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Regional & Global groupings & agreements

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Home/International Relations/Regional & Global groupings & agreements/Page 3

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Pankaj Gautam
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Pankaj GautamLearner
Asked: June 6, 2024In:
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India has a unique chance to leverage its position as the only G20 member from South Asia to effectively amplify the region’s voice on the international scene by utilizing the G20 leadership. Remark.  (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Prateek
    Prateek Learner

    Answer: The Group of Twenty (G20) is the premier inter-governmental forum for international economic cooperation comprising 19 countries and the EU. The G20 members represent around 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of the global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population. India has assumed tRead more

    Answer: The Group of Twenty (G20) is the premier inter-governmental forum for international economic cooperation comprising 19 countries and the EU. The G20 members represent around 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of the global trade, and about two-thirds of the world population. India has assumed the Presidency of the G20 from December 2022 for one year. This presents India with a unique opportunity to raise the concerns and issues of South Asia on the global stage, such as:

    • Fair negotiations and governance: The forum plays an important role in shaping and strengthening the global architecture and governance on all major international economic issues. Due to the fact that wealthy economies have disproportionate power and influence in determining the rules of engagement on international cooperation, trade, and finance, global governance is historically tilted in their favor which often ends up having a negative impact on the ability to provide realistic solutions to constituents such as South Asia.
      • India should use its G20 chair to reform international governance procedures and ensure fair negotiations. This is an opportunity to highlight India’s concerns about “the non-democratic and unequal nature” of global governance institutions.
    • Issues associated with climate change: The region has been hit with climate change-induced disasters like the recent calamitous floods in Pakistan and heat waves in India. These disasters not only cause humongous economic crises but also threaten the very existence of humanity. Further, most South Asian countries still use fossil fuels to generate energy and the rising price of fossil fuels has made life difficult for them.
      • Now, with India being the G20 President, it can spearhead a fast transition towards renewable energy sources, which may prove to be game changers in the region.
    • Trade and commerce: South Asia has emerged as a vital intersection of maritime trade and there is also a tectonic shift in the global attention from the West to the East, as the bedrock of global economic maritime activity. Hence, the South Asian region needs a leader of higher stature to further its cause.
      • With India fast becoming one of the potent global voices and powers, it can play a leading role in shaping debates on the relevant and contemporary issues resonating in this region, especially during its G20 leadership.

    Being the only G20 member from South Asia, India has an added responsibility to represent the region’s interests at the G20. However, it is important for India to provide a collective voice of the ‘Global South’ as well. It should utilize this opportunity to lend a greater voice for making the concerns of the Global South heard at a very crucial juncture for the international community. This could be another anchor for India, i.e. bridging the gap between the Global North and South on issues such as climate change, trade facilitation, and healthcare support.

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Baba Ram
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Baba RamBegginer
Asked: July 18, 2024In:
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Analyze the impact of the dialogue between India and the resource-rich Central Asian region in terms of improving India’s connectivity and economic integration. Talk about the main areas of collaboration, like development aid, energy, and regional security.

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Anirudh Singh
    Anirudh Singh Learner

    Evaluating the Importance of the India-Central Asia Dialogue The India-Central Asia Dialogue plays a crucial role in enhancing India’s connectivity and economic integration with the resource-rich Central Asian region. Central Asia, with its abundant natural resources and strategic location, presentsRead more

    Evaluating the Importance of the India-Central Asia Dialogue

    The India-Central Asia Dialogue plays a crucial role in enhancing India’s connectivity and economic integration with the resource-rich Central Asian region. Central Asia, with its abundant natural resources and strategic location, presents significant opportunities for India. The dialogue serves as a platform to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation across various domains. Here’s an evaluation of its importance and key areas of cooperation:

    Importance of the India-Central Asia Dialogue
    Strategic Connectivity:

    Geopolitical Significance: Central Asia’s location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East makes it a strategic region for India. Strengthening connectivity through the dialogue helps India access important markets and counterbalance the influence of regional powers such as China and Russia.
    Land and Air Corridors: Initiatives like the Chabahar Port in Iran and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) aim to enhance land and sea connectivity between India and Central Asia. These projects are vital for improving trade routes and reducing transit times.
    Economic Integration:

