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International Relations – Sample Copy

INDIANCIVILS – The Online IAS Academy

INDIANCIVILS Sample Material

CONTENTS

1. India and its neighbourhood – relations

2. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or

affecting India’s interests

3. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s

interests, Indian diaspora

4. Important International institutions, agencies and fora – their structure, mandate.



INDIA AND ITS NEIGHBOURHOOD – RELATIONS

BILATERAL, REGIONAL AND GLOBAL GROUPINGS AND

AGREEMENTS INVOLVING INDIA AND/OR AFFECTING

INDIA’S INTERESTS Sample Material

India gives highest priority to her neighbours. This centrality of neighbours in India’s foreign policy

stems from the clear understanding that a peaceful periphery is essential for India to achieve her

multifarious developmental goals. Moreover, India firmly believes that a stable and prosperous

South Asia will contribute to India’s own prosperity. Again, in the context of South Asia, India has a

certain added responsibility because India is a neighbour to all though none of the others actually

share borders – except Myanmar and Bangladesh. To that extent India has been implementing a

policy of asymmetric engagement to strengthen bridges of friendship and create new opportunities

for the growth, security and well-being of her neighbours both bilaterally and through the SAARC

mechanism.

At the last SAARC Summit held in Maldives in November 2011, Former Prime Minister Dr.

Manmohan Singh articulated India’s vision of regional economic integration based on enhanced

intra-regional trade, investment flows and interconnectivity. India announced virtual elimination of

sensitive lists affecting exports of all least developed SAARC countries to India and took various

initiatives for capacity building. India is committed to fostering the sense of a South Asian Identity

through the SAARC process, enhancing mutual confidence in multiple areas and in trying to

leverage India’s rapid economic growth into win-win arrangements with her neighbours. India

remains conscious of this vision of South Asian Integration in bilateral engagements with her

neighbours as well.

Salient features of Indian Foreign Policy 1. Briefly in friendly relations with neighbours and all countries in the world.

2. The resolution of conflicts by peaceful means

3. The sovereign equality of all states

4. Independence of thought and action as manifested in the principals of non alignment

5. Equity in the conduct of international relations

6. Improvement of bilateral relations and stretching of regional cooperation

7. String advocacy of general and complete disarmament

8. Firmly committed to the purpose and principles of the united nations

INDIAN AFGHAN RELATIONS India and Afghanistan have a strong relationship based on historical and cultural links. India has

played a significant role in the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Afghanistan. We believe that

democracy and development are the key instruments to ensure that Afghanistan becomes a source of

regional stability. This has been reflected in the Strategic Partnership Agreement, signed between

Afghanistan and India during Afghan President Hamid Karzai's visit to India in October 2011,

which reinforced the strong, vibrant and multi-faceted relations between the two countries and at the

same time formalized a framework for cooperation in various areas between the two countries:



political & security cooperation; trade & economic cooperation; capacity development and

education; and social, cultural, civil society & people-to-people relations. This agreement is a strong

signal of our abiding commitment to peace, stability and prosperity in Afghanistan during this

critical period of security and governance transition. The commitment is also reflected in our

extensive developmental assistance programme, which now stands at around US $2 billion, making

India the 5th largest bilateral donor in Afghanistan after the US, UK, Japan and Germany. This, by

any reckoning, is a substantial amount for a non-traditional donor like India.

Bilateral Visits: There also exists a high-level political engagement with Afghanistan, which is

reflected in the large number of bilateral high-level visits. There have been frequent high level visits

from both sides in 2011-12, including among others, External Affairs Minister (EAM) and National

Security Adviser (NSA) in January and March 2011 respectively; Prime Minister in May 2011;

Special Envoy to PM to Kabul in June 2011 for a meeting of the International Contact Group;

Foreign Secretary in September 2011; Minister of Law & Justice Shri Salman Khurshid on

September 24, 2011 after the demise of Prof Burhanuddin Rabbani, and again on June 14 for the

Heart of Asia Conference in Kabul, and Minister for Steel Shri Beni Prasad Verma in April 2012.

From the Afghan side high level visits to India include: President Hamid Karzai in February, 2011;

Defence Minister Wardak in June, 2011; First Vice President Marshal Fahim in June 2011; a

Parliamentary delegation led by Speaker of the lower house of the Afghan Parliament Mr Ibrahimi

to India in July, 2011; a delegation from the High Peace Council headed by its Chairman, late Prof.

Burhanuddin Rabbani in July 2011; Afghan NSA Mr Rangin Dadfar Spanta in August, 2011;

Afghan Minister of Mines Mr Shahrani for the TAPI meeting in September, 2011; Afghan

Commerce Minister Mr. Anwar ul Ahady in October 2011 for the CII, SME summit, President

Karzai in October 2011, Minister of Mines nd Finance Minister in January 2012 for the CII

Partnership ummit in Hyderabad and Foreign Minister Zalmai Rassoul at the first Partnership

Council meeting on May 1, 2012. Lately Dr. Zalmai Rassoul, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr.

Anwar-ul-Haq Ahady, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Omar Zakhilwal, Minister of

Mines, Mr. Wahidullah Shahrani, Minister of Mines and Mr. Asef Rahimi, Minister of Agriculture

were in Delhi on June 28 for the Delhi Investment Summit on Afghanistan, which sought to provide

a forum for potential investors from the region and beyond to meet and explore possible cross-

country company partnerships on investments in and around Afghanistan in various sectors where

Afghanistan holds the promise of significant potential, opportunity and need, as a means of bringing

stability and development to Afghanistan through economic means in the challenging post-2014

phase.

Development Partnership:- India has played an active role in the development of Afghanistan

based on the understanding that social and economic development in Afghanistan is crucial to

egional stability. The principal objective of India’s development partnership is to assist in building

indigenous Afghan capacity and institutions and to ensure that development touches all the regions

of Afghanistan and encompasses all the sectors of development. India’s pledged assistance to

Afghanistan stands at a little under U.S. $2 billion, making it the fifth largest bilateral donor in

Afghanistan. All the projects are undertaken in partnership with the Afghan government, in

consonance with the Afghanistan National Development Strategy.



INDIA PAKISTAN RELATIONS The Composite Dialogue between India and Pakistan from 2004 to 2008 addressed all outstanding

issues. It had completed four rounds and the fifth round was in progress when it was paused in the

wake of the Mumbai terrorist attack in November 2008. Amongst its achievements can be cited a

number of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) related to peace and security; enhanced people to

people contacts through bus and train services; revival of the Bilateral Joint Commission after 16

years; setting up of the Judicial Committee to look into the humanitarian issue of civilian

prisoners/fishermen held in each other’s jails and growth in bilateral trade by 550% between year

2003-04 and 2007-08 from US$ 44.59 million to US$ 2.23 billion.

Resumed Dialogue

As a result of their meeting in April 2010 in Thimphu on the sidelines of the SAARC Summit, Prime

Minister and PM Gilani of Pakistan mandated the two Foreign Ministers and Foreign Secretaries to

hold discussions on the modalities for restoring trust and confidence in order to pave the way for a

comprehensive, sustained and meaningful dialogue on all issues of mutual interest and concern.

Foreign Secretary met her Pakistani counterpart in Islamabad in June 2010, and External Affairs

Minister visited Islamabad in July 2010.

