2023-11-26 02:53:49
Israel and India have seen a significant increase in trade volumes in recent years, particularly in terms of defense exports. The shift in attitude has been highlighted as India, historically, had aligned itself with Arab countries in the past. Anat Bernstein-Reich, President of the Israel-Asia Chamber of Commerce and CEO of the Israel-India Investment Banking Company in the BDO Group, discussed the change in economic relations with India and its geopolitical positioning.
According to Bernstein-Reich, India is positioning itself as a part of the axis of “good countries,” aligning itself more closely with the US and distancing itself from China. The recent support that India showed for Israel during the conflict with Hamas, including abstaining from a UN vote on a ceasefire, signaled a public shift in its stance.
With India being the fifth-largest economy in the world, representing almost 20% of the global population, and recently hosting the G20 conference, its influence on the global stage is significant.
The political backdrop in India, with the upcoming elections and the influence of the ruling party, the right-wing nationalist BJP, seems to be a contributing factor in its support for Israel as well. The BJP, with its roots in Hinduism, has a larger voting base from the Hindu population, who tend to support the party.
The historical context of India’s relation with Israel also plays a role, given its past ties with the Palestinians and Iran. However, the growing threat of fundamentalist Islam and the history of terrorist attacks have also influenced India’s stance.
Bernstein-Reich also highlighted the impact of British Prime Minister Rishi Sonak’s support for Israel, given his Indian origins and close relationship with India.
Amidst the recent tensions, Bernstein-Reich has engaged with Indian media to communicate the Israeli perspective, discussing the Israeli narrative and addressing concerns and difficult questions about the legitimacy of Israel’s existence. Despite challenges, she also noted an increase in understanding and dialogue between both countries.
The evolving relationship between India and Israel is a testament to the changing geopolitical landscape, economic interests, and historical context, signaling a new phase in their strategic partnership.
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