Unit II: Bilateral and Multilateral Relationships

Unit II: Bilateral and Multilateral Relationships.

Foreign policies. Afghanistan The foreign policies of Afghanistan have evolved significantly over the years due to changes in leadership, regional dynamics and global events. The Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in 1979, leading to a decade long war. During this time, Afghanistan aligned itself with the soviet Union and received significant military aid. In 1996, Taliban took control of Afghanistan and imposed a strict form of Islamic law. They had close ties with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and were recognized by only three countries: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates..

Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the US launched an invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 to dismantle the Taliban regime and hunt down Al Qaeda. Afghanistan aligned itself with the US and became heavily dependent on America..

Karzai’s foreign policy Neighbouring countries To create balanced relations To be an equal partner To be the catalyst for regional cooperation. He was able to create a balanced relation both with Iran and Pakistan. But he failed to create a balance in his relations with regards to India and Pakistan. Regional Cooperation and Islamic world Regional initiatives: “kubul Declaration on Good Neighbourly Relations” December 2002 SAARC membership,2007. Conference on interaction and confidence building Measures in Asia (CICA) Economic Cooperation organization (ECO).

Islamic World Strengthen relations with all Islamic states Support Palestinian rights for self-determination. Value the role of organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The Taliban recently regained control of Afghanistan in2021, so it is still early to fully evaluate their foreign policy. However based on their previous rule from 1996 to 2001, some general characteristics of their foreign policy can be inferred. During their previous rule, the Taliban’s foreign policy was characterized by isolationism and an emphasis on Islamic solidarity. They sought to distance themselves from western influence and focused on developing ties with other Islamic countries, particularly Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. They maintained diplomatic relations with only a few countries..

The Taliban were criticized for providing safe heaven to terrorist groups such as Al- Qaeda, which carried out 9/11 attacks. It is yet to be seen whether the Taliban will adopt a similar foreign policy approach or make any significant changes to their foreign policy in future..

2. Bangladesh Article 25 of Bangladesh constitution stated: Bangladesh shall base its international relations on the principles of respect for national sovereignty and equality, peaceful settlement of international disputes and respect for international law and the principles enunciated in the UN charter..

Some of the key foreign policy objectives of Bangladesh include: Strengthening regional and international cooperation: Bangladesh seeks to strengthen regional and international cooperation to promote peace, stability and economic development. The country is an member of several regional and international organizations, including the United Nations, SAARC, BIMSTEC and the commonwealth. Promoting economic development: Bangladesh aims to promote economic development through increased trade and investment, particularly in the areas of agriculture, textiles and light manufacturing. The country has signed several free trade agreements with its neighbours and other countries..

Ensuring national security: Bangladesh is committed to ensuring its national security and has been working closely with other countries in the fight against terrorism and transnational crimes. The country has signed several security cooperation agreements with its neighbours and other countries. Addressing climate change: Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change and is actively seeking international support to address the issue. The country has signed several agreements on climate change, including the Paris Agreement. Strengthening relations with neighbours: Bangladesh seeks o strengthen its relations with its neighbours, particularly India and China..

3. Bhutan “The fundamental goal of Bhutan’s foreign policy is to safe guard the sovereignty, territorial integrity, security, unity and enhance the wellbeing and economic prosperity of Bhutan. The realization of this goal hinges on the maintenance of friendly and cooperative relations and collaboration with all countries to promote a just, peaceful and secure international environment”..

Guiding Principles Safeguard the sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and unity of Bhutan. Preserve the political, cultural and spiritual heritage of the country. Develop friendly and mutually beneficial relations with all countries. Achieve socio-economic self reliance Enhance sustainable socio economic development of the country. Contribute towards building a peaceful, secure and prosperous world. Promote respect for hr rule of law, peaceful co-existence and peaceful settlement of disputes..

Objectives To safeguard the sovereignty, territorial integrity , security and unity of Bhutan and promote its unique identity, cultural heritage and the pursuit of Gross National Happiness. To promote Bhutan’s peaceful co-existence and develop friendly relations with all countries and engage in regional and multilateral cooperative efforts. To be a responsible and constructive member of the international community and contribute towards the global effort in safeguarding international peace, security, understanding and cooperation..

