India Urged to Play 'Third Pole' in US-China Rivalry

The US-China contest is the defining geopolitical issue of our time. Former Singaporean diplomat Kishore Mahbubani has advised India to carve out an independent role as a third pole in this rivalry, rather than aligning too closely with either superpower.

Mahbubani's suggestion comes as India faces challenges in its relations with the US. During Trump's presidency, India grappled with issues like tariffs, the rehyphenation of India and Pakistan, restrictions on H1B visas, and shifting US stance on the Chabahar Port. Despite these hurdles, India is poised to become the world's third-largest economy, though it will still lag behind the US and China.

Mahbubani believes India should assert its independence and not be swayed too much by either the US or China. He proposes that India navigate the complex geopolitical landscape by maintaining balanced relationships with both nations. However, deep-rooted distrust makes it unlikely for India and China to become close allies. Looking ahead, China is expected to match or even surpass the US in economic and geopolitical influence in the near future.

India, on the brink of becoming the world's third-largest economy, must tread carefully in the US-China rivalry. Mahbubani's advice to maintain independence and balance could help India navigate this challenging geopolitical environment, despite the growing influence of China.