I2U2 Alliance: Its Initiation, Significance and Objective

I2U2 is the name of alliance formed between four countries India, Israel, USA and UAE, formed to work together for overall development of these countries. In I2U2, two ‘Is’ stand for India and Israel and the two ‘Us’ stand for USA and the UAE. The group was formed initially in October 2021 for dealing with issues concerning infrastructure, transport and maritime security in the region. Earlier the group was called the ‘International Forum for Economic Cooperation’ and referred to as the ‘West Asian Quad’. Formation of this Quad is considered one of the major surpluses of the Abraham accords that saw the normalization of ties between Israel and the UAE.

Date of first leaders’ summit of I2U2: 14th July 2022(in virtual mode)

Significance of I2U2 Initiative

I2U2 will help in revitalization of the system of alliances around the globe and give a new meaning to them. The aim is also to reenergize those relations between countries that were never utilized to their full extent and to establish new partnerships as well. For these 4 countries, I2U2 will help in exploring security cooperation within the framework of the new grouping.

I2U2 Alliance History

Back in October 2021, External Affairs Minister of India Mr. S Jaishankar visited Jerusalem to meet with the Foreign Minister of Israel Mr. Yair Lapid. They both were joined the US Secretary of State, Mr. Antony Blinken and the UAE Foreign Minister, Mr. Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan through a video conference. The virtual meeting was held on October 18 which ended with the verdict of establishing an international forum for economic cooperation. The aim was to harness the “unique array of capabilities, knowledge and experience” of the four nations which ultimately lead to the formation of I2U2.

According to the White House, the I2U2 group was founded as a part of the US government’s attempts to resuscitate and revive American ties around the world.

Objective of I2U2 Initiative

The participating countries of I2U2 can cooperate on a number of levels and help each other in the areas of technologies, trade, security, climate and many more. On the topics of food security and fight against Covid-19, these countries can do so much for each other. Moreover, each of these countries is a technological hub and Biotechnology is prominent in each of these countries, so focus on biotechnological development will be of a prime concern.

I2U2 and India

India has always been a supporter of peace and stability, especially in West Asia as it considers them as its extended neighborhood. India welcomed the Abraham Accords with open arms not only to gain benefits but also to offer its massive technological advantages to its partners. Working together, much can be achieved than working alone which is the basic fundamental of this alliance.

With its massive consumer market and production facility for high-tech and highly sought-after goods, India is considered quite important participant of I2U2. India will be able to deepen its engagement with Israel by taking advantage of the Abraham Accords and still be able to maintain its relations with UAE and the other Arab states. The alliance will not only give political but economic and social advantages to India as well.

First I2U2 Summit

The first I2U2 summit will be held virtually in July 2022. The four countries will come together for discussions on the food security crisis and other areas of cooperation. This virtual summit will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Israeli PM Neftali Bennet and UAE President Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and will be the first of its kind. The summit will begin with Biden’s visit to Middle East in July where he will connect with the leaders of other three nations via video conferencing. All four countries are looking forward to this summit and the advantages that it will bring for all of them.

Importance of I2U2 for UPSC Aspirants

I2U2 is currently the hottest current affairs topic that is on everyone’s mouth. However, the topic is of special importance for UPSC aspirants or all others preparing for competitive exam. Here are some quick notes on I2U2 for UPSC aspirants:

1. I2U2 stands for India, Israel, USA and UAE.

2. The alliance was initially formed on 18 October 2021.

3. Its former name was International Forum for Economic Cooperation’.

4. It is referred to as the ‘West Asian Quad’.

5. The first summit will be held virtually in July 2022 and the host will be US President Joe Biden.

6. Aim of the alliance is to establish and strengthen connection between the four countries, technological and otherwise.