India, one of the world’s largest democracies and fastest-growing economies, enjoys cordial and strategically vital relationships with several powerful nations around the world. These partnerships have been forged over decades and are built on shared interests in trade, defense, security, energy, technology, and geopolitics. As India continues to expand its influence globally, certain countries have stood firmly by its side through diplomatic challenges, global crises, and key strategic collaborations.
Here is a detailed list of 10 powerful countries that have consistently supported India on the international stage—and the reasons these alliances matter.
1. Russia: A Time-Tested Ally
The Indo-Russian relationship dates back to the Cold War era and remains one of the most resilient bilateral relationships India has maintained. Russia has been India’s most reliable defense partner, supplying around 60% of India’s military hardware and co-developing cutting-edge technologies like the BrahMos missile.
Beyond defense, Russia has supported India on various geopolitical issues at international forums, including vetoing unfavorable resolutions against India at the United Nations Security Council. The strategic partnership has also expanded to energy, with Russia supplying oil and nuclear reactors, and cooperating in Arctic energy projects. Despite the emergence of new global alignments, Russia’s consistent support to India underlines a deeply rooted, multifaceted alliance.
2. Israel: A Strategic and Technological Partner
India and Israel share a robust defense and intelligence relationship. Israel has been instrumental in enhancing India’s border and cyber security, supplying surveillance equipment, missile defense systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
The countries have expanded cooperation to innovation, agriculture, and water management technologies. India sees Israel as a valuable partner in tackling common threats such as terrorism and cyberwarfare. The personal camaraderie between the leaderships of both countries has also strengthened bilateral ties. Israel’s unwavering support during India’s conflicts and crises has elevated the relationship to a strategic level.
3. United Arab Emirates: A Rising Gulf Ally
The UAE has emerged as one of India’s closest allies in the Gulf and an important economic and strategic partner. From deep trade ties to diaspora support and defense cooperation, the India-UAE relationship has grown exponentially in the last decade.
The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2022, has significantly boosted bilateral trade, targeting $100 billion within five years. The UAE also supports India’s counter-terrorism efforts and plays a pivotal role in energy security. The Emirates has often backed India’s positions on key regional matters and has hosted major Indian diaspora events, reflecting deep-rooted goodwill.
4. United States: A Dynamic and Evolving Partnership
Though historically complex, the India-U.S. relationship today stands on a strong foundation of mutual respect and strategic convergence. Defense deals, joint military exercises, space exploration collaborations, and shared democratic values have brought the two countries closer.
The U.S. has supported India’s global aspirations, including its bid for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council and membership in key export control regimes. India is also a major partner in the Indo-Pacific strategy, aimed at ensuring a free, open, and inclusive region. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), involving the U.S., India, Japan, and Australia, reflects growing trust in India as a pillar of regional stability.
5. France: Defense, Diplomacy, and Climate Leadership
France has consistently backed India in international matters and is a dependable defense and diplomatic partner. From supplying Rafale fighter jets to supporting India’s nuclear energy ambitions, France has played a vital role in India’s modernization efforts.
Both countries collaborate closely on climate change, maritime security, and counterterrorism. France has also supported India’s position on Kashmir and opposed terrorism emanating from Pakistan-based groups. Shared values and a long history of strategic alignment make France one of India’s most loyal partners.
6. Japan: Economic Giant and Strategic Friend
India and Japan enjoy a unique strategic and economic relationship based on mutual interests and democratic values. Japan has heavily invested in India’s infrastructure development, including major projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor and the high-speed rail corridor between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
The two countries collaborate in technology, defense, and supply chain resilience. Japan supports India’s aspirations for permanent membership in the UNSC and plays a crucial role in balancing China’s growing influence in Asia. The strategic and economic depth of this partnership continues to grow with every passing year.
7. Australia: Partner in the Indo-Pacific Vision
Australia and India have deepened ties under the shared objective of maintaining security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. As members of the QUAD, they engage in joint naval exercises and strategic dialogues focused on maritime cooperation and regional stability.
Trade agreements and educational exchanges have further cemented the partnership. Australia also actively supports India’s renewable energy goals and plays a significant role in promoting shared democratic values in multilateral forums. The camaraderie between leaders has brought a new energy to this rising partnership.
8. Bhutan: India’s Trusted Neighbour and Diplomatic Ally
While not a global power in the traditional sense, Bhutan holds strategic importance for India and has been an unwavering ally. India has consistently supported Bhutan’s development through infrastructure projects, hydropower cooperation, and education.
Bhutan, in turn, has supported India on critical regional issues and acted as a diplomatic buffer during border tensions with China. The bilateral relationship is rooted in trust, cultural ties, and shared security concerns. Bhutan remains one of India’s most reliable and loyal friends in the South Asian neighborhood.
9. Bangladesh: Growing Bond of Connectivity and Culture
India and Bangladesh share deep cultural, historical, and linguistic ties. Over the years, the relationship has matured into a strong strategic partnership with growing trade, connectivity, and counterterrorism cooperation.
Bangladesh has supported India’s regional initiatives like BIMSTEC and played a constructive role in managing border security. India, in return, has backed Bangladesh’s development through aid, investments, and power-sharing agreements. The mutual respect between the two countries continues to flourish, especially under friendly leadership on both sides.
10. Vietnam: A Rising Strategic Ally in Southeast Asia
Vietnam has emerged as an important pillar of India’s Act East policy. As China grows increasingly assertive in the South China Sea, India and Vietnam have expanded defense and maritime cooperation to ensure regional balance.
Vietnam has consistently supported India’s strategic presence in Southeast Asia and collaborates in the energy, defense, and education sectors. The relationship also includes training of military personnel, cultural exchanges, and joint research. As both countries seek to balance China’s regional dominance, their partnership is gaining strategic weight.
Conclusion: A Strong Global Network of Support
India’s rise on the global stage is not occurring in isolation. It is supported by a network of powerful countries that recognize India’s potential, stability, and strategic importance. These alliances are not just based on short-term interests but are forged through shared values, common goals, and mutual respect.
From time-tested friendships with Russia and Israel to rising alliances with the UAE, Australia, and Vietnam, India’s diplomatic canvas is rich, diverse, and influential. As the global order shifts, these partnerships will continue to shape India’s role as a major global player in the 21st century.
Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
