The U.S. established and extinguished multilateralism: India's strategic path in a changing global order
The article contends that the U.S., particularly under Donald Trump, has marginalized the UN and multilateralism, favoring bilateral deals that fragment the global order. It suggests India must accept this shift and focus on national prosperity and South-South cooperation. India needs to define 'strategic autonomy' and prioritize its core interests, looking East for ideas and trade agreements rather than West. The author highlights India's intrinsic strengths in the fourth industrial revolution and defense, advocating for a growth-focused approach, revisiting border issues, and leveraging opportunities like the BRICS Summit in 2026 to lead the Global South in fostering shared prosperity through reoriented tariffs and value chains.
Key Points
- The U.S. is shifting away from multilateralism towards bilateral deals, leading to a fragmentation of the global order.
- India should adapt by focusing on national prosperity, South-South cooperation, and clearly defining its 'strategic autonomy'.
- India's foreign policy should prioritize trade agreements with Eastern nations (e.g., ASEAN) and leverage its strengths in technology and defense.
- The article suggests India should re-evaluate its approach to border issues, focusing on growth and building trust with neighbors like China and Pakistan.
- The BRICS Summit in 2026 is presented as an opportunity for India to lead the Global South in fostering shared prosperity through reoriented tariffs and value chains.
Exam Facts
- BRICS Summit mentioned: July 2025 (past), 2026 (future opportunity in India).
- India's economic projection: Third largest economy by 2027, potentially overtaking U.S. by 2075.
- India's GenAI patents: Overtaken U.K. and Germany (according to World Intellectual Property Organization).
- Author: Mukul Sanwal, former United Nations diplomat.
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