Media Release by SAFN Washington, DC.
Washington DC, (Oct 30th, 2024) Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024 organised by Indian Army, The Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS) was held on October 24 and 25, 2024 at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, India.
“In a region marked by complex crises, India’s proactive stance in areas like security cooperation and economic collaboration offers a pathway for resilience.”
SAFN Exec. Director Asanga Abeyagoonasekera speaking at the Defence Dialogue discussed the essential role India plays as an anchor of stability for its neighbors. Abeyagoonasekera said, “In a region marked by complex crises, India’s proactive stance in areas like security cooperation and economic collaboration offers a pathway for resilience.”
Speaking on ‘Stabilizing India’s Neighbourhood: A Chanakyan Approach to Polycrisis‘, Abeyagoonasekera’s presentation explored the current geopolitical challenges in South Asia through the philosophical lens of Chanakya, an influential ancient Indian strategist. The analysis applies Chanakyan principles to assess India’s efforts toward fostering stability amid complex crises. As India grapples with political turmoil, economic pressures, and external influence in its neighboring countries, Chanakya’s strategic insights—diplomacy, intelligence, crisis response, economic cooperation, and social cohesion—offer valuable perspectives for a framework aimed at stabilizing India’s neighborhood, explained Abeyagoonasekera.
“A secure neighborhood is indispensable for regional peace and India’s national security. Chanakya’s teachings, centered on pragmatic and calculated strategies, remain highly relevant as India navigates the region’s ever-shifting landscape.” The analysis examined how Chanakya’s principles can address the polycrisis—a web of interlinked crises—influencing South Asia today.
Few points highlighted in his presentation:
• India’s alliances in South Asia underscore the need for interconnected security and economic frameworks. PM Narendra Modi’s Neighborhood First & SAGAR initiatives provide a platform for regional stability. India was the first nation to provide financial assistance of 4 billion during the economic crisis.
• Support for democratic values and crisis management initiatives strengthens regional stability.
• Mutual Benefit Alliances: Emphasizing win-win partnerships with neighbors that share common challenges and interests.
• Strategic Intelligence Sharing: Collaborations with Sri Lanka and Maldives to address emerging security threats.
• Humanitarian Support: Providing relief and aid during times of crisis, as seen in our quick response to natural disasters across the region.
• India’s alliances in South Asia underscore the need for interconnected security and economic frameworks.
• Promoting democratic values that resonate with our neighbors’ aspirations.
“India’s leadership provides an example of proactive engagement in times of need and How can India further strengthen its neighborhood partnerships?” To listen to the full presentation click the following link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjRvbPkATpE
Press Release by SAFN Washington DC
For more info contact SAFN