    Trade and Investment Opportunities: Central Asia’s vast natural resources, including energy resources and minerals, provide valuable trade and investment opportunities for India. The dialogue facilitates trade agreements and investment partnerships, boosting economic integration.
    Market Access: Improved connectivity opens up Central Asian markets for Indian goods and services, contributing to India’s economic growth and diversification.
    Key Areas of Cooperation
    Regional Security:

    Counter-Terrorism Collaboration: Central Asia faces security challenges, including terrorism and extremism. India’s involvement in regional security initiatives helps address these threats. For instance, India’s support for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) includes joint efforts to combat terrorism and promote regional stability.
    Border Security and Stability: Strengthening border security and cooperation on transnational crime is crucial for ensuring regional stability. India and Central Asian countries engage in joint security exercises and intelligence sharing to address these issues.
    Energy Cooperation:

    Resource Access: Central Asia is rich in energy resources, including oil and natural gas. India’s energy needs can be met through partnerships with Central Asian countries. Projects like the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) Pipeline are designed to facilitate energy transportation and enhance energy security for India.
    Diversification of Energy Sources: By developing energy ties with Central Asia, India can diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on traditional suppliers, thereby strengthening its energy security.
    Development Assistance:

    Infrastructure Development: India supports infrastructure projects in Central Asia, such as roads, railways, and telecommunications. The India-Central Asia Development Cooperation initiatives focus on improving infrastructure, which facilitates regional integration and economic development.
    Humanitarian and Technical Assistance: India provides technical assistance and humanitarian aid to Central Asian countries, contributing to their socio-economic development. Programs include capacity-building initiatives, scholarships for students, and healthcare support.
    Challenges and Future Prospects
    Challenges:

    Geopolitical Rivalries: The presence of other major players, such as China and Russia, in Central Asia can complicate India’s efforts to establish a foothold. Balancing these geopolitical rivalries while pursuing its interests requires careful diplomacy.
    Security Concerns: The volatile security situation in some parts of Central Asia, particularly in Afghanistan, poses risks to regional stability and connectivity projects.
    Future Prospects:

    Strengthened Partnerships: Continued engagement through the India-Central Asia Dialogue can lead to deeper economic and strategic partnerships. Enhanced cooperation in areas like technology, agriculture, and education can further solidify these relationships.
    Enhanced Connectivity Projects: Expanding infrastructure projects and connectivity initiatives will improve trade routes and economic integration, benefiting both India and Central Asia.
    Conclusion
    The India-Central Asia Dialogue is instrumental in enhancing India’s connectivity and economic integration with the resource-rich Central Asian region. By focusing on key areas such as regional security, energy cooperation, and development assistance, the dialogue helps India tap into Central Asia’s economic potential and strategic significance. Addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities through this dialogue will be crucial for India’s long-term goals in the region and its broader aspirations on the global stage.

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Yuvaan Iyer
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Yuvaan IyerLearner
Asked: July 18, 2024In:
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Analyze the International Solar Alliance’s (ISA) contribution to global efforts to mitigate climate change and advance renewable energy. Examine India’s role as a pioneer in the creation of the ISA and the consequences for its green economy and climate diplomacy.

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Aditya Sharma
    Aditya Sharma Begginer

    The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a crucial initiative aimed at promoting renewable energy and mitigating climate change on a global scale. Established in 2015 by India and France, the ISA seeks to bring together countries with abundant sunlight to collaborate on solar energy projects, thereRead more

    The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is a crucial initiative aimed at promoting renewable energy and mitigating climate change on a global scale. Established in 2015 by India and France, the ISA seeks to bring together countries with abundant sunlight to collaborate on solar energy projects, thereby addressing energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable development. Here’s an analysis of the ISA’s role, India’s leadership in its establishment, and the implications for India’s climate diplomacy and green economy:

    Role of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
    **1. Promotion of Solar Energy:

    Scaling Solar Power: The ISA aims to scale up the deployment of solar energy in member countries by mobilizing resources, reducing the cost of technology, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
    Project Implementation: The alliance supports the implementation of solar projects, including solar parks, rooftop installations, and solar water pumps, contributing to the diversification of the energy mix in member countries.
    **2. Capacity Building:

    Technical Assistance: ISA provides technical assistance and capacity-building programs to member countries, helping them develop the necessary skills and infrastructure to harness solar energy effectively.
    Training and Education: The alliance conducts training programs for policymakers, technicians, and entrepreneurs to build local expertise and promote the adoption of solar technologies.
    **3. Financial Mobilization:

