The Trump administration can achieve geopolitical success with its allies by adopting several key strategies from PM Narendra Modi’s foreign policy playbook.
By Vipul Tamhane
Earlier this week, on the 13th, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his third term, met with US President Donald Trump, starting his second term. Trump, navigating the complex geopolitical landscape, could benefit from Modi's international relations expertise. Modi has bolstered India's global influence through pragmatic diplomacy, strategic economic partnerships, and soft power, reinforcing India's role in regional and international affairs.
Both nations face unique challenges and bring distinct foreign policy approaches. While Trump, a one-term veteran, is rekindling ties with US allies, exemplified by this meeting with Modi, his administration can enhance progress by continuing to strengthen alliances. Elevating relationships with global allies will be a key success factor for Trump.
The Trump administration can adopt strategies similar to those of Modi to strengthen its foreign policy. By implementing effective tactics that have proven successful for the Modi government, Trump can enhance international relations and achieve greater success on the global stage.
A non-taxing approach to stability in foreign policy
Trump returning to office, it is crucial for him to adopt a stable foreign policy that prioritizes continuity over constant upheaval. A thorough review of past executive orders and their long-term effects is essential. By emphasizing policy stability, Trump can reassure allies of the US's reliability on the global stage. Nations value predictability in international relations, and the Biden administration's success in forging treaties with allies serves as a valuable model. A consistent approach will foster trust, ensuring that commitments to the US remain steadfast and free from unexpected disruptions.
Diplomatic flexibility in international institutions
Both Modi and Trump share a pragmatic approach to international institutions, aiming to reform them or realign alliances for favorable outcomes. The Trump administration should prioritize reforms within the United Nations, World Trade Organization (WTO), and NATO to align these institutions with US interests while fostering strong relations with allies. For instance, advocating for a more equitable representation of emerging economies in the UN Security Council and promoting fair trade policies at the WTO would enhance the US's global standing.
Engaging with multilateral organizations like the G7 is essential for nations seeking global influence. Moreover, a commitment to international environmental agreements, such as the Paris Climate Accord, could strengthen diplomatic ties with key allies, signaling a willingness to cooperate globally rather than retreating into unilateralism.
Leverage soft power and cultural diplomacy
Modi has effectively leveraged India’s soft power through initiatives like International Yoga Day, Bollywood, and cultural exchanges to boost the country’s global standing. The Trump administration could adopt a similar strategy by utilizing America’s cultural assets. From Hollywood and technological innovations to American music and fashion, cultural diplomacy can enhance global perceptions of the US. By hosting cultural events abroad, participating in international arts and sports festivals, and promoting American values, the administration can reshape the US image and foster goodwill with allies, strengthening international relationships in the process.
Economic diplomacy with self-reliance and trade partnerships
Prime Minister Modi’s economic diplomacy initiatives, such as “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-sufficient India), have been pivotal in attracting foreign investment and bolstering domestic industries. Similarly, Trump could emphasize economic self-reliance while strategically enhancing trade relationships with both developed and emerging markets. By focusing on reciprocal trade agreements that prioritize mutual benefits, Trump can establish steady economic partnerships.
Renegotiating trade deals to ensure fair market access, infrastructure development, and joint ventures in critical sectors like defense, energy, and technology can benefit the US and strengthen long-term relationships with key allies, fostering a more interconnected international community.
Focus on Infrastructure and development projects
Infrastructure development has been a major pillar of Modi’s foreign policy, where India has partnered with other countries to build roads, ports, and railways, boosting both economic ties and soft power. For Trump, investing in global infrastructure projects alongside key allies, especially in regions like Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, could boost US influence while fostering goodwill. The US could partner with nations to fund development projects that have long-term positive impacts on both local economies and the international order.
Strengthening defense partnerships
The Modi government has prioritized defense modernization, strategic alliances, and enhancing India’s security capabilities. The Trump administration could adopt similar strategies by expanding defense cooperation with key allies. Increasing arms sales, conducting joint military exercises, and pursuing technological advancements in defense — such as advanced drones, AI in warfare, and missile defense systems, would strengthen existing relationships and attract new strategic partners.
Also, intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism cooperation should be central to US foreign policy. Collaborating with nations like Israel, India, and Saudi Arabia to combat terrorism will help safeguard US national interests and promote regional stability in the Middle East and South Asia.
Engage with the diaspora
India’s diaspora plays a critical role in Modi’s international strategy, with large-scale events like “Howdy Modi” in the US strengthening ties between India and the American people. The Trump administration could similarly engage with the US diaspora around the world, leveraging their influence to advance US interests and further strengthen ties with key global regions. By recognizing the strategic potential of diaspora communities, Trump could enhance the US’s global outreach.
Regional leadership
Modi’s approach to maintaining strategic autonomy, balancing relationships with major powers like the US, Russia, and China, has allowed India to play a vital role in regional affairs. Similarly, Trump could focus on strengthening US leadership in the Americas and across the globe by prioritizing relationships with regional partners and addressing key regional challenges collaboratively. Whether through trade, defense, or diplomatic initiatives, regional leadership remains critical in achieving geopolitical success.
Personal diplomacy
Prime Minister Modi has cultivated strong personal relationships with world leaders, including US presidents, through informal diplomacy and personal connections. For Trump, prioritizing personal diplomacy could be crucial in reinforcing alliances and maintaining the US as a key player in global decision-making. Regular summits with important allies like India, Japan, and Israel would demonstrate a united front on pressing global issues such as trade, security, and climate change. This approach could enhance collaboration and strengthen the US's influence in an increasingly interconnected world.
Adaptability and pragmatism
One of the key lessons Trump can learn from Modi’s foreign policy is the importance of pragmatism. Modi has demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in response to changing global dynamics, adjusting India’s policies as needed. The Trump administration could benefit from adopting a similar pragmatic approach, balancing national interests with global cooperation. This would require strategic compromises and an acknowledgment of the necessity for collaboration in an increasingly multipolar world, allowing the US to navigate complex international relationships more effectively while maintaining its core interests.
Focus on global challenges and strategic communication
Modi’s leadership on global issues like climate change, energy security, and sustainable development has established India as a significant global player. The Trump administration could similarly adopt a proactive approach to these challenges by leading initiatives to combat climate change, enhance global health security, and promote sustainable development. A strong communication strategy is essential for improving the global perception of the US.
Effective public and diplomatic communication will help convey US values and policy objectives while engaging a wider international audience, fostering stronger global relationships. The Trump administration can achieve geopolitical success with its allies by adopting several key strategies from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy playbook. By emphasizing stability, leveraging economic diplomacy, strengthening defense ties, and engaging with multilateral institutions, Trump can restore America’s influence globally. Ultimately, the key to success will be a collaborative, predictable, and mutually beneficial approach to international relations, ensuring the US remains a reliable and respected global leader.
====================
(The writer is a counter-terrorism expert and a visiting faculty with Pune University (SPPU) at the Department of Defense and Strategic Studies. He is also the founder & editor-in-chief at Diplomacy Direct, a public interest think-tank. Contact: [email protected])
