India is urged to take an active role in mediating the Ukraine-Russia war, moving beyond the argument that it should wait until it becomes more powerful. The current geopolitical context offers unique opportunities for India to engage with multiple stakeholders and enhance its international standing. With significant economic strengths compared to other mediators, India’s involvement is timely and essential.
The notion that India must defer its mediation in global conflicts, such as the Ukraine-Russia war, until it attains greater power is fundamentally flawed. The Ministry of External Affairs stated last year, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Kyiv visit, that “India is willing to provide all possible support and contributions required to help find peaceful solutions to this complex issue.” It may well be the appropriate moment for India to pursue mediatory efforts to conclude the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
New Delhi’s approach of not condemning Russia following its invasion and its attempts to maintain a balance between Russia and the West have proved beneficial. Its strategic choices have resulted in satisfactory outcomes. However, as the geopolitical landscape evolves, particularly in the context of U.S. politics, India can no longer afford to remain passive. The current negotiations in Riyadh could serve as a pivotal opportunity for India to propose its mediation efforts, aiming for a ceasefire between the conflicting nations, along with American participation.
India should mediate now for three primary reasons. First, the timing appears opportune as Russia seeks to end sanctions and engage with the U.S., evidenced by the nascent dialogues in Riyadh. Although Russia is making advances, it requires integration into European security discussions, which are essential for an end to the war.
Secondly, India enjoys a unique acceptability among various stakeholders in the conflict. Unlike China, which faces skepticism from the U.S. and the Russians, India represents a neutral partner trusted by both sides, offering significant diplomatic leverage. Thirdly, India’s involvement aligns with its national interests, enhancing its aspirations as a global leader in a multipolar world.
Moreover, should a ceasefire occur, Ukraine will seek assurances against future Russian aggression, potentially involving Indian peacekeepers due to their experience and neutrality. India should aim not just to be a participant in post-conflict solutions but should take the initiative to negotiate and secure peace actively.
What impedes India’s mediation efforts are three considerable fears. The foremost is the apprehension of failure; many peace negotiations historically yield limited results. However, India’s involvement need not solely hinge on achieving positive resolutions; often, mediation also grants geopolitical clout and status.
Additionally, mediation is not solely about conflict resolution, but providing a platform for dialogue, which adversaries may be inclined to pursue. Practically, India should appoint a special envoy to engage discreetly with the involved parties, discern their demands, and propose a negotiation venue.
It is inappropriate to believe that India should wait for enhanced power to mediate in such conflicts. Comparatively, India’s economic standing is significantly stronger than many nations currently mediating. It is the will to engage and seize opportunities that matter more than mere economic size. For a nation often subject to third-party mediation in its historical conflicts, it is time for India to take the reins in resolving others’ disputes.
In summary, India is uniquely positioned to mediate the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, given its strategic interests and favorable reception among the involved parties. The current geopolitical situation necessitates active participation in peace efforts, which can enhance India’s status and influence on the global stage. As such, India must overcome its fears of failure and proactively engage in dialogue and mediation to align with its ambitions as a rising global power.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
