In a defining decade of Indian foreign policy (2004-2014), former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh orchestrated one of India’s most significant diplomatic transformations, particularly in reshaping Indo-US relations despite facing fierce domestic opposition.
Early 2005 presented Singh with unprecedented opportunities to reset India’s relationships with three crucial powers: Pakistan, China, and the United States. While inheriting favorable conditions from his predecessor Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Singh’s approach to these opportunities yielded mixed results that continue to influence India’s geopolitical position today.
Key Diplomatic Initiatives
- Pakistan Relations:
- April 2005: Breakthrough discussions with President Pervez Musharraf on Kashmir
- Back-channel negotiations led by Ambassador Satinder Lambah
- Initiative eventually stalled due to Congress party’s reluctance and Musharraf’s declining influence
- 2008 Mumbai attacks further deteriorated bilateral relations
- China Engagement
- April 2005: Landmark agreement with Premier Wen Jiabao on boundary dispute principles
- Negotiations lost momentum as China’s growing power altered regional dynamics
- Relations deteriorated under Xi Jinping’s leadership
- 2013 border crisis marked the beginning of new tensions
- US Partnership (Most Successful):
- March 2005: Initial breakthrough via Condoleezza Rice’s nuclear dispute resolution proposal
- June 2005: Defense cooperation agreement signed
- July 2005: Civil nuclear initiative launched
- 2008: Successfully formalized nuclear deal despite domestic opposition
- Created foundation for future strengthening under Modi government
Singh’s greatest achievement was transforming the Indo-US relationship, overcoming significant domestic resistance from both left and right political spectrums. His willingness to stake his premiership on the US nuclear deal in 2008 proved crucial for India’s strategic future.
