International Relations - 3 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

India: The voice of global south

Context

India has recently completed its second 'Voice of the Global South Summit' (VOGSS), conducted virtually. This event follows the inaugural summit in January 2023, highlighting India's dedication to promoting unity among nations and strengthening its leadership role in the Global South.

What are the Key Highlights of Second VOGSS?

• Themes: The inaugural session centered around ‘Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust’, while the concluding session emphasized ‘Global South: Together for One Future.’
• Objectives of the Summit: Disseminating outcomes of the G20 summit hosted by India and ensuring sustained momentum for effective implementation of G20 decisions, with a specific focus on the interests of developing countries.
• Key Outcomes:
  • Global South Center of Excellence 'DAKSHIN': Indian PM inaugurated this initiative, aimed at fostering collaboration among developing nations by serving as a knowledge repository and think tank.
  • Thematic Discussions: Ministerial sessions delved into a wide array of topics, including Sustainable Development Goals, energy transition, climate finance, digital transformation, women-led development, counter-terrorism, and global institution reforms.
  • Call for Restraint Amid Israel-Hamas Conflict: India articulated deep concern regarding the plight of civilians affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict.
    • He emphasized the urgent need for all involved parties to exercise restraint, prioritize the safety of innocent civilians, and work towards de-escalation.
  • 5 ‘Cs’ for Global South: India also called for 5 ‘Cs’ for the Global South: consultation, cooperation, communication, creativity and capacity building.

What Evidence Showcases the Escalating Influence of the Global South?

• The creation of the 'Loss and Damage Fund' at COP27 in Egypt underscored the unequal challenges experienced by the Global South.
• The G7 summit in Japan demonstrated a praiseworthy initiative by incorporating countries such as India and Brazil, promoting a more inclusive conversation.
• The enlargement of BRICS to 11 members highlighted heightened involvement with the Global South.
• The successful convening of the G-77 summit in Cuba brought together numerous developing nations to address crucial issues.
• The incorporation of the 55-member African Union into the G20 reflects a growing acknowledgment of the global significance of African nations and their valuable contributions to shaping the international order.

What are the Challenges for India as a Voice of the Global South?

• Addressing Divergent Interests: The Global South comprises countries with varied political ideologies, economic structures, and geopolitical ambitions. Harmonizing these differences to present a unified stance on global issues like trade, climate change, and security can be challenging.
• Overcoming Power Asymmetry: The Global South includes both emerging powers like India, Brazil, and South Africa, alongside least developed countries.
  • Balancing power dynamics within this group and ensuring equitable representation can be challenging, as stronger nations might overshadow the concerns of smaller, less influential countries.
• Negotiating with Global Powers: Advocating for the interests of the Global South amidst the dominance of global powers demands strategic negotiation skills. India must navigate its relationships with established powers like the US and the EU, ensuring that the voice of the Global South is heard and considered in global decision-making processes.
• Resource Constraints: India needs to balance its own developmental needs with its role as a representative of the Global South. Limited resources and competing domestic priorities within Global South countries often pose challenges for India.

Way Forward

• Strengthen Regional Alliances: Forge stronger alliances within regional blocs such as SAARC, ASEAN, and BIMSTEC to collectively address regional challenges, foster economic cooperation, and enhance regional stability.
• Facilitate South-South Cooperation: Promote collaboration and knowledge sharing among Global South nations, leveraging each other's strengths in areas like technology, healthcare, education, and sustainable development.
• Advocate for Equity in Global Governance: Push for reforms in global governance structures such as the United Nations, IMF, and World Bank to ensure fair representation and greater decision-making power for the Global South.
• Address Climate Change and Sustainability: India can lead by example in adopting sustainable practices, investing in renewable energy, and advocate for global efforts to combat climate change while considering the developmental needs of Global South nations.

India-ASEAN

Context

The Prime Minister recently participated in the ASEAN-India Summit held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Highlights of 20th ASEAN-India summit

• Theme: ‘ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth’
• KeyPoints of PM’s address:
  • ASEAN is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy.
  • India supports ASEAN’s outlook on ASEAN-India centrality and Indo-Pacific.
  • The progress of a free and open Indo-Pacific and elevating the voice of the Global South is in the common interest of all.

