Global Horizons

In this issue, the author focuses on the major players arrayed on the international chessboard, with the US taking the lead in moving the pieces and other powers - from China to Russia and the European Union - scrambling to ensure their interests are not compromised.

In Asia, a candid statement by the new Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi regarding a hypothetical Taiwan contingency caused consternation in China, which reacted by imposing economic sanctions and forcefully reiterating that the return of Taiwan to China “is an integral part of post-war international order”.

The US continued to drive forward with its initiative for peace in Gaza, securing the UNSC’s approval for its 20 point plan, before pivoting towards renewed efforts to end the Ukraine war. At month’s end, a resolution remained elusive but active negotiations continued.

G7 Foreign Ministers meeting in Canada adopted a joint statement that also addressed regional security and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific, as Canada’s efforts to diversify it’s relations, including with the EU and India, made progress. Canada, India and Australia announced a new trilateral technology and innovation partnership.

Brazil successfully hosted COP 30 of the UNFCCC, bringing concerns regarding the EU’s trade restrictive climate measures to the fore. South Africa on its part became the first African country to host the G20 summit, mainstreaming the Global South’s agenda for growth and development. The US boycotted the G20 summit, while also announcing plans for its own G20 Presidency in 2026.

PM Modi paid a visit to Bhutan that advanced ties with this key neighbour, while the President of India paid first time state visits to Angola and Botswana, underscoring India’s growing outreach to Africa.

The author concluded that as we approach the end of 2025, the world remains on edge as global uncertainties increase. A difficult year appears to lie ahead for India.

To read this issue of Global Horizons, Vol. III, Issue 11, please see the PDF attached.