Raisina Dialogue 2018

Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, inaugurated the third edition of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi. The Raisina Dialogue, an annual multilateral conference held in New Delhi since 2016, has become India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, addressing critical issues facing the global community. The Observer Research Foundation, an independent think tank, hosts the conference in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs of India. The theme for the 2018 dialogue was 'Managing Disruptive Transitions: Ideas, Institutions and Idioms'.

The Raisina Dialogue, inaugurated in 2016, quickly established itself as a pivotal platform for India to project its growing influence on the global stage. The 2018 edition, with its theme of 'Managing Disruptive Transitions: Ideas, Institutions and Idioms,' underscored the complexities and challenges facing the international community amidst a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The presence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the inaugural speaker signaled the deepening strategic partnership between India and Israel, while also highlighting the Dialogue's increasing prominence as a venue for high-level diplomatic engagement. The conference's structure, bringing together political leaders, policymakers, academics, and business executives from around the world, facilitates a comprehensive and multi-faceted discussion of pressing global issues, solidifying India's role as a convener and shaper of international discourse.

The Genesis of the Raisina Dialogue

The Raisina Dialogue emerged from a perceived need for India to have a dedicated forum for discussing and shaping the global narrative on issues of strategic importance. Prior to its inception, India's engagement in international discourse was largely confined to existing multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, and various regional organizations. While these platforms remained crucial, they often lacked the specific focus and flexibility required to address the evolving challenges of the 21st century. The Dialogue's creation was therefore driven by a desire to create an India-centric platform that could serve as a hub for intellectual exchange, policy formulation, and strategic networking.

The selection of the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) as the primary organizer of the Raisina Dialogue was a strategic decision. ORF, an independent think tank with a strong track record of policy research and advocacy, possessed the necessary expertise and credibility to convene a high-level international conference. Its independence from direct government control also allowed for a more open and diverse range of perspectives to be presented and debated. The collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) provided the necessary governmental support and legitimacy, ensuring that the Dialogue aligned with India's foreign policy objectives.

The name "Raisina Dialogue" itself carries symbolic weight. Raisina Hill, where the presidential palace and key government buildings are located, represents the seat of power in India. By naming the conference after this iconic location, the organizers sought to emphasize India's central role in shaping the global agenda.

Understanding Geopolitics and Geo-economics

The Raisina Dialogue's focus on geopolitics and geo-economics reflects the interconnected nature of these two fields in the modern world. Geopolitics, at its core, examines the influence of geography on political behavior and international relations. It considers factors such as a country's location, natural resources, population distribution, and physical features in understanding its strategic priorities and foreign policy decisions. For example, a landlocked country may prioritize access to seaports and trade routes, while a country with abundant natural resources may seek to exert influence over global commodity markets.

Geo-economics, on the other hand, focuses on the economic aspects of geopolitics. It examines how economic factors, such as trade, investment, financial flows, and technological innovation, shape international relations and national power. In an increasingly globalized world, economic interdependence has become a major driver of geopolitical dynamics. Countries use economic tools, such as trade agreements, sanctions, and foreign aid, to advance their strategic interests and exert influence over other nations. The Belt and Road Initiative, for instance, is a major geo-economic project by China to increase its global influence.

The interplay between geopolitics and geo-economics is evident in numerous contemporary issues. For example, the competition for energy resources in the South China Sea has both geopolitical and geo-economic dimensions. The region's strategic location and vast oil and gas reserves have made it a focal point of territorial disputes and power rivalries. Similarly, the ongoing trade war between the United States and China reflects a broader geopolitical competition for economic dominance.

The Role of the Observer Research Foundation (ORF)

The Observer Research Foundation (ORF) plays a critical role in shaping the intellectual landscape of India and beyond. As an independent think tank, ORF conducts research and analysis on a wide range of issues, including foreign policy, security, economics, and development. Its work is aimed at informing policymakers, academics, and the general public about the key challenges and opportunities facing India and the world.

ORF's independence allows it to offer a diverse range of perspectives and challenge conventional wisdom. It brings together experts from different backgrounds and disciplines to engage in rigorous debate and analysis. Its publications and events provide a platform for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to share their insights and ideas.

ORF's role in hosting the Raisina Dialogue is a testament to its credibility and influence. The Dialogue provides ORF with an opportunity to showcase its research and expertise to a global audience. It also allows ORF to shape the agenda of the conference and ensure that it addresses the most pressing issues facing the international community.

However, ORF's influence is limited by its status as an independent think tank. It lacks the direct governmental authority to implement its policy recommendations. Its influence is primarily exerted through research, advocacy, and public education. ORF must therefore rely on its ability to persuade policymakers and the public of the merits of its ideas.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Indian Foreign Policy

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is the government agency responsible for formulating and implementing India's foreign policy. It plays a crucial role in shaping India's relations with other countries and international organizations. The MEA's mission is to promote India's national interests, protect its security, and contribute to global peace and prosperity.

The MEA's work is guided by a set of core principles, including non-alignment, peaceful coexistence, and multilateralism. India has a long tradition of promoting international cooperation and dialogue. It has been an active member of the United Nations and other international organizations. It has also played a leading role in the Non-Aligned Movement, which seeks to promote the interests of developing countries.

The MEA's collaboration with ORF in organizing the Raisina Dialogue reflects India's commitment to engaging with the world on a wide range of issues. The Dialogue provides the MEA with a platform to promote India's foreign policy objectives and strengthen its relationships with other countries. It also allows the MEA to gather insights and perspectives from leading experts and policymakers from around the world.

The MEA's powers are derived from its authority to implement and shape India's foreign policy. It has the power to negotiate treaties, represent India in international forums, and provide foreign aid to other countries. However, the MEA's powers are also subject to governmental policies and priorities. It must operate within the framework of the government's overall foreign policy strategy.

