World Leader Donald Trump's Embrace with International Counterparts Not Necessarily Reflecting Diplomacy: as Displayed by Bhopinder Singh
In recent years, India's diplomatic landscape has undergone significant changes, with Russia emerging as a "true friend" and the focus shifting from achieving results to how diplomatic engagements appear. This transition has been marked by a more pragmatic approach, as exemplified by the diplomatic philosophy of K. Subramanyam, a renowned figure in India's strategic affairs.
K. Subramanyam, often described as a "pragmatic realist," held a strong vision for India's national interest. His diplomacy was grounded in substance rather than optics or political theatre, a stark contrast to the pageantry diplomacy that characterises some current interactions. His thinking evolved and adapted with time and circumstances, unaffected by hard-wired political ideologies.
The current Foreign Minister of India, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is the son of K. Subramanyam. His appointment reflects a continuation of the pragmatic approach to diplomacy that his father championed. However, the current diplomatic culture is marred by jingoistic fervour, partisanship, and personality cult, a departure from the more nuanced approach advocated by K. Subramanyam.
One of the key challenges faced by India in its diplomatic relations is the unresolved visa and immigration issues with Russia. Despite effective media management by the Indian government, no conclusive deal has been announced on trade matters between the two countries.
The diplomatic landscape has been further complicated by India's strained relations with its neighbours. Anti-India governments are in place in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and the Maldives. India has also experienced armed conflicts with China and Pakistan, adding to the complexity of its foreign policy.
The Trump administration's actions have caused a rude shock, mocking the "huglomacy" style of diplomacy. Trump's "Abki Baar Trump Sarkar" chorus by the Indian Prime Minister was a misguided attempt that failed to deliver on promises. The assumption that Pakistan would be dealt with more firmly under Trump proved to be naive.
Questioning foreign and security policy in today's times can lead to questions about one's patriotism. This atmosphere of partisanship and jingoism has made it difficult for the Opposition to hold the government accountable for its media management strategies.
Despite these challenges, K. Subramanyam's influence on modern Indian diplomacy remains significant. His focus on substance over optics serves as a guiding principle for India's diplomatic engagements, offering a path towards more effective and sustainable foreign policy.
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