Abstract

With the rise and fall of global conflicts and superpowers, India’s diplomacy has pulled through via solution-oriented dialogue, strategic development of trade routes and a reputation of credibility. This paper explores how this diplomacy is flourishing in the European Union by establishing Free Trade Agreements, investing in ports, the India middle-east Europe corridor, the implications of Britain’s exit on India’s and Europe’s ties, and India’s political balancing act in international forums. As India is steadily emerging as an economy the West is looking to diversify trade, away from the stagnated Chinese economy. This paper uses case studies as an example to explain how India is a viable alternative to China along with its challenges and opportunities. 

Keywords:  Diplomacy, European Union, Economy, India, Neutrality, Politics. 

Introduction

India is the world’s fastest-growing economy today. Its global stance aims to provide support and encourage peace.  India’s approach to international diplomacy carefully balances its adherence to sovereignty and addressing complex global challenges.  Dating back to the colonial era, the British monopolised India’s external policies, defence, and political and economic relations. Post-independence until the 1960s, India enjoyed close ties with the British. Still, it avoided becoming too dependent on Britain and other former colonial powers by policy of their own design – Non-Aligned Movement. Drawing references from the Cold War India’s post-independent foreign policy was designed considering two clashing global ideologies. The Non-aligned movement also helped India build ties with China to decrease military tensions due to the growing US-Pakistan alliance. 

The EU is one of India’s largest trading partners and investors as well as its main source of technology transfer.   Without access to European technology and lacking a major trade boost, India is unlikely to achieve its 2047 target of becoming a developed economy 

The Schuman Security and Defence Forum is an initiative by the European Union to instil security and defence partnerships striving for mutual benefit and peace.  Despite their differing positions concerning foreign policies, India and Europe are in a position to take joint initiatives through international summits such as the G20 and G7 through reformed multilateralism, and consensus. India’s growing diplomatic presence in Europe reflects not just its economic growth goals, but also its strategic stance in the face of geopolitical confrontation with a changing climate, digital revolution, and the rise and fall of major superpowers contributing majorly. 

Click Here To Download The Paper