Association of Southeast Asian Nations(ASEAN)

• ASEAN was established in 1967 with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration.
• Founding Members: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand.
  • Other Members: Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.
• Motto of ASEAN: “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”.
• Organizational Structure: The annual summit is ASEAN’s highest body (ASEAN Summit). 
  • The chairmanship of the ASEAN Summit and Ministerial Conferences has rotated annually in alphabetical order between member states.
• ASEAN Secretariat:  Indonesia, Jakarta.
• Objective: To accelerate economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region.

Working of ASEAN

• ASEAN is led by a chair, who is elected by member states every year and is supported by a secretariat situated in Jakarta, Indonesia. 
• Important decisions are normally made through conversation and consensus, governed by the ideals of non-interference in internal affairs and conflict resolution through peaceful means.

Abraham Accords

Context

• Three years ago, in September 2020, the United States brokered the Abraham Accord between the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Israel, with the commitment to normalize relations among these Arab Gulf states and Israel.
• The Abraham Accord marked a significant step toward increased political, economic, and security integration in the Middle East, providing additional opportunities for India as well.

What are Abraham Accords?

• About:
  • The Abraham Accords are a series of agreements signed in 2020 between Israel and several Arab states, marking a historic shift in diplomatic relations in the Middle East.
  • The Accords were named ‘Abraham Accords’ in reference to the supposed common ancestor of the Jews and the Arabs, the biblical Abraham, and as an expression of brotherhood.
• The primary countries involved in the Abraham Accords include:
  • Israel: As a key party to the Accords, Israel agreed to normalize diplomatic relations with the participating Arab nations, marking a significant departure from the historically hostile relationships it had with many Arab states.
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE was the first Arab country to formally announce its normalization of relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords. This historic agreement includes the establishment of full diplomatic relations, as well as economic, technological, and cultural exchanges.
  • Bahrain: Bahrain followed the UAE's lead by signing a similar agreement with Israel. The Bahrain-Israel Peace Agreement also encompasses diplomatic relations and cooperation in various sectors.
  • Sudan: Sudan joined the Abraham Accords by agreeing to normalize relations with Israel. This marked a major shift in Sudan's foreign policy and led to the removal of Sudan from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism.
  • Morocco: Morocco, another Arab nation, joined the Accords with a commitment to normalize relations with Israel. This agreement included the United States' recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara in exchange for Morocco's engagement with Israel.

What is the Significance of the Accord?

• The agreement shows how the Arab countries are gradually decoupling themselves from the Palestine question.
• Full diplomatic ties will be established between Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain which will have a positive impact on the entire region.
• The deal buys UAE a lot of goodwill in the US, where its image has been tarnished by its involvement in the Yemen war.
• In South Asia, it will put Pakistan in a bind, whether to follow UAE’s steps (will be seen as giving up Islamic cause of Palestine) or not to follow the UAE (since it is already in feud with the Saudis over not taking up the Kashmir case, Pakistan cannot afford another hostile Islamic Country).

What are the Advancements since the Abraham Accords?

• The Israeli embassy opened in Abu Dhabi in June 2021, UAE also opened its embassy in Tel Aviv.
• The trade between the UAE and Israel amounted to 900 million USD. There was also an agreement signed for a free trade area concerning government procurement and Intellectual property rights(IPR) endorsed in April 2022
• A three-way trade water accord signed between Israel, UAE and Jordan. Israel would either build a new desalination plant or deliver water to member countries.
• When it comes to tourism, after direct flights were established, UAE hosted more than 67,000 Israeli tourists during the first month after the Accords.
• For many Israelis unhappy with the economic woes of their country, the UAE became a destination for job seekers” .
• Prosperity Green & Blue agreement between Israel, the UAE, and Jordan determined that a solar field to supply 600 megawatts of electricity to Israel.

What are the shortcomings of the Abraham Accord?

• Despite the initial goal of Arab organizers,cooperation among Israel and its Arab partners has failed to produce tangible improvements in the Israeli-Palestine calculus
• Major players in the Middle East are still out of the agreement such as Saudi Arabia has held its firm commitment to the pre-existing Arab Peace Initiative.
• Oman and Qatar declined to formalize their ties within this framework.

How are Abraham Accords linked with Indian Interests?

