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Shutdown of the Afghan embassy in India

Context: Islamic Republic of Afghanistan announced the closure of its Embassy in Delhi.

More about the news: 

  • The embassy was representing the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan which had been deposed by the Taliban in August 2021. 
  • After the displacement of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the embassy was working as a “stateless mission” as it did not represent the current Taliban regime, with whom India has no diplomatic relationship.
  • India has maintained a “technical team”, which provides visas to Afghan traders and travellers to India. India is also sending humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.  

India’s Informal engagement with Taliban regime in Afghanistan

  • Currently, no country has formally recognised the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. However, China has a full-fledged ambassador in Afghanistan. Other countries like Iran, Pakistan, Russia, UAE, Qatar and China also have deeper relations with the Afghan regime. This puts pressure on India to have relations with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. 
  • India has not formally recognised the current Taliban regime in Afghanistan (Known as the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan) due to the poor human rights record of the Taliban government especially their treatment of women and the Taliban government being non-inclusive.
  • Despite the closure of the embassy and non-recognition of the Taliban regime by India, India has continued to engage with the Taliban regime in Afghanistan using a ‘technical team’ in Kabul. This technical team provides visas to Afghan traders and travellers to India. 
  • Currently, two weekly flights carry Afghan citizens and goods to India. India uses these flights to send humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people. 
  • Indian goods are also sent to Afghanistan through other countries like Iran and UAE.
  • Indian diplomats have met the Taliban’s representative in multiple locations under multilateral initiatives like the recently concluded Moscow Format in September 2023.
  • The Taliban regime is also urging India to support it with its economic revitalisation through projects like electricity generation, and road construction. 

India’s concerns with Taliban ruled Afghanistan

  • Support for Terrorism by Taliban regime
  • Support for poppy cultivation and promotion of narco-terrorism by Taliban
  • Close relations between Taliban and Pakistan army which can be harnessed by Pakistan to use Taliban as a safe haven for anti-Indian activity.
  • Poor human rights record especially regressive treatment of women.
  • Non-inclusive nature of Taliban regime which is dominated by certain Pashtun tribes and does not represent the entire Afghan community.

Importance of cultivating relations with Taliban regime 

  • Safeguard India’s interests with Taliban regime
  • Location of Afghanistan as a crossroad for India’s engagement with Central Asian Republics
  • Ensuring India’s energy security as India can import gas through TAPI Pipeline via Afghanistan.
  • Controlling terrorism in India and the wider neighbourhood.
  • Good image of India among the common Afghan citizens can help India build quick relations with the Taliban.
  • Limiting Pakistan’s control over Afghanistan necessitates India to have engagement and closer relations with the Taliban.

Conclusion: 

  • India is considering realpolitik to initiate any engagement with the Taliban, however, the deep-seated principles and relations with the region’s countries, bring ambiguity in its policy towards the new regime in Afghanistan, which is also impacting India’s interests. 
  • A major challenge remains the Taliban’s adherence to Sharia law and severe restrictions around the movement of women.
  • Two factors can influence the Indian government’s future approach. 
    • Strong people-to-people ties: India has benefited from its ties with Afghan elites and there exists considerable goodwill towards India among Afghan citizens.
    • Humanitarian assistance: Given the Taliban’s appeal for better ties, the Indian government can leverage its position through aid and assistance. 

Armenia's Parliament votes to join the International Criminal Court

Context: Armenia's Parliament has voted to join the International Criminal Court. 

Analysis of Armenia's decision to join International Criminal Court

  • Key reason behind Armenia's decision to join the International Criminal Court is Azerbaijan's offensive against the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
  • Armenia's decision to become a party to the International Criminal Court is expected to strain relations with Russia as International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants against President Putin of Russia for committing human rights abuses during Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
  • Armenia being a state party to ICC will be under obligation to arrest Putin. Thus, this will constrain Russia-Armenia relations. 

About Armenia

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  • Armenia is a landlocked country, part of the Caucasus region.
  • Neighbouring countries of Armenia: Turkey on the West, Georgia on North, Azerbaijan on east, Iran and Azerbaijan's enclave of Nakhchivan on South. 
  • Yerevan is the capital and largest city of Armenia.

About Nagorno-Karabakh Region

  • It is a landlocked mountainous region, encircled by Azerbaijan. 
  • The region is majorly inhabited by ethnic Armenians.
  • The region has been subject of territorial dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
  • Nagorno-Karabakh region has been under the self-declared Republic of Artsakh.
  • Recently, in September 2023, Azerbaijan attacked the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The attack resulted in the removal of institutions of Republic of Artsakh. 
  • Nagorno-Karabakh was connected to Armenia by a small corridor known as Lachin Corridor.
  • More than half the population of Nagorno-Karabakh region has fled to Armenia. Armenia has accused Azerbaijan of committing ethnic cleansing in the region.  
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About International Criminal Court

