2023, Vol. 5, Issue 1, Part A

India’s soft power in West Asia has been shaped by a combination of cultural, historical, economic, and political factors. India’s cultural influence can be seen through the popularity of Bollywood movies, music, dance, and cuisine in the region. Historical ties between India and West Asia date back to ancient times, with trade and cultural exchanges being recorded as early as the 1st millennium BCE. India’s economic ties with West Asia have been strengthened through the import of crude oil, the presence of Indian IT companies, and investments in infrastructure projects. India’s non-alignment policy and involvement in peacekeeping efforts in the region have also contributed to its positive image in the region. Overall, India’s soft power in West Asia has helped establish it as a reliable partner and a source of inspiration for many in the region.