General Upendra Dwivedi asserts that China’s rise complicates India’s efforts to lead the Global South, advocating for closer ties with Africa and enhancements in national security through technology. He calls for reforms in international alliances and emphasizes India’s role in promoting global socio-economic development while addressing security concerns.
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Indian Army Chief, expressed that China’s ascendance as a dominant economic and strategic entity undermines India’s ambition to emerge as a leader for the Global South. He emphasized the necessity for India to explore Africa’s potential as a burgeoning power center. Dwivedi articulated during the fourth General Bipin Rawat Memorial Lecture that India must recognize the complexities introduced by China’s rise, which fosters competition and poses challenges to India’s global standing.
He noted that despite being the world’s largest democracy with significant geographic and demographic advantages, India still faces obstacles in influencing key international decisions. He highlighted the setbacks experienced by BRICS, particularly regarding its efforts to challenge the US dollar, and underscored the importance of closely monitoring the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in this changing landscape.
In discussing national security, General Dwivedi focused on the critical role of emerging technologies, stating that technological capabilities now serve as essential deterrents, with data viewed as a vital asset in trade and security contexts. He stressed that a well-functioning national defense framework, which includes military-civil fusion and an empowered decision-making process, is crucial for establishing security.
Dwivedi emphasized the importance of anti-colonial alliances in promoting a multipolar world and suggested that the collaboration among nations could help mitigate conflicts. He advocated for India’s involvement in various international frameworks including SCO, BRICS, and BIMSTEC, aligning itself with mutual interests for a cohesive global approach.
The army chief also outlined strategic reforms such as the inclusion of representatives from the Global South in the UN Security Council, advocating for India to take an active mediation role in conflict resolution. He recognized the potential of the Indian diaspora in humanitarian efforts and called for India to lead initiatives that address socio-economic development challenges. Furthermore, he reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to national interests while participating in peacekeeping operations and addressing global security threats.
In summary, General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted the challenges posed by China’s rise in the global arena and India’s subsequent need to reevaluate its position and alliances. He emphasized the significance of Africa as a potential center of power, the imperative of emerging technologies for national security, and the necessity for active engagement in international coalitions. The remarks reflect India’s ambitions and strategies for ascending as a pivotal leader within the Global South while reinforcing its commitment to global peace and development efforts.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
