TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 217

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 217

Q1. India has invited Pakistan to an SCO meeting despite strained bilateral relations. Is this a sign of diplomatic weakness or strategic maturity?

Answer: Sir/Ma'am, I consider it an example of strategic maturity rather than weakness. India and Pakistan have serious differences, particularly concerning terrorism and regional security. However, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a multilateral platform where member countries cooperate on common issues. Inviting Pakistan to an SCO meeting does not automatically mean normalising bilateral relations. India can maintain a firm position against terrorism while participating in regional dialogue. Diplomatic engagement also allows India to communicate its concerns directly. My view is that a strong country should distinguish between national-security principles and diplomatic opportunities. Dialogue does not require surrendering national interests.

Q2. An editorial has warned that India's diplomatic positioning could weaken Russia's trust. Can India maintain close relations with Russia and the United States simultaneously?

Answer: Sir/Ma'am, India can maintain relations with both countries, but it requires careful diplomacy. Russia remains important for India's defence cooperation and energy security. The United States is important for technology, investment, trade and strategic cooperation. India should avoid treating international relations as a choice between two camps. However, strategic autonomy does not mean avoiding difficult decisions or giving unclear messages. India must communicate its positions consistently and assess every partnership according to national interests. My view is that strategic autonomy means having the freedom to make independent decisions while remaining a reliable and credible partner.