The Defence in India is undoubtedly a powerful instrument for advancing national interest. India has a large army, a credible nuclear deterrent, an established missile capability and a powerful navy. Behind the debate on ‘military diplomacy’ lies a strong sentiment in our armed forces that their role in formulating our security policies is limited. Indian military circles hold the view that enough importance is not attached to military diplomacy in our foreign policy.
Recent Developments Obsolete Weaponry as a Gift to Friendly Countries In a bid to boost defence cooperation, the government has asked the armed forces to compile a list of obsolete military equipment that can be “refurbished at minimal cost” and gifted to “friendly” countries. The latest proposal by the government is akin to the Excess Defense Assets (EDA) programme of the United States.
India’s Reconnection with Europe President Ram Nath Kovind visited three European states — Cyprus, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic. His trip was part of a notable effort by the government to put Europe back at the centre of India’s global consciousness.
European Outreach by the Present Government
EU’s India Strategy
Trilateral Indo-Pacific Compact
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Benefits to Foreign Policy Goals
Defence Cooperation with Immediate Neighbourhood Afghanistan
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Maldives
Myanmar
Nepal
Pakistan
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