Delhi Dialogue X Strengthening India ASEAN Maritime Cooperation

The 10th edition of the Delhi Dialogue, an annual Track 1.5 event, was hosted by India in 2019. The dialogue centered on "Strengthening India-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation." Since 2009, the Delhi Dialogue has served as a crucial platform for discussions on political, security, economic, and socio-cultural cooperation between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), an autonomous policy research institute based in New Delhi, partners with India in organizing this event.

India-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation: A Deep Dive

The Delhi Dialogue, particularly its tenth edition, underscores the strategic importance India places on its relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), especially concerning maritime cooperation. This focus is not merely a matter of diplomatic niceties; it reflects a complex interplay of historical ties, economic imperatives, security concerns, and geopolitical ambitions in the rapidly evolving Indo-Pacific region.

Historical Roots and the Evolution of India-ASEAN Relations

India's connection with Southeast Asia stretches back millennia, predating the formal establishment of ASEAN by centuries. Ancient trade routes crisscrossed the Bay of Bengal and the Straits of Malacca, facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences. Indian religions, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism, left a profound mark on the region's art, architecture, and social structures. The influence of Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata is still visible in the cultural traditions of many ASEAN member states.

However, the colonial era disrupted these historical connections. European powers carved up Southeast Asia, and India itself became a British colony. This period witnessed a decline in direct interaction between India and the region, as both were integrated into different colonial empires. After India gained independence in 1947, its initial focus was on domestic development and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). While India maintained diplomatic relations with Southeast Asian countries, engagement remained limited for several decades.

The end of the Cold War and the adoption of economic liberalization policies in India in the early 1990s marked a turning point. Recognizing the economic potential and strategic importance of Southeast Asia, India launched its "Look East" policy in 1991. This policy aimed to forge closer economic and strategic ties with ASEAN member states. The "Look East" policy was a calculated move to diversify India’s economic partnerships, access new markets, and project its influence in a region that was rapidly growing in economic and strategic significance.

As India’s economy grew, so did its engagement with ASEAN. Trade and investment flows increased, and India became a Dialogue Partner of ASEAN in 1992. This marked a significant step in formalizing the relationship and providing a framework for regular consultations and cooperation. India subsequently joined the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) in 1996, a platform for discussing security issues in the Asia-Pacific region.

In 2014, the "Look East" policy was upgraded to the "Act East" policy, signaling a more proactive and comprehensive approach to engaging with ASEAN. The "Act East" policy reflects India's desire to play a more prominent role in the Indo-Pacific region and to deepen its engagement with ASEAN across all sectors, including political, security, economic, and socio-cultural domains. The Delhi Dialogue, initiated in 2009, is a direct outcome of this deepening engagement, providing a regular forum for discussing issues of mutual interest and promoting cooperation.

The Delhi Dialogue: A Track 1.5 Diplomacy Platform

The Delhi Dialogue stands out as a "Track 1.5" diplomatic initiative. This means that it involves both official government representatives (Track 1) and non-official actors, such as academics, think tanks, and business leaders (Track 2). This blended approach allows for a more open and frank exchange of ideas, fostering a deeper understanding of the perspectives and concerns of all stakeholders.

The Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), a New Delhi-based think tank, plays a crucial role in organizing the Delhi Dialogue. RIS provides intellectual input, conducts research, and facilitates discussions on key issues related to India-ASEAN cooperation. Its expertise on South-South Cooperation and development issues is particularly valuable in shaping the agenda and outcomes of the Dialogue.

The significance of Track 1.5 diplomacy lies in its ability to bridge the gap between official policy and ground realities. By involving non-official actors, it brings diverse perspectives to the table, fostering a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing India and ASEAN. This can lead to more innovative and effective policy solutions.

ASEAN: A Cornerstone of India's Act East Policy

ASEAN, established in 1967, is a regional organization comprising ten Southeast Asian nations: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Its primary objectives are to promote economic growth, social progress, and regional stability among its member states. ASEAN operates on the principles of consensus, non-interference in internal affairs, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

ASEAN's economic integration efforts have led to the creation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), which aims to establish a single market and production base in Southeast Asia. The AEC seeks to facilitate the free flow of goods, services, investment, and skilled labor within the region, making ASEAN a more attractive destination for foreign investment and a more competitive player in the global economy.

