The United Nations recently adopted the 'Convention against Cybercrime,' the first multilateral criminal justice instrument for cyberspace in two decades. While supported by 72 countries, major players like India, the US, Japan, and Canada did not sign it. India’s reluctance stems from concerns over the lack of institutional control over its citizens' data and the erosion of gains made in earlier climate-style conventions. The convention exposes a gap between international legal principles and on-ground realities, with critics fearing its broad definitions could be used to prosecute journalists or political opponents.
- The 2001 Budapest Convention on Cybercrime was seen as non-inclusive by many developing nations, leading to the new UN initiative.
- India seeks greater sovereignty over data and was disappointed that its proposals for institutional control were not retained.
- The US and EU are concerned that the convention's broad scope could infringe on human rights and lack procedural safeguards.
India and the European Union have announced the conclusion of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) during the 77th Republic Day celebrations. The talks, which began in 2007, faced numerous hurdles over two decades, including market access for sensitive agricultural items and environmental regulations. The deal, approved by both sides, now undergoes 'legal scrubbing' before ratification by the European Parliament and the 27 EU member states. This agreement is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade, which already exceeds $136 billion, and upgrade the strategic partnership to include enhanced defense and maritime security cooperation.
- Negotiations for the India-EU FTA first launched in 2007 and were relaunched in 2022 after a long freeze.
- The agreement covers trade in goods, services, and investment, while setting aside sectors where common ground could not be reached.
- The EU acts as a single customs bloc, making this one of the world's largest bilateral trade deals.
Relations between India and the UAE have reached a new level of strategic depth, highlighted by frequent high-level visits and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Bilateral trade has seen a 37% rise, with a target of $200 billion by 2032. UAE investments are significant in India's infrastructure, including the Dholera Investment Region and GIFT City. Cooperation has expanded into advanced sectors like nuclear energy (small modular reactors), food security (Bharat Mart), and connectivity (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor). The partnership is built on mutual trust, shared interests, and a commitment to regional stability.
- The CEPA has significantly boosted bilateral trade, with UAE exports to India rising by 28%.
- UAE's Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has committed $1 billion to India's National Investment and Infrastructure Fund.
- Strategic cooperation includes nuclear energy, semiconductors, and the development of the Dholera Investment Region.
This analysis explores the resurgence of neo-colonial posturing in global politics, specifically focusing on US interests in Greenland and Venezuela. Donald Trump's suggestion to 'purchase' Greenland reflects a desire for strategic mineral wealth (rare earths) and control over the Northern Sea Route (NSR), which is becoming viable due to Arctic ice melt. Similarly, the 'Donroe Doctrine' in Venezuela emphasizes securing resource extraction (oil) over traditional nation-building. These actions reflect a shift toward transactional foreign policy that prioritizes economic gain and strategic encroachment, potentially alienating allies and pushing them toward a resurgent China.
- Melting Arctic ice has increased the strategic importance of the Northern Sea Route for global trade.
- Greenland's rare earth minerals are a major point of interest for both the US and China.
- The 'Donroe Doctrine' represents a transactional approach to foreign policy, focusing on resource extraction in Venezuela.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is encouraging the Indian government to use its 2026 BRICS chairmanship to promote Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) for cross-border payments. CBDCs are digital forms of legal tender issued by central banks, utilizing blockchain for transparent and immutable transactions. This move aims to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar-based SWIFT system, which has excluded countries like Russia and Iran. While offering benefits like reduced money laundering and programmable transactions, the proposal faces risks, including potential U.S. retaliatory tariffs and complex regulatory hurdles between member nations.
- CBDCs are digital versions of national currencies (e.g., India's e-rupee) held in wallets separate from bank accounts.
- The proposal aims to facilitate faster, cheaper, and more transparent cross-border settlements within the BRICS+ grouping.
- Blockchain technology ensures that transactions are permanent and can be programmed for specific uses (e.g., expiry dates).
'Pax Silica' is a U.S.-led chip supply chain alliance aimed at building a 'closed-loop' AI ecosystem, reducing dependence on Chinese manufacturing. Signed by nine countries, including Australia, Japan, and South Korea, the initiative seeks to map a new geography of computing power. It integrates Australia's mines, Singapore's logistics, and Japan's precision machinery with American technology. India faces a 'paradox' as it seeks to join this U.S.-led security architecture to secure its supply chain while simultaneously managing its economic ties and potential investments from China.
- Pax Silica aims to isolate AI development from Chinese influence by creating a self-contained supply chain.
