Courtesy: Wikipedia
Statements by Donald Trump, the business magnate turned serious contender for the Oval Office, assert that he wants “good” political and economic deals for the U.S. - even if it means dismantling alliances, i.e. the geopolitical equivalents of Bretton Woods that underwrote the U.S .domination in Europe, Asia and Middle East for more than six decades. A new era could dawn.
Courtesy: MEA / Flickr
India has hosted a plethora of India-Africa conferences, expressing commitment to deepen mutual cooperation. It is further expected that the president, vice president, and prime minister may visit Africa this year, to follow up actively. Indeed, a senior official predicts Africa will even become “the diplomatic flavour in 2016”. An analysis.
Courtesy: Whitehouse.gov
Once the fourth and final global Nuclear Security Summit is held this week in Washington, D.C., the challenge will primarily be for bureaucrats to continue working and keep leaders engaged on nuclear security. Inertia on this issue, especially when there is growing intelligence on security breaches, could be deadly.
Courtesy: Tasnim News Agency
As Iran emerges from three decade of economic sanctions, it has embarked on a quest to reunite with its traditional trade partners like India. Both countries have much to give and take as they invigorate trade ties and explore new possibilities.
Courtesy: MEA / Flickr
The talking points for Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia will include the obvious: oil, diaspora and economic engagement. What remains to be seen is how both countries differing relations with Iran and Pakistan might affect the dialogue.
Courtesy: Wikipedia
After the recent WTO ruling against India on the issue of local content of solar panels, India must revise its renewable energy strategy in favour of wind power. Instead of imported solar panels, India’s renewable capacities can use locally-manufactured windmills.
Courtesy: AP
Two weeks after Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced the Union Budget 2016-2017, it continues to be a hotly discussed topic. This pro-farmer budget has laid down great plans, but in a nation where Mars Missions and farmers suicides occur simultaneously, aspirations will have to take a backseat until the way forward has been paved.
Courtesy: Reuters
The power game in Myanmar has become clearer with the election of U Htin Kyaw as President. However unanswered questions remain as to the role of NLD leader, Aung Suu Kyi in this new government as well as how Myanmar will operate with two very different groups at the steering wheel.
Courtesy: Wikipedia
The Indian military faces persistent cyber espionage challenges, especially from social media platforms. It’s time for a pro-active approach.
Courtesy: Ministry of External Affairs / Flickr
A more robust foreign policy initiative is required for India to be seen as a serious player in the future of Afghanistan. Building dams and roads has ensured its presence as a partner in rebuilding the country, but its conservative handling of Afghan issues must be challenged, perhaps by following the Iran route, to push forward its geostrategic interests.