Book Review: Friends: India’s Closest Strategic Partners, by Sreeram Chaulia

Friends: India’s Closest Strategic Partners, by Sreeram Chaulia, offers an insightful and detailed analysis of India’s foreign policy in the 21st century. This book takes an in-depth look at India’s relationship with key global and regional powers.

Chaulia highlights the various strategic calculations involved in India’s current role and position in a complex and global environment. 

One of the major themes revolves around strategic partnership and influence. The book provides a detailed understanding of how India is leveraging its strategic partnerships with various countries to assert itself as a key player on the global stage. India’s foreign policy is enabling the country to secure its place in the 21st century.

Chaulia explores India’s delicate balancing act in maintaining its strategic autonomy while aligning with global powers. India is one of the few nations that can build strong partnerships without compromising on their autonomy. This approach enables flexibility and adaptability in a shifting global landscape. 

Broadly categorized under seven chapters, with each dedicated to examining India’s unique relationship with a major power. This book delves into India’s partnerships with Japan, Australia, the USA, Russia, France, Israel and the UAE.

Defense agreements, trade and economic ties, energy partnerships, counter-terrorism, and growing collaboration are a few main topics covered. The author not only analyses India’s relationships with these powers but also draws a comparison in the ties. 

Most of the friends analyzed in this book are connected by a common pattern, of the value India brings to them. India’s independent approach to foreign policy has enabled in securing stong friendships with like-minded nations. Both old and new friends see India as a partner who can assist them in achieving their ambitions. 

As the author states, “India cannot make do without friends as it assumes its destiny as a leading power in the world.”

Chaulia’s book is well-organized, with a clear structure and layout. The structure helps readers navigate various themes and understand the complex interplay of diplomatic relations and efforts, and the broader patterns of international alignment.

Backed by historical context and contemporary developments, this book provides a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay of diplomatic relations. Chaulia reflects not just on the current geopolitical realities but also addresses India’s future strategic directions. 

Friends: India’s Closest Strategic Partners, is a highly informative read. It would be of interest to policymakers, scholars, and those interested in geopolitics, or understand the complexities of India’s foreign relations and strategic partnerships.

It provides a unique lens through which readers can understand how India is reshaping its global partnerships. This book challenges traditional notions of India’s foreign policy and presents new perspectives on its global strategy. 

Rating: 4/5

Review author: Chandra Sundeep is an author, blogger, and book reviewer. Her short stories have been featured in various anthologies, online portals, and literary magazines. In 2023, she received the Bharat Award, recognizing her dedication to impactful storytelling. Additionally, she has been a recipient of esteemed awards such as the Asian Literary Society’s Sagar Memorial Award, Wordsmith Award, and Gitesh-Biva Memorial Award in 2021 and 2022.

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