- To contribute towards sustainable socio-economic development of the country and promotion of trade relations/FDI and economic partnerships. To adopt a principled approach on all issues by upholding international law and promoting peaceful settlement of disputes. To provide consular services and protect the rights and interests of Bhutanese abroad..

4. India The foreign policy of India aims to maintain international peace and security, to oppose imperialism, to stand against the apartheid policy, to propagate the peaceful and political settlement of international disputes, to foster peaceful coexistence, to remain non-aligned and non-committed, and to maintain the unity and solidarity of the Third World..

Major Objectives - The preservation of India’s territorial integrity and independence of foreign policy: Territorial integrity and protection of national boundaries from foreign aggression is the core interest of a nation. India had gained hard-earned independence from foreign rule after a long time. Thus, it was natural for her to give due emphasis on the independence of foreign policy. India’s effort to strengthen Afro-Asian solidarity endorsement of principles of non-interference, in the internal affairs of other nations and finally the adoption of the policy of non-alignment should be seen in this light..

To sustain the country’s growth trajectory, India needs to interact with its foreign partners to bring in Foreign Direct Investments, financial assistance, and transfer of technology for schemes and programmes like Make in India, Skills India, Smart Cities, infrastructure development, Digital India, Clean India etc. Therefore, it can be noted that in recent years, India’s foreign policy adopted an approach by integrating economic diplomacy with political diplomacy. India has the largest Diaspora in the world, comprising about 20 million Non-Resident Indians and Persons of Indian Origin, spread all over the world. Therefore, one of the major objectives is to engage them and derive maximum benefits from their presence abroad, while at the same time protecting their interests to the extent possible.

- Promoting international peace and security: India as a ‘newly independent and developing country rightly realized that international peace and development are correlated. Her emphasis on disarmament and the policy of keeping away from military alliances is intended to promote global peace. The foreign policy practice of India also reveals its two other objectives: Elimination of colonialism and racial discrimination Protection of the interests of people of Indian origin abroad..

An official statement of the Ministry of External Affairs (2010) notes that India’s foreign policy seeks to safeguard her enlightened self-interest. Its primary objective is to promote and maintain a peaceful and stable external environment in which the domestic tasks of inclusive economic development and poverty alleviation can progress rapidly. Thus, India seeks a peaceful periphery and works for good neighbourly relations in her extended neighbourhood. India’s foreign policy also recognizes that issues such as climate change, energy, and food security are crucial for India’s transformation. Since these issues are global in nature, they require global solutions..

5. Maldives Maldives foreign policy is founded upon pursuing the key national interests of national development, international peace and security, promoting human rights and upholding the principles of the UN Charter. Accordingly, Maldives is party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and numerous conventions promoting international trade and development, peace, environmental protection, health, and human rights..

Principles Sovereign equality of States in accordance with international law A rule-based and inclusive international system Non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries The supremacy of diplomacy in managing and resolving global problems Friendship with all countries based on mutual respect.

Objectives Enhance the security and national sovereignty of the Maldives through increased bilateral and multilateral engagement Protect the Islamic identity of the Maldives and help to promote the values of Islam internationally Increase the economic resilience of the Maldives Promote greater regional cooperation in South Asia Provide quality consular services for Maldivians Promote efficiency and professionalism in the service.

Climate change Maldives recognizes that climate change is the biggest threat of our times, threatening not just the existence of Maldives, but the entire planet. The interests of all countries can only be achieved by combating this threat. As a prominent voice in the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and the G77, Maldives has taken a lead role in international negotiations on climate change and environmental protection. Maldives seeks genuine progress in climate change politics – binding commitments that will tackle the urgent threat of climate change in practice..

6. Nepal The fundamental objective of Nepal’s foreign policy is to enhance the dignity of the nation by safeguarding sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence, and promoting economic wellbeing and prosperity of Nepal. It is also aimed at contributing to global peace, harmony and security..

Principles Mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty; Non-interference in each other’s internal affairs; Respect for mutual equality; Non-aggression and the peaceful settlement of disputes; Cooperation for mutual benefit; Abiding faith in the Charter of the United Nations; Value of world peace..

Objectives To conduct Nepal’s foreign relations in consonance with the policies and guidelines of Government of Nepal. To project and protect Nepal’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interest abroad. To promote bilateral, regional and multilateral relations for the socio economic development of the country. To promote friendly relations with all the countries of the world and particularly with its immediate neighbors, on the basis of sovereign equality, mutual respect, trust, goodwill and understanding..

