US-China rivalry and the Global South: A new 'coalition of interests' or the same old G2?

On Day 2 of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, a high-level panel debated the growing Sino-American rivalry and its impact on global stability. BRICS and other initiatives are the response to the G2 problem.” He also pointed to recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, stating, “What we are seeing now is the United States trying to change the world order from everywhere, from Denmark, Canada, etc.” Indonesia’s balancing act Dino Patti Djalal, also the former Indonesian ambassador to the US, put a spotlight on his countru’s role in maintaining regional stability while navigating great-power tensions. “That is exactly the strength of many countries in the rest of the world because we are willing to be pragmatic.” On the shifting global order, he noted, “The strongest ones are the US and Europe because they are well structured, but now it is crumbling because of strained ties.” Speaking about recent nations joining BRICS, he clarified, “It is not a policy shift; it’s about adding options to our foreign policy.” However, he warned, “What is important is that BRICS does not become a geopolitical organisation because of its economic value.” India’s ‘moment in the sun’ Sunjoy Joshi provided India’s perspective, discussing its independent approach to global affairs. Highlighting Oman’s diplomatic approach, she explained, “Oman has maintained an image of mutual respect that adheres to international law and uses cultural diplomacy to deal with the US and China.” Al Hajjri also remarked on the broader shift in global power dynamics. The strategic competition between the US and China has, at times, compelled nations in the Global South to make “either-or” choices, challenging the bloc’s cohesion.