- The initiative is a successor to the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) but with a sharper focus on semiconductors.
- India is expected to join Pax Silica as early as February to bolster its industrial growth and security ties.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump formally established the 'Board of Peace' to oversee the reconstruction of war-devastated Gaza. The board is part of a 20-point plan focusing on demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction. It will be chaired by Trump and includes members like former British PM Tony Blair and World Bank President Ajay Banga. While over 50 countries were invited, many, including major European nations and China, have stayed away or expressed concerns about the board's potential to overshadow the United Nations.
- The Board of Peace aims to manage Gaza's transition to a 'New Gaza' with modern infrastructure and industrial zones.
- The initiative is separate from the UN and has faced criticism for lacking a clear role for international bodies.
- India has been invited to join the board but has yet to make a final decision.
U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed interest in Greenland, citing its rich natural resources and strategic location. Greenland is home to vast reserves of oil, natural gas, and 25 of the 34 'critical raw materials' identified by the EU, including graphite and titanium. Strategically, it is vital for U.S. national security, hosting the Golden Dome missile defense plan. While Trump initially proposed a purchase, recent discussions at Davos suggest a 'framework of a future deal' involving potential long-term leases or security arrangements, similar to U.K. bases in Cyprus, rather than an outright sale.
- Greenland is strategically located for Arctic security and hosts critical U.S. missile defense infrastructure.
- The territory contains significant deposits of critical minerals essential for green energy and military technology.
- Denmark has consistently maintained that Greenland is 'not for sale,' leading to diplomatic friction.
India and the EU are set to announce a new strategic roadmap and a Defense and Security partnership during the upcoming 16th India-EU Summit. While a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is still being negotiated, agreements on information security and mobility are expected. The mobility MoU will address the movement of skilled workers, students, and seasonal workers. Despite differences over Russia and the Zapad 2025 military exercises, both sides are committed to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and cooperation in areas like climate change and critical mineral supply chains.
- A new strategic roadmap and Defense and Security partnership are expected at the 16th India-EU Summit.
- An MoU on mobility will facilitate the movement of four categories of workers and students.
- Both sides are collaborating on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
According to the 2024-25 annual report of the DoPT, the CBI located 71 people wanted by India in foreign countries, the highest number in 12 years. During the last financial year, 27 fugitives were successfully brought back to India. The CBI's Global Operations Centre coordinates with foreign law enforcement via INTERPOL channels. India is also a party to multilateral conventions like the UN Convention against Corruption, which provides a legal framework for extraditing criminals. Over the last five years, 25 fugitives have been extradited to India.
- The CBI located 71 fugitives abroad in 2024-25 using INTERPOL notices.
- 27 fugitives were brought back to India in the last financial year.
- India has sent 137 extradition requests to foreign countries, with 125 still pending.
India and the European Union are deepening their relationship as they prepare for the 16th India-EU Summit. A key focus is the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which could unlock opportunities in textiles, chemicals, and digital services. However, challenges remain, such as the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which India views as a non-tariff barrier. The partnership is also expanding into defense and security, with calls for a Security and Defense Partnership. This alignment is driven by a shared belief in strategic autonomy and a multipolar world order.
- The India-EU FTA is in final stages, aiming to boost trade in various sectors.
- The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) imposes 20-35% carbon charges on certain Indian exports.
- A proposed Security and Defense Partnership would put India on par with Japan and South Korea for the EU.
President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring Greenland poses a challenge to NATO’s Article 5 and European security. Greenland is strategically vital due to its location near the Northern Sea Route and the Northwest Passage, which are becoming accessible due to melting ice. The U.S. seeks to secure access to rare earth minerals and control shipping routes to counter Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic. This move creates a rift with Denmark and other European allies who view it as a violation of sovereignty. The situation reflects a shift toward transactional diplomacy and unilateralism.
- Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark and a strategic location for Arctic shipping routes.
- The Northern Sea Route connects the Atlantic and Pacific via the Russian-Norwegian frontiers.
- Russia has invested heavily in Arctic infrastructure, including a fleet of nuclear-powered icebreakers.
As India prepares to host the BRICS Summit in 2026, there is a critical need to focus on a green agenda for the Global South. With the U.S. potentially withdrawing from international climate organizations, BRICS can provide a stabilizing force for collaborative multilateralism. The article suggests that BRICS should move beyond just 'G-7 or G-20' frameworks and include institutions like the World Bank and IMF in climate finance discussions. India's leadership is pivotal to steering the global climate process, especially in adaptation, resilience, and sustainable development, while countering Chinese ambitions in the green sector.