• Diplomatic Relations: The Abraham Accords have created a favorable environment for India to strengthen diplomatic ties with both Arab nations and Israel. The formation of I2U2, often referred to as the "West Asian Quad" and the "Indo-Abrahamic construct," is a notable outcome of these accords.
• Investment Opportunities: The collaboration encourages joint investments in six key sectors, including food security, health, transportation, space, water, and energy. Notably, the establishment of the International Federation of Indo-Israel Chamber of Commerce (IFIICC) in Dubai further enhances the potential for economic cooperation.
• Technological Collaboration: The accord paves the way for technological cooperation, leveraging India's technological capabilities, financial contributions from the UAE, and Israel's innovative strengths. Initiatives like the endorsement of an Emirati project for a robotic solar panel by an Israeli company, with a manufacturing base in India, exemplify this cooperation.
• Diaspora Relations: The vibrant Indian diaspora in the Gulf now benefits from direct flights between the UAE and Israel, as well as between Israel and Bahrain. This enhanced connectivity facilitates smoother travel for Indian students, providing improved access to universities and international study programs.

What are the Challenges of the Abraham Accords?

• Palestinian Issue: Challenges concerning the Palestinian future and the opposition to these Accords from Iran and Qatar. 86% of Palestinians believe the normalization agreement with the UAE serves only Israel’s interests and not their own
• Lack of regional support: Bahrain, a small country that seeks protection and takes political cues from Saudi Arabia, has become a topic of concern for those hoping to normalize relations with Israel
• Cultural Conflicts: Shia-Sunni rifts in the region may get wide and violent.Saudi Arabia (Sunni) and Iran (representing Shia) have a long history of enmity. .
• Multilateral Power Struggle: The US may be a pre-eminent power in the Middle East, but Russia has made a space for itself, spending a lot less money. In recent years, China has indicated its willingness to play a larger role in this region, and is close to both UAE and Israel and, increasingly, Saudi Arabia
• Funding Constraints: Abraham Fund was set up as a part of the Accord and it delegated approximately 3 billion USD to development initiatives in the Middle East.Change in administration in the US which has seemingly diluted the potential of the Accord.

What is the Way Forward?

• Open Dialogue:
  • Addressing the Palestinian issue by open and inclusive dialogue among all signatory parties including Israel and the participating states.
  • Encourage diplomatic solutions for regional conflicts in Middle east particularly in Yemen,Syria and Libya
• Counter Extremism:
  • Avoid using land and resources for separatist movements and interfering into internal affairs of neighboring countries.
  • Share intelligence and cooperate to counter extremist ideologies,
• Multilateral Diplomacy: Continue to engage with multilateral diplomacy through United Nations, Arab League and others
• Balancing Regional Relations: A balance between Shia and Sunni, between Persian and Arab, is key to sustainable peace.
• Regional cooperation: Encourage collaborative efforts on economic development, technology, energy security, food security, health and cultural exchanges.

Conclusion

While it is clear that a good beginning has been made for closer Israel-Arab ties with the Abraham Accords, their success and extension to other countries will depend on a range of factors that are currently impacting the geopolitical environment, including the US-China rivalry and West Asia politics of alignments and realignment.

Israel-Hamas War

Context

• The Israel-Hamas conflict has intensified with Israel launching a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip aimed at eliminating Hamas. This has sparked concerns about the post-conflict phase and its potential impact on the global economy.
• Bloomberg, a worldwide media company, has outlined three potential scenarios for the conflict and how each could influence countries around the globe.

What are the Three Possible Scenarios for the Conflict and their Potential Effects?

• Limited Conflict in Gaza:
  • In this scenario, the conflict remains primarily localized in the Gaza Strip, with limited expansion into other regions.
  • Potential Effects:
    • Limited direct impact on the global economy. Nevertheless, this is unwelcome news for a world economy recovering from various setbacks, as central banks struggle between addressing inflation and preventing economic slowdowns.
    • The conflict can result in an increasing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, marked by significant casualties, with the death toll already surpassing 8,000.
• Regional Conflict with Iran-backed Militants:
  • This scenario involves a broader regional conflict, with the potential involvement of Iran-backed militant groups in Lebanon and Syria, as well as the Houthis in Yemen.
  • Potential Effects:
    • This could lead to escalation of violence in multiple regional locations, leading to increased instability and conflict..
    • Oil prices could rise to around the mid-USD 90s, higher than the current USD 90 per barrel,
    • Higher inflation rates globally, potentially denting global economic growth by 0.3% points.
• Full-scale War Involving Israel, Iran, and Major Powers:
  • The most extreme scenario envisions a full-scale war between regional powers Israel and Iran, with the possible involvement of major world powers such as the United States, China, and Russia.
  • Potential Effects:
    • The conflict could disrupt trade and global crude oil supply in the Middle East, affecting countries in the region and their trading partners.
      • Over 20% of the world's crude supply comes from West Asia, conflict in the region may drastically push up the Crude oil prices up to USD 150 per barrel.
      • Even with potential capacity from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, if they do not align with Iran, oil shipments may still face challenges in passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a 48-kilometer shipping chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of the world's total oil production transits.
• Global inflation could rise to about 6.7% in 2024, potentially causing global economic growth to slow by almost 2% points and leading to a possible worldwide recession with significant implications for countries like India and the US.

