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| March 27, 2000 | ||
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 America's
pre-eminence today is taken for granted. It wields huge influence, whether
it be over the world economy or on institutions like the UN, IMF and World
Bank. The buzzwords of the 21st century, like liberalisation and
globalisation, are actually American mantras. So when the US President
comes calling, we have to pay attention. Particularly after the
nuclearisation of the subcontinent and the Kargil conflict.
For long the US perceived India as having a pro-Soviet tilt and assiduously cultivated Pakistan for its other strategic Cold War interests, a policy spearheaded by Henry Kissinger under the Nixon presidency. Much has altered since then. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the fear of Islamic terrorism in their own backyard and recognition of India's economic potential have meant the US views us differently, and without the baggage of the past. Today it recognises India as a regional power and wishes to pursue a relationship with us independent of Pakistan. That President Bill Clinton has chosen to spend five days in India and only a few hours in Pakistan is a good indication of that. As soon as Clinton's visit was announced
we, at India today, planned it as a special issue. Deputy Editor Raj
Chengappa, who has written frequently on Indo-US ties, had put together a
comprehensive package that explores every dimension of this relationship.
Part of it comprises columns by eminent diplomats and thinkers who discuss
issues like nuclear disarmament and debate the significance of Clinton's
visit. Meanwhile, India today reporters spoke to businessmen, travelled to
towns and villages where Clinton is expected to go and captured the hoopla
that surrounds his visit. Says Chengappa: "Although he's at the fag
end of his term, it would be wrong to underestimate Clinton's visit as a
mere yatra. Given the continuity of American foreign policy, it does
signal a major shift in the way the two countries are looking at each
other." .
(Aroon Purie) |
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