India has welcomed Mr. Trump’s recently announced ‘National Security Strategy’ (NSS), which has openly criticised many nations.
But India needs to exercise caution to avoid becoming second fiddle to the US at international forums.
What are the implications for India?
NSS perceives India positively, affirms India’s stature and acknowledges India’s emergence as a leading global power.
It supports Indian leadership in the region’s development and outlines India’s primacy for ensuring security in the Indian Ocean.
It also sees China’s aggression as an assault on the “sovereignty” of the neighbouring nations in the region.
Pakistan’s continued support to terror groups has also been noted.
All of these are aligned with India’s concerns, and indicate the growing convergence between US and India on strategic issues.
What are the implications for other nations?
NSS had singled out five countries (China, Pakistan, Russia, Iran and North Korea) for criticism – which on expected lines have reacted negatively.
Particularly, China and Russia have been accused of using their military might to deny the US, access to “critical commercial zones”.
In response, China had said that the US is struck in its Cold War mindset and Russia accused the US of practicing neo-imperialism.
Iran and North Korea have been critiqued for their nuclear programs, and Pakistan for its faultering to honour its security commitments.
Why caution is needed?
US policy priorities and perceptions have swung wildly under the Trump administration, thereby making its commitments unreliable.
Also, in many cases words haven’t been backed up by actions.
Notably, while the U.S. has talked of countering China’s influence in South Asia, it has not backed this with actual financial assistance for projects.
Also, while words on Pakistan’s soft approach to terrorism has been sharp, the U.S. continues to support the Pakistani government through huge funds.
What is the way ahead?
Lately, there has been an American withdrawal from pacts ranging from the Trans-Pacific Partnership to the Paris agreement on climate change.
Also, Mr. Trump is seen to be publicy at odds with many of hi skey advisors on many issues ranging from - Palestine, North Korea, Iran or Afghanistan.
A watch-and-wait stance is still India’s best option to preserve the autonomous and pluralistic nature of its engagement in world affairs.