- BRICS now represents approximately 40% of the global GDP and 26% of the global landmass.
- The 'BASIC' group (Brazil, South Africa, India, China) remains a key player in UNFCCC negotiations.
- India can use its BRICS presidency to articulate the demands of the Global South regarding climate finance.
India recently skipped the announcement of the U.S. President Donald Trump-led "Board of Peace" (BoP) charter in Davos. The BoP is part of Phase 2 of the Gaza Peace Proposal, aiming for a two-state solution. While the UN Security Council cleared the proposal in November 2025, the BoP's structure appears unilaterally altered, potentially supplanting the UN. India faces pressure as regional partners like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel have joined. However, concerns remain regarding the exclusion of Palestinian leadership, the inclusion of Pakistan, and the potential for the BoP to interfere in the Kashmir dispute.
- The BoP aims to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict but lacks representation from the official Palestinian leadership.
- India is a traditional supporter of the Palestinian cause and provides significant humanitarian assistance.
- Joining the BoP could invite U.S. ire if rebuffed, but joining might compromise India's independent foreign policy.
Renewed U.S. interest in Greenland has strained relations with the European Union and NATO allies. The U.S. administration's pressure, including threats of 10% to 25% tariffs on European countries that oppose the Greenland quest, has led the EU to consider a 'trade bazooka' (Anti-Coercion Instrument) of €93 billion. Greenland, while part of the Kingdom of Denmark, holds strategic importance for Arctic security and military bases. The situation highlights a growing rift in the transatlantic alliance and a shift toward transactional diplomacy that could undermine long-standing security arrangements.
- Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and is vital for NATO's northern flank.
- The EU is the U.S.'s largest trade partner, and escalating tariffs could severely damage global economic stability.
- Most Greenlanders prefer to remain part of the Danish Kingdom, according to local polls (85% support).
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recommended connecting the Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) of BRICS nations to the 2026 summit agenda. This initiative aims to streamline cross-border payments, which are currently plagued by high costs and transparency issues. CBDCs offer a sovereign-guaranteed, blockchain-based alternative to private cryptocurrencies. While this could bypass the SWIFT network and facilitate trade with sanctioned nations like Russia and Iran, it may also invite geopolitical friction, particularly with the U.S. regarding the global dominance of the dollar and potential retaliatory tariffs.
- CBDCs provide a transparent and immutable record of transactions, helping to curb money laundering and black money.
- India's UPI infrastructure is highly successful domestically, making CBDCs more relevant for international rather than domestic use.
- Linking CBDCs could allow for direct payments that do not rely on the dollar-denominated SWIFT system.
US President Donald Trump has criticized a deal between the UK and Mauritius to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. The agreement, signed in May 2025, allows the UK to lease back Diego Garcia—home to a vital US military base—for at least 99 years. Trump described the move as an act of 'stupidity' that weakens Western security and risks interference from China and Russia. The Chagos Islands have been a point of contention since the 1960s, when the UK evicted thousands of islanders to make way for the US base.
- The UK-Mauritius deal aims to resolve a long-standing sovereignty dispute while securing the future of the Diego Garcia military base.
- The UN and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) have previously urged Britain to return the islands to Mauritius.
- Critics of the deal argue that Mauritius's close ties with other global powers could jeopardize the strategic utility of the base.
US President Donald Trump's renewed interest in 'acquiring' Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has created significant friction within the NATO alliance. Trump has linked the acquisition of Greenland to US national security and its vast untapped resources, including rare earth minerals. This stance, combined with threats of tariffs on European allies and skepticism toward NATO's collective defense principle, has thrown transatlantic cooperation into disarray. Greenland's strategic location makes it vital for early warning systems against missile attacks, particularly in the context of the Arctic's growing importance.
- Greenland is a founding member territory of NATO through Denmark, making the US threat an internal challenge to the alliance.
- The US already maintains a military base at Pituffik (Thule) in Greenland with over 100 personnel.
- Trump's 'Western Hemisphere' focus and skepticism of NATO's utility are forcing European nations to reconsider their security dependency.
The 'Pax Silica' initiative, launched in December 2025, aims to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals, semiconductors, and AI technologies. Led by the US, the initiative seeks to build trusted digital infrastructure and secure supply chains for Rare Earth Elements (REEs). Major participants include Australia, the Netherlands, and Singapore. For India, joining Pax Silica offers an opportunity to integrate into global high-tech ecosystems and secure its semiconductor future, though it must navigate stringent licensing regulations and ensure its strategic autonomy is not compromised by the US-led framework.