Foreign Secretaries of India and Pakistan met in Thimphu on February 6, 2011 to carry forward the

process and agreed to resume dialogue on all issues following the spirit of the Thimphu meeting

between the two Prime Ministers. The sides decided to discuss Counter-Terrorism (including

progress on Mumbai trial) and Narcotics Control; Humanitarian issues; Commercial & Economic

cooperation; Wullar Barrage/Tulbul Navigation Project; Sir Creek; Siachen; Peace & Security

including CBMs; Jammu & Kashmir; promotion of friendly exchanges.

The two Prime Ministers met informally at Mohali on March 30, 2011, when PM Gilani visited India

to witness with PM the semi-final cricket match between India and Pakistan during the Cricket

World Cup.

The meeting of External Affairs Minister and Foreign Minister Khar in New Delhi on 27th July

2011, preceded by the meeting of the Foreign Secretaries of the two countries on 24th June 2011 in

Islamabad, marked the culmination of the first round of the resumed dialogue. The Ministers

expressed satisfaction on holding of meetings on the issues mentioned above, endorsed the decisions

taken by various groups and reviewed bilateral relations. They also decided to revive the Joint

Commission and agreed on strengthening Cross-LoC CBMs.

During the meeting of PM with PM Gilani in November 2011, which took place on the sidelines of

the 17th SAARC summit in Maldives, the leaders decided to continue the resumed dialogue. PM

expressed satisfaction at the progress made by the resumed dialogue and agreed to continue the

process with the aim to build a mutually cooperative and productive relationship between the two

countries, keeping in mind that there is the need for an environment free from hostility and violence.

PM invited President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari for a lunch in New Delhi and held talks with him

on April 8, 2012 when the President undertook a private visit to the sufi shrine of Khwaja

Moinuddin Chishti in Ajmer. After the meeting of the two leaders, PM said that his exchange of

views with President Zardari on bilateral issues was constructive and friendly. He mentioned that



the two leaders were willing to find practical and pragmatic solutions to all outstanding issues.

President Zardari invited PM to visit Pakistan. PM accepted the invitation with pleasure and said that

he would be happy to visit at an appropriate time.

Humanitarian Issues: According to the information provided by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, there were 136

fishermen from India in Pakistani custody as on July 1, 2012. Out of these, 55 were released on

August 16, 2012 (bringing to 603 the total number of Indian fishermen released by Pakistan in

2012). Though Indian civil prisoners believed to be in the custody of Pakistan authorities number

223, the list provided by Pakistani authorities on July 1, 2012 acknowledges presence of only 59

prisoners. Over the past three years (2010, 2011 and 2012 so far) Pakistan has released 19, 13 and

23 prisoners, respectively. India has been consistently taking up with Government of Pakistan, at

all appropriate levels, the issue concerning all Indian prisoners, including fishermen, in Pakistani

jails or under the custody of Pakistan authorities. Steps have been taken to implement the

understanding reached between the Home/ Interior Secretaries of the two countries in March 2011

for releasing without delay the fishermen and civilian prisoners who complete their sentence, whose

nationality has been confirmed by the respective government and whose travel documents have

been received. In their meeting in May 2012, Home/ Interior Secretaries agreed to release such

fishermen, along with their boats, and to transfer to charitable institutions in the respective country

those prisoners whose nationality status has not been confirmed due to either lack of information or

disabilities of the prisoner concerned. India-Pakistan Judicial Committee on Prisoners, consisting of

four retired judges from each side, has been active in recommending steps for humane treatment and

expeditious release of prisoners of each country in the others’ jail/custody, and adoption of a humane

approach in dealing with cases of fishermen and prisoners, especially women, elderly, juvenile, and

those terminally ill or suffering from serious illness or physical / mental disability. Members of the

Committee visited Pakistan from April 18-23, 2011 and visited jails in Karachi, Rawalpindi and

Lahore. They visited India (Delhi, Jaipur and Amritsar) from January 23-27, 2012. 28. On April 9,

2012, the Supreme Court of India granted bail to Dr Khalil Chisti an octogenarian Pakistan national

serving sentence on murder charges in India, and later allowed him to travel to Pakistan on certain

conditions. The leadership of Pakistan and a number of civil society activists had appealed for Dr.

Chishti’s release. An Indian prisoner, Sarabjit Singh, awaits disposal of his mercy petitions to the

President of Pakistan. The first Visa Agreement with Pakistan was signed on September 14, 1974.

Since then the Agreement was revised in 1986 and 1990 with the exchange of notes between the two

countries. Home/Interior Secretaries had decided in March 2011 to set up JWG on Visa related

issues. The JWG has since finalised a mutually agreed text of the Agreement. It is yet to be signed.

INDIAN NEPAL RELATIONS As close neighbours, India and Nepal share a unique relationship of friendship and cooperation

characterized by open borders and deep-rooted people-to-people contacts of kinship and culture.

There has been a long tradition of free movement of people across the borders. Nepal has an area of

147,181 Sq. Kms. and a population of 29 million. It shares a border of over 1850 Kms to the south

with five Indian States - Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand and in the

north with the Tibet autonomous region of the People's Republic of China.

In keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchange of visits between India and Nepal,

President, Dr. Ram Baran Yadav, First President of Nepal, paid an official visit to India from 27



January -5 February 2011. Other visits from Nepal to India in the recent years have been by Prime

Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai (20-23 October 2011), Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal (18-

22 August 2009) and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ (14-18 September, 2008).

External Affairs Minister, Shri.S.M. Krishna visited Nepal from 15-17 January 2010 and again from

20-22 April 2011. Finance Minister Shri Pranab Mukherjee visited Nepal on 27 November 2011.

India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 is the bedrock of the special relations that exist

between India and Nepal. Under the provisions of the treaty, Nepalese citizen have enjoyed

unparalleled advantages in India, availing the facilities and opportunities at par with Indian citizens.

The Treaty has enabled Nepal to overcome the disadvantages of being a land-locked country.

Overtime, many regimes in Nepal have raised the issue of revision of the treaty.

Beginning with the 12-Point Understanding reached between the Seven Party Alliance (SPA) and

the Maoists in Delhi in November 2005. Government of India welcomed the roadmap laid down by

the historic Comprehensive Peace Agreement of November 2006 towards political stabilization in

Nepal through peaceful reconciliation and inclusive democratic processes, India has consistently

responded with a sense of urgency to the needs of the people and Government of Nepal in ensuring

the success of the peace process and institutionalization of multi-party democracy through the

framing of a new Constitution by a duly elected Constituent Assembly.

India contributes to the development efforts of Government of Nepal (GoN) by undertaking various

development projects in the areas of infrastructure, health, rural and community development,

education, etc. The grant assistance extended to Nepal during 2009-10 under ‘Aid to Nepal’ budget

was ₹161 crores. In addition, GOI has extended considerable economic assistance to the ongoing

peace process in Nepal.

The overall quantum of India's assistance to Nepal is approx. ` 3600 crores which includes the

Small Development Projects scheme offered by the Embassy of India delivers development

assistance at grass-roots level in sectors identified with the local population. It now covers over 370

projects with an outlay of approx. ` 402 crores. As part of India’s effort to assist with capacity

building and development of Human Resources in Nepal, over 1500 scholarships to Nepal Students

are given.

India continues to be Nepal’s largest trade partner, source of foreign investment and tourist arrivals.

