Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 16: The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is drawing strong praise from former diplomats and policy experts for its inclusive and collaborative approach to global connectivity, standing in contrast to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Speaking at the IMEC summit, Prof Ashwani Mahajan, co-convenor of Swadeshi Jagran Manch, said IMEC is a joint effort, not dominated by any single country. “While India proposed it, all nations involved will play a key role. Unlike the BRI, which has trapped several countries in debt, IMEC focuses on mutual development and fair cooperation,” he said.

Dammu Ravi, secretary (Economic Relations), ministry of External Affairs, noted that India, as the starting point, has a major role, and the corridor promises long-term economic benefits for all partners.

Meenakshi Lekhi, former MoS for external affairs, highlighted India’s historical role in global trade and said IMEC offers a new route to tackle modern challenges like supply chain disruptions and sustainability.

Former foreign secretary Shyam Saran called IMEC a ‘reconnection to ancient trade routes,’ and stressed its strategic value in linking India with West Asia, Central Asia, and Europe.

Positioned as a key alternative to BRI, IMEC aims to enhance infrastructure, energy cooperation, and trade, while respecting the sovereignty and shared goals of participating nations.