Forging New Frontiers: India-GCC Engagement under the Act West Policy and Implications for Pakistan

Abstract

Since its independence, India has aimed to strengthen its ties with Gulf countries. The launch of its Act West policy has remained the cornerstone of New Delhi’s strategy to deal with Gulf countries. The policy’s objective was to strengthen bilateral ties through economic, political, and increased diplomatic outreach. India’s influence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has significantly grown under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The main research question this study explores is: What are factors impacting Indian relationship with the Gulf States? Through a neoclassical realism perspective, this study analyses the interplay of systemic influences and domestic leadership factors in shaping India’s foreign policy towards GCC States. It employs a qualitative methodology along with secondary data analysis. This article concludes India’s deepening engagement with the Gulf countries does not inherently come at the expense of Pakistan, as each state holds its own strategic, economic, and cultural value. In today’s multipolar and interest-driven international system, relationships are increasingly non-exclusive and transactional.