Bilateral trade between India and Nepal has increased substantially since the signing of the Trade

Treaty in 1996 and received further impetus after the signing of the revised Trade treaty in 2009

which has provisions that allow Nepal greater access to the Indian market. According to figures for

the Nepalese fiscal year 2066 (July 2010), bilateral trade with India accounted stood at ` 16129.7

crores which accounted for for 58.7% of Nepalese total external trade. India and Nepal have a treaty

of transit, which confers transit rights through each other’s territory through mutually agreed routes

and modalities. The treaty was last renewed for seven years in March 2006. The two countries have

concluded a Rail Services Agreement (RSA) and a revised Air Services Agreement (ASA) to

enhance bilateral connectivity. A Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA) for passenger vehicles is

awaiting formal signature. India also remains Nepal’s largest source of foreign investment and

Indian investments in Nepal amount to ` 1586 crores with 462 FDI projects. India accounts for 44%

of the total foreign investments in Nepal.



A Joint Technical Committee (JTC) led by Surveyors General of India and Nepal has jointly

prepared and initialed strip maps of 98% of the India-Nepal boundary (December 2007). These strip

maps are awaiting authentication at Plenipotentiary level. Recently there were some politically

motivated attempts in Nepal to portray the status of the boundary in an unfavorable light alleging

instances of Indian encroachment, although the matter has not been formally taken up by the

Government of Nepal. India has emphasized the necessity of early signature of the strip maps at

plenipotentiary level so that work on installation of boundary pillars where they are missing and

repairs where they are damaged could begin. Nepal has conveyed that they are building political

consensus for the signing of the strip maps.

INDIA BHUTAN RELATIONS Diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan were established in 1968 with the appointment of a

resident representative of India in Thimphu. Before this our relations with Bhutan were looked after

by our Political Officer in Sikkim. The basic framework of India – Bhutan bilateral relations is the

Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation of 1949 between the two countries, which was updated and

signed during the visit to India of His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck in February

2007. The updated India-Bhutan Friendship Treaty not only reflects the contemporary nature of our

relationship but also lays the foundation for their future development in the 21st century.

The Treaty provides, amongst other things, for perpetual peace and friendship, free trade and

commerce, and equal justice to each other's citizens. Our bilateral political relations with Bhutan

have matured over the years and are characterised by close trust and understanding and extensive

cooperation in the field of economic development, particularly in the mutually beneficial sector of

hydroelectric power.

High Level Visits This special relationship is further sustained by the tradition of regular visits and extensive exchange

of views at the highest levels between the two countries.

Our President’s visits to Bhutan

Shri V.V. Giri in April 1970 and June 1974

Shri R. Venkataraman in October 1988

Smt. Pratibha Devi Singh Patil in November 2008

Mutually beneficial economic inter-linkages between India and Bhutan

It has been an important element in our bilateral relations. India continues to be the largest trade and

development partner of Bhutan. Planned development efforts in Bhutan began in the early 1960s.

The First Five Year Plan (FYP) of Bhutan was launched in 1961. Since then, India has been

extending financial assistance to Bhutan’s FYPs. So far, nine Five Year Plans of Bhutan have been

completed. Some of the major projects in Bhutan carried out with Indian assistance in the past

include 1020 MW Tala Hydroelectric Project, 336 MW Chukha Hydroelectric Project, 60 MW

Kurichu Hydro Electric Project, Penden Cement Plant, Paro Airport, Bhutan Broadcasting Station,

Major Highways, Electricity Transmission and Distribution System, Indo-Bhutan Microwave Link,

Exploration of Mineral Resources, and Survey and Mapping. Ninth Five-Year Plan (2002-2008):

GOI assistance to Ninth Five Year Plan (2002-08) of Bhutan was Rs. 2610.14 crore. This included



Rs 907 crore for project tied assistance, Rs 820 crore as Programme grant and rest as various refunds

and subsidies. Major GOI assisted projects completed in the Ninth Plan include 350 bedded JDWNR

Hospital in Thimphu, Regional Referral Hospital in Mongar, Phase I of double-lane of Thimphu-

Phuentsholing road, double lane of Paro-Chuzom road, construction of 10 new schools, 306 low

income housing units, Renovation of Semtokha Dzong, two Youth Centres, RENEW Centre, Human

Resource Development, Telecommunications and projects in agriculture and allied sectors. GoI also

funded feasibility studies for establishing rail linkages between border towns of India and Bhutan.

Tenth Five – Year Plan (2008-13): The Government of India committed assistance worth ₹3400

crores during the 10th FYP. This includes Project tied Assistance (Rs 2000 crore for about 70

projects in key socio-economic sectors such as agriculture, ICT, media, health/ hospitals, education/

schools, capacity building, energy, culture and infrastructure etc), Programme Grant (Rs 700 cr.) and

the Small Development Projects (Rs 700 cr.).

Mega projects

Bilateral cooperation in the hydropower sector has been carried forward with the formal

inauguration of the 60 MW Kurichhu Hydroelectric project in April 2006, and commissioning of the

170 MW first unit of 1020 TALA Hydroelectric Project in July 2006. All six units have been

commissioned by end March 2007. GOI has agreed to provide assistance to Bhutan in developing

the hydropower sector and to purchase at least 10,000 MW of power from Bhutan by 2020. For the

purpose ten hydropower projects have been agreed during the first Empowered Joint Group (EJG)

Meeting held in Delhi in March 2009. Of these 10 projects, the three projects – Punatsangchhu-I

Hydro Electric Project, Punatsangchhu –II and Mangedechhu HEPs – are under construction. For 4

projects viz., the Kholongchhu HEP, Amochhu Reservoir, Wangchu Reservoir and Bunakha

Reservoir projects, respective PSUs have submitted DPRs to the two governments for approval. For

remaining 3 projects - the Kuri Gongri HEP, the Chamkharchhu-I HEP and Sankosh Reservoir

Hydroelectric Project (HEP) - DPRs are expected to be finalised by 2012. GOI is also committed to

the establishment of a 1 million tonne cement project, Dungsum Cement Plant at Nganglam. The

project is under construction and is expected to be operational by early 2012. During his visit to

Bhutan Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh announced the construction of the first ever rail link

between India and Bhutan, connecting Hashimara to Phuentsholing, called the “Golden Jubilee Rail

Line”. The technical studies on the alignment of the rail line have started. RITEShas, however,

encountered problems from the owners of Tea Gardens which fall on the proposed railway line.

Ministry of Railways along with the Government of West Bengal are trying to resolve the issue.

During PM’s visit to Bhutan in April 2010 for the 16th SAARC Summit, Prime Minister Dr.

Manmohan Singh and the Prime Minister Jigmi Y. Thinley jointly laid the Foundation Stones for the

Punatsangchhu –II and Mangdechhu Hydro Electric Projects (HEPs) and the Project ‘Bhutan

Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS)’, and launched the Project Implementation Document for the

ICT Project “Chipen Rigphel – Enabling A Society, Empowering A Nation” (Total Solutions

Project). Standby credit facility: GoI has extended a standby credit facility of Rs 300 crores to

RGoB in March 2009 to help Bhutan overcome rupee liquidity crunch.

