Why Israel and Finland See India as the Next Global Superpower

For years, the idea of India becoming a global superpower has been a topic of discussion. While many countries watch India's growth, Israel has consistently stated that India will be the next superpower. This view is now shared by leaders like Finland's President. This article explores why these nations believe India is on its way to becoming a major global power. We will look at India's strong economy, military power, diplomatic influence, and other key factors.

Israel's Bold Statement: India is the Future

For about five years, Israel has stood out. Its leaders and ministers have openly said that India will be a future superpower. Recently, Israel has said this twice this year. This strong belief from Israel has even led Finland's President to agree.

Israel's Foreign Minister, Gidon, recently visited India. During his visit, he made it clear that India is the future. He urged others to invest in India. He also declared that "India will be the next global superpower."

In a meeting with India's Foreign Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, Israel's Foreign Minister shared his vision. He said, "India is the world's largest democracy and the fastest-growing economy. India is the global superpower. Israel is an original powerhouse. Our nations already share a warm friendship. Our goal is to build a long-term partnership."

This statement highlights Israel's desire for a deeper, lasting connection with India.

Why Israel Sees India as a Key Partner

Israel is carefully reviewing its relationships with various countries. Many nations are upset with Israel because of the bombing in Gaza. This makes it hard for Israel to justify its actions to the world.

However, India has responded differently. India has condemned the events in Gaza, calling them wrong. But at the same time, India has kept its strong ties with Israel. India's balanced approach caught Israel's attention.

India's importance goes beyond this. India has a 10-year defense partnership with the United States. India also has good relations with the European Union. Israel now believes that India will become its most important ally after the United States. This partnership could last for the next three decades.

India's Road to Superpower Status by 2047

Experts from around the world mostly agree on one thing: India is on its way to becoming a superpower. Many international groups and economists believe India will achieve this status by 2047. This year marks 100 years of India's independence.

Figures like Martin Wolf and various US think tanks support this view. India's economy is expected to grow strongly, likely reaching 7% to 7.5%. This growth will push India towards its superpower goal.

Many people might remember past predictions. There were jokes and doubts about India becoming a superpower by 2020. However, significant progress has been made. For example, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam once said that India would end poverty by 2020. While not completely gone, the World Bank recently reported that extreme poverty in India is now around 5.3%. This shows major improvement.

India's consistent growth and development make it a desirable partner for many nations. Israel, like Finland, wants to build strong ties with this future global power.

What Makes a Superpower?

Becoming a superpower is rare. Only a few countries in the world achieve this status. A country needs many things to be a superpower.

Currently, the United States of America is the only existing superpower. Countries like China, the European Union, Russia, and India are considered potential superpowers.

Let's look at the key elements that define a superpower:

Economic Power

A superpower needs a very strong economy.

• Top GDP: A country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) should rank among the top three globally.
• Multinational Companies: It needs many large companies like Microsoft or Apple. These companies sell products and services all over the world. India must create more companies that can compete globally.
• Global Currency: Its currency should be widely used in international trade. Even if it does not dominate like the US dollar, using it in 15-20% of global trade shows strong economic power.

Military Capabilities

A superpower must have a strong military that can project power far from home.

• Global Projection: The military should be able to operate and show its strength beyond its own continent.
• Blue Water Navy: This means having a navy that can operate in any ocean around the world. India is working towards building such a navy.
• Nuclear Weapons: Having nuclear weapons is another key military factor. India has nuclear weapons.

India is making progress in these areas. By 2047, it is likely to meet these military goals.

Diplomatic and Political Standing

Influence in global decision-making is crucial for a superpower.

• UN Security Council: Having a permanent seat and influence in the United Nations Security Council is important.
• Global Organizations: Membership in groups like the G20 and the World Bank shows global reach. India is part of these major groups.
• Policy Influence: A superpower influences global policies on issues like climate change or energy. India's voice is often heard in these discussions. For example, the US often says that resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict involves India.

Cultural Soft Power

This refers to a country's ability to influence others through its culture and values.

• Film Industry: While Bollywood is well-known, Indian film industries need to perform better on the global stage. Countries like South Korea and Japan do a better job of projecting their soft power through movies and music.
• Media Dominance: A superpower often has strong international media presence. India does not yet have an international media channel like others.
• Technological Innovation: This includes leadership in fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum technology. India is slowly growing in these areas.
• Space Technology: India is quite advanced in space technology, thanks to organizations like ISRO.
• Ideology Appeal: A superpower's ideas and values should attract other nations. India's image on social media has sometimes been hurt by negative portrayals, showing it as unsafe or unclean.

Geographical Resources

A superpower needs certain basic resources and a strong foundation.

• Large Territory: A big land area is an advantage. India has a vast territory.
• Large Population: A big population can be a strength. India has a very large population.
• Natural Resources: Having enough natural resources to support its population is important. India can grow enough food for its people and has water resources. However, it still relies on other countries for much of its energy needs. By 2047, India aims to have more control over its energy sources.

India's Progress Towards the Future

Looking at all these factors, it seems India is indeed on track to become a global superpower. Israel's consistent statements, now joined by Finland, highlight this growing belief. India's economic growth, military plans, and increasing global influence all point to a powerful future.

What do you think? Do you believe India will be a superpower by 2047? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.