Q23. In respect of India — Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence foreign policy.

Model Answer:

Introduction

India-Sri Lanka relations have long been shaped by a combination of historical, political, economic, and strategic factors. Domestic factors in both countries significantly influence their foreign policy towards each other, as internal developments often drive decisions in bilateral relations. These domestic influences are crucial in understanding the complexities of India-Sri Lanka ties, especially in areas like security, trade, and regional cooperation.

Body

Domestic Factors Influencing Foreign Policy:

• Ethnic and Political Dynamics in Sri Lanka: The domestic political landscape of Sri Lanka, especially the influence of Tamil political parties and the Tamil diaspora, shapes its foreign policy. Sri Lanka’s handling of Tamil grievances, especially in post-civil war reconciliation, influences its relations with India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where political parties often pressure the Indian government to advocate for Sri Lankan Tamils’ rights.
• Political Regimes in India: Indian domestic politics also play a key role in shaping its foreign policy towards Sri Lanka. For instance, Tamil Nadu's political stance often puts pressure on the central government to take a strong stand on issues related to Tamil rights in Sri Lanka. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government’s focus on national security and strategic interests might influence its response to Sri Lankan issues differently compared to previous Congress-led governments, which tended to focus more on maintaining friendly ties.
• Economic Priorities and Trade Interests: Economic factors, including trade agreements and maritime security, affect India’s foreign policy towards Sri Lanka. India has been keen to enhance economic cooperation through trade, investment, and infrastructure development, which impacts decisions like funding Sri Lanka’s development projects and establishing joint ventures.
• Security Concerns and Regional Stability: Domestic security concerns in both countries also influence their foreign policies. For instance, Sri Lanka’s approach to the Chinese presence in its ports, like the Hambantota Port, is closely monitored by India, as it has strategic and security implications for India’s interests in the Indian Ocean.

Conclusion

‍Domestic factors, including political pressures, ethnic considerations, and economic priorities, significantly shape India-Sri Lanka relations. Both countries' foreign policies are influenced by these internal dynamics, which makes bilateral relations complex and subject to change. India's responses to Sri Lanka’s domestic issues, such as Tamil rights or economic dealings with China, are often swayed by domestic considerations, highlighting the interconnectedness of internal and external policy-making.

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