India s Foreign Policy

Group 1

Foreign Policy
The foundations of India's foreign policy were laid during the freedom movement. India believes in friendly relations with all countries of the world, the resolution of conflicts by peaceful means and the sovereign equality of all states.

Struggle against Colonialism

The Independence of India itself played the role of a catalyst in removing the vestiges of colonialism. India was also the first country to raise the question of racial discrimination in South Africa It was at India's initiative that the AFRICA (Action for Resistance to Invasion, Colonialism and Apartheid) Fund was set up,

Notable Features
Strong advocacy of general and complete disarmament, with nuclear disarmament being accorded the highest priority. India has, and will, remain committed to nuclear disarmament, to be achieved in a time-bound framework. India refused to sign Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT)

Relations with Neighbors

India's foreign policy has been the strengthening of regional co-operation. India is an active member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) A historical decision has also been taken to strive for a South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA)

Defense Policy
India believes in a policy that promotes peace and international cooperation. The country has a land frontier of 15,200 km, a coastline of 7,516.6 km and an exclusive economic zone of 2.2 million sq. km. The armed forces, therefore, have to be kept prepared and well equipped to repel any external threat. Periodic review addresses any unexpected development or threat to security.

India s Non-alignment

Preservation of India's freedom of action internationally through refusal to align India with any bloc or alliance, particularly those led by the United States or the Soviet Union. Opposition to colonialism and racism; and international cooperation to alleviate poverty and promote economic development.

Thank You