Essay – Technology as the silent factor in international relations
Technology as the silent factor in international relations Essay: The term technology emanates from two Greek words ‘techne’ and ‘logos’. ‘Techne’ means art, skill, craft or manner and ‘logos’ means a term or signifier referring to the expression of innermost thoughts. Technology has played a prominent role in establishing International Relations since the Second World War. The second World War marked a departure from the First World War in terms of excessive Trench-warfare ushering in the use of advanced technologies such as Radar to intercept enemy aircraft and submarines, computers,and penicillin. The influence of technology on International Relations was witnessed when the US bombed the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The inception of the space and arms race between the USA and USSR on 2 August 1955 determined the international relations of the nations.
Discussion
The advent of nuclear development alongside other technological advancements has determined the nature of International relations between countries. The mass destruction caused by the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki compelled western countries such as the USA, UK, France and Germany to sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty to check the spread and usage of nuclear weapons and cooperate for peace and tranquillity. Technology had impacted India’s international relations since the Kargil War of 1999. Pakistani militants trespassed into Kargil which the Indian Armed Forces were completely unaware of. India was not equipped with GPS technology and was reliant on the U.S.A. for tracking the militants to prevent them from entering Indian territory. Russia, France and Israel aided India with the technology to combat the militants thus strengthening international relations with the former while weakening its ties with the USA.
India stands 40th as of 2020 in the Global Innovation Index. India plays a prominent role in the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation by extending aid for technological development to its neighbours such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Bhutan. During the Covid-19 Pandemic, India has strengthened its international ties with its neighbours through (Vaccine Maitri) initiative. It has provided homegrown vaccines to countries such as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. India has allocated INR62,920 Million to build ports in Sri Lanka to build ports facilitating regional trade. India has endeavoured to strengthen its relationship with the USA at the bilateral summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi collaborated with Joe Biden to initiate the “iCET: initiative for critical and emerging technologies” that focuses on the development of technologies ranging from Artificial Intelligence(AI), quantum, Genetically Modified Organisms and effective communication such as 5G. India has maintained its cordial ties with Russia during the recent Russia-Ukraine ties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, technology is an integral aspect of any nation for its growth and development. It is the fact that brings a paradigm shift to the governance of the country. It is not surprising that technology influences international relations between nations. India has been looking forward to innovations and new developments since its independence. India has taken major strides in nurturing its old relation with countries such as France and Russia while strengthening its ties with the USA in contemporary times. It has played a major role in developing cooperation amongst SAARC countries.
FAQs related to Technology as the silent factor in international relations
Q1. When did technology become important for international relations?
Ans: The influence of technology on International Relations was witnessed when the US bombed the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The inception of the space and arms race between the USA and USSR on 2 August 1955 determined the international relations of the nations.
Q2. How has India strengthened its relationship with the USA?
Ans: India has endeavoured to strengthen its relationship with the USA at the bilateral summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi collaborated with Joe Biden to initiate the “iCET: initiative for critical and emerging technologies.”