India-China Relations
The first formal meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping in five years marked a significant thaw in relations.
Disengagement negotiations at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) were a major breakthrough, though trust restoration remains a long-term goal.
Bilateral Partnerships
France reaffirmed its strong ties with India during President Macron's Republic Day visit.
The successful conclusion of the India-European Free Trade Association agreement bolstered economic relations with Europe.
Regional Diplomacy
Strengthened ties with Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives through high-level visits and mutual acknowledgments.
SCO summit visit to Pakistan by EAM Jaishankar, the first in nearly a decade, indicated cautious engagement.
Challenges in 2024
Bangladesh Transition
The ousting of PM Sheikh Hasina strained India-Bangladesh ties, a critical connectivity partnership.
Canada Relations
Diplomatic ties deteriorated following allegations over the Nijjar killing, with Canada implicating Indian officials.
U.S. Dynamics
Tensions emerged over indictments related to Indian officials and businesses, but the election of President Trump brought hope for pro-India policies.
Global Conflicts
Balancing acts in the Russia-Ukraine war, Israel-Palestine crisis, and escalating West Asian tensions were significant tests of Indian diplomacy.
2025 Diplomatic Agenda
Strengthening U.S. Ties
Mr. Trump’s visit for the Quad Summit and NSA Jake Sullivan’s iCET meet signal a focus on deepening strategic and technological cooperation.
Engagement with West Asia
Ministerial visits from Iran and recalibration of bilateral ties with West Asian nations in light of regional conflicts.
Strategic Visits
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit, his first since the Ukraine war began, will be pivotal.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will attend Republic Day celebrations, highlighting Southeast Asian engagement.
2024: A Year in Perspective
Indian foreign policy in 2024 demonstrated resilience in navigating complex global and regional challenges.
The focus on multilateralism, bilateral diplomacy, and balancing strategic interests underscored New Delhi’s adaptability.
Outlook for 2025
The coming year promises to be more dynamic, with evolving regional challenges and opportunities for advancing India’s strategic autonomy and global influence.
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