International Relations/Diplomacy
Others
Kashmir-Xinjiang Linkages in Modern and Contemporary Times

Due to its geographical contiguity and cultural affinity with Xinjiang and linkage with the Silk Route by means of much frequented Srinagar-Leh-Yarkand-Kashgar route, Kashmir played an important role in India’s relations with Central Asia since early times. But in modern times, the extent and pattern of political and commercial contacts between Kashmir and Xinjiang was conditioned by the Anglo-Russian rivalry over Central Asia.

Monthly Compilation of Views of VIF Expert Groups: January 2024

Having joined the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) on 16th January, soon after my superannuation from the Indian Navy on 31 December 2023, I have been assigned the onerous task of editing the ‘Monthly Expert Groups Report’. It is a tall order and I have some very big shoes to fill, considering that my predecessor, Commodore Gopal Suri (Retd.) was handling it. Nevertheless, it would be my endeavour to match up to him. Being my maiden effort, I wish to seek the indulgence of the readers.

BRICS, Russia and the Arctic: India’s Options

… with increasing multi spectrum Sino-Russian cooperation including in the Arctic Region, it is imperative for India not only to enhance its bilateral cooperation with Russia on the Arctic, but also to whole heartedly support the Russian proposal of enhanced BRICS+ engagement in the region …

Interaction with the Visiting Armenian Delegation

On February 21, the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) organised an interaction with the visiting Armenian delegation about the developments in the Eurasia region. Lt. General R. K. Sawhney delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the close cultural connections between India and Armenia, followed by a brief introduction to the current situation in the South Caucasus and how the shifting alliances are going to affect the region by Ambassador D. P. Srivastava.

India and the BRICS: A Post-XVth Summit Assessment

Among the many landmarks in the evolution of the BRICS, the XVth Summit held in August 2023 will find a mention because unlike other landmarks in specific areas of cooperation since the first Summit in 2009, this Summit added six new members to the grouping. There were several misgivings in India about the proposed expansion mainly because this was seen as a proposal of China to bring in China-friendly countries into the organisation. The BRICS however is much more than China.

Monthly Compilation of Views of VIF Expert Groups: November - December 2023

As 2023 came to a close, the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) deliberated on regional issues with implications for India as part of the discussions in its Strategic Issues Group. The ongoing Israel–Palestine conflict has serious implications for India and during the deliberations of this Group, it was abundantly clear that the appetite for the two-state solution seems to have dwindled on both sides. Israel’s stated objective of destroying Hamas appears to be very ambitious, considering the widespread resistance to its ideology, both in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

Monthly Compilation of Views of VIF Expert Groups: October 2023

Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF)has been deliberating on S& T issues that affect our national capabilities in this domain. The S& T Expert Group held a discussion to understand the dynamics of ‘Electronics, Trade and Geopolitics’ wherein India’s capabilities, shortfalls and the required policy to stimulate efforts in these directions were deliberated upon. Global trade has a large component of technology, especially electronics. Increasing India’s share in global tradewill necessitate expansion of India’ electronic goods manufacturing capability.

India and the Changing World Order (Emerging paradigm shift in the changing global, political and economic order)

India and the Changing World breaks free from conventional boundaries, delving fearlessly into the realms of emerging civilizational, religious, and historical matters. Its purpose lies in sparking essential conversations about broader matters, such as civilizational, cultural, and social diversity issues that have been overlooked in the shaping of the post-World War II and post-Cold War global order. As the existing global order confronts unprecedented challenges, this book serves as a catalyst, fueling a discourse that captures the essence of a rapidly evolving world.

Monthly Compilation of Views of VIF Expert Groups: September 2023

Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) held discussions on the recently concluded BRICS Summit and developments in Pakistan while also looking at geoeconomic implications from economic growth rates to energy transition and trade for India during the month.

Monthly Compilation of Views of VIF Expert Groups: August 2023

Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) held a number of discussions during the month. Geopolitical tensions and technological competition are affecting US-China economic engagement. Factors influencing economic dynamics include sanctions, export controls, and supply chain adjustments have consequently come to international relevance since they affect countries around the globe including India. These issues along with the impact of US-China economic competition on India and the Indo-Pacific region were deliberated in the US Expert Group.

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