    Investment Facilitation: ISA facilitates the mobilization of financial resources for solar projects by partnering with financial institutions, development banks, and the private sector. It aims to lower the cost of capital and make solar investments more attractive.
    Innovative Financing: The alliance explores innovative financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and solar funds, to support large-scale solar deployments.
    **4. Policy Advocacy:

    Policy Support: ISA advocates for favorable policies and regulatory frameworks in member countries to create an enabling environment for solar energy development. It provides guidance on policy formulation and implementation.
    Standardization: The alliance works towards standardizing solar technologies and practices to ensure quality and reliability, facilitating the widespread adoption of solar energy.
    India’s Leadership in Establishing the ISA
    **1. Initiative and Vision:

    Founding Role: India, along with France, played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and founding the ISA. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the initiative at the Paris Climate Summit in 2015, reflecting India’s commitment to renewable energy and climate action.
    Vision of Global Solar Cooperation: India’s vision for the ISA was to create a platform for countries to collaborate on solar energy, leveraging their collective strengths to achieve common goals of energy security and climate mitigation.
    **2. Institutional Support:

    Hosting the ISA Headquarters: India hosts the ISA Secretariat in Gurugram, providing institutional and logistical support. This underscores India’s leadership and commitment to the alliance’s success.
    Financial Contributions: India has committed financial resources to support the functioning of the ISA, including grants and concessional lines of credit for solar projects in member countries.
    **3. Capacity Building and Technology Transfer:

    Knowledge Sharing: India shares its expertise in solar technology, project management, and policy frameworks with other ISA member countries, fostering capacity building and technology transfer.
    Demonstration Projects: India has implemented several demonstration projects in ISA member countries, showcasing the potential of solar energy and building confidence in solar investments.
    Implications for India’s Climate Diplomacy and Green Economy
    **1. Enhanced Climate Diplomacy:

    Global Leadership: By spearheading the ISA, India has positioned itself as a global leader in renewable energy and climate action. This enhances India’s diplomatic standing and strengthens its voice in international climate negotiations.
    South-South Cooperation: The ISA promotes South-South cooperation, with India playing a central role in facilitating technology transfer and capacity building among developing countries. This fosters solidarity and collaboration among the Global South.
    **2. Economic Opportunities:

    Green Economy Growth: The ISA’s initiatives contribute to the growth of India’s green economy by creating demand for solar technologies, attracting investments, and generating employment in the renewable energy sector.
    Export Potential: India’s leadership in the ISA boosts its solar industry, opening up export opportunities for Indian solar companies and positioning India as a hub for solar technology and expertise.
    **3. Domestic Energy Security:

    Renewable Energy Targets: India’s active involvement in the ISA aligns with its domestic renewable energy targets, including the ambitious goal of achieving 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. The ISA facilitates access to resources and partnerships needed to meet these targets.
    Energy Access: The promotion of solar energy through the ISA helps address energy access challenges in rural and remote areas of India, providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions.
    **4. Environmental and Social Benefits:

    Carbon Emissions Reduction: The widespread adoption of solar energy contributes to significant reductions in carbon emissions, supporting India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and its national climate goals.
    Social Impact: Solar energy projects implemented under the ISA create social benefits, including improved livelihoods, enhanced education and healthcare facilities through electrification, and empowerment of local communities.
    Conclusion
    The International Solar Alliance (ISA) plays a pivotal role in promoting renewable energy and climate change mitigation globally. India’s leadership in establishing the ISA underscores its commitment to sustainable development and climate action. Through the ISA, India enhances its climate diplomacy, drives economic growth in the green sector, and contributes to global efforts to combat climate change. The alliance provides a platform for India to share its expertise, attract investments, and strengthen its position as a global leader in renewable energy.

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Ayon Iyengar
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Ayon IyengarLearner
Asked: January 21, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Objective: Introduce the SCO and provide an overview of its goals and purpose. Key points: Mention its founding, member states, and its goals in politics, trade, security, and regional stability. Example: The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), established in ...

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), since its inception in 2001, aimed to foster political, economic, and security cooperation among member states in Eurasia. While it has made notable strides in certain areas, its overall progress has been slower than many expecteRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), since its inception in 2001, aimed to foster political, economic, and security cooperation among member states in Eurasia. While it has made notable strides in certain areas, its overall progress has been slower than many expected. Despite this, the SCO has successfully established itself as a key platform for regional cooperation, particularly in security and economic sectors.

