India's Growing Diplomatic Role and Its Geopolitical Balancing Act
The SCO summit in Tianjin showcased India’s rising diplomatic stature, with Prime Minister Modi effectively balancing relations with Russia and China amid growing tensions with the U.S. The summit’s declaration condemned U.S. actions, marking a significant shift in India’s stance, while Modi’s engagement with both Xi and Putin illustrated India’s strategic autonomy. The inclusion of language addressing terrorism underscored India’s concerns being acknowledged. However, India maintained its distance from China’s Belt and Road Initiative, reflecting ongoing structural divergences. Overall, India is emerging as a central player in Eurasian geopolitics, while Pakistan’s influence wanes, highlighting a significant recalibration of regional dynamics.