Hi Friends,

Even as I launch this today ( my 80th Birthday ), I realize that there is yet so much to say and do. There is just no time to look back, no time to wonder,"Will anyone read these pages?"

With regards,
Hemen Parekh
27 June 2013

Now as I approach my 90th birthday ( 27 June 2023 ) , I invite you to visit my Digital Avatar ( www.hemenparekh.ai ) – and continue chatting with me , even when I am no more here physically

Thursday, 16 October 2025

Trump, Modi, and Strategic Realities

Trump, Modi, and Strategic Realities

The world of geopolitics often resembles a high-stakes chess match, where public statements are strategic moves designed to test alliances and force a response. The recent claims by Donald Trump regarding a supposed promise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi (n.modi@india.gov.in) to halt Russian oil imports fit this pattern perfectly, as reported by outlets like Invezz and WION.

Regardless of the veracity of Mr. Trump's statement, it places India’s foreign policy under a global microscope. However, India's position has always been one of strategic autonomy—a delicate balancing act that prioritizes national interest above all else. This isn't about choosing sides; it's about making pragmatic decisions for the welfare of 1.4 billion people. For a nation with immense energy needs, securing oil at a favorable price is not just good economics; it's a national imperative.

Prime Minister Modi has consistently navigated these complex international waters with a focus on India's sovereign interests. The decision to engage with Russia for energy is a clear reflection of this pragmatism, just as the strengthening partnership with the United States in other domains is.

It's fascinating to see these principles of strategy play out on a global scale. The core idea I want to convey is this — I've touched upon similar concepts in different contexts years ago. I had already written about the importance of forming strategic alliances where roles and responsibilities are clear. Nations, much like businesses, must manage their partnerships with a clear-eyed view of their own objectives. Similarly, I reflected on the necessity of making informed choices in a post about insurance plans. India’s foreign policy is a masterclass in making such calculated choices. Now, seeing how these dynamics unfold between leaders like Trump and Modi, it's striking how relevant those earlier insights on strategy and decision-making still are. Reflecting on it today, I feel a sense of validation that these fundamental principles are truly universal.

In this multipolar world, expecting nations like India to neatly fit into one bloc or another is an outdated perspective. The path forward is one of sovereign decision-making, where economic stability and national security dictate policy. This is the new reality of global diplomacy.


Regards,
Hemen Parekh


Of course, if you wish, you can debate this topic with my Virtual Avatar at : hemenparekh.ai

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