India's Relations with the Great Powers and Pakistan: Present Status and Implications for the Future
Abstract
The assassination of India's Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on 31 October 1984 followed immediately by the succession of her son Rajiv will likely lead to a reassessment of Indian domestic and foreign policies. There are sufficient differences between mother and son in leadership style and background to deduce that in the ensuing months the character of the new government will be quick to take shape. This will also be a period when the new administration will review its foreign contacts and be more responsive to advances from other states for renewal or reformation of relations, particularly with the Great Powers and Pakistan. The Soviet Union enjoys a special relationship with India and will be committed to continuing those ties. The United States will look for ways to break through the cold formality that has surrounded past associations. The Peoples Republic of China will be anxious to resume talks on the border issue that has overshadowed their once warm ties. Pakistani and Indian relations have reflected the deep-seated instability that persists on the Asian subcontinent. Both Prime Minister Rajiv and President Zia have publicly pledged efforts to find a process for ameliorating their differences. All in all, numerous opportunities will be available for governments to develop mutually beneficial ties with India without compromising existing relations so long as initiatives are well planned and effectively executed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 15, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA158701
Entities
People
- R. J. Crites
Organizations
- United States Army War College