ENHANCING COOPERATION IN WEST ASIA

SIMRAN SODHI explains how India has become an "Emerging Power" in the vital region that connects Asia with Africa and Sea Europe

- SIMRAN SODHI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), on his way back from France, is a significant pointer to the growing strength of India’s relations with West Asia (Middle East). Last month, after a successful State Visit to the United States, the PM made a similar stop-over in Egypt also.

Both these short trips have significance beyond the optics and symbolism. In the last few years, India has successfully managed its relations with all the States in this region. From Israel to Saudi Arabia to Iran, India, today, is one of the few global powers that enjoys good relations with all.

India’s relations with West Asia, which the former regards as its “extended neighbourhood” and under its “look-West Approach”, have transformed in the last few decades. Going beyond as the most important source of energy for India and as a place where millions of Indians are employed, sending precious foreign exchange for families back home, West Asia or the Middle East today is engaged in a wider role that is witnessing increased political, defence, and economic ties with New Delhi.

Importantly, the sheikdoms in the region no more support Pakistan just because it is a fellow Islamic country. And credits for these transformative ties go to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a big way.

Of course, it is true that of late, one sees China trying to assert itself as an important player in the region also but given the fact that Chinese activities are always regarded with some suspicion, India has a great opportunity to emerge as a major player in the region.

Modi’s recent UAE visit