- Pax Silica is a response to China's dominance in the supply of REEs and its use of export controls as a geopolitical tool.
- The initiative focuses on 'trusted' manufacturing and logistics for frontier technologies like semiconductors and AI.
- India is a strong candidate due to its digital infrastructure and large pool of STEM talent.
India's Ministry of Finance is considering scrapping curbs on Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) introduced in 2020 following border tensions. The Economic Survey suggests that FDI from China could help India boost exports and integrate into global supply chains, similar to the East Asian model. Currently, Chinese FDI accounts for less than 1% of India's total FDI inflows. While India has successfully replaced China in some sectors like smartphone manufacturing, experts argue that complete 'de-risking' without including Chinese companies in the manufacturing mix is difficult given China's dominance in global markets.
- Press Note 3 (2020) mandated government approval for FDI from countries sharing a land border with India, primarily targeting China.
- The Economic Survey 2023-24 suggests that attracting Chinese FDI is essential for India to become a global manufacturing hub.
- China's share of the US smartphone import market dropped from 60% in 2016 to 22% in 2024, with India and Vietnam gaining ground.
The recent visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to India has resulted in significant economic and security commitments. Both nations aim to double bilateral trade to $200 billion and have announced intentions to conclude a 'Strategic Defence Partnership,' the first of its kind for India in the region. The UAE is already India's third-largest trading partner and a key investor. However, India must navigate the complex regional 'cold war' between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, as well as tensions involving Iran and Israel that threaten connectivity projects like IMEC.
- India and the UAE are negotiating a framework for a first-of-its-kind Strategic Defence Partnership.
- The UAE is India's 3rd largest trading partner and 2nd largest export destination.
- Regional connectivity projects like IMEC and INSTC are threatened by ongoing Middle East tensions.
Former National Security Adviser M.K. Narayanan analyzes the 'Donroe Doctrine,' a modern iteration of the 1823 Monroe Doctrine under the Trump administration. This policy emphasizes US pre-eminence in the Western Hemisphere and a willingness to use 'shock and awe' tactics, as seen in operations against Venezuela. The doctrine signals a shift away from the post-1945 international order toward a 'free for all' in global commons. For India, this presents challenges regarding trade tariffs, relations with Russia and Iran, and the growing Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia, requiring careful diplomatic navigation.
- The 'Donroe Doctrine' is characterized as a 21st-century version of the Monroe Doctrine, asserting US control over the Western Hemisphere.
- The US National Security Strategy (NSS) aims to reassert dominance and deny competitors the ability to position forces near US assets.
- India faces a 'crossroads' due to US pressure on trade subsidies and its 'mini-lateral' initiatives like I2U2.
Former diplomat Syed Akbaruddin argues that global governance is shifting from large, stagnant forums like the UN and G-20 to smaller, more functional coalitions. As the UN remains weak and the G-20 faces domestic political pressures, India's best opportunities lie in 'diplomatic white spaces'—gaps in global leadership where no single power can take charge. India should focus on coalitions like the Quad and partnerships with the EU to deliver global public goods. The article emphasizes that success in 2026 will depend on making these 'small tables' work through practical cooperation rather than just ceremony.
- The European Union (EU) is represented as a 27-member bloc at India's 2026 Republic Day, signaling a shift toward institutional leadership.
- BRICS expansion has widened its reach but blurred its focus, requiring India to steer it toward practical outcomes like the New Development Bank.
- The Quad's focus on maritime domain awareness and resilient ports is a model for functional diplomacy that avoids great power rivalries.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed to the Union government that a plan to link central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) of BRICS nations be included in the agenda for the 2026 BRICS summit. This initiative aims to simplify cross-border payments and potentially reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar as geopolitical tensions rise. While the RBI clarifies that this is not a direct move toward de-dollarization, it builds on previous declarations for interoperability. Currently, all five main BRICS members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—are running CBDC pilot projects to enhance transaction efficiency.
- The proposal seeks to enhance interoperability between the payment systems of BRICS member nations to make cross-border transactions more efficient.
- Linking CBDCs could expedite international trade settlements and bolster the global usage of local currencies like the Indian Rupee.
- India's digital currency, the e-rupee, has already attracted 7 million retail users since its launch in December 2022.