Shangri La Dialogue 2018

The Indian Prime Minister addressed the 17th Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on June 1, 2018. This significant 'track-one' conference, officially known as the IISS Asia Security Summit, is an annual event co-organized by the British think tank, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), and the Singaporean government.

The Shangri-La Dialogue brings together defense ministers, top officials, and military chiefs from 28 Asia-Pacific countries, including major powers like China and the United States, to discuss pressing regional security issues. Named after its venue, the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore, the dialogue serves as a crucial platform for fostering cooperation and addressing security challenges in the Asia-Pacific, mirroring the IISS Manama Dialogue in Bahrain for the Middle East.

India and the Shangri-La Dialogue: A Strategic Imperative

The participation of the Indian Prime Minister at the 17th Shangri-La Dialogue in 2018 underscored India's growing strategic importance and its proactive engagement in shaping the security landscape of the Asia-Pacific region. This annual forum, a cornerstone of regional security architecture, provided a crucial platform for India to articulate its vision for a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, while also addressing pressing security challenges and fostering cooperation with key partners. The Prime Minister's presence was not merely ceremonial; it was a deliberate signal of India's commitment to playing a leading role in the evolving geopolitical dynamics of the region.

The Genesis and Evolution of the Shangri-La Dialogue

To fully appreciate the significance of India's involvement, understanding the origins and evolution of the Shangri-La Dialogue is essential. The dialogue was conceived in 2002 by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), a London-based think tank renowned for its expertise in defense and security matters, in collaboration with the Singaporean government. The impetus behind its creation stemmed from a perceived need for a formal, multilateral platform where defense ministers, senior military officials, and security experts from across the Asia-Pacific could engage in open and frank discussions on regional security concerns.

Prior to the Shangri-La Dialogue, such high-level interactions were relatively infrequent and often conducted on a bilateral basis. The dialogue filled a critical gap by providing a neutral and inclusive space for fostering dialogue, building trust, and promoting cooperation among diverse actors with often divergent interests. The choice of Singapore as the venue was deliberate, reflecting the country's reputation as a stable, neutral, and well-connected hub in the heart of Southeast Asia.

The dialogue's format is structured around a series of plenary sessions, special sessions, and bilateral meetings, allowing participants to address a wide range of issues, from traditional security concerns like territorial disputes and arms races to non-traditional threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, and climate change. The dialogue is also known for its "Track One" status, meaning that it involves official government representatives engaging in formal discussions, lending it significant political weight.

Over the years, the Shangri-La Dialogue has evolved into the premier security forum in the Asia-Pacific, attracting participation from virtually every major country in the region, as well as key external powers like the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. Its agenda has also broadened to encompass a wider range of issues, reflecting the increasingly complex and interconnected nature of regional security challenges.

Key Actors and Their Agendas

The Shangri-La Dialogue is characterized by a diverse array of participants, each with their own distinct interests and agendas. Understanding the perspectives of these key actors is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of the forum and its impact on regional security.

• India: India's primary objective at the Shangri-La Dialogue is to promote its vision for a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, based on the principles of freedom of navigation, respect for international law, and inclusive regionalism. India seeks to enhance its strategic partnerships with like-minded countries in the region, particularly those that share its concerns about China's growing assertiveness. India also uses the dialogue to articulate its concerns about terrorism, maritime security, and cyber threats. The "Act East" policy is central to India's engagement, aiming to deepen economic, strategic, and cultural ties with Southeast Asian nations.

• China: China views the Shangri-La Dialogue as an important platform for projecting its image as a responsible and constructive stakeholder in regional security. China seeks to promote its vision of a "community of common destiny" in Asia, emphasizing economic cooperation and regional stability. However, China's participation is often marked by tensions over its territorial claims in the South China Sea and its military modernization program. China uses the dialogue to defend its actions and to counter criticism from other countries.

• United States: The United States sees the Shangri-La Dialogue as a critical forum for reaffirming its commitment to maintaining security and stability in the Asia-Pacific. The U.S. uses the dialogue to reassure its allies and partners in the region, to deter potential aggression, and to promote its vision of a rules-based international order. The U.S. also uses the dialogue to express its concerns about China's military expansion and its human rights record. The U.S. commitment to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea is a recurring theme in its statements.

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• ASEAN Member States: The ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are key players in the Shangri-La Dialogue. ASEAN's central role in regional security architecture is often emphasized at the dialogue. ASEAN countries seek to maintain their neutrality and to avoid being drawn into the rivalry between the major powers. They use the dialogue to promote regional cooperation, to address common security challenges, and to advocate for peaceful resolution of disputes.

• Japan: Japan, a close ally of the United States, shares many of the same concerns about China's growing influence in the region. Japan uses the Shangri-La Dialogue to strengthen its security ties with other countries, to promote its vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, and to advocate for greater respect for international law. Japan is particularly concerned about China's maritime activities in the East China Sea.

India's Strategic Imperatives in the Indo-Pacific

India's participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue is inextricably linked to its broader strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The Indo-Pacific, a concept that has gained increasing currency in recent years, encompasses the maritime space stretching from the eastern coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean. This region is of vital importance to India for several reasons:

• Economic Security: The Indo-Pacific is a major trade route for India, with a significant portion of its trade flowing through the region's sea lanes. Ensuring the security and stability of these sea lanes is crucial for India's economic growth and prosperity.