Trade with India

India is not only Bhutan's main development partner but also its leading trade partner. A free trade

regime exists between India and Bhutan. The India-Bhutan Trade and Commerce Agreement which

expired in March 2005, has been renewed for a period of 10 years. Currently, the major items of

exports from Bhutan to India are electricity (from Tala, Chukha and Kurichhu Hydroelectric



Project), base metals and articles, minerals, vegetable fat and oils, alcoholic beverages, chemicals,

cement, timber and wood products, cardamom, fruit products, potatoes, oranges and apples, raw

silk, plastic and rubber products. Major exports from India to Bhutan are petroleum products,

mineral products, base metals and articles, machinery, automobiles & spares, vegetable, nuts,

spices, processed food and animal products, chemicals, wood, plastic and rubber. The Agreement on

Trade and Commerce also provides for duty free transit of Bhutanese merchandise for trade with

third countries. Sixteen exit/entry points in India identified in the Protocol for Bhutan's third country

trade are: Jaigaon, Chamurchi, Ulta Pani, Hathisar (Gelephu), Darranga, Kolkata, Haldia, Dhubri,

Raxaul, Panitanki, Changrabandh, Phulbari, Dawki, New Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai. Of these,

Kolkata, Haldia, Mumbai and Chennai are the designated seaports, Dhubri is the riverine route,

New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Kolkata are the air routes and Raxaul is the rail route. The others

are the designated road routes. During 2010, imports from India were of the order of Rs. 2930

crores and constituted 75% of Bhutan’s total imports. Bhutan’s exports to India in 2010 amounted

to Rs. 2600 crores and constituted 90% of its total exports. Total trade in 2010 grew by about 26%

from 2009.

INDIAN BANGLADESH RELATIONS India is not only Bhutan's main development partner but also its leading trade partner. A free trade

regime exists between India and Bhutan. The India-Bhutan Trade and Commerce Agreement which

expired in March 2005, has been renewed for a period of 10 years. Currently, the major items of

exports from Bhutan to India are electricity (from Tala, Chukha and Kurichhu Hydroelectric

Project), base metals and articles, minerals, vegetable fat and oils, alcoholic beverages, chemicals,

cement, timber and wood products, cardamom, fruit products, potatoes, oranges and apples, raw

silk, plastic and rubber products. Major exports from India to Bhutan are petroleum products,

mineral products, base metals and articles, machinery, automobiles & spares, vegetable, nuts,

spices, processed food and animal products, chemicals, wood, plastic and rubber. The Agreement on

Trade and Commerce also provides for duty free transit of Bhutanese merchandise for trade with

third countries. Sixteen exit/entry points in India identified in the Protocol for Bhutan's third country

trade are: Jaigaon, Chamurchi, Ulta Pani, Hathisar (Gelephu), Darranga, Kolkata, Haldia, Dhubri,

Raxaul, Panitanki, Changrabandh, Phulbari, Dawki, New Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai. Of these,

Kolkata, Haldia, Mumbai and Chennai are the designated seaports, Dhubri is the riverine route,

New Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai and Kolkata are the air routes and Raxaul is the rail route. The others

are the designated road routes.

During 2010, imports from India were of the order of Rs. 2930 crores and constituted 75% of

Bhutan’s total imports. Bhutan’s exports to India in 2010 amounted to Rs. 2600 crores and

constituted 90% of its total exports. Total trade in 2010 grew by about 26% from 2009. Union

Minister for Power Shri Sushil Kumar Shinde visited Bangladesh on September 15-16, 2011 to

attend the 4th SAARC Energy Ministers' Conference held in Dhaka. On the sidelines of the

Conference, he had a bilateral meeting with Adviser(Energy) to PM Tawfique Elahi Chowdhury

and BD State Minister for Power Mohd. Enamul Huq and discussed import of 250MW power from

India and establishment of a 1,320MW coal-based power plant at Bagerhat, Khulna. Bangladesh

Home Minister Advocate Shahara Khatun and Adviser(Int’l relations) to PM Dr. Gowher Rizvi,

along with an official delegation, visited India to attend the second Home Ministers’ meeting on

February 24-25, 2012.



Institutional Mechanism

Some of the important institutional mechanisms that meet periodically to discuss bilateral issues

include Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) and Joint Economic ommission (JEC) at Ministerial level,

Foreign Office Consultations, Home, Commerce and Water Resources Secretary level talks, BSF-

BDR DG-level border coordination conference, Joint Working Group on Security (JWG), Joint

Boundary Working Group (JBWG), Joint Working Group on Trade (JWG), Joint Group of Customs

Officials (JGC), rotocol Renewal Committee and Standing Committee to review implementation of

Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, and Inter- Governmental Railway Meeting. 14th

Meeting of the BIWTA was held in Goa wherein the bilateral protocol was renewed for one year till

March 31, 2012. The Standing Committee on IWTT met in Dhaka on February 12-13, 2012.

Following the Commerce Secretary Level Talks held in New Delhi on March 28-29, 2012, the

India-Bangladesh Trade Agreement was renewed for three years. Pursuant to the Shipping Secretary

Talks held on July 2-3, 2012, the bilateral Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade was renewed

for two years till March 31, 2014. India has also agreed to pay Tk 100 million every year for

maintaining two river routes viz. Doikhawa-Sirajganj and Zakiganj-Sherpur.

Economic Assistance to Bangladesh

On the economic assistance side, India has extended a line of credit of US$1 billion to Bangladesh

for a range of projects, including railway infrastructure, supply of BG locomotives and passenger

coaches, procurement of buses, and dredging projects. The Line of Credit Agreement was signed in

Dhaka on August 7, 2010 between EXIM Bank of India and Government of Bangladesh. India has

stood by Bangladesh in its hour of need with aid worth over Taka 250 crore (over US $ 37 million)

to help it cope with natural disasters and floods in 2007-08 including supply of 1,000 MT of

skimmed milk powder, and 40,000 MT of rice.

INDIAN SRI LANKA RELATIONS India is Sri Lanka's closest neighbour. The relationship between the two countries is more than

2,500 years old and both sides have built upon a legacy of intellectual, cultural, religious and

linguistic intercourse. Relations between the two countries have also matured and diversified with

the passage of time, encompassing all areas of contemporary relevance. The shared cultural and

civilizational heritage of the two countries and the extensive people to people interaction of their

citizens provide the foundation to build a multi-faceted partnership. In recent years, the relationship

has been marked by close contacts at the highest political level, growing trade and investment,

cooperation in the fields of development, education, culture and defence, as well as a broad

understanding on major issues of international interest. India also consistently advocated the need for

IDPs to be resettled to their original habitations as early as possible. In order to help with this, India

provided shelter assistance by way of supplying 10,400 tonnes of galvanized iron (GI) sheets (a

total of over one million sheets) between August 2009 and May 2011 for constructing temporary

housing for IDPs. In addition, 95,000 starter packs of agricultural implements were supplied to help

resettling families begin livelihood generating activities. The Government of India also supplied

400,000 bags of cement to help IDPs rebuild their shelters. Since the requirement of de-mining was

a major constraint on the speed of resettlement, the Government of India fully financed seven Indian

de-mining teams, engaged in various sectors in northern Sri Lanka to help expedite resettlement. Sri

Lanka is one of the major recipients of development credit given by the Government of India. A line

of credit of $167.4 million for repair and upgradation of the tsunami-damaged Colombo-Matara rail

link is already fully operational. The upgraded coastal railway track between Galle-Matara was



inaugurated on 16 February 2011. During his visit to Sri Lanka in January 2012, Minister of

