India's Growing Influence In Gulf States

The Gulf States are at the centre of India'sLook West Policy’ and form the core of the ‘Extended Neighbourhood Policy’ vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

- Dr Khushnam P N

The Gulf region sits at the strategic junction of India’s continental security and maritime security. The focused diplomatic outreach and exchange of high-level visits in recent years have spurred India’s stature as a power in the region. With increasing policy priority and sustained multilayered engagement, India has gained significant influence in the Gulf States and the syndrome is at a fast-paced trajectory.

The policy pursuit in the region was deepened with the dense visits of the Prime Minister. The growing pattern in these states to look up to India to further their own national interests have been manifested by their warm responses and return visit to India. All the visits have been used to express their shared concern and common interests and future visions. Our Prime Minister has been honoured by the highest civilian awards - ‘King Abdulaziz Sash Award in Saudi Arabia (April 2016), King Hamad Order of the Renaissance, Bahrain (August 2019) and Order of Zayed, UAE’s highest civilian Award. Numerous developments like PM Modi’s visit to Motishwar Shiva Temple and Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Oman and unveiling replica of first Hindu temple in UAE and participation in foundation stone-laying ceremony are a powerful manifestation of India’s growing stature in the region.

Strategic Partnership, Investment and Diaspora