🔆 West Asia holds significant strategic importance for India, both in terms of geo-political and geo-economic factors. Discuss. (200 words) ✅ Introduction • Contextualize the Importance: Briefly introduce West Asia’s strategic significance for India. • Thesis Statement: Highlight that the significance can be explored through geo-political and geo-economic lenses. ✅ Geo-Political Factors • Historical Ties: Mention deep civilizational contacts and cultural exchanges. • Non-Alignment Support: Discuss how West Asia supported India’s non-alignment during the Cold War. • Diplomatic Outreach: Highlight India’s increased engagement and mutual geo-strategic interests. ◦ OIC Membership: India’s invitation to the OIC in 2019, despite Pakistan’s opposition. • Support on Article 370: Mention backing from Saudi Arabia and UAE regarding the abrogation of Article 370. ✅ Geo-Economic Factors • Energy Security: Discuss India’s dependence on crude oil and gas from West Asia. ◦ Engagement with Gulf Economies: Refer to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and collaborations with ARAMCO and ADNOC. • Indian Diaspora: Highlight the significance of the 9 million-strong Indian diaspora in West Asia. ◦ Remittance Flow: Discuss the economic impact of remittances on India. ✅ Strategic Initiatives • Chabahar Port Project: Explain the strategic importance of the Chabahar port in relation to Iran and Central Asia. • Formation of the ‘New Quad’: Describe the 12U2 grouping and its focus on economic cooperation. ✅ Conclusion • Reiterate Importance: Summarize the strategic significance of West Asia for India. • Address Challenges: Briefly mention conflicts in the region that India must navigate to protect its interests.