on India’s Foreign Policy – Changing Equations and Emerging Challenges

About the speaker: Ambassador Anil Trigunayat is a former Indian diplomat with over three decades of service across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, including postings in Russia and the USA. Before retiring in 2016, he served as India’s Ambassador to Jordan, Libya, and Malta. An alumnus of Agra University, Kumaon University, and JNU, he also conducted research at Oxford University on “WTO and Regional Trading Blocs”. Currently a Distinguished Fellow at the Vivekananda International Foundation, he heads its West Asia Experts Group, focusing on West Asia, Africa, and Russia.

A prolific writer and commentator on foreign affairs, he has authored numerous articles and edited books, including Evolving Security Dynamics in West Asia and India’s Challenges and West Asian Dynamics and Indian Imperative. Passionate about engaging with youth, he frequently delivers talks at universities and professional institutions in India and abroad.

Abstract:
Foreign policy serves a nation’s interests in the global arena and reflects its domestic priorities. India’s foreign policy has been shaped by its colonial past, geographic and strategic position, historical experiences, and the ancient philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—“the world is one family”. Guided by a quest for peace, respect for sovereignty, and preference for dialogue over conflict, India continues to evolve as a key regional and global power.

In an era of shifting geopolitical and economic landscapes, emerging alliances, and growing global uncertainties—exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia–Ukraine war, and Middle East tensions—India faces complex challenges. Its policy of strategic autonomy, multi-alignment, and vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047 positions it to take on greater responsibilities. Ambassador Anil Trigunayat will explore this framework, with insights on recent global developments and the uncertainties amplified during the Trump presidency.

Title:  India’s Foreign Policy – Changing Equations and Emerging Challenges
Date: Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Time: 05:00 PM
Venue: C V Raman Auditorium, Lecture Hall Complex, IISER Pune campus