With the entry of South Africa into the BRIC club, there have been intense speculations about the fate of IBSA amidst rumors that China wants BRICS to be amalgamated with IBSA dialogue forum. This is essentially moving into a show down between India and China as India wants IBSA to continue and thrive as a forum where India’s strategic space is not shadowed by giant neighbour while China seems to have other plans. India also looks at IBSA as a counterweight to China’s ambitions in Africa.
However, IBSA’s sustainability will depend on its ability to carve a unique niche for itself in the geo-political strategy, a space that would not be sidelined byBRICS activities. Analysts suggest that BRICS can focus more on political concerns of the countries while IBSA can play a significant role through viable, relevant projects that build co-operation among the countries and improve the overall quality of life.
