(Opinion) India recently hosted the G20 summit and emerged as a surprising diplomatic leader.
The country navigated complex issues like the Ukraine crisis without taking sides, focusing instead on a peaceful resolution.
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted India’s role as a mediator, proving its capacity to foster global unity.
The final statement from the summit reflected this nuance, avoiding direct criticism of Russia while emphasizing UN principles and the human toll.
The G20 has evolved from an economic forum to a platform that addresses geopolitics.
While countries like the U.S. sought to corner Russia with strong language, India’s diplomatic finesse led to a balanced statement.
This showcases India’s increasing importance in achieving international consensus.
One significant development was the African Union’s new status as a full G20 member.
This fits perfectly with India’s “multialignment” strategy, designed to extend its global influence beyond traditional powers.
Unlike countries such as Japan or South Korea, which are leaning more towards the U.S., India is emerging as a different voice, particularly for nations in the Global South.
This balanced approach brings economic advantages too.
India has smartly used this position to purchase Russian oil at discounted rates, benefiting its economy while maintaining western ties.
But critics ask, is this sustainable? The world’s reaction to India’s diplomatic maneuvers is mixed.
Some applaud it as the right course in a complex world, while others question its viability in an increasingly polarized environment.
But one thing is clear: India’s role in the G20 solidifies its growing global influence.
Only time will tell whether this is a diplomatic masterstroke or a risky tightrope walk.