The Middle East and Africa are becoming crucial for India’s expanding global interests and outreach amidst trade uncertainties and tariff pressures from the United States. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visits to Jordan, Ethiopia, and Oman signify India’s integrated strategic approach to these regions, acknowledging their geopolitical interconnection. Jordan, a stabilizing force in the volatile Middle East, holds significance for India by rejecting extremism and fostering balanced diplomacy.
PM Modi’s visit to Jordan, commemorating seventy-five years of diplomatic relations, is particularly notable given the regional instability post the Gaza war and conflicts in Yemen and Sudan. The warm reception in Amman and discussions with King Abdullah II underscored the strengthening partnership between India and Jordan. The visit emphasized cooperation in areas like renewable energy, water management, digital transformation, and cultural exchanges.
Ethiopia serves as India’s gateway to Africa, with bilateral ties being elevated to a Strategic Partnership during Modi’s visit. The partnership aims to enhance India’s leadership in the Global South through transparent development partnerships. With over $200 billion of Indian trade passing through the Red Sea annually, regional instability, including piracy and trafficking, directly concerns India. Oman remains a trusted partner for India in the Persian Gulf, contributing significantly to New Delhi’s energy and maritime security strategies.
