India’s interests in the Middle East are vital and multifaceted, shaping its foreign policy and economic strategies. The region is a crucial partner for India, providing a significant portion of its energy needs through oil and gas imports. Additionally, the Middle East hosts a large Indian diaspora, whose remittances contribute significantly to the Indian economy. Beyond energy and expatriate connections, India also seeks to strengthen trade ties, security cooperation, and cultural exchanges with Middle Eastern countries. As global dynamics shift, India continues to deepen its regional relationships to secure its economic and strategic interests.
Tags: GS – 2, IR- Bilateral Groupings & Agreements – Groupings & Agreements Involving India and/or Affecting India’s Interests
Context:
- The Middle East remains a region of profound significance for the world, and India is no exception.
- The recent escalation between Israel and Iran-backed forces, characterised by a vicious cycle of violence and retaliation, underscores the region’s complex dynamics.
- This prolonged instability not only destabilise the region but also has global repercussions, including oil price volatility and heightened geopolitical tensions.
- Given its strategic location, energy security interests, and growing economic ties, India has a vital stake in a stable Middle East.
What is the Significance of the Middle East for India?
- Energy Security and Trade Ties:
- The Middle East is essential for India’s energy security, supplying significant crude oil and natural gas.
- Major energy partners include Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the UAE.
- According to the IEA’s World Energy Outlook 2021, India’s share in global primary energy consumption is projected to rise from 6.1% to 9.8% by 2050.
- Disruptions in the region’s energy supply impact India’s economy and inflation levels.
- Counter-Terrorism Cooperation:
- The Middle East has been a safe haven for terrorist organisations such as al-Qaeda and ISIS, which threaten India’s national security.
- India collaborates with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel to enhance intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts.
- India has imported USD 2.9 billion in military equipment from Israel.
- Saudi Arabia has committed to strengthening counter-terrorism partnerships with India.
- Diaspora and Remittance Flows:
- A significant portion of India’s diaspora resides in the Middle East, with over 66% of NRIs living in countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
- These expatriate communities contribute to local economies and are a vital source of remittances for India.
- India has taken measures to ensure the welfare and security of its diaspora.
- Cultural and Civilizational Linkages:
- The Middle East and India share deep cultural and historical ties, reflected in shared heritage and traditions.
- Initiatives like the India-Arab League media symposium and the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi strengthen these cultural connections.
- Regional Connectivity and Infrastructure:
- India is involved in regional infrastructure projects such as the Chabahar port, the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
- These projects enhance India’s access to Central Asia and Europe, boosting trade and reducing dependence on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan.
- Multilateral Engagement and Global Influence:
- India’s engagement with the Middle East allows it to exercise influence in multilateral forums like the UN and the OIC.
- This involvement helps enhance India’s global standing and address domestic issues through collaboration with OIC countries.
Why Does the Middle East Consistently Remain a Region of Persistent Conflict and Instability?
- Geopolitical Rivalries and Proxy Conflicts:
- The region is a hotspot for rivalries among powers like Iran, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the US, leading to proxy conflicts.
- Examples include the conflict in Yemen between Iran-backed Houthi rebels and the Saudi-led coalition.
- Protracted Conflicts and Unresolved Disputes:
- Long-standing conflicts such as the Israeli-Palestinian issue resist resolution due to external involvement and rigid positions.
- Recent agreements like the Abraham Accords face setbacks, reversing prior progress.
- Sectarian Divides and Identity Politics:
- Deep sectarian divides, particularly between Sunni and Shia Muslims, fuel conflicts and power struggles.
- Identity-based movements and radical ideologies, such as those seen in the Syrian civil war, contribute to political fragmentation.
- Authoritarian Regimes and Lack of Democratisation:
- Many Middle Eastern countries are governed by authoritarian regimes that prioritise regime security over citizens’ welfare.
- The lack of democratic reforms and accountable governance leads to uprisings and sustained instability.
- Resource Scarcity and Environmental Challenges:
- The Middle East faces severe environmental issues, including oil resource depletion and water scarcity.
- These constraints can exacerbate existing tensions and lead to new conflicts, such as the dispute over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
How Can India Strengthen Its Relationship with the Middle East?
- Balanced and Nuanced Foreign Policy Approach:
- India should maintain a balanced approach, avoiding alignment in regional rivalries and promoting dialogue.
- Efforts include supporting a two-state solution for Palestine while maintaining communication with Iran despite US sanctions.
- Enhancing Economic Engagement and Interdependence:
- Strengthening economic ties through trade and investment can foster regional stability.
- Initiatives like the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and promoting digital initiatives can deepen economic relations.
- Strengthening Defense and Security Cooperation:
- India can enhance defense cooperation through joint exercises and technology development.
- Positioning itself as a reliable security partner contributes to regional stability and trust.
- Middle East as Link Between the Global North and Global South:
- India can mediate between Middle Eastern countries and Western powers, advocating for developing nations’ interests and fostering South-South cooperation.
- Promoting Mutual Tourism:
- Encouraging mutual tourism through marketing campaigns and streamlined visa processes can strengthen tourism and hospitality ties.
- Strengthening Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance:
- India can offer disaster management and humanitarian aid, drawing on its capabilities and experience, as exemplified by Operation Dost in Turkey and Syria.
Conclusion
The Middle East holds significant importance for India due to its historical, cultural, and economic ties. By leveraging its position as a leading voice of the Global South, India can play a constructive role in bridging divides and addressing shared challenges with the region and global powers.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Prelims
Q:1 Mediterranean Sea is a border of which of the following countries? (2017)
- Jordan
- Iraq
- Lebanon
- Syria
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 3 and 4 only
- 1, 3 and 4 only
Ans: C
Q:2 Which one of the following countries of South-West Asia does not open out to the Mediterranean Sea? (2015)
- Syria
- Jordan
- Lebanon
- Israel
Ans: B
Q:3 The term “two-state solution” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of (2018)
- China
- Israel
- Iraq
- Yemen
Ans: B
Mains
Q:1 “India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which cannot be rolled back.” Discuss. (2018)
Source: IE
FAQs
Q: Why is the Middle East important to India?
- Answer: The Middle East is important to India for several reasons, including energy security, trade, and the large Indian expatriate community living in the region. The Middle East is a major supplier of oil and gas to India, and strong economic ties with these countries support India’s growth.
Q: How does India benefit from its relationship with the Middle East?
- Answer: India benefits from its relationship with the Middle East through stable energy supplies, job opportunities for millions of Indian workers, and significant trade partnerships. The remittances sent home by Indian workers in the Middle East also contribute to the Indian economy.
Q: What is India’s role in the Middle East peace process?
- Answer: India plays a balanced role in the Middle East, maintaining good relations with various countries while advocating for peace and stability in the region. India’s policy is based on non-interference and supporting peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
Q: How do cultural ties influence India’s interests in the Middle East?
- Answer: Cultural ties, including shared history, religious connections, and a large Indian diaspora, strengthen India’s relationship with the Middle East. These ties help foster goodwill, enhance mutual understanding, and support strong diplomatic and economic relations.
Q: What challenges does India face in the Middle East?
- Answer: India faces challenges such as navigating the complex political dynamics of the region, ensuring the safety of Indian citizens living and working there, and securing uninterrupted energy supplies amid regional tensions. Balancing relationships with different Middle Eastern countries, some of which have conflicts with each other, is also a challenge.
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