• Energy Security: India relies heavily on energy imports from the Middle East and other regions, which transit through the Indo-Pacific. Protecting these energy supply lines is a key strategic priority for India.

• Strategic Influence: India seeks to play a leading role in shaping the security architecture of the Indo-Pacific, to promote its interests and values, and to counter the growing influence of China.

• Maritime Security: India faces a number of maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific, including piracy, terrorism, and illegal fishing. Strengthening its maritime capabilities and enhancing cooperation with other countries is essential for addressing these challenges.

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India's approach to the Indo-Pacific is based on the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and respect for international law. India advocates for a rules-based order in the region, where all countries, regardless of their size or power, can enjoy equal rights and opportunities. India also emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation in addressing common security challenges.

The South China Sea Dispute: A Contentious Issue

The South China Sea dispute is one of the most contentious issues in the Asia-Pacific region, and it is a recurring theme at the Shangri-La Dialogue. China claims sovereignty over a large portion of the South China Sea, including several islands and maritime features that are also claimed by other countries, such as Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei.

China's actions in the South China Sea, including its construction of artificial islands and its deployment of military assets, have raised concerns among other countries in the region and beyond. The United States has repeatedly challenged China's claims by conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea.

India has consistently called for 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 in the South China Sea, and it has supported the right of all countries to access the region's sea lanes.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue, India has often used the opportunity to express its concerns about China's actions in the South China Sea and to call for greater restraint. India has also emphasized the importance of upholding international law and resolving disputes through peaceful means.

Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

Counter-terrorism is another important issue that is regularly discussed at the Shangri-La Dialogue. Terrorism remains a significant threat to regional security, and countries in the Asia-Pacific have been working together to combat this threat.

India has been a victim of terrorism for many years, and it has been at the forefront of efforts to counter terrorism both domestically and internationally. India has consistently called for a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism, which includes addressing the root causes of terrorism, disrupting terrorist financing, and strengthening international cooperation.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue, India has often used the opportunity to share its experiences in countering terrorism and to advocate for greater international cooperation. India has also emphasized the importance of holding terrorists and their sponsors accountable for their actions.

The Role of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)

The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) plays a crucial role in organizing and facilitating the Shangri-La Dialogue. The IISS is an independent, non-partisan think tank that is dedicated to promoting research and analysis on international security issues.

The IISS provides intellectual leadership and analytical support for the Shangri-La Dialogue, and it helps to shape the agenda and to identify key themes for discussion. The IISS also publishes a range of reports and publications on regional security issues, which are often used as background material for the dialogue.

The IISS's independence and its reputation for high-quality research and analysis contribute to the credibility and influence of the Shangri-La Dialogue. The IISS is able to bring together a diverse range of experts and policymakers, and it provides a neutral platform for them to engage in open and frank discussions.

Historical Precedents and the Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy

India's participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue is rooted in its long-standing commitment to regional security and cooperation. India has a long history of engaging in regional forums and initiatives, dating back to the early days of its independence.

In the post-Cold War era, India has adopted a more proactive foreign policy, seeking to enhance its strategic partnerships and to play a more prominent role in regional and global affairs. The "Look East" policy, which was launched in the early 1990s, marked a significant shift in India's foreign policy, with a greater emphasis on building ties with Southeast Asian countries. The "Act East" policy, which was launched in 2014, builds on the "Look East" policy, with an even greater focus on deepening economic, strategic, and cultural ties with the region.

India's participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue is a reflection of its commitment to the "Act East" policy and its desire to play a leading role in shaping the security architecture of the Indo-Pacific. India sees the Shangri-La Dialogue as an important platform for promoting its interests and values in the region, and for fostering cooperation with like-minded countries.

Stakeholder Positions and Diverging Interests

The Shangri-La Dialogue brings together a diverse array of stakeholders, each with their own distinct interests and perspectives. Understanding these stakeholder positions is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of the forum and its impact on regional security.

• India: India's primary interest is to promote a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, based on the principles of freedom of navigation, respect for international law, and inclusive regionalism. India seeks to enhance its strategic partnerships with like-minded countries in the region, particularly those that share its concerns about China's growing assertiveness.

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• China: China seeks to project its image as a responsible and constructive stakeholder in regional security. China wants to promote its vision of a "community of common destiny" in Asia, emphasizing economic cooperation and regional stability. However, China's actions in the South China Sea and its military modernization program have raised concerns among other countries.

• United States: The United States is committed to maintaining security and stability in the Asia-Pacific. The U.S. seeks to reassure its allies and partners in the region, to deter potential aggression, and to promote its vision of a rules-based international order. The U.S. is also concerned about China's military expansion and its human rights record.

• ASEAN Member States: ASEAN countries seek to maintain their neutrality and to avoid being drawn into the rivalry between the major powers. They want to promote regional cooperation, to address common security challenges, and to advocate for peaceful resolution of disputes.