To play an active role in the United Nations and other international organizations in order to promote international peace and security, and development. To play a positive and meaningful role in the Nonaligned Movement in the context of a changed world. To play an active role in the promotion of regional cooperation in South Asia under the South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation..

To act as the country’s a first point of contact for the outside world and also serve as Nepal’s window to the world. To play an increasingly active role in the conduct of Nepal’s economic diplomacy, thereby promoting our trade, investment, economic cooperation, tourism, and help tap and develop our immense water resources potential..

7. Pakistan Guiding Principles “Our foreign policy is one of friendliness and goodwill towards all the nations of the world. We do not cherish aggressive designs against any country or nation. We believe in the principle of honesty and fair play in national and international dealings and are prepared to make our utmost contribution to the promotion of peace and prosperity among the nations of the world. Pakistan will never be found lacking in extending its material and moral support to the oppressed and suppressed peoples of the world, and in upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter.”.

The Constitution of Pakistan also lays down guidelines for the conduct of foreign policy of the country. Article 40 of the constitution provides that: “The State shall endeavour to preserve and strengthen fraternal relations among Muslim countries based on Islamic unity, support the common interests of the peoples of Asia, Africa and Latin America, promote international peace and security, foster goodwill and friendly relations among all nations and encourage the settlement of international disputes by peaceful means.”.

Objectives Promotion of Pakistan as a dynamic, progressive, moderate, and democratic Islamic country. Developing friendly relations with all countries of the world, especially major powers and immediate neighbors. Safeguarding national security and geo-strategic interests, including Kashmir. Consolidating our commercial and economic cooperation with international community. Safeguarding the interests of Pakistani Diaspora abroad. Ensuring optimal utilization of national resources for regional and international cooperation..

8. Sri Lanka Foreign policy of Sri Lanka is primarily focused on maintaining friendly relations with neighboring countries and promoting regional cooperation in South Asia. Sri Lanka has also sought to cultivate partnerships with major powers, particularly India, China and the US. One of the key priorities of Sri Lanka’s foreign policy has been to counter terrorism and extremism in the region. The country has worked closely with its neighbors and international community to combat transnational threats such as piracy, drug trafficking and human smuggling..

Objectives promoting National security: aims to ensure country’s security by safeguarding its sovereignty, territorial integrity and maintaining friendly relations with neighbouring countries. Promoting economic development: Seeks to enhance its economic development through international trade and investment, promoting tourism and expanding its exports. Promoting regional and global cooperation..

Protecting the rights of Sri Lankan expatriates: Sri Lanka aims to protect the rights and interests of its expatriate community abroad by providing consular services, promoting their welfare and facilitating their integration into the host countries. promoting cultural diplomacy: seeks to promote its culture and heritage through cultural exchanges, tourism and other means of cultural diplomacy..

Influence of Party ideologies to foreign policies.

The Taliban's ideology is rooted in a strict interpretation of Islamic law, and they have historically been hostile to foreign intervention in Afghanistan. During their previous rule, the Taliban regime did not prioritize diplomatic relations with foreign countries, and their foreign policy was mainly focused on achieving domestic stability and preventing foreign influence. As Afghanistan's first democratically elected president, Hamid Karzai's foreign policy was characterized by a desire to improve relations with neighboring countries and establish Afghanistan as a regional player. Karzai's foreign policy was also influenced by his close relationship with the United States, which provided significant economic and military aid to Afghanistan during his tenure..

Ashraf Ghani succeeded Karzai as president of Afghanistan and focused on improving economic ties with neighboring countries, particularly China and India. Ghani's foreign policy was also influenced by his background as an academic and economist, and he sought to position Afghanistan as a hub for regional economic cooperation..

Bangladesh Bangladesh has had a complex history of foreign relations since its independence from Pakistan in 1971. The foreign policies of Bangladesh have been influenced by various factors, including geopolitical considerations, economic interests, and ideological beliefs of the ruling parties. The two major political parties in Bangladesh are the Awami League and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The Awami League is a center-left party that advocates for secularism, democracy, and socialism. On the other hand, the BNP is a center-right party that favors nationalism, Islamism, and conservatism..

