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Civilizational Diplomacy and Strategic Identity: A Historical Perspective on India–North Africa Relations (सभ्यतागत कूटनीतत और रणनीततक पहचान: भारत–उत्तर अफ्रीका संबंधों का ऐततहाससक पररप्रेक्ष्य)

  • Kusum Lata* Kusum Lata Corresponding author Ph.D. in Political Science, Barkatullah University, Bhopal India
Received: August 20, 2025
Accepted: October 30, 2025
Published: December 18, 2025
Volume: 1 (2) | Page: 7-14

Abstract

The roots of relations between India and North Africa lie in ancient trade routes, cultural exchanges, and shared colonial experiences. The exchange of spices, textiles, and maritime connections facilitated civilizational dialogue between the two regions. During the colonial period, participation in independence movements and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) strengthened their political identity. In the modern era, India has utilized education, technology, Bollywood, yoga, and cultural cooperation as tools to enhance its strategic presence in North Africa. Collaboration through platforms such as the African Union and the India–Africa Forum Summit has further reinforced these ties in contemporary political discourse. This study argues that civilizational diplomacy is not merely a historical memory but a significant strategic instrument in shaping India–North Africa relations.

Keywords: India–North Africa Relations, Civilizational Diplomacy, Strategic Identity, Cultural Exchange, Colonial Experience, Non-Aligned Movement, Pan-Africanism, South–South Cooperation, Education and Cultural Diplomacy, Political Science

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