India Canada Relations

Context

• In a recent development, the Canadian government has expelled a senior Indian diplomat, alleging India's involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader in Canada. Responding promptly, India issued a statement denying any connection to the incident and, in retaliation, expelled a senior Canadian diplomat.
• This situation underscores the significance of Indo-Canadian relations and highlights the challenges both countries need to address collaboratively for a stronger and enduring bilateral relationship. It is crucial for India and Canada to navigate these difficulties to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

What are the Significant Pillars of India Canada Relationship?

• Political Relations:
  • India established diplomatic relations with Canada in 1947.
  • India and Canada have a long standing bilateral relationship based on shared principles such as democracy, human rights, rule of law, and pluralism.
• Economic Cooperation:
  • Until recently,bilateral trade between India and Canada amounted to $6 billion annually, and Indian investment in Canada was valued at over $4 billion.
  • According to Invest India, Canada is the 18th largest foreign investor in India with an overall investment of about $3,306 million from April 2000 to March 2023.
  • Over 600 Canadian companies have a presence in India and over 1,000 Canadian companies are actively pursuing business in the Indian market.
  • Both countries are engaged in technical negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) including trade in goods, services, investment, and trade facilitation.
• Diaspora Connections:
  • Canada hosts one of the largest Indian diasporas in the world, numbering 16 lakh people of Indian origin, accounting for more than 3 % of the total Canadian population and 700,000 Non Residential Indians (NRIs).
• Education and Innovation:
  • Indian students studying in Canada now comprise approximately 40% of the entire population of international students in Canada.
  • Canada’s Intellectual Property Office and India’s Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) agreed to strengthen cooperation in the area of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).
• Strategic Importance:
  • To diversify the Canadian economy, India is a critical partner under its Indo-Pacific strategy, given the country’s growing economic and demographic importance in the region.
• Science and Technology:
  • Department of Biotechnology under IC-IMPACTS program implements joint research projects in health care, agri-biotech and waste management.
    • IC-IMPACTS (the India-Canada Centre for Innovative Multidisciplinary Partnerships to Accelerate Community Transformation and Sustainability) is the first, and only, Canada-India Research Centre of Excellence.
  • The Department of Earth Science and Polar Canada have started a programme for exchange of knowledge and scientific research on Cold Climate (Arctic) Studies.
• Space:
  • ISRO and Canadian Space Agency (CSA) have signed MOUs in the field of exploration and utilization of outer space.
  • -ANTRIX, the Commercial arm of ISRO, has launched several nanosatellites from Canada.
  • ISRO in its 100th Satellite PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) launched in 2018, also flew Canadian first LEO (Low earth Orbit) satellite, from Indian spaceport Sriharikota.

What are the Challenges of the India-Canada Relationship?

• Cultural Sensitivities:
  • India's leadership has expressed concerns about certain fringe groups within this community that continue to sympathize with the idea of an independent Sikh state, known as Khalistan, separate from India.
  • Canada permitted a parade that depicted the 1984 assassination of the Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her bodyguards. This portrayal was seen as glorifying violence by Sikh separatist.
  • Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center think-tank, says the combination of increasing Sikh activism in Canada, growing Indian pressure on Ottawa, and Ottawa's unwillingness to address Indian concerns has “plunged bilateral relations into a deep crisis today.”
• Visa and Immigration Policies:
  • In recent years, there have been reports of Indian students facing difficulties obtaining visas to study in Canada, which has caused dissatisfaction and raised concerns in India.
• Differing Stances on International Issues:
  • Recently, during the G20 meeting in New Delhi, Canada and India did not have bilateral talks, but instead met on the sidelines
  • Differing opinions on issues such as the political situation in Kashmir have strained diplomatic ties.
• Agricultural Trade Disputes:
  • Indian dairy and poultry producers have expressed trade related concerns over Canadian exports of products such as pulses and canola oil.

