Introduction

The Raisina Dialogue 2024, India’s premier geopolitical and strategic affairs conference, is set to take place in New Delhi from March 17-19. This year’s edition, themed “Kalachakra” (Wheel of Time), will witness discussions on pressing global issues, including the Ukraine war, U.S.-China relations, and evolving Indo-Pacific strategies. Hosted by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, this flagship event brings together world leaders, policymakers, and experts to shape global discourse.

Major Issues on the Agenda

1. U.S. Foreign Policy Shifts and Global Impact

The U.S. delegation, led by National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, will discuss key issues, including:

• Ukraine War & Ceasefire Talks: The latest developments in U.S.-Russia and U.S.-Ukraine negotiations.

• Tariff Wars: The impact of the new U.S. trade policies on global markets, including India.

• NATO Relations: Growing friction between the U.S. and its European allies over security policies.

• China-Taiwan Tensions: Future strategies in the Indo-Pacific amid rising U.S.-China competition.

2. Europe’s Role in Global Diplomacy

With 11 European Foreign Ministers attending, Europe will push for India to take a clearer stance on global conflicts, especially Ukraine. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha is expected to address India’s diplomatic positioning, while the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi will provide insights on nuclear security and Iran talks.

3. The Quad Alliance and Indo-Pacific Strategy

As India prepares to host the Quad Summit, a key discussion panel featuring naval leaders from India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S. will focus on:

• Expanding maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

• Strengthening regional security frameworks.

• Countering China’s growing influence in the region.

4. India’s Bilateral Ties and Regional Diplomacy

• South Asian Representation: Foreign Ministers from Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, and Mauritius will discuss regional cooperation.

• Absence of Pakistan: Due to strained ties, no Pakistani representatives are invited.

• China’s Presence: A scholar from Fudan University is expected to represent China, signaling a possible thaw in India-China relations post the Modi-Xi meeting in 2023.

• Canada Relations: With recent diplomatic tensions, Canadian Security Intelligence Service Director Daniel Rogers and former PM Stephen Harper will be closely watched.

• Underrepresentation of ASEAN & GCC: Limited participation from Southeast Asia and the Gulf raises questions about India’s diplomatic engagement in these regions.

History and Significance of Raisina Dialogue

Launched in 2016 by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Raisina Dialogue was envisioned as India’s answer to the Munich Security Conference and Shangri-La Dialogue. Held annually in New Delhi, it serves as a crucial platform for dialogue on international security, geopolitics, and economic cooperation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Raisina Dialogue?

The Raisina Dialogue is India’s flagship geopolitical conference, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss global strategic challenges.

2. What is the theme for Raisina Dialogue 2024?

The theme for Raisina Dialogue 2024 is “Kalachakra” (Wheel of Time), symbolizing the continuous evolution of global geopolitics.

3. Who are the key speakers at Raisina Dialogue 2024?

Key speakers include New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon, U.S. Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, Ukraine FM Andrii Sybiha, and IAEA Chief Rafael Grossi.

4. Why is Russia’s Foreign Minister absent this year?

Russian FM Sergey Lavrov, a regular at past dialogues, will not attend this year, following tense exchanges in 2023 over the Ukraine war ceasefire talks.

5. Will the U.S.-China conflict be a major discussion point?

Yes, discussions will cover Indo-Pacific tensions, Taiwan, and U.S.-China relations, especially in the context of economic and security policies.

6. Why is Pakistan not attending the Raisina Dialogue?

Due to ongoing diplomatic tensions, Pakistani representatives have not been invited to this year’s event.

7. How does Raisina Dialogue impact India’s global standing?

The dialogue positions India as a key player in global diplomacy, fostering international cooperation and shaping discussions on major global issues.

Conclusion

The 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue promises to be a significant event, shaping discussions on U.S. foreign policy, European diplomacy, Indo-Pacific security, and India’s global role. With high-profile attendees and critical geopolitical debates, it reinforces India’s growing influence in global affairs.

Stay tuned for updates on key developments from Raisina Dialogue 2024!