Meena Singh Roy

The recent visit by the external affairs minister can be viewed as continuation of new diplomatic push to strengthen bilateral cooperation with Iran despite the difficulties of economic sanctions imposed by the US and EU. However, the real test for both the countries is to maintain and sustain the current momentum.

• Published: May 20, 2013
• Issue Brief

Most of the discourses on India–Iran relations are either focused on cultural and civilisational links with Iran or its relevance as an energy-rich nation. Its transit potential in providing India with access to Central Asia has not received adequate attention.

• Published: November 2012
• Strategic Analysis

President Rahmon’s visit reconfirms the commitment of India and Tajikistan to impart greater dynamism to their relationship through a long-term strategic partnership for cooperation in the political, security, economic, energy and cultural areas.

• Published: September 18, 2012
• IDSA Comments

SM Krishna’s visit marks the stepping up of India’s newly pronounced ‘connect Central Asia’ policy, although the biggest challenge is convert the proposals into reality.

• Published: July 05, 2012
• IDSA Comments

In June 2011, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), an influential Eurasian regional grouping consisting of Russia, China and four Central Asian Republics (CARs)—Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan—formally approved a ‘memorandum of obligation’, which will now enable non-member countries to apply for SCO membership. India is an observer in the SCO and has expressed its desire to play a larger and more meaningful role as a full member of the organisation.

• Published: July 2012
• Strategic Analysis

This article examines the strategic importance of Turkmenistan for India in respect of: energy resources; transit potential; and proximity to Afghanistan and Iran. It argues that India's economic potential, its liberal-democratic values, its pluralistic structure, secular fabric, military strength, strong financial, scientific and technological capabilities make it the most desirable partner for all the five Central Asian republics.

• Published: July 2011
• Strategic Analysis

Dr. Singh’s visit has led to a major thrust on cooperation in the energy sector including hydrocarbons and nuclear energy.

• Published: April 27, 2011
• IDSA Comments

Given the uncertainties and lack of consensus among SCO members, India must proceed cautiously on the issue seeking full membership.

• Published: April 04, 2011
• IDSA Comments

We must prove to the world community that a new political culture takes root in Kyrgyzstan and a new political strategy supported by people will have a future. A return to the past will imminently lead to the restoration of totalitarianism and a clannish government. We must learn a lesson from the past. Life will show how suitable the parliamentary system is for our community. Our people had lived in the conditions of a nomadic democracy for thousands of years, preserving their traditions and values in difficult times of history.

• Published: March 2011
• Strategic Analysis

In recent years, Iran has come to acquire a significant place in the West Asian region with the ability to influence regional politics. For India, relations with Iran are vital. In the changed strategic environment, both India and Iran have been working towards improving their bilateral relations. However, there are several challenges, especially for India, in this regard. If the Iran-US confrontation intensifies, for example, India may find it difficult to pursue a smooth relationship with Iran.

• Published: January 2011
• Strategic Analysis