New Delhi:
India’s foreign policy foundation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been greatly influenced by the legacies of former prime ministers Manmohan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The pivotal decisions made by these leaders in the 1990s laid the groundwork for India’s current global diplomacy.
The liberalization of India’s economy in 1991, credited to Manmohan Singh, marked a significant shift in India’s policy. Additionally, the nuclear test at Pokhran in 1998, led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, further shaped India’s foreign relations strategy.
Despite the contributions of many leaders to India’s rise as a global power, these key moments were instrumental in shaping modern India’s trajectory.
Following the recent passing of Manmohan Singh, tributes poured in from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, highlighting Singh’s crucial role in India’s economic reforms and foreign policy adjustments.
THE NUCLEAR DEAL – A TURNING POINT
Manmohan Singh, known for his expertise in finance and economics, took a keen interest in foreign affairs during his tenure as prime minister. He continued the strategic direction set by Vajpayee, particularly in the realm of nuclear policy.
Under Singh’s leadership, India secured approval from the Nuclear Suppliers Group, a critical milestone in India’s nuclear history. The groundwork laid by Singh set the stage for future collaborations, including the civil nuclear agreement with the United States.
Dr. S Jaishankar, who played a key role in negotiating the India-US civil nuclear agreement, was instrumental in securing the necessary clearances for nuclear cooperation with other countries.
DIPLOMATIC INITIATIVES
Manmohan Singh maintained Vajpayee’s policy of ‘greater engagement’, fostering relationships with key nations like the US, Russia, China, and Pakistan. This approach aimed to position India as a player in a multi-polar world.
Despite diplomatic challenges, including tensions with Pakistan and occasional incursions by Chinese troops, Singh’s government made strides in enhancing ties with Russia, Japan, and African and Latin-American nations.
Today, India continues to play a significant role on the global stage, building on the foundations laid by past leaders like Manmohan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
