मनमोहन सिंह व्याख्यान में मर्केल ने संरक्षणवाद से विकास बाधित होने की बात कही

Angela Merkel's lecture touches upon several critical concepts in international relations and global governance. The shift from an "order of cooperation" to "might makes right" highlights the weakening of established international norms and institutions. The finalized India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) represents a significant effort to foster economic cooperation between the two regions. FTAs, in general, aim to reduce trade barriers like tariffs and quotas, promoting increased trade and investment. The negotiation of the India-EU FTA has been ongoing for several years, facing various challenges related to market access, intellectual property rights, and sustainable development standards. Its finalization signals a renewed commitment to strengthening economic ties despite global uncertainties.

Merkel's reference to Dr. Manmohan Singh's approach during the global financial crisis underscores the importance of multilateralism in addressing economic shocks. The 2008 global financial crisis demonstrated the interconnectedness of the global economy and the need for coordinated policy responses. Dr. Singh, as the then Prime Minister of India, advocated for international cooperation and played a key role in shaping the G20's response to the crisis. His emphasis on cooperation over confrontation is a reminder of the value of collective action in managing global economic challenges.

Her disappointment that India did not initially support her climate change objectives relates to the broader issue of climate diplomacy and the challenges of achieving consensus on climate action. Climate diplomacy involves negotiations and collaborations between countries to address climate change. The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, is a key example of a multilateral effort to combat climate change. However, achieving ambitious climate goals requires overcoming differences in national priorities and development pathways. India's initial reluctance to fully embrace certain climate targets reflects the country's focus on economic development and energy access, while also emphasizing the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.

Finally, Merkel's warning about unregulated technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), highlights the growing concerns about the ethical and societal implications of emerging technologies. AI has the potential to transform various sectors, but it also poses risks related to job displacement, bias, and privacy. Governments need to develop appropriate regulatory frameworks to ensure that AI is used responsibly and in a way that benefits society as a whole. This includes addressing issues such as data governance, algorithmic transparency, and accountability.

For UPSC aspirants, understanding these concepts is crucial for both prelims and mains. Prelims questions can focus on the definitions and characteristics of FTAs, the history and impact of the global financial crisis, the principles of climate diplomacy, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI. Mains questions can explore the role of multilateralism in addressing global challenges, the challenges and opportunities of India-EU economic cooperation, and the policy options for regulating AI.