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Ex-RAW Chief Sood Lauds India's "Smart" & Balanced West Asia Stance

Former RAW chief Vikram Sood endorsed India's prudent and balanced diplomatic approach to the West Asia crisis, emphasizing that regional conflicts must be resolved by the countries directly involved. He highlighted the need for a long-term, evolving intelligence strategy that remains relevant in the face of rapid technological change like AI. Sood also pointed to emerging geopolitical challenges, including the shifting influence of a superpower and strained India-China relations. Additionally, he praised the Raisina Dialogue as a premier and significant strategic forum being held in India today.

Key Points: Ex-RAW Chief on India's West Asia Policy & Geopolitical Challenges

  • Balanced West Asia policy
  • Non-interference principle
  • Futuristic intelligence strategy
  • Geopolitical power shifts
  • Raisina Dialogue importance
2 min read

Ex-RAW chief backs India's calibrated approach on West Asia crisis

Former RAW chief Vikram Sood explains India's prudent approach to the West Asia crisis, warns of geopolitical instability, and stresses futuristic intelligence strategy.

"I think we are playing a very smart game here. - Vikram Sood"

New Delhi, March 6

Former Research & Analysis Wing chief Vikram Sood on Friday said India is adopting a prudent and balanced approach to the evolving crisis in West Asia, noting that regional conflicts can only be resolved by the countries directly involved.

Speaking to IANS, Sood said external powers should avoid interfering unnecessarily in regional issues.

"I think we are playing a very smart game here. We cannot solve the issues of West Asia - only the people of the region can do that themselves. There is no point in interfering," he said.

Sood also spoke about the importance of long-term thinking when it comes to Intelligence strategy, particularly in an era where emerging technologies are rapidly transforming the global security landscape.

"How can we talk about Intelligence strategy? We can't just discuss it superficially. Intelligence must remain relevant even 20 years from now. It has to evolve and stay effective. Governments need to carefully consider how to move forward with AI and all related technologies," he said.

He further pointed to broader geopolitical shifts that could create challenges for India in the coming years. Referring to changing global power equations, Sood said the weakening influence of a major global power could lead to instability in international relations.

"You see, you have a superpower whose influence is showing signs of fading or weakening. That will inevitably create challenges. Our relationship with China is not at its best either," he said.

Commenting on the significance of the Raisina Dialogue which is India's premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, Sood described it as one of the most important strategic forums taking place in India today.

"I think this is one of the best dialogues happening in the country today. The scope is vast; the topics are significant and futuristic. I'm glad this event is being held, and I'm pleased that people are paying attention to it," he added.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As an observer, India's balanced stance makes strategic sense. It's a complex region. His point about long-term intelligence planning with AI is crucial for any nation's security in the 21st century.
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Priya S
Absolutely correct. We are not the world's police. Let them sort out their own issues. Our foreign policy should be 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' in spirit, but also fiercely pragmatic. More power to our diplomats for walking this tightrope.
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Rohit P
While I agree with the non-interference principle, I hope this 'calibrated approach' is proactive behind the scenes. We have massive stakes there - oil, trade, and millions of Indian workers. We cannot afford to be mere spectators.
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Karthik V
The real challenge he hints at is the changing world order. With a superpower's influence waning and an assertive China at our border, our foreign and intelligence policy needs to be ten steps ahead. Raisina Dialogue is a good platform to build those future strategies.
M
Meera T
Respectfully, sir, a 'balanced approach' can sometimes look like indecision. The world expects India to take a clearer stand as a rising power. Our voice matters. We should guide towards peace more actively, not just avoid interference.
D
David E

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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