I2U2, a fresh collaboration, has emerged as a dynamic alliance uniting four nations: India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.
Background
Back in October 2021, the inception of I2U2 took place, stemming from the Abraham Accords between Israel and the UAE. This alliance was conceived to address vital matters like maritime security, infrastructure, and transportation in the region. During its early stages, it was recognized as the ‘International Forum for Economic Cooperation’ and colloquially referred to as the ‘West Asian Quad’.
Aim of I2U2
1. The primary aim is to strengthen economic and trade ties among the four nations, along with a special emphasis on advancing biotechnology.
2. The alliance aims to harness the collective technological know-how of India, Israel, the USA, and the UAE, fostering collaboration in diverse fields like technology, climate change, addressing the challenges of COVID-19, trade, and security concerns. Another crucial aspect is the exploration of potential security cooperation within the framework of this new alliance.
Why I2U2 is formed
Addressing Turkey’s Influence: The genesis of this new Quad alliance can be attributed to shared concerns among India, the UAE, and Israel regarding Turkey’s assertive claims to leadership within the Islamic world.
Countering China’s Influence: The formation of this initiative is in response to China’s expanding influence, including its projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), within the region.
Abraham Accords: Back in 2020, Israel established formal relations with the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan, and Morocco through the Abraham Accords, an initiative promoted by the Trump Administration. The reestablishment of diplomatic ties between Israel and the UAE paved the way for this innovative alliance.
Shift towards Economic Cooperation: In contrast to the Indo-Pacific Quad, which primarily emphasized defense and security, the West Asia Quad appears to have a stronger focus on fostering economic cooperation rather than security collaboration.
Significance of I2U2
It will create the new passage of friendship with israel without risking its ties with the UAE and the other Arab states.
India’s Global Role: The I2U2 alliance is set to elevate India’s standing on the global stage, particularly in vital areas like climate collaboration, sustainable energy, and effective waste management.
Economic Advantages for India: As a significant manufacturer of products like automobiles, India stands to gain from tapping into market potentials within the other member countries. This move can open up new avenues for trade opportunities.
Prioritizing Voluntary Engagements: The I2U2 partnership places a strong emphasis on voluntary economic endeavors instead of enforcing rigid multinational trade agreements, as seen with initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
UPSC CSE GS4 Question
Q) How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in global politics? (2022)
