News Highlights
The U.S. believes that ‘I2U2’, a group comprising India, Israel, the U.S., and the UAE, can become “a feature” of the West Asian region, just like the Quad is for the Indo-Pacific
I2U2
- I2U2 also known as “West Asian Quad”
- India, Israel, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates make up this group.
The Significance of I2U2 for India
- West Asian Policies of India
- The Abraham Accords will allow India to enhance its relationship with Israel without endangering its relations with the UAE and other Arab nations.
- The Abraham Accords-The State of Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States released a joint statement known as the Abraham Accords to strengthen their relationships and cooperation.
- Potential market
- The USA and UAE are the most export destinations of India so far. The I2U2 will deepen this cooperation.
- Geopolitical importance
- I2U2 will strengthen India’s geopolitical position, particularly in West Asia, and it will aid in reducing the threat posed by an unstable Afghanistan.
- Indian diaspora
- In West Asia, there are 8 to 9 million Indians, 2.5 million of whom live in the United Arab Emirates.
- Through remittances sent home, Indian communities throughout West Asia significantly influence the Indian economy.
Challenges
- Conflicts within the Arab World
- Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen are all affected by the Shia-Sunni conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
- Treats from China
- The Chinese CPEC initiative and the Ashdod port, which is the only port Israel has in the Mediterranean, is also being built by China.
- Unstable Afghanistan
- Political turmoil and an illegitimate government in Afghanistan pose a threat.
Way forward
- Utilizing the Opportunity
- I2U2 is a win-win situation for all parties involved. In terms of collaboration with West Asia, India needs to take a more active role.
- Expanding the cooperation
- Regarding the current Afghan situation, Iran is significant for India.
- Cooperation Between the Four partners
- Strategically and diplomatically balancing the interests of the opposing nations in order to preserve their cordial relations
Pic Courtesy: The Hindu
Content Source: The Hindu