships: India actively pursues diverse global partnerships to promote a multi-polar world order, avoiding over-reliance on any one nation.
  For example: India’s engagement with BRICS and Quad reflects its effort to strengthen ties across competing global alliances.
• Balancing Act with China: India balances its complex relationship with China while cooperating with global powers to counter Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific.
• Peacemaker Role: India aims to position itself as a mediator in global conflicts, enhancing its influence on the global stage.
  For example: PM’s Ukraine peace plan demonstrates India’s aspiration to mediate international disputes while maintaining neutrality.
• Focus on Economic Ties: India leverages its economic relationships to promote a balanced global order, strengthening trade with both Russia and the U.S.
  For example: Despite sanctions, India continues to import Russian oil while expanding trade with the U.S. under initiatives like India-U.S. Trade Policy Forum.

India’s Approach to Multi-Polarity and Its Impact on Russia Relations

• Historical Partnership with Russia: India’s long-standing defence and economic partnership with Russia remains central to its foreign policy.
  For example: The S-400 missile deal reflects India’s commitment to maintaining its defence ties with Russia despite international pressure.
• Managing Russian Alignment with China: India carefully navigates Russia’s growing ties with China, balancing its own security interests.
  For example: India’s participation in BRICS allows it to engage diplomatically with both Russia and China while protecting its interests.
• Energy Cooperation: India maintains strong energy cooperation with Russia to secure its energy needs amidst global challenges.
  For example: India’s purchase of discounted Russian oil continues, despite Western criticism, highlighting energy security priorities.
• Joint Military Exercises: India and Russia regularly conduct joint military exercises, reinforcing defence cooperation.
  For example: The INDRA military exercises showcase the strategic depth of India-Russia defence cooperation.
• Navigating Sanctions and Global Pressure: India faces pressure from the West due to its close ties with Russia, requiring careful diplomatic navigation.
  For example: Despite sanctions on Russia, India continues its defence collaboration while managing Western expectations.

India’s Approach to Multi-Polarity and Its Impact on U.S. Relations

• Strengthening Indo-Pacific Cooperation: India’s participation in the Quad and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework highlights its growing cooperation with the U.S. in countering Chinese influence.
  For example: India and the U.S. conducted Malabar naval exercises to enhance maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.
• Defence Collaboration: India’s defence ties with the U.S. are deepening, with increasing arms trade and joint initiatives.
  For example: India’s purchase of Apache helicopters and C-130J aircraft underscores the strengthening defence partnership.
• Technological and Cybersecurity Cooperation: India and the U.S. collaborate on cybersecurity, space technology, and innovation.
  For example: The India-U.S. Cyber Dialogue enhances cooperation in combating cyber threats and fostering technological advancements.
• Trade and Economic Growth: India and the U.S. are strengthening economic relations through trade and investment, supporting mutual growth.
  For example: The U.S.-India Trade Policy Forum has enhanced bilateral trade, focusing on technology, pharmaceuticals, and services sectors.
• Climate and Energy Cooperation: India and the U.S. have partnered on clean energy and climate change initiatives, promoting sustainable development.
  For example: The U.S.-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership focuses on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions.

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India’s approach to promoting a multi-polar world order is reflected in its balanced foreign policy with global powers like Russia and the U.S. By maintaining strategic autonomy, furthering diversified partnerships, and navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, India aims to enhance its global influence while ensuring national security and economic growth in an increasingly interconnected world.

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