What Should be the Way Forward?

• Addressing the Khalistan Issue:
  • Encourage Inclusive Dialogue: Facilitate an open and inclusive dialogue involving all stakeholders, including representatives from the Sikh community, Indian government officials, and Canadian authorities. This approach can foster understanding, address grievances, and work towards a peaceful resolution.
  • Counter Political Extremism: Both nations should implement legal measures to counter any form of political extremism. Collaborative efforts in intelligence sharing and law enforcement can be instrumental in preventing radicalization and ensuring the safety of communities.
• Economic Diversification:
  • Expand Trade Horizons: Move beyond traditional sectors and explore opportunities in emerging technologies, renewable energy, and healthcare. Diversifying the economic partnership can create new avenues for collaboration, boost innovation, and contribute to sustained economic growth for both India and Canada.
• Cultural Exchange:
  • Promote Cultural Programs: Foster a deeper understanding of each other's cultures and traditions through cultural exchange programs, art exhibitions, and film festivals. This can create a more nuanced appreciation of diversity and strengthen the cultural ties between the two nations.
• Environmental Cooperation:
  • Combat Climate Change Together: Leverage the shared commitment to combat climate change by collaborating on green technologies, sustainable development, and renewable energy initiatives. Joint projects and knowledge-sharing can contribute significantly to global environmental goals.
• Diplomatic Engagement:
  • High-Level Dialogues: Establish and maintain regular high-level diplomatic dialogues and exchanges. This can help align positions on global issues, enhance diplomatic understanding, and strengthen the overall relationship between India and Canada.
• Security Cooperation:
  • Counterterrorism Collaboration: Strengthen security cooperation, particularly through the Joint Working Group (JWG) on Counter Terrorism. This framework can provide a platform for both nations to collaborate on intelligence sharing, coordinated efforts against terrorism, and ensuring the security of their respective populations.

By focusing on these areas, India and Canada can work towards building a more robust, multifaceted relationship that addresses specific challenges and capitalizes on shared interests and values. Collaboration in these key domains can contribute to long-term stability and cooperation between the two nations.

Conclusion

Both India and Canada must endeavor to transcend politically contentious issues and focus on areas of mutual cooperation and collaboration. The future holds great promise for this dynamic partnership, and both nations must seize the opportunities it presents.

India-South Korea

Context

In recent years, the ties between India and the Republic of Korea (RoK) have seen substantial progress, evolving into a genuinely multifaceted relationship marked by a convergence of interests, mutual goodwill, and frequent high-level exchanges. India's economic liberalization, the implementation of the "Look East Policy," and later the "Act East Policy" have found common ground with the Republic of Korea's commitment to free-market principles. Additionally, India's persistent support for the peaceful reunification of the two Koreas has been well-received in the Republic of Korea.

History of India-South Korea relations

• Buddhism from India reached the Korean peninsula in the 3rd century during the three kingdoms period. India's involvement in Korean affairs after Korea gained independence in 1945 was notably positive. Mr. K P S Menon from India chaired the 9-member UN Commission established in 1947 to conduct elections in Korea.
• During the Korean War (1950-53), a resolution sponsored by India was accepted by both warring sides, leading to a ceasefire on July 27, 1953. General K.S. Thimayya of India served as the chairman of the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC) after the armistice, contributing significantly to resolving humanitarian issues arising from the war.
• In 1962, bilateral consular ties were established, later elevated to ambassadorial status in 1973. Subsequent years witnessed the signing of several significant agreements, including those related to trade promotion, economic and technological cooperation (1974), science and technology cooperation (1976), double taxation avoidance (1985), and bilateral investment promotion/protection (1996).
• A pivotal moment in India-South Korea relations occurred in 2006 when President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam visited South Korea. This visit led to the formation of a Joint Task Force in 2010, aiming to establish a bilateral Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
• President Lee's visit to India as the Chief Guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in 2010 marked the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. Subsequent years saw the signing of significant agreements, including the Civil Nuclear Energy Cooperation Agreement (2011), the Nuclear Security Summit, and Visa simplification agreement (2012), and a Joint Statement in 2014 that outlined plans for expanding various aspects of the relationship.
• In 2016, South Korea's participation in the Defence Expo India and Maritime India Summit demonstrated a growing defense and maritime collaboration. Further agreements in 2017 covered cooperation in shipbuilding, and in 2018, the bilateral relationship was upgraded to a special-strategic partnership, reflecting the deepening and special nature of the ties between India and South Korea.

