PM Modi calls for doubling bilateral trade with Jordan in five years

India's foreign policy has long emphasized strategic partnerships and economic diplomacy, especially with nations in its extended neighborhood. The recent announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Abdullah II of Jordan to double bilateral trade to $5 billion within five years is a significant step in this direction, underscoring India's growing engagement with the West Asian region.

**Background Context and What Happened:**

India's relationship with the West Asian region, often referred to as its 'extended neighborhood,' is rooted in historical, cultural, and economic ties. Jordan, a relatively stable nation in a volatile region, holds strategic importance due to its geographical location and its role in regional diplomacy. India has consistently pursued a 'Look West' or 'Act West' policy, aiming to deepen its engagement beyond traditional energy imports to encompass trade, investment, technology, and people-to-people contacts. The specific target of $5 billion in bilateral trade within five years, from the current approximate $2.5 billion, signals a clear intent to elevate economic cooperation. This ambitious goal was set during high-level discussions between the two leaders, highlighting a shared vision for enhanced partnership. The identified sectors for collaboration—digital infrastructure, IT, healthtech, agritech, and renewable energy—reflect a modern, diversified approach, moving beyond traditional commodities.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

At the forefront are the **Governments of India and Jordan**, represented by their respective leaders, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Abdullah II. These political leaders provide the strategic direction and impetus for cooperation. Key ministries such as India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Ministry of Commerce & Industry, along with their Jordanian counterparts, will be instrumental in formulating and implementing policies. Beyond the state, **Indian and Jordanian businesses and investors** are crucial stakeholders, as they will be the primary drivers of trade and investment flows in the identified sectors. The proposed collaboration on infrastructure projects, particularly in Syria, brings **Syria** into the stakeholder matrix, albeit indirectly, as a beneficiary and a region whose stability is of mutual interest to India and Jordan. International financial institutions and development banks could also become stakeholders if funding or expertise is sought for large-scale infrastructure projects.

**Why This Matters for India:**

This trade target holds immense significance for India across multiple dimensions. Economically, it represents a crucial step in **diversifying India's export markets** and reducing reliance on traditional partners. The focus on high-growth sectors like digital infrastructure, IT, healthtech, and agritech aligns with India's strengths and its 'Make in India' and 'Digital India' initiatives, offering new avenues for Indian companies to expand their global footprint. Increased trade also means **enhanced market access** for Indian goods and services, potentially boosting employment and economic growth domestically. Strategically, strengthening ties with Jordan is vital for India's **geopolitical influence in West Asia**. Jordan's moderate stance and its role in regional stability are valuable, and a robust partnership enhances India's ability to engage with the broader Middle East. The proposed collaboration on Syrian infrastructure projects signifies India's willingness to contribute to **post-conflict reconstruction and regional stability**, which indirectly benefits India's energy security interests and trade routes through the region. It also positions India as a responsible global actor committed to peace and development.

**Historical Context and Broader Themes:**

India's engagement with West Asia dates back centuries through trade and cultural exchanges. In the post-independence era, India maintained strong ties with Arab nations based on the principles of non-alignment and solidarity. While energy security has traditionally dominated India's West Asia policy, there has been a conscious shift towards a more comprehensive engagement, encompassing trade, investment, technology, and strategic partnerships. This move aligns with India's broader foreign policy theme of multi-alignment and expanding its strategic autonomy. The current initiative with Jordan also fits into the larger narrative of India's **'Act West' policy**, which seeks to integrate economic and strategic interests in the region, similar to its 'Act East' policy. This includes fostering partnerships that go beyond traditional bilateral exchanges to address regional challenges and opportunities.

**Future Implications:**

Achieving the $5 billion trade target would solidify India's economic presence in West Asia and open doors for similar ambitious targets with other regional partners. It could lead to increased Indian investment in Jordan and vice-versa, fostering economic interdependence. The collaboration in digital and green technologies could position India as a key technology partner in the region. Furthermore, India's involvement in Syrian reconstruction, even if initially through Jordan, sets a precedent for its role in regional stability and development initiatives. This could enhance India's soft power and diplomatic leverage. For India, a stable and prosperous West Asia is crucial for its energy security, trade routes, and the welfare of its large diaspora in the region. This partnership with Jordan is a building block in that larger vision.

**Related Constitutional Articles, Acts, or Policies:**

While there isn't a single constitutional article directly dictating trade targets, India's foreign policy and economic engagements are guided by constitutional principles. **Article 51** of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) mandates the State to 'endeavour to promote international peace and security, maintain just and honourable relations between nations, foster respect for international law and treaty obligations, and encourage settlement of international disputes by arbitration.' This article provides the foundational ethos for India's diplomatic and economic engagements, including trade partnerships that foster mutual prosperity and regional stability. Furthermore, the Union List under the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution grants the Parliament exclusive power over 'Foreign affairs; all matters which bring the Union into relation with any foreign country' (Entry 10) and 'Entering into treaties and agreements with foreign countries and implementing of treaties, agreements and conventions with foreign countries' (Entry 14). Policy-wise, this initiative aligns with India's **Foreign Trade Policy**, which aims to boost exports and facilitate trade, and domestic programs like **'Make in India,' 'Digital India,' 'Startup India,'** and **'National Health Policy,'** which encourage innovation and growth in the very sectors identified for cooperation with Jordan.