The Delhi Declaration- Where does Israel fit in?
The 2023 G-20 summit under India’s leadership marked a significant chapter in international diplomacy. Notwithstanding the multifaceted challenges, such as climate change, economic disparities, and diminishing democratic values, the summit achieved noteworthy outcomes, highlighting India’s evolving role on the global stage.
This topic of “The Delhi Declaration- Where does Israel fit in?” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination, which falls under General Studies Portion.
A Candid View
The Delhi Declaration
- Significance: Amidst international tensions, the Delhi Declaration emerged as a beacon of collective resolve.
- Achievements:
- Despite the absence of China and Russia’s leaders, their concurrence was secured.
- Reference to the United Nations charter and territorial sovereignty principles.
- Nuances:
- Ambiguous stance on Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
- Aimed at creating a document ensuring every member nation felt acknowledged.
Economic Corridor: India-Middle East-Europe
- Overview: A rail-ship route connecting India to Europe via Middle Eastern countries.
- Geopolitical Impact: This endeavor stands to reshape future geopolitics.
- Challenges China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
- Recognized by global leaders as transformative.
- Stakeholder’s Responses:
- U.S. President Joe Biden: Termed it ‘a real big deal.’
- Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: Expressed eagerness for Israel’s involvement but left out recognizing Indian PM Modi’s contributions.
Israel’s Diplomatic Nuances
Middle Eastern Presence in G-20
- Observations: The G-20 summit witnessed a notable Middle Eastern presence.
- Invited Non-member countries: India invited nine non-member countries, including several from the Middle East.
- Israel’s Absence: A striking omission was Israel, especially when the economic corridor involving Israel was a key announcement.
- Potential reasons:
- Diplomatic complications with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince.
- U.S. President Biden’s strained relations with Mr. Netanyahu.
- Potential reasons:
Push for Peace in the Middle East
- Saudi-Israel Relations:
- Saudi Arabia showcases willingness to end the diplomatic boycott of Israel.
- Potential repercussions:
- Israel’s broader acceptance among Muslim-majority nations.
- Enhanced geopolitical stability.
- Demands:
- Israel’s commitment to a two-state solution.
- Ensuring the well-being of the Palestinian people.
- Peace Day Effort:
- An initiative by Saudi Arabia, the Arab League, the European Union, Egypt, and Jordan.
- Aimed at fostering compromise between Israelis and Palestinian leaders.
- Israel-Palestine peace remains challenging due to rising extremism on both sides.
- Saudi Arabia remains optimistic about peace deliberations.
Way Forward
To realize the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, it’s imperative for nations to prioritize diplomatic dialogues and foster an atmosphere of trust. The corridor’s success hinges on peaceful negotiations, especially in the volatile Middle East region. Collaborative efforts among global leaders can pave the way for a prosperous and interconnected world.
Conclusion
The 2023 G-20 summit under India’s presidency showcased the nation’s diplomatic prowess and commitment to global peace and development. The outcomes of the summit reiterate the importance of international collaboration, mutual respect, and the pursuit of shared objectives for a brighter global future.
Practice Question for Mains
How does Israel fit into Delhi’s plans regarding Middle East? What is the way ahead? (250 words)