Origin of International Criminal Court

  • ICC came into being and is government by the Rome Statute. Rome Statute entered into force on 1 July 2002 after ratification by 60 countries.
  • It is the first permanent, treaty-based, international criminal court established to help end impunity for the perpetrators of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community.
  • ICC is an independent international organisation and is not part of United Nations.
  • ICC has 18 judges who are elected by Assembly of State Parties and serve 9-year, non-renewable terms.
  • Seat of International Criminal Court: is in The Hague in the Netherlands

Jurisdiction of International Criminal Court

  • International Criminal Court investigates and tries individuals charged with the gravest crimes of concern:
    1. Genocide
    2. War crimes
    3. Crimes against humanity
    4. Crime of aggression
  • ICC may exercise jurisdiction over international crimes only if they were committed on the territory of a State Party or by one of its nationals.
  • However, ICC may exercise jurisdiction if a situation is referred to ICC Prosecutor by the UNSC or if a State makes a declaration accepting the jurisdiction of ICC.
  • Under the Rome Statute, ICC can only investigate and prosecute the above four international crimes in situations where states and unable or unwilling to do so themselves. Thus, ICC acts as a court of last resort and seeks to complement, not replace, national courts.

Parties of International Criminal Court

  • Currently, 123 countries are state parties to the International Criminal Court.
  • However, countries such as India, China, USA, Russia etc are not a party to it.

Maldives elects Mohamed Muizzu as President

Context: Maldives has elected Mohamed Muizzu as President of Maldives. He will replace Ibrahim Solih as the President of Maldives. Mohamed Muizzu is seen as pro-China and has promised to remove Indian military personnel stationed in the country.

About Mohamed Muizzu

  • Mohamed Muizzu belongs to Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), the same party to which Abdulla Yameen belonged. He was earlier the Housing and Urban Development minister under the Presidency of Abdulla Yameen. 
  • Abdulla Yameen had close ties with China. President Muizzu is seen as a proxy for Abdulla Gayoom who pursued a pro-China tilt in his foreign policy and launched an ‘India-Out’ campaign. 
  • Mohamed Muizzu has indicated to continue with the India-Out campaign of Gayoom, calling for removal of India’s military personnel stationed in Maldives.
  • The incumbent President Ibrahim Solih pursued an India-First Policy resulting in greater cooperation between India and Maldives over projects like Greater Male Connectivity Project, Security Cooperation and India’s assistance to Maldives during COVID-19 pandemic. 

Concerns over the election of Pro-China President Muizzu of Maldives

  • Concerns over India’s defence and security partnership: The stance taken by President Muizzu to remove the presence of military personnel from Maldives. These moves seem to be a continuation of earlier policies pursued by President Yameen when Indian Navy helicopters and personnel were requested to be removed from Maldives.
  • Increasing China's influence in Indian Ocean Region: The strategic location of Maldives near the International Sea lanes makes Maldives critical for China’s economic and energy security. To gain an increasing influence in Maldives, China has been courting Maldives as part of its Maritime Silk Route project of the larger Belt & Road Initiative.
    • China’s infrastructure projects in Maldives: China has been heavily investing in physical and social infrastructure in Maldives by financing important projects like China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, Housing units and expansion of Velana International Airport. 
    • Free-Trade Agreement with China: President Abdulla Yameen signed the Free Trade Agreement with Maldives in 2017 to enhance trade and Maldivian marine exports to China. However, this agreement was not ratified by President Ibrahim Solih feared China will leverage its economic power to commercially dominate Maldives and pursue its geopolitical objectives. Ex. Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka. President Muizzu is expected to ratify the FTA with China.
    • China’s weaponisation of economic relations: China debt to Maldives accounts for one-fifth of Maldivian GDP and China has become a critical source of tourists to Maldives, which is critical for Maldivian economy. 

Way forward for India

  • Leveraging India’s strengths: India enjoys proximity, convergent security interests and deep cultural ties with Maldives. India has been the first responder to any crises in Maldives. Chinese has no diaspora or no military presence in Maldives as compared to India. Thus, the geographic and cultural connect that India enjoys with Maldives is hard for China to overcome. 
  • Prompt delivery of infrastructure projects: Slow progress on India backed India projects such as Greater Male Connectivity Project, this has increased attractiveness of China’s projects in Maldives. India needs to build on prompt delivery of India’s infrastructure projects to make it attractive for countries to have deeper relations with India.
  • Highlight China’s policies: India should highlight Chinese designs of using its commercial and business ties to pursue its geopolitical agenda. Chinese debt trap diplomacy and designs to accommodate Maldives in its ‘Strings of Pearls’ strategy for countering India. Thus, India should continue to assist Maldives to make its economy more resilient.
  • Pursue multiparty democratic engagement: India must not take sides in the domestic politics of neighbouring countries and pursue broader ties with all voices 

‘Five Eyes’ intelligence alliance

Context: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's recent allegations, connecting the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil to the Indian government, have brought attention to the intelligence-sharing alliance known as the 'Five Eyes.' It is suggested that this alliance may have played a role in providing information that assisted Canada in this matter.

Who are the ‘Five Eyes’?

