India key point of focus in international trialogue

NEW DELHI: Bringing together important leaders, policy shapers, and strategic thinkers from North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific, the Trilateral Commission held its first plenary meeting in New Delhi from March 10-12. Indicating India's growing importance on the global stage, the plenary covered a wide array of topics ranging from India's political, economic and social evolution , Ukraine war, to the risk of apathy towards Africa and the impact of social media on democracy.

On Ukraine, the need for a dual track approach emerged, seeking a balance between principles and short-term interests. In this regard, India's quiet diplomacy on defusing the situation around Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant last year and facilitating the Kyiv-Moscow grain deal was highlighted. Meanwhile, the outlook on India-China ties remained negative with participants flagging the breach of explicit agreements by Beijing on maintaining peace and tranquillity. Discussions on Pakistan raised concerns that the country continues to be a challenge for the region and the world with the US misreading Islamabad on Afghanistan.

There was optimism with Quad's multidimensional approach building synergies in areas such as maritime security, 5G, reliable supply chains and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. There was also acknowledgement that BRICS members would need to coexist with other emerging platforms.