    Security Cooperation

    Joint Military Exercises: The SCO has conducted regular joint military exercises, such as the Peaceful Mission, to enhance coordination and interoperability among the armed forces of member states. These exercises focus primarily on counterterrorism operations, a central concern for the organization.

    Intelligence Sharing: Through the SCO-Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), the organization facilitates intelligence sharing among member states, enhancing collective security efforts against regional threats, such as terrorism.

    Border Security Cooperation: The SCO has supported joint border operations to address issues like illegal migration and cross-border terrorism. For example, China’s People’s Armed Police has collaborated with Afghan and Tajik forces for counterterrorism patrols along their shared borders.

    Economic Cooperation

    Infrastructure Development: The SCO has facilitated key infrastructure projects to improve regional connectivity. Notably, the Samarkand Declaration outlines initiatives to enhance transportation and technological infrastructure, thereby fostering economic integration.

    Financial Cooperation: The SCO Interbank Consortium, established to support investment in member states, has played a pivotal role. As of August 2022, China Development Bank had approved 63 projects worth $14.6 billion, demonstrating the financial support for regional development.

    Boosting Trade and Investment: Trade among SCO members grew significantly, reaching $6 trillion by 2020, up from $667 billion in 2001. The SCO Business Council plays a vital role in fostering investment and trade among its members.

    Challenges and Unfulfilled Projects

    Despite these achievements, the SCO faces challenges in fulfilling its long-term economic goals. The Central Asia-China Gas Pipeline project has experienced significant delays due to pricing and transit disputes. Moreover, the proposed SCO Development Fund remains unrealized, with discussions continuing since 2013.

    Conclusion

    While the SCO has not advanced as rapidly as expected, its role in fostering security cooperation through joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and border security initiatives remains significant. In economic terms, the SCO has made progress in trade, investment, and infrastructure development, though several planned projects have yet to materialize. The organization’s future success depends on its ability to overcome internal differences and address the evolving needs of its member states.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: August 13, 2024In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Purpose: Introduce the context of BIMSTEC and SAARC as regional organizations. Key Points: Define BIMSTEC and SAARC. State the focus of the discussion: comparing the two organizations and India’s foreign policy objectives. 2. Similarities Between BIMSTEC and SAARC 1. Geographical Location Fact: ...

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) are regional organizations aimed at fostering cooperation among member states. While both organizations share similaRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) are regional organizations aimed at fostering cooperation among member states. While both organizations share similarities, they also have distinct differences that influence their effectiveness and the realization of Indian foreign policy objectives.

    Similarities Between BIMSTEC and SAARC

    1. Geographical Location: Both organizations are situated in South Asia, with member countries that share cultural, historical, and economic ties.
    2. Objectives: Both aim to promote regional cooperation and integration in areas such as trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
    3. Membership: Some countries are members of both organizations, indicating overlapping interests.

    Differences Between BIMSTEC and SAARC

    1. Membership: BIMSTEC includes seven countries from South and Southeast Asia, while SAARC has eight member countries exclusively from South Asia.
    2. Focus Areas: BIMSTEC emphasizes trade, economic cooperation, connectivity, and energy, whereas SAARC has a broader focus on social and cultural issues, including poverty alleviation and gender equality.
    3. Effectiveness: BIMSTEC has been more effective in achieving its objectives due to fewer political tensions and greater economic complementarity among its member countries.

    India’s Foreign Policy Objectives Realized Through BIMSTEC

    1. Reducing Dependence on SAARC: Given the political tensions within SAARC, India formed BIMSTEC to promote regional cooperation more effectively.
    2. Economic Integration: India aims to enhance economic integration among BIMSTEC member countries, contributing to its own economic growth and regional stability.
    3. Countering China’s Influence: Strengthening BIMSTEC is part of India’s strategy to counter China’s growing influence in the region and maintain its strategic interests.

    Conclusion

    While BIMSTEC can be viewed as a parallel organization to SAARC, it offers unique opportunities for regional cooperation and economic integration. For India, BIMSTEC serves as a vital platform to pursue its foreign policy objectives and strengthen ties with neighboring countries.

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Abhishek Singh
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Abhishek SinghLearner
Asked: July 18, 2024In:
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Determine how crucial the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) alliance is to India’s aspirations in the world. Talk about the main areas of collaboration, like development financing, geopolitical coordination, and global financial institution reform, as well as ...