  • The ‘Five Eyes’ is a multilateral intelligence sharing network of five countries, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S. 
  • It is both surveillance based and tracks signals intelligence (SIGINT).
  • The alliance between the U.S. and the U.K. evolved around the Second World War to counter the Cold War Soviet threat. The two countries, which had successfully deciphered German and Japanese codes during the war, forged a collaboration to share intelligence related to signals such as radio, satellite and internet communications. 
  • In 1946, the alliance was formalised through an agreement for cooperation in signals intelligence. 
  • The arrangement was later extended to ‘second party’ countries – Canada joined in 1948, while Australia and New Zealand became part of the alliance in 1956. 
  • The Five Eyes have become involved in ocean and maritime surveillance, scientific and defence intelligence analysis, medical intelligence, geospatial intelligence, counterintelligence, counterterrorism, and the continuous sharing of intelligence products via a secret collective database known as ‘Stone Ghost’.

The intelligence alliance has faced numerous issues related to its transparency, data security, and operational procedures, which had been concealed from public scrutiny for an extended period.

Its most significant controversy emerged in 2013 when Edward Snowden, a former contractor for the National Security Agency (NSA), revealed classified documents. Snowden characterized this network as a "supranational (having power or influence that transcends national boundaries or governments) intelligence organization that operates independently of its member countries' legal frameworks."

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India Middle East Europe Corridor (IMEC)

Context: At the recent 18th G20 Summit, which was hosted by India, countries unanimously agreed to establish the India Middle East Europe Corridor (IMEC).

Corridor to a new world

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  • India, EU, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Germany, France, Italy and USA have agreed to establish India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). 
  • IMEC is expected to stimulate economic development through enhanced connectivity and economic integration between Asia, Arabian Peninsula and Europe.
  • IMEC will comprise of two separate corridors. (i) Eastern Corridor connecting India and Arabian Gulf. (ii) Northern Corridor connecting Arabian Gulf to Europe.
  • It will include a railway line that will provide a reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship to rail transit network to supplement existing maritime and road transport routes – enabling goods and services to transit to, from and between India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel and Europe.
  • Along the railway route, IMEC will enable laying of cable for electricity and digital connectivity and pipe for clean hydrogen export. 
  • This corridor will secure regional supply chains, increased trade accessibility, improve trade facilitation and support an increased emphasis on ESG impacts.

Harami Nala: The rogue or treacherous channel Between India and Pakistan

Context: Union home minister visited Harami Nala (rogue or treacherous channel) in the Sir Creek sector of Kutch region of Gujarat, near the India-Pakistan border.

About Harami Nala

  • It is a natural water body, approximately 25 kilometers long, flowing from west to east from Pakistan into Kutch, just south of Vighakot sector. It is flanked by vast marshy mud flats affected by low and high tides.
  • About 22 kilometers of the channel lie on the Indian side of "vertical line" of the International Boundary (IB) between India and Pakistan, which itself is not contested. A portion of Rajasthan's Barmar district also touches this area.
  • It is extremely rich in fishing, especially prawns.
  • The formidable marshy terrain through which it runs makes it impossible to approach or patrol on foot, even during low tide.
  • There are dangerous tides, muddy areas, and mirages, and it also gets extremely hot in the summer, with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees Celsius.
  • It is one of the most inhospitable places along the border and has also been at the center of cross-border mischief and exploitation by infiltrators.
  • The water body has some unique characteristics. Tidal waters surge from the Pakistani side, and over the years, the channel has extended further on the Indian side.
  • On the Pakistani side, there's a wall called Chini-Bandh, built with assistance from China, to prevent ocean water from flooding their side. On the Indian side, there is a significant distance from the IB where factories have emerged to produce salt, bromide, and other chemicals carried by mineral-rich waters.
  • The channel's proximity to the coast and urban centers like Gujarat and Mumbai has made it an attractive route for potential infiltrators.

Golden Visa

Context: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman became the first person to receive a “golden visa” from Indonesia.

About Golden Visa

A Golden Visa refers to the immigration program which allows wealthy individuals to get a residence permit or even citizenship in another country simply by purchasing a house there or making a relatively large investment or donation.

  • The Golden Visa system essentially offers long-term residency (5 and 10 years) to people belonging to the following groups:
    • Investors.
    • Entrepreneurs.
    • Individuals with outstanding talents the likes of researchers.
    • Medical professionals and those within the scientific and knowledge fields.
    • Remarkable students.
  • Different countries have different options to have a golden visa.
  • In certain countries after getting a Golden Visa, people become legal residents of that country, they can live there, go to school, and get access to healthcare.
  • Residency by investment is a way many countries use to lure foreign investments usually in property or by creating a business that employs a set minimum number of locals.

Eligibility for Golden VISA

Different countries demand different requirement for golden Visa scheme, but most demand:  

  • You have no criminal record. 
  • Evidence of investment funds. 
  • Keeping an investment for the requisite period. 
  • A minimum net worth or a certain amount of cash in the bank.
  • Make a capital investment in a company’s shares/stocks. 
  • Make a capital investment in the country’s public debt or government bonds. 
  • Create employment opportunities.
  • Contribute to a country’s scientific or technological innovation.

