Page 31 - Echoes of the Global South V2

Forming strategic alliances with both Western and non-Western powers allows countries in the Global South to maximise
their influence on the global stage. Countries can play a more active role in international forums and negotiations by
aligning with different powers on various issues—such as climate change, trade, or security. For instance, aligning with
China on infrastructure development while partnering with India on digital economy initiatives enables Global South
countries to draw from the strengths of regional partners, thereby enhancing their own development outcomes. This
also helps the Global South manage the risks of dependency. While external investments and partnerships are crucial
for development, overreliance on a single power can lead to economic vulnerabilities and loss of policy autonomy. By
engaging with multiple powers and maintaining a diversified portfolio of relationships, countries in the Global South can
mitigate these risks, ensuring that they retain control over their own development agendas and are not overly influenced
by the strategic interests of external actors.

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