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Yash Malhotra
    Yash Malhotra Begginer

    The BRICS grouping, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, holds substantial strategic importance for India's global ambitions. Here's an assessment of how BRICS influences India's global strategy and the key areas of cooperation, along with the challenges it faces: Strategic ImpRead more

    The BRICS grouping, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, holds substantial strategic importance for India’s global ambitions. Here’s an assessment of how BRICS influences India’s global strategy and the key areas of cooperation, along with the challenges it faces:

    Strategic Importance of BRICS for India
    **1. Influence on Global Governance:

    Alternative Global Order: BRICS provides a platform for emerging economies to challenge the existing global governance structures dominated by Western countries. This is significant for India as it seeks to play a more influential role in global affairs and advocate for a more balanced international order.
    **2. Economic and Development Cooperation:

    Economic Growth: By collaborating with other BRICS members, India can enhance its economic growth prospects through trade, investment, and development finance, which align with its economic ambitions and development needs.
    **3. Geopolitical Leverage:

    Strategic Partnerships: BRICS offers India opportunities to strengthen strategic partnerships with major emerging economies, helping to balance regional and global power dynamics, particularly in relation to Western countries and regional rivals.
    Key Areas of Cooperation
    **1. Reform of Global Financial Institutions:

    Institutional Reform: BRICS advocates for reforming institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank to better reflect the interests of emerging economies. India supports this agenda to ensure these institutions provide more equitable representation and support for developing countries.
    Alternative Mechanisms: The New Development Bank (NDB) established by BRICS aims to provide development finance and reduce dependence on traditional financial institutions. India benefits from this alternative financing source for infrastructure and development projects.
    **2. Development Finance:

    Infrastructure Investment: BRICS focuses on mobilizing resources for infrastructure projects in member countries and other developing nations. India utilizes the NDB for financing infrastructure projects that support its growth and development goals.
    South-South Cooperation: BRICS promotes South-South cooperation, where emerging economies collaborate to support each other’s development efforts. India engages in this framework to advance its development priorities and support regional partners.
    **3. Geopolitical Coordination:

    Unified Voice: BRICS serves as a platform for member countries to coordinate on geopolitical issues, providing a collective voice on global challenges. India uses this platform to align with other BRICS nations on critical issues like climate change, global trade, and security.
    Strategic Dialogues: Regular summits and meetings allow India to engage in strategic dialogues with major emerging economies, influencing global policies and enhancing its geopolitical standing.
    Challenges Posed by the Changing Global Landscape
    **1. Divergent Interests:

    Internal Disagreements: BRICS members have diverse national interests and geopolitical priorities, which can lead to disagreements and hinder cohesive action. For instance, India and China have competing interests in the Indo-Pacific region and border disputes, affecting the group’s unity.
    Economic Disparities: The economic conditions and development needs of BRICS members vary significantly, which can complicate efforts to create unified policies and strategies.
    **2. Global Power Shifts:

    Changing Alliances: The global landscape is shifting with emerging new alliances and changing dynamics in international relations. This can impact BRICS’s effectiveness and relevance, as member countries may prioritize other strategic partnerships.
    Geopolitical Tensions: Increased geopolitical tensions, such as the US-China rivalry, can affect BRICS’s cohesion and its ability to collectively address global issues.
    **3. Institutional Challenges:

    Operational Effectiveness: BRICS institutions like the NDB face challenges in terms of operational effectiveness and resource mobilization. Ensuring that these institutions function efficiently and fulfill their mandates is crucial for the group’s success.
    Institutional Credibility: The credibility of BRICS institutions in the global financial system depends on their ability to provide viable alternatives and demonstrate their effectiveness compared to established institutions.
    Conclusion
    The BRICS grouping is strategically important for India as it provides a platform to influence global governance, access development finance, and enhance geopolitical leverage. The key areas of cooperation, including the reform of global financial institutions, development finance, and geopolitical coordination, align with India’s global ambitions. However, the grouping faces challenges due to divergent member interests, shifting global power dynamics, and institutional effectiveness issues. India’s strategic engagement with BRICS will need to navigate these challenges while leveraging the group’s potential to advance its national interests on the global stage.

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Sanjay Tiwari
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Sanjay TiwariLearner
Asked: June 11, 2024In:
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Discuss whether the Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative of the G7 and the Global Gateway initiative of the European Union can offer an alternative for global infrastructure development in light of the mounting concerns about China’s Belt and Road ...