Historical Precedents: The Shangri-La Dialogue

The Raisina Dialogue is not the first international conference of its kind. Other similar forums have been established in different parts of the world to address specific regional or global challenges. One notable example is the Shangri-La Dialogue, which is held annually in Singapore.

The Shangri-La Dialogue, officially known as the IISS Asia Security Summit, is a defense forum where ministers, permanent heads of ministries and military chiefs from Asia-Pacific states discuss confidence building and security cooperation issues. It is organized by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), a British research institute.

The Shangri-La Dialogue has served as a platform for discussing security issues and fostering cooperation among countries in the Asia-Pacific region. It has played a role in promoting dialogue and understanding on sensitive issues, such as territorial disputes in the South China Sea. It has also helped to build trust and confidence among military leaders from different countries.

The success of the Shangri-La Dialogue demonstrates the importance of such forums in addressing global challenges and promoting diplomatic engagement. It provides a valuable model for the Raisina Dialogue, which seeks to achieve similar goals on a broader global scale. The Shangri-La Dialogue focuses primarily on security issues in the Asia-Pacific region, while the Raisina Dialogue addresses a wider range of geopolitical and geo-economic issues on a global scale.

Stakeholder Positions: India and Israel

India and Israel are two key stakeholders in the Raisina Dialogue. Both countries have a strong interest in promoting international cooperation and addressing global challenges. However, their specific interests and priorities may differ.

India's official position is to enhance its role as a global leader and promote international cooperation. It seeks to strengthen its diplomatic influence, promote its economic interests, and address security challenges. India has been actively participating in global forums and hosting events such as the Raisina Dialogue to advance these goals.

India's underlying interests are rooted in its desire to become a major player in the international system. It seeks to shape the global agenda and promote its own values and interests. India also recognizes that it faces a number of significant challenges, including poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. It believes that international cooperation is essential to addressing these challenges.

Israel's official position is to strengthen its relationship with India and engage in discussions on global issues. It seeks to enhance its diplomatic ties, promote its security interests, and explore economic opportunities. Prime Minister Netanyahu's participation in the Raisina Dialogue reflects Israel's commitment to these goals.

Israel's underlying interests are driven by its unique geopolitical situation. It faces a number of security threats in the Middle East. It also seeks to promote its economic and technological development. Israel sees India as a valuable partner in addressing these challenges. The two countries have developed close ties in areas such as defense, agriculture, and technology.

Broader Implications: Political, Diplomatic, and Economic

The Raisina Dialogue has a number of broader implications for India and the world. Politically, it strengthens India's position as a key player in international politics. It provides India with a platform to project its influence and shape the global agenda. The Dialogue also helps to enhance India's soft power, making it a more attractive partner for other countries.

Diplomatically, the Raisina Dialogue enhances India's relations with participating countries. It provides an opportunity for leaders and policymakers to engage in informal discussions and build personal relationships. The Dialogue also helps to foster a sense of shared understanding and cooperation on key issues.

Economically, the Raisina Dialogue promotes economic cooperation and investment opportunities. It brings together business leaders from different countries to explore potential partnerships and investments. The Dialogue also helps to showcase India's economic potential and attract foreign investment.

The Dialogue also has implications for security. It provides a platform for discussing security challenges and fostering cooperation among countries. The Dialogue helps to promote dialogue and understanding on sensitive security issues, such as terrorism and cyber warfare. It also helps to build trust and confidence among military leaders from different countries.

Connections and Context: India's Multilateral Engagement

The Raisina Dialogue is connected to a number of related ongoing issues in Indian foreign relations. It reflects India's growing engagement in multilateral forums. India has been actively participating in organizations such as the United Nations, the G20, and the BRICS group. It has also been hosting events such as the Raisina Dialogue to promote international cooperation and dialogue.

The Dialogue is also connected to India's focus on strengthening its relations with key strategic partners. India has been developing closer ties with countries such as the United States, Japan, and Israel. These partnerships are based on shared interests and values. They are also aimed at promoting regional stability and addressing global challenges.

Furthermore, the Raisina Dialogue relates to India's efforts to address global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and economic inequality. India recognizes that these challenges require international cooperation. It has been actively participating in global efforts to address these challenges. It has also been promoting its own initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance, to promote sustainable development.

Historical Connections: Non-Alignment and Multilateralism

The Raisina Dialogue has historical connections to India's long history of promoting international cooperation and dialogue. India has been a strong advocate of multilateralism since its independence in 1947. It played a leading role in the Non-Aligned Movement, which sought to promote the interests of developing countries during the Cold War.

India's commitment to multilateralism is rooted in its belief that international cooperation is essential to addressing global challenges. It has consistently supported the United Nations and other international organizations. It has also been a strong advocate of peaceful conflict resolution and the rule of law.

The Raisina Dialogue is a continuation of this tradition. It provides a platform for countries to come together to discuss and address the pressing issues facing the world. It reflects India's commitment to promoting international cooperation and dialogue.

Future Outlook: A Continuing Platform for Global Influence

The Raisina Dialogue is likely to continue as a key platform for international discussions and cooperation. It has established itself as a valuable forum for leaders, policymakers, and experts to engage in dialogue and address global challenges. The Dialogue's focus on geopolitics and geo-economics is particularly relevant in the current global environment.

The Dialogue is also likely to continue to enhance India's global influence. It provides India with a platform to project its views and shape the global agenda. It also helps to strengthen India's relationships with other countries.

The future success of the Raisina Dialogue will depend on its ability to adapt to the changing global landscape. It will need to remain relevant and engaging to attract top leaders and experts from around the world. It will also need to continue to promote innovative ideas and solutions to the challenges facing the international community.