J K Tripathy
There are multiple levels of assessments of two years of Modi government. It is but obvious as the government was formed on the ride of high hopes. In of the major achievement areas of this government are foreign policy and diplomacy. If we consider the neighbouring countries, the performance of NDA II is better than previous governments. The bilateral relationships with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are improved to a large extent. The longstanding land boundary agreement is realised with Bangladesh and the suspicion and bitterness is descending. The sensitive issues were dealt with tactfully with Nepal and Maldives without compromising the national interest. Though Prime Minister has shown the intent of friendly relations with the troublesome neighbour, the relations with Pakistan are as it is. Otherwise also, we should not hope for any dramatic changes in the relationship with Pakistan and China. The cooperation of Myanmar in dealing with the militants functioning from across the border is a sign of emerging friendship. In short, Modi government’s ‘neighbours first’ policy has attained tangible results. Modi is also successful in conveying his point of view in the United Nations for the consecutive years. Bharat’s call for reforming United Nations on the basis of texts prepared by the reforms committee is accepted by all. Bharat has acquired prominent position in multilateral forums like G-20, SAARC, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation etc. The NRIs are also feeling more attached to Bharat.
(The writer is former Ambassador)