Three Type of Golden Visa Programme

There are three main types of golden visas:  

  • Citizenship by investment e.g., Malta, Montenero.
  • Residence by investment e.g., Canada, Switzerland. 
  • Immigration by investment 

Benefits of Golden VISA

  • Travel to a broad range of countries visa-free.
  • Fast application processing, with some permits issued in just one month. 
  • Opportunities to invest in fast-growing markets. 
  • Whole family Visa or passport eligibility. 
  • Flexible options to progress to full citizenship following a residence by investment application.

India- Middle East- Europe Economic Corridor

Context: Days after the launch of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday described Saudi Arabia as “one of the most important strategic partners of India”.

The exchange between the two sides took place during the state visit of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman of Saudi Arabia when they agreed to set up a joint task force to fast-track the West Coast refinery project.

  • Further PM Modi and Prince Bin Salman also co-chaired the first meeting of the India-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council (SPC)
  • The discussion focused on defence, energy, security, education, technology, transportation, healthcare, tourism and culture, space, and semiconductors as areas of possible cooperation.
  • The new thing that has come up is that the two sides agreed to set up a joint task force to help in identifying and channelising the $100 billion investment which was actually promised by the Saudi side. Earlier Crown Prince Bin Salman had visited India in February 2019 when Saudi Arabia had pledged to invest $100 billion and the investment into the energy project.
  • Delhi and Riyadh would upgrade energy ties to “comprehensive energy partnership”

About India-Middle East- Europe Corridor:

  • The project includes India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, France, Italy, Germany and the US.
  • It will be a major medium of economic integration between India, West Asia and Europe and  will give a new direction to connectivity and sustainable development of entire world.
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What is the project?

  • The rail and shipping corridor is part of the Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment (PGII) — a collaborative effort by G7 nations to fund infrastructure projects in developing nations. PGII is considered to be the bloc’s counter to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
  • The corridor will include a rail link as well as an electricity cable, a hydrogen pipeline and a high-speed data cable
  • The project is thus duped as “a green and digital bridge across continents and civilizations.”

Why is the project being proposed?

  • First, it would increase prosperity among the countries involved through an increased flow of energy and digital communications. 
  • Second, the project would help deal with the lack of infrastructure needed for growth in lower- and middle-income nations. 
  • Third, it could help “turn the temperature down” on “turbulence and insecurity” coming out of the Middle East
  • Lastly, the project could be seen as Biden’s attempt to further strengthen the G20 group to counter the dominance of China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration: Health Priorities of the world

The Three Priority Areas 

These three areas were kept in mind by India for the declaration:   

  • Social disruption caused by Covid-19.
  • Economic disruption caused by Covid-19. 
  • What could be done to prevent such losses in the future.

New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration on Health  

  • To continue progress towards polio eradication and ending ongoing epidemics including AIDS, Tuberculosis, Malaria, Hepatitis and Water-borne and other communicable diseases.
  • To focus on strengthening primary health care and health workforce.
  • To focus on improving essential health services and health systems to better than pre-pandemic levels, ideally within the next 2-3 years.
  • To promote the One Health-based approach driven by the Quadripartite’s One Health Joint Plan of Action (2022-2026).
  • To enhance the resilience of health systems and support development of climate resilient and low-carbon health systems in collaboration with Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs).
  • To support the work of the WHO-led Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH).
  • To prioritise tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), including through research and development, infection prevention and control efforts within respective national action plans. 
  • To facilitate equitable access to safe, quality-assured, and affordable vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other medical countermeasures, especially in Low-and Middle-income Countries (LMICs), Low Development Countries and Small Island Developing States.
  • To recognize the potential role of evidence-based Traditional and Complementary Medicine (TCM) in health.
  • To take note of international efforts in TCM, including WHO’s global and collaborating centres, and clinical trial registries.
  • To Support the WHO-led inclusive consultative process for the development of an interim medical countermeasures coordination mechanism, which may be adapted in alignment with the WHO CA+, to:
    • Have effective participation of LMICs and other developing countries. 
    • Consider a network of networks approach.
    • Leverage local and regional R&D and manufacturing capacities and strengthen last mile delivery.
    • Committees agreed to develop an interim platform to promote an end-to-end network for research and manufacturing them till a legally binding pandemic treaty.
  • To Promote and improve access to mental health services and psychosocial support in an inclusive manner.
  • To Call for strong international counter-narcotics cooperation, free of unnecessary restrictions, including information sharing and capacity building to disrupt production and proliferation of illicit drugs, including synthetic drugs, and precursor chemicals at their origin, in transit and at destination points.
  • To remain committed to strengthening the global health architecture for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response (PPR) through enhanced collaboration between Finance and Health Ministries under the Joint Finance and Health Task Force (JFHTF).
    • Under the JFHTF, the participation of invited key regional organisations in the Task Force meetings is welcomed as they enhance the voice of low-income countries. 
    • The discussion on the Framework on Economic Vulnerabilities and Risks (FEVR) and the initial Report for Economic Vulnerabilities and Risks arising from pandemics, created through collaboration between World Health Organisation (WHO), World Bank, IMF, and European Investment Bank (EIB). 
    • The Task Force to continue refining this Framework over its multi-year work plan to regularly assess economic vulnerabilities and risks due to evolving pandemic threats, considering country-specific circumstances. 
    • It highlights the importance of securing new donors and co-investment and ask the Task Force to report back to Finance and Health Ministers in 2024 on its progress.
  • It welcomes the establishment of the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) within a WHO-managed framework
    • To build a comprehensive digital health ecosystem in compliance with respective data protection regulations.

