- India advanced its global influence with strategic partnerships, hosting summits, and emphasizing strategic autonomy in forums like BRICS and the Voice of the Global South.
- Landmark pacts with nations like Iceland, UAE, and Malaysia reinforced trade, energy cooperation, and technology exchange, enhancing India’s global economic footprint.
- Re-election to international bodies, peacekeeping efforts, and successful resolution of domestic insurgencies underscore India’s commitment to security, diplomacy, and sustainable development.
India’s foreign policy reached significant milestones this financial year, witnessing unprecedented events. Amid global uncertainty, 2024 emerged as a transformative year for the nation, solidifying its position as a major emerging international giant. This year also saw India balancing its domestic priorities with global ambitions and making remarkable strides in economic growth, infrastructure, strategic policy, technology, and social welfare. It is inspiring to witness a nation fostering meaningful relationships with other global powers while embracing the inclusive philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family. The country’s diplomatic breakthroughs and strategic partnerships in 2024 were significant in the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
India was seen actively working towards strengthening global diplomatic ties this year to enhance its global influence and international cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Ukraine, emphasizing India’s commitment to international diplomacy and a balanced approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The visit highlighted India’s role as a potential mediator promoting dialogue and stability in the region. Prime Minister Modi’s engagement included discussions on humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts, signaling India’s readiness to contribute constructively to post-conflict recovery.
India also hosted the third Voice of the Global South Summit, with the theme, “An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future,” which was attended by representatives from over 100 countries. The summit reinforced India’s leadership in advocating for the interests of developing countries and achieving sustainable development. Initiatives for renewable energy cooperation and equitable trade practices were key areas that were highlighted and on which significant resolutions were discussed.
In October 2024, Prime Minister Modi made a trip to Russia for the BRICS Summit held in Kazan. During the summit, India clarified its stance of not indulging in de-dollarization and stood firm on the decision to trade using national currencies instead of pursuing a unified BRICS currency. These diplomatic activities and visits further highlighted India’s commitment to strategic autonomy, multi-alignment, and its role as a Vishvabandhu (world family) in international relations. Visits to the United States, Bhutan, the UAE, and Qatar demonstrated India’s intent to strengthen bilateral ties and advance strategic cooperation across diverse regions. The visit to the U.S. included discussions on defense technology transfer and collaboration in critical and emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing.
India signed several landmark agreements and partnerships, the significant ones being a historic free trade pact under the EFTA framework, which established a new chapter in Indo-Icelandic relations promoting trade and investment opportunities. The agreement focuses on sustainable fisheries, green technology, and tourism development. Collaboration in energy trade and civil nuclear cooperation has strengthened India-UAE ties as leaders discussed expanding strategic collaboration. The agreements include an extended period of LNG supply, collaboration on crude oil storage, and cooperation in nuclear power plant operations and maintenance. The UAE has affirmed its commitment to expand its crude oil storage and explore opportunities to establish such repositories in India, as well as to renew its storage and management agreement. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed to establish food parks in Gujarat, with the project expected to commence in 2025. This treaty with the UAE enhances economic cooperation, further cementing the UAE as one of India’s most significant trading partners.
The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Malaysia, announced in 2024, reinforced bilateral ties focusing on defense technology and economic cooperation. It included employment agreements, the repatriation of workers, and digital technology cooperation. It also focused on student exchange programs and collaborative research in biotechnology.
India’s re-election to key international bodies highlights its expanding global footprint and its commitment to promoting international security on the world stage. India’s re-election to the UN Peacebuilding Commission reconfirmed its active role in global peacekeeping and conflict resolution efforts. India’s commitment to increasing contributions to UN missions in conflict zones and promoting inclusive peace-building strategies allows long-term success for all stakeholders. Strengthened ties with Guyana and Caribbean nations shed light on India’s intent to deepen relationships in underrepresented regions; the projects included technical assistance for sustainable agriculture and renewable energy.
President Droupadi Murmu became the first Indian head of state to visit Fiji, signaling India’s growing diplomatic outreach in the Pacific region. The visit focused on enhancing cooperation in climate resilience, maritime security, and cultural exchange. The successful engagement of Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh after four years marks a significant milestone in restoring regional stability and reducing tensions along the border. This achievement was facilitated by sustained diplomatic dialogue and confidence-building measures, setting a precedent for peaceful dispute resolution. The conclusion of a 33-year-long insurgency in Tripura brought lasting peace and stability to the region, reflecting India’s commitment to internal security and harmony. The resolution involved development packages for affected areas and reintegration programs for former insurgents.
As 2024 comes to a close, India’s foreign policy achievements have set a strong foundation for its aspirations on the global stage. The year has been transformative not only in terms of accomplishments but also in defining India’s role as a bridge between developed and developing nations. With its commitment to Vishvabandhu, India continues to inspire with its inclusive vision and strategic foresight by embracing diplomacy, fostering partnerships, and championing global causes. India has solidified its place as a major emerging global powerhouse ready to shape the future of global governance and cooperation.
Alok Virendra Tiwari is a political science graduate from Mumbai University, experienced with the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, Y20, and the World Food Forum. He is currently working as the Program Manager and Instructional Delivery in the office of Vice-Chancellor at Rishihood University.
Aayush Pal 
Shobhil Shrivastava