SSC CGL DEST Previous Year – India's Foreign Policy

India's foreign policy is guided by the principles of national interest, peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and international cooperation. India is a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement and has historically pursued an independent foreign policy. The country's foreign policy is guided by the Panchsheel principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, equality and peaceful coexistence. India maintains diplomatic relations with virtually all countries in the world. It is an active member of the United Nations, the World Trade Organisation, the G20, the BRICS grouping and many other multilateral bodies. India's Neighbourhood First Policy emphasises close engagement with South Asian neighbours. The Act East Policy seeks to strengthen ties with Southeast Asia and beyond. India has strategic partnerships with major powers including the United States, Russia, European countries, Japan and Australia. The country has been taking a more proactive role in addressing regional and global challenges, including terrorism, climate change and maritime security. India is a major contributor to United Nations peacekeeping operations. It has been seeking a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council as befitting its status as a large democracy and a major economy. Trade and investment ties are an important component of India's bilateral relationships. The Indian diaspora of around 30 million people living across the world is an important soft power asset for India and plays a significant role in strengthening people-to-people ties between India and other countries.