Prime Minister of Bharat, Narendra Modi’s engagement with the Islamic world has undeniably strengthened India’s international relations, while his diplomatic efforts have yielded significant benefits for India in terms of economic partnerships and increased cooperation with Muslim-majority countries.
His approach to foreign policy in South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East has focused on enhancing India’s security and economic interests. The engagement with Iran through projects like the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor has improved connectivity between India and the Middle East, securing continued access to Afghanistan. These initiatives are crucial for India’s geopolitical positioning.
In recent years, he has actively worked to enhance India’s relationship with Muslim-majority countries across South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. His approach has been driven by the goal of bolstering India’s security and economic interests on the global stage. However, it is important to acknowledge a certain contradiction in PM Modi’s foreign and domestic policies regarding Muslims, stemming from the complex interplay of real politics and ideology.
One of the key reasons his engagement with the Muslim world is crucial for India’s foreign policy interests is the nation’s geographic location. During his second term in office, PM Modi intensified diplomatic interactions with countries in South Asia, the Middle East, and Central Asia, with a particular emphasis on security and economic cooperation.
For instance, he has made significant strides in building relations with Iran through initiatives such as the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). These projects have increased connectivity between India and the Middle East while ensuring continued access to Afghanistan. This highlights his proactive approach to securing India’s strategic interests.
In the broader Middle East, PM Modi has engaged in one-on-one interactions with Muslim-majority countries, strengthening diplomatic ties. Forums like I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, and the United States) have become platforms for building relationships and expanding India’s influence.
India’s growing engagement with the Middle East is partially driven by its dependence on oil imports, with 40 to 45 per cent of crude oil coming from the Gulf States. PM Modi’s initiatives have contributed to securing India’s energy needs and diversifying its sources.
One noteworthy example of his successful diplomacy is the strengthened relationship between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In 2022, a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was signed, facilitating bilateral trade, which now stands at a substantial USD $77.6 billion. The partnership extends to non-traditional sectors such as artificial intelligence and space, showcasing India’s eagerness to collaborate and expand its horizons.
In 2019, the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman to India marked an important development. This visit aimed to de-hyphenate Saudi Arabia’s ties with India and Pakistan, highlighting India’s growing significance in the region. Also, both countries have strengthened people-to-people ties, exemplified by Saudi Arabia’s assistance in rescuing Indian nationals in Sudan, a testament to the positive outcomes of Modi’s foreign policy efforts.
His diplomatic outreach in the Muslim world has not gone unnoticed. One of the most significant recognitions of his efforts came from the Muslim World League Secretary-General, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa. He praised PM Modi’s “passionate perspective” towards inclusive growth and emphasised the importance of working together to combat extremism and hatred, regardless of their source. The discussions between the two leaders highlighted the shared commitment to human-centric development and promoting understanding and harmony among diverse faiths and cultures.
Notably, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa’s appreciation for PM Modi’s “passionate perspective towards inclusive growth” reinforces the positive impact of India’s engagement with the Muslim world.
His diplomacy has not only strengthened India’s foreign relations but has also earned him recognition and accolades from various Muslim-majority countries. He was honoured with the ‘Order of Zayed,’ the UAE’s highest civilian award, as a mark of appreciation for his efforts to enhance bilateral ties between India and the UAE. This award exemplifies the positive impact of Modi’s leadership on India’s relationships with Muslim-majority nations.
In addition to the UAE’s award, several other Islamic nations have honoured PM Modi with their highest civilian awards, including the King Hamad Order of the Renaissance from Bahrain, the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, the Amir Amanullah Khan Award from Afghanistan, the King Abdulaziz Sash Award from Saudi Arabia, and the Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen from the Maldives. These honours reflect the recognition of PM Modi’s remarkable efforts in strengthening India’s ties with Muslim-majority countries.
His diplomatic engagement with the Muslim world has significantly enhanced India’s global position. His efforts to strengthen economic partnerships, bolster security, and build diplomatic relationships have yielded remarkable results.
While there may be domestic challenges and contradictions, PM Modi’s foreign policy achievements are undeniable. His recognition by Muslim-majority countries through high civilian awards underscores the success of his diplomatic efforts. PM Modi has not only emerged as a leader for India but also as a diplomat for the world, building bridges with nations across the globe and contributing to peace, prosperity, and understanding in our diverse world.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed deep shock at the tragic loss of lives at the Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and offered prayers for the swift recovery of those injured. The Prime Minister also conveyed that civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict remain a matter of grave and ongoing concern, emphasising the need for accountability among those responsible.