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Ram Lal
    Ram Lal Begginer

    Answer: China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is an ambitious infrastructure project that aims to build land and sea routes to link Asia, Africa, and Europe. Many policy analysts believe that the BRI is a state- backed campaign for global Chinese dominance and presents the following apprehensions:Read more

    Answer: China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is an ambitious infrastructure project that aims to build land and sea routes to link Asia, Africa, and Europe. Many policy analysts believe that the BRI is a state- backed campaign for global Chinese dominance and presents the following apprehensions:

    • Chinese investments in strategic sectors in developing and struggling economies have led to severe degree of economic dependence of these countries on China.
    • Due to the unsustainable debt-for-infrastructure deals, the host countries find themselves handing over substantial tracts of territory and natural resources to the Chinese, for example, the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka.
    • Several BRI projects violate the global principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity, for instance, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.
    • Many analysts believe that China is pursuing a ‘String of Pearls’ geo-economic strategy in the Indian Ocean, through which it may seize control of the regional choke points.
    • The host countries do not find opportunities to create skill and employment through these projects as almost 90% of all BRI contracts are executed by Chinese construction companies using Chinese labour.

    In this context, the Build Back Better World (B3W) of G7 and the EU’s ‘Global Gateway’ are deemed as alternatives that can fund the global infrastructure gap. BRI vs B3W:

    • The focus of both BRI and B3W differs. BRI is primarily focused on traditional hard infrastructure’ i.e., ports, roads, dams, railways, electric power plants, and telecommunication facilities. In comparison, the B3W focuses on “softer” outcomes, namely improvements in climate, health and health security, modernized digital technology, and gender equity and equality.
    • However, the G-7 and their partners have deep experience with bilateral and multilateral development finance, which could help address the $40+ trillion global infrastructure gaps identified by it.

    BRI vs Global Gateway:

    • The Global Gateway, similar to the BRI, aims at upgrading transport, digital and energy networks and making them smarter, greener and more sustainable. However, its target is broader as it also includes strengthening health, education, and research systems across the world.
    • The Global Gateway aims to mobilize 300 billion Euro until 2027 from public and private sources. It is in no match to the financial assistance provided through BRI. Besides, it is not fresh money and the majority of the capital consists of existing funds and loans guaranteed under different agreements. It is also questionable whether private sectors would participate or not as long-term investment in developing countries are risky.
    • The Global Gateway has started later in comparison to the BRI. By the end of 2021, 145 countries, including 18 EU members such as Greece, Greek Cyprus, Italy, Portugal, and Austria, have already signed on to the BRI, and China has already invested about $2.5 trillion.
    • The Global Gateway’s value-based approach conditions i.e. release of funds and investments on transparency and good governance will provide challenges as many countries in Africa and South-East Asia have undemocratic regimes.
    • Global Gateway’s present focus is its periphery, mainly Africa and eastern Europe, while the BRI encompasses the 6 major economic corridors across the world. However, the Central European and East European nations are still reliant on EU structural funds and cannot take a stand against Western Europe.

    The two initiatives are timely interventions. However, loans might give the lending countries power and influence over the domestic and foreign policy of the countries accepting the loans. To counter the neo-colonialist policy of any nation, it is essential that the rest of the world provides an integrated alternative approach rather than individual commitments. The developing countries also need to be aware and resist falling trap to the hidden agenda.

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Nitu Singh
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Nitu SinghBegginer
Asked: June 6, 2024In:
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Along with advancing its economic and security objectives, India’s leadership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) offers it a chance to strengthen its ties with the countries of Central Asia. Talk. (Answer in 150 words)

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
  1. Animesh Singh
    Animesh Singh Learner

    Answer: India would preside over the eight members Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), for a year until September 2023, which has the stated objective of promoting mutually beneficial regional cooperation in the security, cultural, economic, and developmental realms. The SCO is one of the biggeRead more

    Answer: India would preside over the eight members Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), for a year until September 2023, which has the stated objective of promoting mutually beneficial regional cooperation in the security, cultural, economic, and developmental realms. The SCO is one of the biggest international organizations representing almost 30% of the global GDP and 40% of the global population and connects three regions of the world namely Eurasia, Central Asia, and South Asia. SCO Presidency as an opportunity for India:

