Specifics of India’s Foreign Policy: Foundations, Evolution, Priorities

Currently, India has become an influential regional power, which has been greatly facilitated by its highly effective foreign policy. This article examines the factors (origins) that determined India’s foreign policy in the past and present. Firstly, it is a recognition of the unique role of national traditions and values of Indian civilization, which are extrapolated to international politics. And, secondly, a special perception of the colonial experience, transferred to the relationships with the outside world and neighboring regions. These foundations have formed two antinomic strategies of Indian foreign policy: strengthening "national autonomy" and expanding "good neighborliness".