External Affairs Mr. S.M. Krishna handed over the Galle-Hikkeduwa segment. Another line of

credit of $800 million for track laying and supply of rolling stock for the northern railway line was

announced during the visit of the President of Sri Lanka to India in June 2010. Of this amount, an

agreement for a credit line of US $416.39 million was signed in November 2010 to support

construction of Medawachchiya to Madhu, Madhu to Talaimannar and Omanthai to Pallai railway

lines in Northern Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is one of the major recipients of development credit given by

the Government of India. A line of credit of $167.4 million for repair and upgradation of the

tsunami-damaged Colombo-Matara rail link is already fully operational. The upgraded coastal

railway track between Galle-Matara was inaugurated on 16 February 2011. During his visit to Sri

Lanka in January 2012, Minister of External Affairs Mr. S.M. Krishna handed over the Galle-

Hikkeduwa segment. Another line of credit of $800 million for track laying and supply of rolling

stock for the northern railway line was announced during the visit of the President of Sri Lanka to

India in June 2010. Of this amount, an agreement for a credit line of US $416.39 million was signed

in November 2010 to support construction of Medawachchiya to Madhu, Madhu to Talaimannar

and Omanthai to Pallai railway lines in Northern Sri Lanka. The India-Sri Lanka Foundation, set up

in December 1998 as an intergovernmental initiative, also promotes greater understanding between

the peoples of the two countries, including through enhancement of scientific, technical,

educational and cultural cooperation. The Foundation focuses especially on the promotion of civil

society cooperation and enhancing contact between the younger generations of the two countries.

With a view to this, the Foundation has supported a number of student exchange programmes and

activities at the school and university levels. It has also promoted the pursuit of higher studies as

well as research in both countries, besides supporting a ariety of cultural performances and

programmes. Given the proximity of the territorial waters of both countries, especially in the Palk

Straits and the Gulf of Mannar, incidents of straying of fishermen are common. Both countries have

agreed on certain practical arrangements to deal with the issue of bonafide fishermen of either side

crossing the IMBL. Through these arrangements, it has been possible to deal with the issue of

detention of fishermen in a humane manner. India and Sri Lanka also enjoy a growing defence

relationship built on extensive training and Service-to-Service linkages. The commonality of

concerns of both countries, including with respect to the safety and security of their sea lanes of

communication, informs their bilateral exchanges in this field.

Recent Issues between Indian and Sri Lanka

The issue of fishermen straying in each other’s territorial waters has come as a potential irritant in

the otherwise generally good bilateral relations between India and Sri Lanka. Indeed, wherever

sovereign coasts are in proximity (in the case of India-Pakistan, India-Bangladesh and India-Sri

Lanka), straying of fishermen is normal. Fishes know no frontiers; fishermen choose to ignore them,

principally for livelihood reasons. However, in the India-Sri Lanka case, the issue is more complex

and, therefore, calls for holistic approach. Indian Government sources claims that they had tried to

bring together fishermen's associations from both countries at Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu. But

there is still no meeting ground between the two sides. • The troubling island called unresolved

exchange dispute of Katchaitivu, which was ceded to Sri Lanka in 1974 when India and Sri Lanka

demarcated their international maritime boundary line (IMBL) has became the bone of discontent.

Sri Lankans say they gave an island called Wedgebank to India in exchange. However, Indian

fishermen continue to be caught fishing off Kachaitivu on the explanation that it's a "traditional"

fishing ground. But this is running afoul of not only Sri Lankan fishermen but its navy. Territorial



Maritime waters of each country in some areas strays into the other are if 12 nautical mile

criteria is strictly applied. Maritime border between the two countries is about 400 kilometres

spreading along three different areas: the Bay of Bengal in the north, the Palk Bay and the Gulf of

Mannar in the centre and the Indian Ocean in the south. In the Palk Bay region, distances between

the coasts of the two countries varies between 16 and 45 kms.

During the ethnic war Tamil militants and the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan Navy

focussed on ‘Sea Tigers’ and the movement of LTTE boats around the island. It overlooked

straying of Indian fishermen, who were entrepreneurial enough to take the risk to smuggle goods

that could be use to the LTTE.

The end of ethnic war resulted in relaxation of fishing restrictions along Sri Lankan coasts resulting

in its fishermen to venture into the seas around without any fear. The Indian fishermen, who thus far

enjoyed monopoly of resourcerich waters, have now got competitors in massive numbers. At times,

this leads to confrontations between the two fishing communities and in turn drawing

intervention of either of naval forces.

The main complaint of Sri Lankan fishermen has been against Indian mechanised trawlers that

indulge in pair, mid-water, pelagic, and bottom trawling severely damaging marine resources

and the sea bed. Ironically, most of the trawlers from Tamil Nadu are owned by merchant capitalists

from non-fishing and other social backgrounds. The entry of ‘outsiders’ has not only threatened the

local customary laws of fishing communities, but also turned several traditional fishermen from

owners to labourers. Trawler sector in Tamil Nadu is also politically influential and financially

sound making it more obdurate to solutions that could cut down its profit margins.

Measures to solve the issue: Arranging frequent meetings between fishing communities of both countries could be explored

so as to develop a friendlier atmosphere at mid-seas during fishing. the right to life of fishermen

should be respected; then comes the livelihood issue. To avoid shooting incidents due to “mistaken

identity”, ‘coordinated patrolling’ between marine forces (Sri Lankan Navy and Indian Coast

Guards) of both countries can be considered. As an additional safety measure, the Indian Navy's

proposal of fitting Global Positioning System (GPS) in every Indian fishing boat should be

implemented. To avoid shooting incidents due to “mistaken identity”, ‘coordinated patrolling’

between marine forces (Sri Lankan Navy and Indian Coast Guards) of both countries can be

considered. Developing fish farming extensively in Indian waters would prevent its fishermen from

venturing into other waters in search of a ‘big catch’. India can also consider leasing fishing

blocks, especially those identified as ‘surplus total available catch’, from Sri Lanka. Through this,

Sri Lanka could also earn much required foreign exchange. Adequate fish population can be

maintained in Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar areas, so that most of the fishermen would not find the

need to venture into other’s ‘territories’. India also can consider taking on Katchchativu Island that

has been the centre of controversy, on long-term lease. Solution from below’ has greater chances of

success than a ‘solution imposed from above’ by the governments. There have indeed been meetings

between fishing communities since 2003, but erratic and not so fruitful in terms of tangible results. If

they are systematised and institutionalised, one can expect them to be more successful. It is

important that whatever agreements reached by the fishing communities mongst themselves receive

strong backing from the governments and their marine forces.



INDIAN MALDIVES RELATIONS India and Maldives share ethnic, linguistic, cultural, religious and commercial links steeped in

antiquity and enjoy close, cordial and multi-dimensional relations. India was among the first to

recognise Maldives after its independence in 1965 and to establish diplomatic relations with the

country. India established its mission at the level of CDA in 1972 and resident High Commissioner

in 1980. Maldives opened a full fledged High Commission in New Delhi in November 2004, at that

time one of its only four diplomatic missions worldwide.

Political relations Bilateral relations have been nurtured and strengthened by regular contacts at the highest levels.

