The I2U2 grouping was formalized in 2022 as a minilateral platform to promote cooperation in food security, energy, technology, and infrastructure. It is termed as the West Asian Quad.
Six Key Areas of Cooperation
Health
Water
Energy
Transportation
Food Security
Space
I2U2 Transforming India’s Position in Global Politics
Geopolitical Transformation
Positions India as a bridge between the Indo-Pacific and West Asia, linking Act East and Link West policies.
Strategic autonomy – cooperation with the US and Israel while maintaining relations with Iran and the Arab world.
Elevates India as a regional stabilizer in a volatile West Asian geopolitical landscape.
Countering China’s influence in West Asia
Geoeconomic Dimension
Joint investments in infrastructure, energy, and food security. Eg- UAE funding a $2 billion food corridor in Gujarat.
Integrates India into emerging West Asia–Indo-Pacific supply chains.
Defence and Security Cooperation
Strengthens intelligence sharing and counterterrorism collaboration.
Supports maritime security and enhances India’s strategic depth in the Western Indian Ocean region.
Connectivity and Infrastructure
Aligns with India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Enhances security in chokepoints like the Suez Canal.
Enhances India’s credibility as a reliable partner in minilateral frameworks (Quad, BRICS, SCO, G20).
Challenges Associated with I2U2
Complex strategic balancing: Balancing ties with Iran while deepening cooperation with US–Israel–UAE bloc.
Regional Instability: Ongoing Israel–Palestine conflict and tensions in Iran–US relations.
Limited Institutional Framework: Absence of a formal secretariat or enforcement mechanism.
Uncertainty of US Leadership under Trump
China may view I2U2 as a containment alliance, increasing competition in West Asia.
Way Forward
Institutionalize I2U2 with clear mechanisms for project implementation and funding.
Leverage the platform to promote peace and stability in the region.
Expand the agenda to include climate resilience, humanitarian aid, and disaster response.
Strengthen linkages with Quad, IMEC, and G20 initiatives.
The I2U2 marks a paradigm shift in India’s diplomacy and emergence as a bridge nation between East and West, consolidating its role as a key pillar in 21st-century multipolar global politics.
