“India must see its own growth with optimism and confidence because world is placing its long-term bets on India and we will be at the forefront of International discourse,” observed Sujan Chinoy, Director General of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses and former Ambassador of India to Japan and Mexico, while speaking at a panel discussion on ‘The Changing Face of India’s Foreign Relations: From Neighbours to Global Players’ at Orange City Literature Festival at Chitnavis Centre on Sunday. Ajay Bisaria, former Ambassador to Pakistan, Canada, Poland, and Lithuania ; and TCA Raghavan, former High Commissioner of India to Pakistan also were part of the panel moderated by Samira Sood, senior journalist. “It’s not so much about India aspiring to be a major power, it is about the world already regarding India as a major power since it values India’s civilisational legacy,” added Sujan Chinoy while explaining the context behind expanding role of India at global stage. TCA Raghavan, however, advised a cautious approach.

 

He said, “Aspirations of becoming a global player are alright but we should not let our ambitions cloud our thinking and make us imagine a situation which does not exist.” He said that the country need to prioritise solving domestic issues first. “We face serious issues of distribution of resources, development, malnourishment, and education. If we address these effectively, our role in the world will establish on its own without having to make a claim to be a global player,” he added. Ajay Bisaria shed light on various challenges of India like managing domestic issues, managing neighbourhoods and taking care of global interests. “India needs to tackle all challenges simultaneously. As a aspiring major power, India’s instinct is to stabilise the periphery,” he explained. He also said that India offering itself to be available for any peace building in global conflict is a right step towards becoming a major power. During a discussion regarding India-Canada relations in the light of recent expulsion of Indian diplomats, Ajay Bisaria called it a mistake on Canada’s side. He said, “Canada is not a new Pakistan, but Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, is a new Bhutto.”

 

He explained, unlike Pakistan, the tensions between India and Canada are confined to government-to-government relations. Donald Trump’s victory in recently concluded US Presidential elections received mixed reactions from the panel. Chinoy said, “There will be reduced evangelism on human rights and democratic freedom. But at the same time, there is likely to be increased transactional pressure on India with regard to trade and investment issues.” Ajay Bisaria suspected that India might have to face tough times with regard to tariffs and immigration issues. He also warned that USA was entering a very uncertain and disruptive phase of its history and India should be very careful to be drawn into close relations with it. The attendees to the panel discussion were comprised of many youngsters reflecting increasing keen interest in International relations among the youngsters.