India-South Korea Trade and Economic relations

• In 2022, bilateral trade between India and South Korea reached an unprecedented high, totaling USD 27.8 billion. The ambitious goal is to further elevate this figure to USD 50 billion by the year 2030. This surge in economic engagement has been fueled by various factors, including the landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) implemented in 2010.
• One notable milestone in their economic collaboration was the joint inauguration in 2018 by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South Korean President Moon Jae-in of Samsung Electronics' Noida smartphone assembly plant. This facility, recognized as the world's largest of its kind, symbolizes the depth of their economic ties.
• Since the implementation of CEPA in 2010, bilateral trade witnessed remarkable growth, with a staggering 70% increase in 2011 alone. Key export items from India to Korea include mineral fuels, cereals, iron, and steel, while South Korea predominantly exports automobile parts, telecommunication equipment, iron products, petroleum refined goods, lubricating oils, nuclear reactors, mechanical appliances, electrical machinery and parts, as well as iron and steel products.
• A strategic initiative known as 'Korea Plus' was launched in 2016 to encourage and facilitate Korean investments in India. Major South Korean conglomerates, including Samsung, Hyundai Motors, and LG, have significantly invested in India, contributing to the strengthening of economic ties.
• The diplomatic front has also seen positive developments, with the fifth Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue taking place in Seoul in 2022. During this dialogue, both nations expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation not only in trade, investment, science, and technology but also in cultural exchanges. Notably, there has been an increased focus on security, defense, and collaboration on new and emerging technologies.
• Recognizing the vulnerabilities exposed by the excessive reliance on China's supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic, India and South Korea have jointly decided to collaborate on building resilient and robust global supply chains. This signifies a strategic effort to address challenges posed by the pandemic and enhance the stability of international supply networks.

Strategic relationship

• India and South Korea stand out as significant like-minded partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
• In December 2022, South Korea unveiled its inaugural Indo-Pacific vision document, titled "Strategy for a Free, Peaceful and Prosperous Indo-Pacific." This development has heightened expectations for a strengthened strategic bond between South Korea and India.
• Concurrently, South Korea has introduced the New Southern Policy (NSP) and the New Northern Policy, aiming to broaden its engagement beyond major powers and focus on regions such as Southeast Asia and India, fostering economic and strategic diversification.
• The NSP has not only bolstered bilateral economic ties but also laid the groundwork for security cooperation between India and South Korea. The vision aligns with India's Act East Policy (AEP), emphasizing a synergistic approach.
• South Korea is actively seeking increased collaboration with longstanding partners like India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This includes bilateral initiatives and capacity-building partnerships, particularly in the digital economy.
• The Quad, a strategic forum comprising India, the United States, Japan, and Australia, holds particular interest for the South Korean administration. South Korea has sought India's support for its inclusion in the Quad's working groups, focusing on shared concerns like COVID-19, climate change, and emerging technologies.
• Collaboration between India and South Korea is poised to benefit from India's G-20 chairmanship, facilitating joint efforts to advance the interests of the Global South.
• While India has temporarily stepped back from the trade pillar, cooperation between South Korea and India in economic security gains momentum through the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, particularly in areas like supply chains and clean energy.
• South Korea's role as a dialogue partner in the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) further supports regional collaboration on marine issues, underlining the multifaceted nature of the partnership between India and South Korea.

Challenges

The ongoing challenges that have compelled middle powers like India, Japan, and now South Korea to step up their engagement are:

• The new emerging threats posed by an increasingly militant China, with its growing divergence from the United States and convergence with Russia
• The Ukraine war and its numerous political and social ramifications
• The North Korean nuclear resurgence and its ties with China
• The evidence in the declining U.S. global dominance.

Way forward

• The year 2023 will be an important time because not only will South Korea and India commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations, but also because the convergence of respective Free and Open Indo-Pacific visions will be given more attention.
• It is reasonable to anticipate a flurry of high-level visits for swiftly carried out initiatives. Furthermore, a similar attempt to advance the NSP-AEP convergence may be launched.
• Already the process has started with the ninth round of India-RoK Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) upgrade negotiations that were held in Seoul in November 2022.
• India and South Korea may use their combined might as strong middle powers to uphold a stable, rules-based regional order in line with the U.S. without sacrificing their interests or future possibilities.