    • Deepening of relations with the Central Asian Region (CAR): India shares cultural, political, economic, and security interests with this region.
      • India’s existing outreach mechanism with CARs such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and India-Central Asia Dialogue mechanism would receive a further boost at the platform of the SCO.
      • Along with the continued focus on 3Cs cooperation, connectivity, and capacity, new pillars of collaboration such as security, energy, developmental, and defense sectors can be further strengthened.
      • It can provide opportunities for India to engage with the Central Asian nations on cultural issues. This can help to enhance cultural ties and promote greater understanding between India and the Central Asian nations.
    • Economic opportunities: India can use its presidency to promote economic cooperation within the SCO and Central Asian region. For instance, facilitating negotiations for a regional free trade agreement or launching joint infrastructure projects.
    • Greater connectivity: With the possible inclusion of Iran into the SCO, the INSTC and connectivity through the Chabahar Port can reach their full potential and bring markets, resources, and people of Eurasia and India closer to each other.
    • Energy cooperation: Greater access to the CARs and operationalization of projects such as TAPI, with greater cooperation among SCO members, including Pakistan, can help India diversify its energy supplies. This would result in better energy security for India.
    • Security cooperation: The institutionalized intelligence tracking and sharing under the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATs) of SCO can help India tackle the threat posed by radicalism, extremism, and terrorism. Further, threats emanating from Taliban rule in Afghanistan can be effectively addressed by wider cooperation among member states paving the way for regional stability in the region.
    • Increased regional influence: India’s presidency of the SCO provides a platform for India to play a more active role in shaping the regional security architecture and promoting its strategic interests in the region. This can help to enhance India’s regional influence and visibility.
    • Strengthen multi-polarity: The SCO platform presents India as a reliable developmental partner for CARs who are also looking to diversify their relations beyond Russia and China and strengthen their strategic autonomy.

    The SECURE proposal of India has achieved wider acceptance among the SCO member states. However, to fully utilize the potential of its presidency and the SCO as a whole, India would have to involve in deft diplomacy and find a way around many contradictions in the group itself.

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Team
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TeamSupreme
Asked: September 10, 2024In:
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“The next few decades are projected to be Africa’s growth tale, if the prior few were of Asia’s.” Examine India’s recent influence in Africa in light of this assertion. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
Ayon Iyengar
  • 0
Ayon IyengarLearner
Asked: January 21, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). Mention its launch by the United States and its aim to enhance economic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Highlight the four key pillars: Trade, Supply Chains, Clean Economy, and ...

upsc: regional & global groupings & agreements
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    Model Answer India's participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) brings numerous strategic and economic advantages across various sectors. The IPEF, launched by the United States, aims to promote sustainable growth, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region throRead more

    Model Answer

    India’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) brings numerous strategic and economic advantages across various sectors. The IPEF, launched by the United States, aims to promote sustainable growth, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region through its four key pillars: trade, supply chains, clean economy, and fair economy. Although India has observer status in the trade pillar, it is actively involved in the other three.

    Diversification from China

    One of the significant benefits for India is the diversification away from China. The Supply Chain Resilience Agreement aims to reduce dependency on China, mitigating risks of disruptions from supply chain shocks. India, with its growing manufacturing sector, can position itself as an alternative global sourcing hub. In 2022, India’s trade deficit with China exceeded $100 billion, underscoring the need for this shift in trade dynamics .

    Manufacturing and Infrastructure Growth

    India stands to gain from the potential relocation of production centers in critical sectors. This shift will bolster domestic manufacturing capacities and attract investments, supporting India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative. Enhanced infrastructure and industrial growth would create job opportunities and strengthen India’s economic position.

    Innovation in Clean Technologies

    The Clean Economy Agreement under IPEF presents an opportunity for India to attract inward investments in clean technologies. This could lead to the development of low-cost climate technologies, new export avenues, and additional employment. The IPEF partners have pledged $33 million in initial funding for the Clean Economy Agreement, supporting sustainable growth.

    Strengthened Anti-Corruption Measures

    India also benefits from the Fair Economy Agreement, which aims to enhance cooperation on anti-corruption measures, tax reforms, and cross-border investigations. This will aid in tackling issues like corruption, money laundering, and terror financing, improving the transparency and security of India’s economic environment.

    Enhancing Economic and Security Resilience

    Finally, increased cooperation under IPEF helps India collaborate on addressing shared challenges such as natural disasters and cybersecurity threats, enhancing both economic and security resilience in the region.

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