Issues raised with the Declaration 

Opposition to Interim Platform 

  • Although the document specifically mentions LMICs having a voice in the platform, critics said that it is likely to replicate the failures of the ACT accelerator which gave more say to the G7 countries.
  • Critics pointed that Covid-19 is no longer a public health emergency of international concern, those agreements no longer stand, and poorer countries have to keep paying high prices to maintain the level of vaccination.
  • Critics argued that an interim measure would be used as an excuse by the G7 countries to keep delaying a legally binding pandemic treaty.

Terms 

Long CovidLong COVID or long-haul COVID is a series of health problems persisting or developing after an initial COVID-19 infection. Symptoms can last weeks, months or years and are often debilitating.
One-Health Approach One Health is an integrated, unifying approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems. It recognizes that the health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment (including ecosystems) are closely linked and interdependent.
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Epidemic of pilots In this several similar initiatives are launched in different countries but aren’t scaled up.

Initiatives of WHO

Quadripartite’s One Health Joint Plan of Action (OH-JPA)

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  • The OH JPA shapes a systems approach while identifying and addressing the deeper causes that have led to past critical risks to global health. 
  • It outlines a set of activities to drive the change and transformation required to mitigate the impact of current and future health challenges at global, regional and country levels.
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Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH)

ATACH is a WHO initiative, an informal voluntary network for Participants to exchange views, share information, and enhance technical and political co-operation. 

It is not a distinct legal entity, and it derives its legal status from WHO. Thus, it shall be administered by WHO, which provides its Secretariat.

WHO CA+

The WHO CA+ aims for a world where pandemics are effectively controlled to protect present and future generations from pandemics and their devastating consequences. 

  • It aims to advance the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health for all peoples, based on equity, human rights and solidarity, with a view to achieving universal health coverage, while recognizing the sovereign rights of countries.
  • While acknowledging the differences in levels of development among countries, respecting their national context and recognizing existing relevant international instruments.

Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator 

The Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator is the world’s most comprehensive end-to-end solution to ending the acute phase of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. 

  • It brings together governments, health organizations, scientists, businesses, civil society, and philanthropists to accelerate the development, production, and equitable access to COVID-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines. 
  • The ACT Accelerator is a framework for collaboration. It is not a decision-making body or a new organization. 
  • It was set up in response to a call from G20 Leaders in March 2020 and launched by the WHO, European Commission, France and The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in April 2020.

ASEAN-India Summit

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, had a primary focus on strengthening India's engagement with the significant group of ten Southeast Asian nations. This visit occurred just before India was set to host the G-20 summit in New Delhi, where India held the presidency.

More about the news:

  • Mr. Modi's presence at the annual ASEAN-India summit aimed to solidify traditional ties with neighbouring Asian economies, especially during a period marked by increased uncertainty in global trade.
  • The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) pointed out in its June 21 'Global Trade Update' that the outlook for global trade in the second half of 2023 was pessimistic due to various negative factors, including downgraded global economic forecasts, persistent inflation, financial vulnerabilities, and geopolitical tensions.
  • Against this backdrop, the joint leaders' statement at the ASEAN-India summit on 'Strengthening Food Security and Nutrition in Response to Crises' highlighted the shared concerns in the region regarding heightened global food insecurity.
    • This insecurity had been exacerbated by factors such as the conflict in Ukraine, climate change, and national policies responding to inflationary pressures.
    • India's recent restrictions on rice exports had raised concerns, as the prices of this regional staple were reportedly nearing a 15-year high.
    • Additionally, the looming threat of El Nino, historically associated with disruptive weather events, added to the region's worries, making ASEAN leaders understandably cautious.
  • Mr. Modi's emphasis on the necessity for a rules-based post-COVID-19 world order and a free and open Indo-Pacific was clearly targeted at certain members within the Asian bloc who had been increasingly uneasy about China's recent assertiveness and territorial claims in the South China Sea.
  • The Prime Minister's implicit message to ASEAN members was that India was a more reliable, long-term strategic and economic partner, with no territorial ambitions that might cause discomfort.
  • India also aimed to position itself as a voice to amplify the concerns of the Global South, emphasizing that such cooperation would be mutually beneficial.
  • For India, dealing with an underwhelming free trade agreement (FTA) with the 10-nation ASEAN grouping posed challenges.
    • While trade volume with Eastern economies had increased, it was largely skewed, with imports far exceeding India's exports.
    • The widening trade deficit, coupled with concerns that Chinese products were taking advantage of lower tariffs under the FTA to enter the Indian market, led to a review of the agreement, expected to be completed in 2025.
  • In the interim, India needed to maintain close engagement with ASEAN members, both as a trade hedge against the slowdown in its primary Western markets and to underscore its significance as a steadfast ally.
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About ASEAN: 

