Swiss peace summit
Context:
Recently, a peace summit was held in Switzerland to discuss the Russia-Ukraine conflict where India disassociated itself from the outcome of this summit as both Russia and Ukraine were not directly involved in the negotiations. But now, Ukraine is expecting India to endorse the Swiss peace summit document.
Relevance:
GS-02 (International Relations)
Key Highlights of the News:
- India being one of the major democracies is expected to an proactive role in guiding the peace process rather than being a just a mediator or “post office”.
- In connection with this, the External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is paying a visit to Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Switzerland to meet West Asian ministers and heads of UN organizations.
- Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Ajit Dova, is attending the BRICS NSA meetings in Russia, engaging with counterparts from countries like China, Brazil, and South Africa.
What is the Swiss peace summit about?
- It is an international peace summit for a high-level-dialogue on ways to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, based on International law and the UN charter.
- It was held in Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland.
- It was previously known as the Summit on Peace in Ukraine.
- Switzerland had invited 120 countries, of which, India was also one.
Significance:
- India’s Reputation: This highlights the growing stature and credibility of India in the Global diplomacy. This could also help India’s profile of becoming a mediator/ peace keeper in international conflicts
- Strategic Positioning for India: If India maintains a nuetral and an independent foreign policy approach, it would help India to strengthen its strategic relations with both the nations which could open greater avenues in future.
- Role of Global South: It is to be noted that the trend of traditional dominance of the Western countries in International peace negotiations is being shifted towards Global South Nations.
- India’s Diplomatic Leverage in the Region: India could gain diplomatic leverage not just in the Russia-Ukraine conflict but also in other global and regional issues, enhancing its influence in multilateral forums like the UN and BRICS.
