The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC): A Strategic Imperative Despite Geopolitical Headwinds
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor - IMEEC, I2U2, Abraham Accords); World Geography (Arctic Route, Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Key ports like Haifa); Economy (Connectivity projects, Global Value Chains).
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2 (International Relations): Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests; Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests. The IMEEC is a major connectivity initiative with huge geopolitical implications for India.
Key Highlights from the News
Despite geopolitical headwinds in the Middle East, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) remains equally important for both India and Europe, the article argues.
IMEEC is a multimodal transport project connecting India with Europe via the Arabian Peninsula. It includes sea and rail routes, as well as energy and data lines.
Challenge to the project: The Hamas attack in October 2023 and the subsequent Gaza War. This worsened relations between Israel and Arab countries, a key part of the corridor.
Reasons why IMEEC is still important:
Mediterranean countries like Italy need it to counter the new Arctic trade route opening due to climate change.
Houthi disruptions in the Red Sea highlight the risks of existing sea routes. Therefore, resilient supply chains are needed.
It will help increase India-Europe trade.
Strong economic ties with Arab countries will help India reduce Pakistan's influence in the region.
Therefore, the article suggests innovative approaches are needed, such as finding alternative routes via Egyptian ports instead of Israel's Haifa port.
COMMENTS