  • ASEAN, short for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is a regional alliance with the primary goal of fostering economic and security collaboration among its ten member states: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
  • ASEAN came into existence in 1967, in Bangkok, Thailand, following the signing of the ASEAN Declaration (also known as the Bangkok Declaration) by the founding nations of ASEAN, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.
  • ASEAN's motto is "One Vision, One Identity, One Community."
  • The ASEAN Secretariat is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia.
  • The institutional mechanisms: 
    • ASEAN Summit: The member states convene annually to discuss regional issues and set policy directions.
    • ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC): The ACC oversees the implementation of ASEAN agreements and decisions.
    • ASEAN Secretariat: Based in Jakarta, Indonesia, this body supports and facilitates ASEAN's activities and initiatives.
    • ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF): ARF serves as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on political and security matters among ASEAN member countries and their partners.
    • Decision Making: Decision-making within ASEAN is achieved through consultation and consensus among member states.

The fundamental principles of ASEAN are as follows:

  • Mutual Respect: Member states must mutually respect the independence, sovereignty, equality, territorial integrity, and national identity of all nations.
  • Non-Interference: ASEAN adheres to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of its member states.
  • Peaceful Dispute Resolution: Differences or disputes are to be settled in a peaceful manner.
  • Renunciation of Force: Member states renounce the threat or use of force.
  • Cooperation: Effective cooperation among member states is a fundamental principle to achieve ASEAN's objectives.

The origin and evolution of ASEAN can be summarized as follows:

  • Association of Southeast Asia (ASA), 1961: ASA was established by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand to promote economic, cultural, and social cooperation.
  • Bangkok Declaration, 1967: The formal establishment of ASEAN occurred through the signing of the Bangkok Declaration.
  • First ASEAN Summit, 1976: Member countries pledged to work toward regional peace and stability.
  • Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC), 1976: TAC laid the groundwork for peaceful relations and cooperation among member states.
  • ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA), 1992: AFTA aimed to create a free trade area among member countries.
  • ASEAN Charter, 2008: The ASEAN Charter provided a legal framework for the organization and strengthened its institutional structure.
  • ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), 2015: AEC sought to integrate the economies of member countries and promote regional economic growth.
  • ASEAN joins Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), 2020: ASEAN member states became part of RCEP, a free trade agreement.

ASEAN possesses several notable strengths as a collective of nations:

  • Regional Stability: ASEAN has played a pivotal role in advancing peace and stability in its region, exemplified by the signing of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).
  • Economic Growth: With a combined population exceeding 630 million people in 2021, ASEAN represents a dynamic and rapidly expanding market for trade and investment. It has also emerged as a major centre for manufacturing and trade, ranking as the world's fourth-largest exporter.
  • Cultural Diversity: ASEAN's rich diversity in terms of cultures, languages, and religions fosters opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and cooperation.
  • Strategic Location: ASEAN's strategic position at the intersection of major trade routes, particularly the vital Strait of Malacca, underscores its significance as a hub for trade and commerce.

India and ASEAN share cooperation in various domains: 

  • Annual Summits: India and ASEAN hold annual summits to strengthen their partnership.
  • Trade and Investment: A free trade agreement (FTA) between India and ASEAN has boosted trade and investment. ASEAN is India's fourth-largest trading partner.
  • Regional Connectivity: India is actively involved in enhancing connectivity with ASEAN through projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project.
  • Defence and Security: Both sides have increased defence cooperation through joint military exercises and forums like the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM+).
  • Education and Research: The ASEAN-India Centre at the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) facilitates research and studies on ASEAN-India relations.
  • Delhi Dialogue: An annual forum for discussing politico-security, economic, and socio-cultural issues between ASEAN and India.
  • Funding: Financial assistance is provided through the ASEAN-India Cooperation Fund, ASEAN-India S&T Development Fund, and ASEAN-India Green Fund.

Despite progress, several issues and challenges persist in India-ASEAN relations:

  • Trade Imbalances: India faces a growing trade deficit with ASEAN, raising concerns about the benefits of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement.
  • Bilateral Focus: India tends to engage with ASEAN countries more on a bilateral basis, missing opportunities for multilateral cooperation.
  • Competing Agreements: Participation in other regional agreements, like RCEP and CPTPP, diverts attention and resources from ASEAN-India relations.
  • Chinese Presence: The presence of China in the region limits ASEAN's ability to fully harness India's potential for regional stability.
  • Limited Connectivity: Despite efforts, physical and digital connectivity between India and ASEAN countries remains constrained, affecting trade, investment, and people-to-people ties.