Since establishment of diplomatic relations, almost all the Prime Ministers of India visited the

Maldives. Former President Gayoom made a number of visits to India. President Mohamed

Nasheed’s first visit to abroad after assuming office was to India in December 2008. In October

2009, President Nasheed attended the Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change and

Technology Transfer. In 2010 President Nasheed visited India twice, first in January for the CII-

Partnership Summit in Chennai and in October for attending the Opening ceremony of the 19th

Commonwealth Games in New Delhi. In the current year, President Nasheed made an official visit

in February 2011. On international issues Maldives had consistently supported India in multilateral

fora, such as the UN, he Commonwealth, the NAM and the SAARC. Maldives was one of the first

countries to convey its support for the candidature of Shri Kamalesh Sharma as the Commonwealth

Secretary General. Maldives also co-sponsored the G-4 draft resolutions on UN reforms. India has

extended support to Maldives candidature for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for

the term 2019-20.

Bilateral Assistance

Wherever possible, India has been offering assistance to Maldives in its developmental process. The

major projects executed by India are: (i) Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital: (IGMH). During former

Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to Male’ in 1986, it was agreed to establish a medical

complex in Male’ with Indian assistance. Accordingly, the 200-bed hospital was established at an

estimated cost of Rs.42.5 crores and inaugurated in April 1995. IGMH, Male now serves as the most

advanced tertiary care hospital in Maldives and is easily the most visible symbol of India’s

assistance to the Maldives. Though at present, the Government of Maldives is responsible for

managing/running the hospital, Government of India continues to offer substantial assistance to the

institution. During the visit of Former Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh to Maldives in

November 2011, Government of India signed an agreement to undertake major renovation of IGMH

at a total cost of Rs.37.24 crores. (ii) Faculty of Engineering Technology (FET): Maldives Institute

of Technical Education (MITE) was set up as a grant-in-aid project of Government of India in 1996.

Having a capacity to train at least 200 students a year in various technical/vocational disciplines,

MITE was renamed as Faculty of Engineering Technology. Following the tsunami waves that hit

Maldives on 2004, India was the first country to rush relief and aid to the Maldives.

Indian Investment

The State Bank of India has been playing a vital role in the economic development of the Maldives

since February, 1974 by providing loan assistance for promotion of island resorts, export of marine

products and business enterprises. Taj Group of India runs Taj Exotica Resort & Spa and Vivanta

Coral Reef Resort in Maldives. In November 2010, GMR Infrastructure (India) and KLIA



(Malaysia) consortium took over the Male International Airport on a 25 -year BOT contract to

renovate and expand the largest and most important airport in the country. Earlier, in November

2009, Suzlon Energy of India signed an MoU to set up a 25 MW wind farm at an investment of

US$40 million in the Southern Province of Maldives and Shri Educare of Delhi signed an MoU to

take over the management of Ghiyassudin School, the first such initiative under the privatization

policy of the Government of Maldives. In July 2010, Bommidala Infrastructure of India signed an

agreement for 25-MW solar energy project in the Upper Southern province. Other proposals in the

area of education, renewable energy, health and waste management are also under active

consideration.

Indian Community

Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with a total strength of around

28000. The Indian expatriate community consists of doctors, nurses and technicians, teachers,

construction workers, tailors, etc. spread all over the country. Of the country’s approximately 400

doctors, over 125 are Indians. Similarly around 25% of teachers in Maldives are Indians, mostly at

middle and senior levels.

Recent Issues in Maldives Bilateral relations between India and Maldives have been friendly and close in strategic, economic

and military cooperation. India contributed to maintaining security on the island nation and has

forged an alliance with respect to its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean.

Both nations established diplomatic relations after the independence of Maldives from British rule in

1966. Maldives was one of the first countries to convey its support for the candidature of Indian

fellow as the Commonwealth Secretary General. Maldives also co-sponsored the G-4 draft

resolutions on UN reforms. India has extended support to Maldives candidature for a non-permanent

seat in the UN Security Council for the term 2019-20.

Bilateral Trade India and Maldives signed a trade agreement in 1981, which provides for export of essential

commodities. Bilateral trade is not commensurate with their potential.

Indian Investment

The State Bank of India has been playing a vital role in the economic development of the Maldives

since February, 1974 by providing loan assistance for promotion of island resorts, export of marine

products and business enterprises.

Cultural

Both the countries share long cultural links and continuous efforts are underway to further strengthen

these links. Recently three historical mosques in Maldives were successfully restored by Indian

experts from NRLCCP, Lucknow (Friday Mosque, Male’, Fenfushi Mosque in South Ari Atoll and

the Dharumavantha Rasgefaanu Mosque in Male’).

Indian Community in Maldives Indians are the second largest expatriate community in the Maldives with a total strength of around

28000. The Indian expatriate community consists of doctors, nurses and technicians, teachers,



construction workers, tailors, etc. spread all over the country. Of the country’s approximately 400

doctors, over 125 are Indians. Similarly around 25% of teachers in Maldives are Indians, mostly at

middle and senior levels.

Current Issues: Radicalism in Maldives and India-Maldives Cooperation in Counter

Terrorism

India’s defence Minister A. K. Antony recently completed a three day visit to Malé. During the visit,

India and Maldives have agreed to work together to ensure that “the stability in the region is maintained; and above all… threats, particularly from terrorist groups and other non-state actors,

are eliminated”. It’s worth note that Maldives despite being a 100% Sunni nation was not much

affected by the rise of Islamic Radicalism until recent past. In last few years, Maldivians in

increasing numbers have been drawn towards the Pakistan-based madrasas and jihadist groups.

The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), through its charitable front organisation in the atoll – Idara Khidmat-e-

Khalq – has established a foothold in the southern parts of Maldives, under the guise of providing

relief operations after the 2004 tsunami

At any point of time, many Maldivian nationals are studying in Pakistani madrasas which are

controlled by various jihadist groups. There are several enrolled in Saudi Arabian madrasas as well,

who, on their return, bring back not only the virus of radical ideas, but they also have increased

opportunities to become part of jihadist networks. These madrasa-educated Maldivian nationals are

encouraged to fight the jihad in places ike Afghanistan, Iraq and Chechnya. They also help in the

direct recruitment of Maldivian citizens for jihad.

A terrorist, Ali Jaleel, who was involved in 27 May 2009 suicide attack on the ISI headquarters in

Lahore, was a Maldivian national.

In recent times, Jamaat-ul-Muslimeen, a new Maldives-based terror group, having links with the LeT

was the mastermind of an attack in Male in 2007. India is also worried from the infiltration of Indian

terror group Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) to Maldives, especially after its crackdown

in India. The previous government of Mohammed Nasheed resorted to some measures to tone down

the radicalisation through regulating local Madrasas and seminaries. Being a 100 percent Sunni

Muslim country with a population of about 380,000, Maldives is a suitable heaven for LET jihadists.

It is made up of 1192 small islands, so hiding and anonymity is not an issue. The island-state is also

not too far from India’s southern coast making it an ideal launch pad for attacks through sea. The

LeT has plans to use the Maldivian islands as storehouses for weapons and explosives and use them

as a launch pad against attack on India.

INDIAN CHINA RELATIONS The People's Republic of China (PRC) was established on October 1, 1949, and India was the first

non-communist country to establish an Embassy in PRC. On April 1, 1950, India and China

established diplomatic relations. The two countries also jointly expounded the Panchsheel (Five

Principles of Peaceful Co-existence) in 1954. Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai visited India in June

1954 and Prime Minister Nehru visited China in October 1954. Premier Zhou Enlai again visited

India in January 1957 and in April 1960. The India-China conflict in 1962 led to a serious setback in

bilateral relations. India and China restored ambassadorial relations in August 1976. Higher political



level contacts were revived by the visit of the then External Affairs Minister, A.B. Vajpayee in

February 1979. The Chinese Foreign Minister Huang Hua paid a return visit to India in June, 1981.

Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi visited China in December 1988. During this visit, both sides agreed

to develop and expand bilateral relations in all fields. It was also agreed to establish a Joint Working

Group (JWG) - to seek fair, reasonable and mutual. From the Chinese side, Premier Li Peng visited

India in December 1991. Prime Minister Narasimha Rao visited China in September 1993. The

Agreement on the Maintenance of Peace and Tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in

the India - China Border Area was signed during this visit, providing for both sides to respect the

status quo on the border, clarify the LAC where there are doubts and undertake CBMs. President R.

Venkataraman paid a state visit to China in May 1992. This was the first Head of State-level visit

from India to China. President Jiang Zemin's state visit to India in November 1996 was similarly the

first by a PRC Head of State to India. The four agreements signed during his visit included the one

on CBMs in the Military Field along the LAC covering adoption of concrete measures between the

two militaries to enhance exchanges and to promote cooperation and trust. After the nuclear tests in

May 1998, the relations faced a minor setback. External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh visited

China in June 1999 and both sides reiterated that neither country is a threat to the other. President

K.R. Narayanan’s visit to China in May - June 2000. The year 2011 saw a series of exchanges in

diverse fields. PM Shri Manmohan Singh visited Sanya from April 12-15 to participate in the

BRICS Summit. On the sidelines, PM also had a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Hu

Jintao. Chief Ministers of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat visited China in June, September and

November respectively. Similarly Chairman of Xinjiang Autonomous Region and Party Secretary

of Gansu also visited India as part of the MEA-ILD exchange and Distinguished Visitors

Programme of MEA. One of the highlight of the “Year of Exchanges” was the visit of a youth

delegation to China, which was increased from 100 to 500. Premier Wen Jiabao met and addressed

the Indian youth. Several Ministerial/Official visits to China were made to participate in BRICS

activities. For the first time, India-China Consultations on UNSC issues was held in March.

Indian and China Trade Relations

India and China officially resumed trade in 1978. In 1984, the two sides signed the Most Favoured

Nation Agreement. India-China bilateral trade which was as low as US$ 2.92 billion in 2000

reached US$ 61.7 billion in 2010, making China India’s largest goods trading partner. In 2008,

bilateral trade stood at US$ 51.8 billion and China became India’s largest goods trading partner,

replacing the United States of America. By the end of 2009, as a result of the world economic

downturn, bilateral trade dropped to US$ 43.27 billion (a decline of 16.54%). However, in 2010

bilateral trade reached US$ 61.74 billion, a growth of 43% compared to the same period last year.

India exported goods worth US$ 20.86 billion (+52%) to China and imported goods worth US$

40.88 billion (+38%) from China, resulting in an adverse balance of trade of US$ 20 billion.

India-China Strategic Economic Dialogue During Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao’s visit to India in December 2010, India and China

agreed to set up the Strategic Economic Dialogue mechanism. The SED is a forum for both sides to

discuss strategic macro-economic issues impacting both nations as a result of the changing

international economic and financial landscape, to share their individual best practices and in

handling challenging domestic economic issues and to identify specific fields for enhancing

cooperation, learning and xperience sharing. The first India-China SED took place in Beijing from

September 26-27, 2011. The Indian side was led by Mr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy



Chairman, Planning Commission, while the Chinese side was led by Mr. Zhang Ping, Chairman,

National Development and Reforms Commission. Some of the issues that was discussed during the

SED included introduction to the 12th plan priorities of the two countries, a discussion on each

country’s monetary and fiscal policies, investment policies of the two countries, policies on energy

conservation and environment protection etc. Apart from the official meetings [which included

detailed deliberations in three working groups on Investment and Infrastructure led by Chairman

Railway Board Mr. Vinay Mittal, Water Management (led by Shri Dhruv Vijay Singh, Secretary

(Water Resources)) and Energy Efficiency (led by Dr. Ajay Mathur, Director General, Bureau of

Energy Efficiency)], the SED also included to a site visit to Tianjin, where the Indian delegation

was introduced to water desalination facility. At the end of the official meetings both sides signed

the Agreed Minutes of the 1st SED. The Indian delegation also called on the Chinese Premier Wen

Jiabao.

INDIAN TAJIKISTAN RELATIONS The bilateral relations between the Republic of India and the Republic of Tajikistan have developed

considerably owing to both nations' cooperation on security and strategic issues. India has set up its

first overseas military base in Tajikstan. Diplomatic relations between the Republic of Tajikistan and

the Republic of India were established in 1992. In 1994, India opened its diplomatic mission in

Dushanbe and Tajikistan opened its embassy in New Delhi in 2003. In September 1997, the opening

of the Trade representation of Tajikistan in India took Diplomatic relations was established with

Tajikistan's independence following the 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union, which had been

friendly with India India remains not only a brotherly country for Tajikistan with common historical

and cultural roots, but also as a geo-strategically important nation, rich in natural and human

resources. The common views of political leaders of both countries about important issues of

International relations are firm points for enhancing bilateral relations in various fields such as,

economy, commerce, politics, science and culture. In 2006 the Honorable President of Tajikistan,

Emomali Rahmon, paid an official visit to India. This visit laid the milestone for further

strengthening of historical ties between the two countries. The two countries have been cooperating

in electricity power projects, railway projects, information technology, industry, agriculture,

education and tourism. According to the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two

countries, a Centre of Information and Technology has been opened in Dushanbe in August 2008.

Similarly, National Hydro Power Corporation (NHPC) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited

(BHEL) are implementing Government of India funded modernization of Varzob- 1 hydro power

plant. Both countries signed an agreement on cooperation in the agricultural sector in October 2010.

This agreement is the main document for the development of bilateral cooperation in such areas as

exchange of information in joint programs for scientific agriculture research and technology,

animal husbandry, joint ventures for the production of agricultural products and processing.

Agriculture in India, as in Tajikistan, is the main economic sector. Tajikistan occupies a prominent

place in the world for the production of dried fruits, growing fresh vegetables and fruits, cotton, and

legumes. By applying innovative technology and rich experience of Indian enterprises to grow

cotton in Tajikistan can boost the mutual cooperation between the two countries. In recent years

there has been a strengthening of the Tajik – Indian cultural cooperation, which undoubtedly

contributes to the overall climate of constructive bilateral relations In July 2012 External Affairs

Minister of India visited Tajikistan and President Emomali Rahmon of Tajikistan visited India in

September 2012. During the recent visit of the president, India moved closed in bilateral ties

with assigning Tajikistan as strategic partner tag. With ongoing development in Afghanistan, the



ties between India and Tajikistan are deepened due to rise of Taliban in Afghanistan especially on

counter-terrorism and defence co-operation. The two countries have a joint working group on

counter-terrorism in place. Tajikistan, which shares over 1,400 km border with Afghanistan, faces

threat from Taliban-linked terror groups like Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. India is also in talks

with Tajikistan to set up a military hospital even as it maintains an airbase in Ayni there, the

countries only such facility overseas. This recent strategic partnership emanated mainly from

Tajikistan's fear of the Taliban and the possibility of their comeback in Kabul after the drawdown of

international forces in 2014 according to experts India and Tajikistan signed six agreements in the

field of sports, health, culture, education, labour, textiles and energy. Further, India and the central

Asian country of Tajikistan agreed to advance their ties to a strategic partnership in order to impart

greater strength to the relationship through all-round co-operation and engagement. Reaffirming that

international terrorism is a threat to global peace and security, the two sides condemned "those who

support terrorism and underscored that those aiding, abetting and sheltering terrorists were as guilty

of acts of terrorism as their actual perpetrators." The leaders also stressed the need to work jointly

towards eliminating terrorism including exchange of information, data, financing of terrorism and

related matters and emphasized the need for enhanced dialogue between security agencies.