The Awami League has historically favored close relations with India and other countries in the region, such as Nepal and Bhutan. The party's foreign policy is centered around regional cooperation and economic integration. The Awami League has also been vocal in its support for Palestinian statehood and the rights of the Rohingya people in neighboring Myanmar. In contrast, the BNP has favored a more independent foreign policy and has sought to establish stronger ties with countries outside the region, such as China and the Middle East. The party has also been critical of India's perceived interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs and has sought to balance its relations with India and Pakistan..

The ideological differences between the two parties have also influenced their approach to foreign aid and development assistance. The Awami League has been more open to receiving foreign aid and has sought to use it to promote economic development and poverty reduction. The BNP, on the other hand, has been more skeptical of foreign aid and has sought to promote self-reliance and national sovereignty..

Bhutan Bhutan has traditionally followed a policy of neutrality and non-alignment in its foreign relations. However, like any other country, the ruling party's ideology can have an impact on its foreign policy decisions. The DPT, which was in power from 2008 to 2013, had a foreign policy that focused on maintaining Bhutan's traditional ties with India while also seeking to expand relations with other countries, including China. The party also emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing common challenges, such as climate change and economic development..

PDP, which was in power from 2013 to 2018, had a foreign policy that prioritized regional integration and cooperation. The party sought to deepen Bhutan's relations with neighboring countries, particularly India, while also engaging with other regional and global powers. DNT, a political party in Bhutan that won the general election in 2018 and formed the government..

DNT government has emphasized maintaining Bhutan's tradition of neutrality and non-alignment while pursuing friendly relations with all countries, particularly its neighbors India and China. The party has also expressed a commitment to promoting regional cooperation and working closely with international organizations, such as the United Nations, to address global challenges..

Bhutan's foreign policy is guided by its unique principles of Gross National Happiness (GNH) and sustainable development, which prioritize the well-being of its citizens and the environment over economic growth and material wealth. Therefore, regardless of the ruling party's ideology, Bhutan's foreign policy is likely to remain focused on promoting regional cooperation and sustainable development..

India India has a diverse political landscape with multiple political parties holding different ideologies. The influence of party ideologies on foreign policies in India can vary significantly depending on the ruling party and the prevailing political climate. Here are some key examples of how party ideologies have influenced India's foreign policies in recent times. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): The BJP is a right-wing party that advocates for a strong nationalistic and pro-Hindu agenda. Since coming to power in 2014, the BJP has emphasized India's position as a regional power and has taken a more assertive stance on foreign policy issues. For example, the BJP government has sought to strengthen ties with Israel, Japan, and the United States, and has taken a harder line on issues such as terrorism and border disputes with Pakistan and China..

Indian National Congress (INC): The INC is a center-left party that historically advocated for socialist policies and non-alignment in foreign affairs. The party has traditionally prioritized maintaining good relations with neighboring countries and pursuing a policy of peaceful coexistence. However, under the leadership of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the party pursued a more proactive foreign policy, seeking to strengthen ties with the United States and other major powers..

Communist Party of India (CPI): The CPI is a left-wing party that advocates for socialist policies and opposes neoliberalism and globalization. The party has been critical of India's close ties with the United States and has been vocal about its opposition to India's participation in free trade agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)..

Maldives Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) which is a center-left party, has historically emphasized democratic values, human rights, and environmental protection in its foreign policy. Under MDP rule, the Maldives has been vocal about climate change and has taken steps to promote sustainable development and environmental protection..

Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) which is a center-right party, has tended to prioritize economic growth and security in its foreign policy. During PPM rule, the Maldives sought closer ties with China and other Asian powers, in part to boost its economy and to counterbalance Indian influence in the region..

Nepal Nepal has a multi-party system, and the parties have different ideological orientations. The two main political parties in Nepal are the Nepal Communist Party (NCP) and the Nepali Congress (NC). The NCP is a left-wing party that advocates for socialism and has traditionally been more critical of the United States and Western powers. In contrast, the NC is a centrist party that has generally maintained good relations with the US and other Western countries. The NCP has historically had closer ties with China and other socialist countries, while the NC has maintained closer relations with India. These ideological orientations have influenced Nepal's foreign policies, particularly in its relations with its two giant neighbors, India and China..