Way forward: 

Strengthening India's role in maritime security in the Indo-Pacific can address regional concerns and contribute to stability. Also, expanding the QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) concept to include ASEAN countries as part of a QUAD+ arrangement can bolster regional security and cooperation. There is also need of measures to address the trade deficit to ensure mutual benefit from trade agreements.

India-China LAC | Buffer zones to Depsang to Demchok: Spotlight on pullback plan, the extent

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to intensify efforts for expeditious disengagement and de-escalation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, the spotlight is now on the exact contours of plans being drawn up by military commanders on the ground to pull back troops. 

About the Depsang Plains issue

  • The Depsang Plains issue began in 2013 when China carried out an 18-km incursion in the area. 
  • The Depsang Plains are located close to the strategically important Daulat Beg Oldie. 
  • At the Depsang Plains, Chinese troops have been blocking Indian access to PPs 10 to 13 from a bottleneck known as the Y-junction as well as the 972 sq km tract of land there. 
  • In Demchok, which is in the southern part of eastern Ladakh, the problem is mainly at the Charding Ninglung Nullah (CNN) junction. 
  • Despite the two countries agreeing to go back from their positions, the PLA troops did not vacate the area completely.
  • In multiple instances, the PLA also stopped Indian graziers at the Saddle Pass at the CNN junction, well within India’s perception of the LAC.
  • India has since deployed a separate brigade to look after the area. 
image 116

Efforts for disengagement

  • Since 2020, Corps Commanders of India and China have been discussing the resolution of the flashpoints along the LAC, including those that emerged after the standoff began.
  • Sources said while clear orders are awaited, various modalities have been prepared for possible limited disengagement in phases.
  • Commanders on the ground have been discussing possible scenarios for limited disengagement at certain mutually-accepted points along the boundary after the 19th round of India-China military talks earlier in the month of August 2023.
  • The talks led to some forward movement with both sides deciding to pull back troops – and dismantle temporary structures – from the Galwan Valley, the north and south banks of Pangong Tso and Patrolling Points in the Gogra and Hot Springs area. 
  • The last such movement was in September 2023 when both armies disengaged from PP-15 in the Gogra-Hot Springs area after multiple rounds of talks. 
  • Disengagement in most of these areas led to the creation of buffer zones – this stops troops of both sides from accessing areas that they patrolled earlier.
  • Following the 19th round of talks this month, Major General-level talks were held to decide the finer details of resolving the existing issues, including the legacy issues along the LAC, as well as gaining access to all pre-2020 patrolling points along the LAC.
  • The commanders discussed several issues such as mutually ensuring that no new posts are constructed in close proximity to the LAC, and identifying specific limits of patrolling.

BRICS Grouping

Context: Increasing its membership from five to eleven, the BRICS alliance has significantly bolstered its status as a noteworthy global coalition.

More about the news:

  • The selection of countries to join the BRICS coalition has notable significance, as it introduces four major Western Asian players—Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—alongside Ethiopia and Argentina from Africa and South America.
  • This marks a shift in the foundational principles of this non-Western economic alliance, aiming to transform it into a more politically pertinent bloc.
  • The fact that the summit and the expansion of BRICS proceeded despite efforts by the U.S. and Europe to isolate Russia due to its Ukraine invasion, holds substantial implications for the Western bloc.
  • Although India might not have been enthusiastic about such swift expansion, the inclusion of Iran in BRICS conveys a clear message against U.S. sanctions, mirroring Iran's recent entry into the SCO.
  • The admission of both Iran and Saudi Arabia, as well as the UAE, into the same grouping has primarily been facilitated by Beijing's mediation in a peace agreement.
  • India's endeavours for UN reform, increased representation from the Global South, and the expansion of the UN Security Council continue to remain important factors.
image 114

What is 'BRICS'? 

  • Initially termed BRIC in 2001, the acronym BRICS was coined by Jim O’Neill, a Goldman Sachs economist, to encompass Brazil, China, India, and Russia.
  • The BRIC grouping's first formal summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, commenced in 2009. During this summit, BRIC Leaders issued a Joint Statement elucidating the objectives of the BRIC collaboration. This comprehensive document also provided a detailed framework for addressing the global financial and economic crisis.
  • South Africa officially became a member nation in 2010. The group was renamed BRICS – with the "S" standing for South Africa – to reflect the group's expanded membership. 
  • It was anticipated by Goldman Sachs that the four BRIC economies—China, India, Brazil, Russia—alongside South Africa, would dominate the global economy by 2050. 
  • The foundation for this assertion lay in the sustained presence of China, India, Brazil, Russia, and South Africa among the world's swiftest expanding and emerging market economies. 
  • These nations possessed a notable competitive advantage owing to their economical labor costs, advantageous demographics, and copious natural resources, particularly during the era of the global commodities upswing.
  • By the year 2013, the BRICS collective accounted for approximately 27% of the global GDP in terms of purchasing power parity.
  • These five nations constituted around 42% of the global populace. In geographical terms, the BRICS countries spanned 26% of the Earth's total land area.
Objective of BRICS