For India, ASEAN is a vital partner in its economic growth and regional security. ASEAN is India's fourth-largest trading partner, and trade between India and ASEAN has grown rapidly in recent years. India and ASEAN have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in goods, services, and investment, which has further boosted trade and investment flows.

Beyond economics, ASEAN is also a key partner for India in addressing regional security challenges. Both India and ASEAN share concerns about maritime security, terrorism, and transnational crime. They cooperate on these issues through various mechanisms, including the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the East Asia Summit (EAS).

Maritime Cooperation: A Critical Pillar of India-ASEAN Relations

The theme of the 10th Delhi Dialogue, "Strengthening India-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation," highlights the growing importance of the maritime domain in the India-ASEAN relationship. Maritime cooperation encompasses a wide range of activities, including maritime security, maritime connectivity, and marine resource management.

The Indo-Pacific region, where India and ASEAN are located, is a vital maritime corridor for global trade and energy flows. The region is also home to several maritime disputes, including the South China Sea dispute, which has the potential to escalate tensions and disrupt regional stability.

India and ASEAN share a common interest in maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight in the Indo-Pacific region, ensuring the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes, and combating maritime threats such as piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing.

India has been actively engaging with ASEAN member states on maritime security cooperation. This includes conducting joint naval exercises, providing maritime domain awareness training, and sharing information on maritime threats. India has also been providing assistance to ASEAN member states in building their maritime security capabilities.

Maritime connectivity is another important aspect of India-ASEAN maritime cooperation. India is working with ASEAN member states to develop ports, shipping lanes, and other infrastructure projects that will improve connectivity between India and Southeast Asia. This includes projects such as the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which aims to connect Kolkata in India to Sittwe in Myanmar, and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which will connect India to Southeast Asia by land.

Marine resource management is also a growing area of cooperation between India and ASEAN. Both India and ASEAN are rich in marine resources, and they share a common interest in managing these resources sustainably. This includes cooperation on issues such as fisheries management, marine conservation, and marine scientific research.

The South China Sea Dispute: A Key Challenge

The South China Sea dispute is a major point of contention in the Indo-Pacific region. Several ASEAN member states, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei, have overlapping territorial claims with China in the South China Sea. China claims almost the entire South China Sea as its own, based on historical grounds.

The South China Sea is a vital shipping lane for global trade, and the dispute has raised concerns about freedom of navigation and overflight in the region. The dispute has also led to tensions between China and the United States, which has been conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea.

India has consistently called for the peaceful resolution of the South China Sea dispute, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). India has also emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea.

India's position on the South China Sea dispute is aligned with that of many ASEAN member states, who also seek a peaceful resolution of the dispute based on international law. India and ASEAN have been working together to promote dialogue and cooperation on maritime issues in the region.

China's Growing Influence: A Balancing Act

China's growing economic and military power is a major factor shaping the dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region. China has been investing heavily in infrastructure projects in Southeast Asia, and its trade with ASEAN has grown rapidly in recent years. China has also been increasing its military presence in the South China Sea, which has raised concerns among ASEAN member states.

India and ASEAN are both seeking to balance their relations with China. While they recognize the importance of economic engagement with China, they are also wary of China's growing influence and its assertiveness in the South China Sea.

India's "Act East" policy is partly aimed at countering China's influence in Southeast Asia. By strengthening its ties with ASEAN, India hopes to provide a counterweight to China's growing power and to promote a more balanced regional order.

ASEAN member states are also pursuing a hedging strategy, engaging with both China and India while seeking to maintain their autonomy and independence. They recognize the importance of diversifying their economic and security partnerships to avoid becoming overly reliant on any single power.

India's Role in the Indo-Pacific Security Architecture

The Indo-Pacific region is increasingly seen as a single strategic space, encompassing the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. The concept of the Indo-Pacific has gained prominence in recent years, reflecting the growing interconnectedness of the two oceans and the increasing importance of maritime security in the region.

India is playing an increasingly important role in the Indo-Pacific security architecture. India is a member of the Quad, a grouping of countries comprising the United States, Japan, Australia, and India, which aims to promote a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. The Quad has been holding regular meetings and joint military exercises, signaling its commitment to maintaining security and stability in the region.

