India must strengthen regional ties before pursuing global leadership: Saran

India must prioritise strengthening its relationships with neighbouring countries before aspiring to play a more prominent role on the global stage, according to prominent foreign policy analyst Saran. Drawing parallels with India's experience in 1991, when the nation simultaneously confronted severe economic difficulties and external relations challenges, Saran underscored the critical importance of domestic and regional stability.

Saran argued that India cannot afford to neglect its immediate neighbourhood while pursuing broader international ambitions. The stability and development of South Asian relations form the foundation upon which India can build its larger strategic objectives, he stated.

In addition, Saran cautioned that India should not yield to external pressures, particularly from major powers such as the United States. Maintaining strategic autonomy while managing international relationships remains essential for India's long-term interests, he emphasised. This approach would allow India to craft independent foreign policy decisions aligned with its own national priorities rather than those of other nations.

The analyst's comments reflect ongoing discussions within India's policy circles about balancing regional engagement with global aspirations while preserving the nation's strategic independence in an increasingly complex international environment.