Role of the BRICS

  • From 2009 to 2014, the BRICS member countries reached a consensus on matters concerning economics and finance, which encompassed reforms within institutions such as the World Bank and IMF.
  • A collective commitment was made to implement strategies aimed at mobilizing adequate resources to enhance the IMF's capacity to effectively manage various forms of crises. 
  • Additionally, during this period, they established the BRICS Interbank Cooperation Mechanism, facilitating the provision of credit facilities denominated in local currencies, along with the formation of the BRICS Exchanges Alliance.
  • Furthermore, their attention extended to regional challenges, encompassing issues related to countries like Libya, Syria, Afghanistan, and Iran.  
  • BRICS also coordinated together in resolving:
    • Conflicts
    • IMF reform
    • The struggle against illicit drug trafficking
    • The need, use, and development of technologies in information and communication
    • The BRICS countries also sought to create favourable conditions for barrier-free trade.

Operation of BRICS:

  • On the basis of UN Charter, BRICS partners’ relations are built.
  • They follow the recognized principles as well as international law’s norms.
  • All the member countries agreed to the following principles during 2011 Summit.
  • Principles
    • Solidarity
    • Openness
    • Pragmatism
    • Neutrality (regarding third parties)
    • Non-bloc nature

New Development Bank:

  • A multilateral development institution formerly known as the BRICS Development Bank, was founded by the collaborative efforts of the BRICS member nations: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
  • The bank's inception involved an initial authorized capital of $100 billion. 
  • The distribution of this subscribed capital was executed equitably among the founding members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
  • The NDB Agreement assures uniform voting rights for all member countries and excludes the presence of veto powers.
  • Shanghai, China, is the bank's headquarters and it stands as principal operational hub.
  • To supplement this, regional offices were set up, commencing with Johannesburg, South Africa, and subsequently expanded to São Paulo, Brazil, GIFT City, India, and Moscow, Russia.
  • The origin of this bank traces back to a proposal by India during the 4th BRICS summit held in Delhi in 2012, where the focus revolved around conceptualizing a new development bank. 
  • A formal consensus on this initiative was solidified at the 5th BRICS summit in Durban, South Africa, in 2013.
  • The pivotal Agreement establishing the New Development Bank was officially signed in 2014, during the 6th BRICS summit in Fortaleza, Brazil.

Key Agendas of recently held 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg: 

1.Active Engagement in Dialogues:

  • BRICS-Africa Outreach Conversations
  • BRICS Plus Dialogue Interactions

2.Cultivating Partnerships:

  • Enabling an equitable and just transition, which addresses the risks posed by climate change.
  • Facilitating the transformation of education and skill development for the evolving future.
  • Strengthening post-pandemic socioeconomic recovery measures.
  • Achieving the goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

3.Addressing Political Issues:

  • Deliberation on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
  • Examination of the post-coup situation in Niger.
  • Assessment of heightened tensions between the Western bloc and Russia.

4.Advancing Economic Reforms:

  • Fostering increased participation and influence of Emerging Markets and Developing Countries (EMDCs) within international economic decision-making.
  • Advocating for reforms within Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and measures to alleviate debt-related stress.
  • Exploring potential opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Area.

5.Enlarging the Scope of BRICS:

  • Emerging as an appealing alternative to the developed countries' "club" of the G-7 nations.
  • Witnessing interest from over 40 countries in joining BRICS, with at least 19 countries formally applying for membership.

6.Broadened Participation:

  • South Africa has extended invitations to leaders representing the Global South and the African Union (AU) for parallel sessions on the sidelines of the summit.

Significance of 15th BRICS summit for India:

  • Multi-dimensional Alignment: Entails a strategy of alignment based on specific issues, wherein India simultaneously participates in and pursues its interests within various strategic and economic coalitions, such as the Quad and BRICS.
  • Poly directional Foreign Policy: Bolsters economic growth, technological advancements, research and innovation, norm-setting influence, and security enhancement.
  • Diplomatic Advantages: Enables a diplomacy centred around developmental engagement, with a goal of expanding BRICS membership.
  • Comprehensive Agenda:
    • Ensuring Energy Security
    • Combating Terrorism
    • Financing Efforts for Climate Change Mitigation
  • Geopolitical Influence: Within the BRICS framework, emphasis is placed on addressing non-traditional security threats and enhancing economic security.
  • Political Assertion: Serves as a political countermeasure against unjust coercive practices, including instances such as the European Union's Carbon Border Tax, unilateral sanctions, and biased economic transactions.
  • Strategic Consideration: Marks a significant milestone as it is the first in-person meeting following the military standoff with China along the Line of Actual Control in 2020.
  • Positive Developments: Ahead of the summit, the 19th round of the India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting resulted in a joint statement, signifying a favourable step forward.

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