INDIAN ISRAEL RELATIONS Remarkably, 2012 marks the 20th anniversary of establishment of full diplomatic relations

between India and Israel. The relationship has thrived on the common bedrock of parliamentary

democracy; Common Law structures; liberal system of education; knowledge of English language; a

history of British colonial rule; similar strengths in the knowledge industry and a highly qualified

scientific and technical manpower. The two countries enjoy an extensive economic, military and

strategic relationship.

Background:

India's position on the creation of Israel was affected by its own partition on religious lines and

Mahatma Gandhi opposed the creation of Israel while India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru

supported the creation of Israel. Although India did not subscribe to the Partitioning of Palestine plan

of 1947 and voted against Israel's admission in the United Nations in 1949, it did recognize Israel as

a nation in 1950.

According to experts, the opposition to the establishment of diplomatic relations with Israel during

the 1960sand 1970s arose from the Congress Party's desire to appease the Muslims in India as well

as to continue the foreign policies of the Nehru and Mahatma Gandhi era.

Following the decision to establish diplomatic relations, Israel opened its Embassy in Delhi in

February 1992 and India opened its Embassy in Tel Aviv on 15 May 1992. Since 1992, Israel has

emerged as an important partner for India on many fronts. Science and technology cooperation is a

major growth area, and the India-Israel Initiative for Industrial R&D focuses on nanotechnology,

biotechnology, space, water management and non-conventional energy sources.

Economic Ties: India’s Space Research Organization (ISRO) has launched Israeli satellites, and there are

important opportunities for Israeli companies in India’s growing water management sector. The

Agriculture Work Plan program, launched in 2006, is also expanding. It helps bring Israeli



agricultural technologies to Indian farmers. Subsequently, an Action Plan 2012-2015 was adopted to

implement concrete projects including setting up of centers of excellence in several Indian states.

From US$ 200 million in 1992 (comprising primarily of diamonds), merchandise trade diversified

and reached US$ 5.15 billion in 2011. In 2011 India was the 8th largest trade partner of Israel, and

3rd largest in Asia. India is Israel’s 11th largest import source including diamonds and 16th

largest import source excluding diamonds. Balance of trade in 2011 was in Israel’s favor by US$

844 million.

While India's exports to Israel in areas other than diamonds are increasing, diamonds constituted

56.4% of bilateral trade in 2011. India is a 'focus' country for Israeli Government’s increased trade

efforts (along with China and Brazil).

Major exports from India to Israel include precious stones and metals, chemical products, textile and

textile articles, plants and vegetable products, mineral products, rubber and plastic products, base

metals and machinery. Major exports from Israel to India include precious stones and metals,

chemical and mineral products, base metals, machinery, and transport equipment.

India is also the second-largest Asian economic partner of Israel. In 2010, bilateral trade,

excluding military sales, stood at US$4.7 billion. FDI inflows from Israel to India from April 2000

to April 2011 were US$ 53.24 million, at 39th rank and 0.04% of total FDI inflows (Source:

Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, India).

Indian Diaspora in Israel: NRI/PIO

There are approximately 70,000 Jews of Indian origin in Israel, most of who are Israeli nationals.

The majority is from Maharashtra (Bene Israelis) and smaller numbers are from Kerala (Cochini

Jews) and Kolkata (Baghdadi Jews).

A few Indians have made a mark in medicine and agricultural science. Jews from Cochin have

contributed immensely to desert farming in Israel by adopting modern technology. Mr. Eliyahu

Bezalel hailing from Cochin distinguished himself as an eminent agriculturalist and became the first

Israeli of Indian origin to receive the “Bhartiya Pravasi Samman” for 2005.

Recent Update: India voted with the majority to pass UN resolution 3379, condemning Zionism as a form of racism,

became one of the first non-Arab states to recognize Palestine's declaration of independence in

1988, and was generally among the more vocal non-Arab voices against Israel.

Again in 2012, tensions aroused when the overwhelming endorsement by the United Nations

Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the recognition of Palestine as a

full member was supported by India against Israel’s interest.

However, keeping aside India’s gesture towards Middle east as a counter current of Non Aligned

Movement, Israel' has consistently always supported India's membership at UNSC. During the

August 2012 of Human Resource Development minister of GOI, India and Israel entered into

memorandum of understanding (MoU) for launching a program that would promote collaborative



research across a wide range of disciplines. The program, which will run for five years, will provide

support up to $1, 00,000 a research project for three years.

INDIAN PALESTINE RELATIONS After India achieved its independence in 1947, the country has moved to support Palestinian

selfdetermination following the partition of British India. In the light of a religious partition between

India and Pakistan, the impetus to boost ties with Muslim states around the world was a further tie to

India's support for the Palestinian cause.

India was the first non-Arab country to contemporaneously recognize the Palestine Liberation

Organization's authority as "the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. A PLO

office was set up in the Indian capital in 1975, with full diplomatic relations established in March

1980. In return, India opened a Representative Office in Gaza on 1996.

India consistently supported the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to a State and the

consequent imperative need for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace in the region based on

United Nations Security Council resolution 242, 338 and 425, as well as the principle of "Land for

Peace." India has also supported these causes the Madrid Conference of 1991.

However, since the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Israel, there has been

increased cooperation in military and intelligence ventures. The fall of the Soviet Union and the rise

of Islamist anti-state activities in both countries paved the way for a strategic alliance.

Non Political support and Cooperation: Apart from the strong political support to the Palestinian cause at international and bilateral levels,

India has been contributing, since long time, material and technical assistance to the Palestinian

people.

With the Government of India’s aid, two projects were completed in the field of higher education i.e.

Jawaharlal Nehru Library at the Al Azhar University in Gaza city and the Mahatma Gandhi

Libr‐acruym‐Student Activity Centre at the Palestine Technical College at Deir Al Balah in the Gaza

Strip.

Under India‐Brazil‐South Africa (IBSA) Forum’s assistance, an Indoor Multipurpose Sports

Complex has been constructed in Ramallah. Al Quds hospital in Gaza is in the process of

reconstruction and the process of building a rehabilitation centre in Nablus has started.

Cause of Palestine & India’s Stand

India always supported Palestinian bid for membership of the United Nations and in 2011, India

showed its historical support gesture again by supporting Palestine for permanent membership in

UNESCO. The resolution to admit Palestine as the agency's 195th member state was adopted at the

36th General Conference of UN assembly on 31 October 2011 and was ratified November 2011

making Palestine a full member at UNESCO. Recently Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas

visited India for a state visit in 2012, the fourth of its kind since 2005. New Delhi pledged its full

support for yet another. India’s displayed a balancing act between its Israeli and Palestinian friends

in the recent decades.

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