Manmohan Singh, who served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, is widely regarded for his measured, pragmatic, and diplomatic approach to foreign policy. His tenure saw India’s rise as a key player on the global stage, with important milestones in strengthening ties with major powers and addressing regional issues. However, his leadership also came under scrutiny for several challenges, particularly in dealing with Pakistan and managing border tensions with China.

Strategic Reorientation and Global Engagement

Strengthening Relations with the United States

One of the most significant achievements of Manmohan Singh’s foreign policy was his success in reshaping India’s relationship with the United States. The India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement of 2005 was a game-changer, ending India’s nuclear isolation and granting it access to civilian nuclear technology. This landmark deal was crucial not just for India’s energy security, but for its broader strategic partnership with the US. Singh’s leadership in securing this deal earned him widespread praise, positioning India as an emerging global power.

Relations with the US grew in other areas too, particularly in defence, trade, and technology. Singh’s consistent engagement with both Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama was instrumental in building a strong, multifaceted partnership. Obama even described Singh as “wise, thoughtful, and scrupulously honest,” emphasizing the deep personal and diplomatic rapport the two leaders shared.

Strengthening Ties with Japan and Europe

Singh also sought to expand India’s footprint in East Asia, particularly through deeper ties with Japan. He cultivated a strong relationship with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who considered Singh a mentor. Japan played an important role in India’s infrastructure development, and in 2007, Abe proposed the Quad grouping, which would later become a strategic alliance involving India, Japan, the United States, and Australia.

Singh also forged robust relations with major European powers, especially France and the United Kingdom. India and France expanded cooperation in defence and civil nuclear energy, with Singh visiting France four times and being invited as the Chief Guest for the Bastille Day celebrations. Similarly, ties with the UK were strengthened, with Singh visiting Britain multiple times and working towards a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in trade and defence.

Russia: A Time-Tested Friendship

India’s relationship with Russia continued to be a cornerstone of its foreign policy under Singh. The strategic partnership with Russia, particularly in defense and nuclear cooperation, was reaffirmed throughout his tenure. Singh visited Russia frequently, and under his leadership, the two countries elevated their relationship to a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”

Regional Diplomacy: A Mixed Record

Ties with Pakistan: The Pursuit of Peace Amidst Terrorism

Perhaps the most controversial aspect of Singh’s foreign policy was his approach to Pakistan. Despite being born in Gah (now in Pakistan), Singh maintained a cautious stance toward Pakistan, advocating for dialogue and peace. He continued the Composite Dialogue Process and launched various peace initiatives, such as the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad bus service. However, the issue of cross-border terrorism remained a significant obstacle.

Singh faced severe criticism for his handling of the aftermath of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, which were orchestrated by Pakistani militants. Many felt his government failed to take a strong stance against Pakistan, instead pursuing a diplomatic approach that lacked urgency. The Sharm el-Sheikh Joint Statement of 2009, in which Singh agreed to de-link terrorism from the broader Indo-Pak dialogue, was particularly criticized for offering concessions to Pakistan without securing concrete commitments on counterterrorism.

Despite peace gestures and backchannel talks during the Manmohan-Musharraf era, including discussions on Kashmir and a gas pipeline through Pakistan, the relationship with Pakistan remained stagnant, and terrorism continued unabated.

Managing Relations with China

Singh’s relationship with China was characterized by both cooperation and tension. On the one hand, trade between the two countries grew rapidly, making China one of India’s largest trading partners. Singh visited China in 2005, and a border pact was signed to facilitate easier border management. However, tensions over border disputes continued, and in 2013, a standoff at Depsang in Ladakh highlighted the unresolved nature of India-China relations.

While Singh pursued diplomacy and engagement with China, critics argue that his government failed to take a stronger stance on China’s growing influence in the region, particularly in the context of India’s security concerns.

India’s Growing Global Role

BRICS and G20 Leadership

Under Singh, India emerged as a key player in global governance. He played an instrumental role in the formation of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), attending the inaugural summit in 2009. BRICS was intended to challenge the traditional Western-dominated global order, and Singh was a key architect of its success.

Similarly, Singh’s leadership at the G20 summits, particularly during the 2008 financial crisis, positioned India as a key voice in global economic affairs. India’s advocacy for IMF reforms, action against money laundering, and the fight against black money underscored its growing influence in shaping global economic policies.

Role in Afghanistan and South Asia

India’s engagement in Afghanistan was another highlight of Singh’s foreign policy. After the fall of the Taliban, India played a significant role in Afghanistan’s reconstruction, contributing to infrastructure projects like the Salma Dam and Zaranj-Delaram Highway. Singh’s government also signed a strategic partnership with Afghanistan, ensuring India’s influence in the country post-Taliban.

Singh’s efforts to improve ties with Bangladesh bore fruit with the 2011 Land Boundary Agreement, which resolved a long-standing border issue. However, his efforts to secure the Teesta water-sharing agreement faltered, and relations with neighbours like Nepal and Sri Lanka remained complex, often marked by sensitive issues such as the Tamil question in Sri Lanka.

A Stronger India in the UN and Global Diplomacy

Manmohan Singh’s government also pushed for reforms in the United Nations, calling for a permanent seat for India in the UN Security Council. His leadership in establishing the United Nations International Day of Non-Violence in 2007 demonstrated India’s commitment to global peace and non-violence.

Legacy: A Mixed but Significant Impact

Manmohan Singh’s foreign policy was defined by strategic patience, multilateral engagement, and a commitment to peaceful coexistence. His tenure saw India cementing its role as a global player, especially through initiatives like the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, the formation of BRICS, and strong relationships with Japan, Russia, and key European powers. At the same time, his handling of sensitive issues such as Pakistan and China invited criticism, especially when perceived as overly cautious or lacking in strong responses to terrorism and border disputes.

Ultimately, Singh’s foreign policy laid the foundation for India’s growing global stature, even as it navigated complex regional and security challenges. His legacy, characterized by both achievements and controversies, remains a defining chapter in India’s foreign relations.