• Japan: Japan shares many of the same concerns as the United States about China's growing influence in the region. Japan seeks to strengthen its security ties with other countries, to promote its vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific, and to advocate for greater respect for international law.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

The Shangri-La Dialogue has a number of broader implications for regional security and international relations.

• Political: The dialogue helps to strengthen political ties between countries in the Asia-Pacific. It provides a platform for leaders and policymakers to engage in face-to-face discussions and to build relationships.

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• Diplomatic: The dialogue enhances diplomatic engagement and influence in the region. It allows countries to articulate their positions on key issues and to negotiate agreements.

• Security: The dialogue contributes to regional security by promoting dialogue, building trust, and fostering cooperation. It helps to prevent misunderstandings and to reduce the risk of conflict.

Looking ahead, the Shangri-La Dialogue is likely to remain an important forum for regional security discussions. The dialogue will continue to evolve to address emerging security challenges, such as cyber threats, climate change, and pandemics.

India is expected to continue to play an active role in the Shangri-La Dialogue, promoting its vision for a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. India will also continue to work with other countries in the region to address common security challenges and to foster cooperation.

The IISS Manama Dialogue: A Parallel Forum in the Middle East

The IISS Manama Dialogue, held annually in Bahrain, serves as a parallel forum to the Shangri-La Dialogue, focusing on security issues in the Middle East. Both dialogues are organized by the IISS and bring together government ministers, military officials, and security experts to discuss regional challenges and promote cooperation.

The Manama Dialogue addresses issues such as terrorism, regional conflicts, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. It provides a platform for countries in the Middle East and beyond to engage in dialogue and to seek solutions to these challenges.

The existence of both the Shangri-La Dialogue and the Manama Dialogue underscores the IISS's commitment to promoting international security and to fostering dialogue and cooperation among diverse actors.

Legal Frameworks and Processes

While the Shangri-La Dialogue itself does not operate under a specific legal framework, the discussions and outcomes are often informed by international law, including the United Nations Charter, the Law of the Sea Convention, and other relevant treaties and agreements. The principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful resolution of disputes are often invoked in the context of the dialogue.

The processes and procedures of the Shangri-La Dialogue are designed to facilitate open and frank discussions among participants. The dialogue typically includes plenary sessions, special sessions, and bilateral meetings. The plenary sessions provide a forum for high-level officials to deliver speeches and to outline their countries' positions on key issues. The special sessions focus on specific topics of interest, such as maritime security, counter-terrorism, or cyber security. The bilateral meetings provide an opportunity for countries to engage in more in-depth discussions on specific issues of mutual concern.

The Significance of Track-One Diplomacy

The Shangri-La Dialogue's status as a "Track One" conference is significant because it involves official government representatives engaging in formal discussions. This lends the dialogue significant political weight and distinguishes it from "Track Two" or "Track 1.5" dialogues, which involve non-governmental actors or a mix of government and non-government participants.

Track One diplomacy is often seen as a more authoritative and effective means of addressing international security challenges, as it allows for direct engagement between governments and facilitates the negotiation of agreements and commitments. However, Track Two and Track 1.5 dialogues can also play a valuable role in fostering dialogue and building trust, particularly in situations where official government engagement is difficult or impossible.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite its successes, the Shangri-La Dialogue also faces a number of challenges and limitations. One challenge is the potential for the dialogue to become a platform for countries to air grievances and to engage in unproductive rhetoric, rather than to seek constructive solutions. Another challenge is the difficulty of achieving consensus on complex security issues, given the diverse interests and perspectives of the participants.

The IISS, as the co-organizer of the Shangri-La Dialogue, also faces certain limitations. As a think tank, the IISS lacks direct policy-making authority, and its influence is limited to its ability to convene, to conduct research, and to provide analysis. The IISS also relies on funding from governments, foundations, and private donors, which could potentially affect its independence and objectivity.

Connecting to Broader Issues in Indian Foreign Relations

The Shangri-La Dialogue is connected to a number of broader issues in Indian foreign relations. India's participation in the dialogue reflects its commitment to multilateralism, its desire to play a leading role in regional security, and its growing strategic partnership with countries in the Indo-Pacific.

The dialogue also provides a platform for India to address its concerns about China's growing assertiveness in the region, and to promote its vision of a rules-based international order. India's engagement in the Shangri-La Dialogue is therefore an integral part of its broader foreign policy strategy.

The dialogue also highlights the evolving nature of Indian foreign policy, from a focus on non-alignment to a more proactive and engaged approach to regional and global affairs. India's participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue is a clear indication of its willingness to work with other countries to address common security challenges and to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

The Enduring Importance of Dialogue and Cooperation

In an increasingly complex and uncertain world, the importance of dialogue and cooperation in addressing international security challenges cannot be overstated. The Shangri-La Dialogue provides a valuable platform for countries in the Asia-Pacific to engage in open and frank discussions, to build trust, and to foster cooperation.

India's participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue is a testament to its commitment to these principles, and its desire to play a leading role in shaping the security landscape of the Indo-Pacific. The dialogue will continue to evolve and adapt to address emerging security challenges, and it will remain a vital forum for promoting peace and stability in the region.