Introduction
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 9th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, India's premier conference focusing on geopolitics and geo-economics. This conference was dedicated to tackling the most pressing issues confronting the global community. The Chief Guest for the inaugural session was the Prime Minister of the Hellenic Republic (Greece), H.E. Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who also delivered the keynote address.
The Raisina Dialogue
The Raisina Dialogue, held annually in New Delhi, India, has swiftly ascended to become the nation's foremost event on geopolitics and geo-economics since its inception in 2016. Orchestrated by the Observer Research Foundation(ORF), an independent think tank, in conjunction with the Ministry of External Affairs of India, the conference serves as a magnet for a diverse spectrum of global policymakers.
Heads of states, cabinet ministers, local government officials, private sector executives, and representatives from the media and academia convene under its multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral format, akin to Singapore's Shangri-La Dialogue. Its moniker, "Raisina Dialogue," pays homage to Raisina Hill, an eminent elevation in New Delhi housing the Government of India and the Presidential Palace, Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Raisina Dialogue 2024
The Raisina Dialogue stands as India's flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-economics, dedicated to confronting the most formidable challenges encountered by the global community. The 2024 edition's theme is "Chaturanga: Conflict, Contest, Cooperate, Create." Over three days, global decision-makers and influential figures engaged in conversations under six thematic pillars, namely:
(i) Tech Frontiers: Regulations & Realities;
(ii) Peace with the Planet: Invest & Innovate;
(iii) War & Peace: Armouries & Asymmetries;
(iv) Decolonising Multilateralism: Institutions & Inclusion;
(v) The Post 2030 Agenda: People & Progress; and
(vi) Defending Democracy: Society & Sovereignty.
With over 2,500 participants from approximately 115 nations attending the Dialogue in-person, millions more across the world followed the proceedings through various digital platforms.
Key Takeaways from Raisina Dialogue 2024
Geopolitical Shifts: Participants engaged in discussions regarding the evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly focusing on the changing power dynamics among major global players such as the United States, China, Russia, and European nations. The dialogue explored how nations are adapting their strategies and forming alliances in response to new challenges and opportunities.
India as a Bridging Power: India's External Affairs Minister emphasized India's role as a "bridging power," advocating for a "multi-vector" policy aimed at seeking common ground and fostering friendly relations globally. India's aspiration to play the role of a "Vishwamitra" or friend of the world was highlighted during the discussions.
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor: The significance of connectivity projects, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, was underscored by the Greek Prime Minister. This corridor aims to enhance economic ties and facilitate trade between India, the Middle East, and Europe, reflecting a growing emphasis on regional connectivity.
Baltic-Nordic Forum: A notable diplomatic outreach was initiated with the ministerial contingent from Central and Eastern Europe, including all Ministers of the Baltic-Nordic forum. This outreach seeks to establish trade agreements and investment ties with a region that is economically competitive but often overlooked.
Global Conflicts: Conversations predominantly focused on global conflicts, with European dignitaries highlighting the Russian war in Ukraine. Panels on military and naval strategy delved into strategies for managing an assertive China, with discussions on "grey warfare" tactics. European Ministers urged India to reconsider its trade and diplomatic relations with Russia and to advocate for Ukraine's sovereignty.
Regional Security Concerns: Various regional security concerns, including tensions in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Eastern Europe, were addressed during the dialogue. Participants deliberated on strategies for conflict resolution, peace-building efforts, and managing regional rivalries to promote stability and security.
Technology and Innovation: The role of technology and innovation in shaping geopolitics and global governance emerged as a significant theme. Discussions encompassed topics such as cybersecurity, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence, highlighting their implications for national security and international relations.
A Look at Raisina Dialogue over the Years
Raisina Dialogue 2016: The inaugural edition of the Raisina Dialogue, held from March 1 to 3, 2016, set the stage for subsequent conferences by focusing on the theme of "Asia: Regional and Global Connectivity." With participation from over 100 speakers representing more than 35 countries, the conference aimed to explore various dimensions of connectivity, including physical infrastructure, economic integration, and digital networks. Against the backdrop of increasing globalization, discussions emphasized the imperative of collaborative approaches to address shared challenges and harness the opportunities presented by Asia's rapid development.
Raisina Dialogue 2017: Building upon the themes introduced in the inaugural edition, the 2017 Raisina Dialogue adopted the theme of "The New Normal: Multilateralism with Multipolarity." Held from January 17 to 19, 2017, the conference brought together an even larger gathering of speakers, with representation from 65 countries. Against the backdrop of a shifting global landscape characterized by multipolarity, discussions centered on the evolving nature of global governance and the imperative of multilateral cooperation. Key topics included the challenges and opportunities posed by emerging powers, the role of regional institutions in promoting stability, and the need for collective action to address transnational threats.
Raisina Dialogue 2018: In 2018, the Raisina Dialogue continued its exploration of global dynamics with the theme "Managing Disruptive Transitions: Ideas, Institutions, and Idioms." Held from January 16 to 18, 2018, the conference delved into the challenges posed by disruptive forces reshaping the global order. Discussions focused on the need for new directions in established relationships, the challenges faced by emerging partnerships, and the questioning of traditional notions of power and sovereignty. Speakers explored the role of institutions in managing transitions, the potential for collective action, and effective responses to contemporary developments.
Raisina Dialogue 2019: The fourth edition of the Raisina Dialogue, held from January 8 to 10, 2019, centered around the theme "New Geometrics | Fluid Partnerships | Uncertain Outcomes." Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainties and fluid alliances, discussions emphasized the importance of forging innovative partnerships and adapting to emerging geopolitical realities. Key topics included the shifting dynamics of global power, the impact of technological advancements on international relations, and the need for agile diplomatic strategies to address evolving challenges.
Raisina Dialogue 2020: The fifth edition of the Raisina Dialogue, held from January 14 to 16, 2020, explored the theme "Navigating the Alpha Century." Against the backdrop of rapid technological advancements and geopolitical shifts, discussions focused on strategies for navigating the complexities of the 21st century. Speakers examined the implications of the digital revolution, climate change, and geopolitical rivalries on global governance and security. Key topics included the rise of digital diplomacy, the geopolitics of emerging technologies, and the imperative of addressing climate change as a global priority.
Raisina Dialogue 2021: Responding to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Raisina Dialogue transitioned to a virtual format in 2021, focusing on the theme "ViralWorld: Outbreaks, Outliers, and Out of Control." Held from April 13 to 16, 2021, the conference examined the interconnected nature of pandemics, climate change, and geopolitical tensions. Discussions underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing shared threats and building resilient societies. Key topics included pandemic preparedness, vaccine diplomacy, and the role of technology in combating global health crises.
Raisina Dialogue 2022: The seventh edition of the Raisina Dialogue, held from April 25 to 27, 2022, returned to an in-person format, exploring the theme "Terra Nova: Impassioned, Impatient, and Imperilled." Against the backdrop of growing geopolitical tensions and environmental challenges, discussions focused on forging new pathways for global cooperation and addressing pressing threats to international peace and security. Key topics included climate change mitigation, conflict resolution, and the future of multilateralism in a rapidly changing world.
Conclusion
The Raisina Dialogue has evolved into a vital platform for fostering dialogue, cooperation, and understanding in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. With each edition, the conference has addressed a diverse array of issues, reflecting the evolving dynamics of global diplomacy.
As we look towards the future, the Raisina Dialogue remains poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the contours of international relations and advancing global peace and prosperity. Through its commitment to substantive dialogue and engagement, the Raisina Dialogue continues to inspire meaningful action and cooperation on the global stage.
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