India is also engaging with other countries in the Indo-Pacific region, including France, the United Kingdom, and South Korea, to promote maritime security cooperation and to uphold international law.

India's approach to the Indo-Pacific is based on the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and respect for international law. India seeks to promote a regional order that is based on cooperation and mutual respect, rather than on dominance or coercion.

Economic Dimensions of India-ASEAN Cooperation

Beyond security, economic cooperation is a vital pillar of the India-ASEAN relationship. ASEAN is a major trading partner for India, and trade between the two sides has been growing rapidly. The India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has been instrumental in boosting trade and investment flows.

India and ASEAN are also working together to promote connectivity through infrastructure projects such as the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project and the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway. These projects will improve connectivity between India and Southeast Asia, facilitating trade and investment and promoting economic growth.

India is also seeking to increase its investment in ASEAN countries. ASEAN is an attractive destination for Indian investors due to its growing economies, strategic location, and favorable investment climate.

India and ASEAN are also cooperating on issues such as digital economy, renewable energy, and sustainable development. These areas offer significant opportunities for collaboration and can contribute to the economic growth and development of both India and ASEAN.

Socio-Cultural Connections: Strengthening People-to-People Ties

In addition to political, security, and economic cooperation, India and ASEAN are also focusing on strengthening socio-cultural connections. This includes promoting cultural exchanges, educational programs, and tourism.

India and ASEAN share a rich cultural heritage, and there are many similarities between the cultures of India and Southeast Asia. Promoting cultural exchanges can help to deepen understanding and appreciation between the people of India and ASEAN.

Educational programs, such as scholarships and student exchange programs, can also help to strengthen people-to-people ties. These programs provide opportunities for students from India and ASEAN to study and learn from each other, fostering a sense of shared identity and understanding.

Tourism is another important way to promote socio-cultural connections. India and ASEAN are both popular tourist destinations, and increasing tourism between the two sides can help to boost economic growth and promote cultural understanding.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the strong foundation of the India-ASEAN relationship, there are also several challenges that need to be addressed. One challenge is the varying levels of development among ASEAN member states. Some ASEAN countries are highly developed, while others are still developing. This can create challenges for economic integration and cooperation.

Another challenge is the complex geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific region. The region is characterized by competing interests and rivalries, which can create tensions and undermine regional stability.

Despite these challenges, there are also many opportunities for India and ASEAN to deepen their cooperation. One opportunity is to expand economic cooperation in areas such as digital economy, renewable energy, and sustainable development.

Another opportunity is to strengthen maritime security cooperation to address shared threats such as piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing.

India and ASEAN can also work together to promote a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region, based on international law and respect for sovereignty.

The Future of India-ASEAN Relations

The India-ASEAN relationship is poised for further growth and development in the coming years. The "Act East" policy provides a strong framework for deepening engagement across all sectors. The growing economic and strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region will further incentivize India and ASEAN to strengthen their cooperation.

The Delhi Dialogue will continue to serve as an important platform for discussing issues of mutual interest and promoting cooperation. By fostering dialogue and understanding, the Delhi Dialogue can help to build a stronger and more resilient India-ASEAN partnership.

As India's economy continues to grow and its role in the Indo-Pacific region expands, its relationship with ASEAN will become even more important. By working together, India and ASEAN can promote economic growth, regional stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

The focus on maritime cooperation in the 10th Delhi Dialogue is particularly significant, reflecting the growing importance of the maritime domain in the India-ASEAN relationship. By strengthening maritime security, connectivity, and resource management, India and ASEAN can ensure the safety and security of the Indo-Pacific region and promote sustainable development.

The strategic partnership between India and ASEAN is a vital asset for both sides. By working together, India and ASEAN can address the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century and build a brighter future for their people. The focus on maritime cooperation underscores the shared commitment to a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. India's commitment to the "Act East" policy and its proactive engagement with ASEAN demonstrate its long-term vision for a strong and mutually beneficial partnership. The Delhi Dialogue serves as a crucial mechanism for translating this vision into concrete action, fostering dialogue, and promoting cooperation across a wide range of areas. The future of India-ASEAN relations is bright, with the potential for even greater collaboration and partnership in the years to come.