🔆 West Asia holds significant strategic importance for India, both in terms of geo-political and geo-economic factors. Discuss. (200 words)
✅ Introduction
• Contextualize the Importance: Briefly introduce West Asia’s strategic significance for India.
• Thesis Statement: Highlight that the significance can be explored through geo-political and geo-economic lenses.
✅ Geo-Political Factors
• Historical Ties: Mention deep civilizational contacts and cultural exchanges.
• Non-Alignment Support: Discuss how West Asia supported India’s non-alignment during the Cold War.
• Diplomatic Outreach: Highlight India’s increased engagement and mutual geo-strategic interests.
◦ OIC Membership: India’s invitation to the OIC in 2019, despite Pakistan’s opposition.
• Support on Article 370: Mention backing from Saudi Arabia and UAE regarding the abrogation of Article 370.
✅ Geo-Economic Factors
• Energy Security: Discuss India’s dependence on crude oil and gas from West Asia.
◦ Engagement with Gulf Economies: Refer to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and collaborations with ARAMCO and ADNOC.
• Indian Diaspora: Highlight the significance of the 9 million-strong Indian diaspora in West Asia.
◦ Remittance Flow: Discuss the economic impact of remittances on India.
✅ Strategic Initiatives
• Chabahar Port Project: Explain the strategic importance of the Chabahar port in relation to Iran and Central Asia.
• Formation of the ‘New Quad’: Describe the 12U2 grouping and its focus on economic cooperation.
✅ Conclusion
• Reiterate Importance: Summarize the strategic significance of West Asia for India.
• Address Challenges: Briefly mention conflicts in the region that India must navigate to protect its interests.
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