India has seen the five major powers visiting India in the last five months which indicates the centrality of India on the global platform
DAVID
CAMERON
UK, JULY 27-29
On UNSC Seat
Recognises the need to reform UNSC to suit the needs of today. Revamping of UNSC would require the role of emerging powers like India. UK has extended support for India’s UNSC aims.
Terror and Pak
Terrorism is an area of cooperation between the two. Pakistan’s role in terrorism (both in India and the West) is undeniable and unacceptable.
Iranian issue
Iran found no mention in the speech of David Cameron.
Trade Targets
have been expanded from $11.5 billion to around $24 billion by 2014.
Assessment
Britain has taken a very clear stance against Pakistani involvement in terrorist activities in India and at the same time given proper importance to economic activities. Britain wants to further diversify relations.
BARACK H. OBAMA
US, NOV 7-10
On UNSC Seat
roforms the UNSC are inevitable. India can and should be a part of this by becoming a permanent member. Obama’s stand has been well received by Indian strategists.
Terror and Pak
Terrorism finds safe haven in certain remote areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan. His statements found explicit mention of Lashkar and Pakistan.
Iranian issue
Reiterated the stand of Iran’s obligations to take constructive steps in conjunction with the IAEA.
Trade Targets
$37 billion in 2009-10, which are agreed to rise to $75 billion by 2015.
Assessment
US has tried to emphasis more on economic ties and started to treat India as a strategic partner in the rebuilding of US economy after the economic depression and also sees India as a big power in the region in terms of future relations.
NICOLAS SARKOZY
FRANCE, Dec 4-7
On UNSC Seat
India is the rightful contender for the UNSC permanent membership without any further delay.
Terror and Pak
Sarkozy has asked the neighbours of Afghanistan to play a constructive role in helping the war ravaged nation. Terrorism has its roots beyond Afghanistan. Mention of Pakistan eluded in the speech, but hints were definite.
Iranian issue
Iran should conform to IAEA’s suggestions and UN obligations in order to work towars world peace.
Trade Targets
Wants from present $8 billion to $16 billion by 2012 by removing the obstacles in bilateral trade.
Assessment
A very clear-cut in approach and wants to capitalise Indian demands for nuclear technology and has agreed to supply EPRs and prepared to assist nuclear projects in India.
WEN DMITRY MEDVEDEV
JIABAO
On UNSC Seat
India has earned its place in the UN and its aspirations for permanent seat are understandable.
Terror and Pak
Terrorism is unacceptable in all forms anywhere. It cannot be encouraged if the global peace and harmony is to prevail. Pakistan, however found no mention which left many disappointed.
Iranian issue
Iran found no mention in the Jiabao’s speech.
Trade Targets
$43 billion in 2009, but expected to grow to over $100 billion by 2015 which is a healthy sign of growth in economic relations.
Assessment
The most sensitive neighbour wants to create a new image of economic partner by transforming itself from the ranks rivals in overseas trade and investment. Trying to encircle India through cheque-book diplomacy.
On UNSC Seat
India is a deserving and strong candidate for permanent membership of UNSC. Russia’s has always been supportive of India’s role in UN.
Terror and Pak
Highlighted the need for Pakistan to bring the perpetrators of 26/11 attack to justice in a swift manner. Pakistan’s urgency and will to remove the terror base on its territory can improve the neighbourly relations between the two.
Iranian issue
Iran must resort to dialogue, which is the only way to solve the nuclear issue.
Trade Targets
$4.7 billion at present, which should expand to $20 billion by 2015.
Assessment
Lagging behind in economic relations and lacks professionalism in arms supply but it has managed its traditional relations with its true spirit.
