GS 2 – International Relations
Context:
The article, written by Iraj Elahi, Ambassador of Iran to India, highlights the shifting dynamics of the global order, particularly focusing on the rise of the Global South, the decline of Western dominance, and the evolving partnership between India and Iran. It emphasizes the need for multipolarity, cooperation, and cultural ties rooted in ancient civilizations.
Key Highlights
- Decline of Western Dominance
- The U.S.-led Western global order is facing major challenges, including:
- Unchecked use of force and trade wars.
- Manipulation of media and international institutions.
- Imposition of unilateral sanctions.
- Loss of credibility in upholding human rights standards.
- The West no longer holds the same authority in global affairs as before.
- Rise of the Global South
- Countries in the Global South are:
- Rejecting domination and discrimination.
- Strengthening indigenous science, technology, and defense.
- Seeking new models of development based on cooperation and mutual respect.
- This marks the emergence of a new world order, less dependent on Western hegemony.
- India and Iran – Shared Civilizational Strength
- Both nations are among the world’s oldest civilizations, historically resisting external domination.
- Shared values include:
- Diversity, respect for spirituality, cultural independence, and peaceful coexistence.
- Post-Islamic period:
- Iran continued its influence through philosophy, literature, and art.
- India preserved its rich civilizational values, later playing a major role in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
- Strategic Cooperation
- Key initiatives for regional cooperation:
- BRICS – platform for promoting economic multipolarity and resisting unilateral sanctions.
- INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor) – boosts connectivity between Eurasia, the Caucasus, India, and Africa.
- India and Iran working together to:
- Ensure energy security.
- Create alternative global trade routes.
- Build a just and humane international order.
- The Palestine Issue
- Iran highlights Palestine as a core struggle for global justice:
- It represents the broader fight of the Global South against oppression.
- Criticizes U.S. and Western support for Israel, which leads to instability in West Asia.
- Advocates for a peaceful, fair solution based on human dignity and self-determination.
- Implications for India
- Strengthening ties with Iran supports:
- Strategic connectivity projects like Chabahar port and INSTC.
- Energy security and diversification of import sources.
- Cooperation in regional stability and economic growth.
- Aligns with India’s multi-alignment strategy and leadership role in the Global South.