By KUNA
New Delhi : Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday stated that his government was aiming for a proactive foreign policy rather than reactive.
“India reengages the world as a more self-confident nation, we must be better informed about the world to be able to deal with it,” Singh said while launching a new foreign affairs journal — India and Global Affairs — at Delhi.
“I do feel that the policy making at home is often more reactive than pro-active,” he said, adding “I have often felt that there is a dearth of long-term planning on strategic policy issues in India.” “Creating a body of informed opinion is part of that process of preparing oneself to deal with unexpected events,” the Prime Minister added.
“I also believe that it is incumbent upon analysts and opinion makers outside the government to have a better appreciation of changing reality and not adopt either rose-tinted or jaundiced perspectives on ongoing trends, events and policy options,” he noted.
Talking to reporters on the sidelines of the function, the Prime Minister said: “China is our largest neighbour and in many ways engagement with China is an imperative and necessity.” “Engaging China will be a priority. We will discuss all issues,” he added. Singh leaves on a three-day visit to China January 13.
“India sees increasing avenues of cooperation with China and New Delhi will give new thrust to its ties with China,” he added.