Background
The Sino-Indian War of 1962 marked a significant turning point in the relationship between India and China, establishing them as strategic rivals in South and East Asia. Following this conflict, China fostered strong military and commercial ties with India's neighbor Pakistan, while also vying for influence in nations such as Nepal and Bangladesh. The geopolitical landscape saw a notable shift after Deng Xiaoping ascended to power in China in 1979, leading to a series of economic reforms that redirected China's approach. Instead of overt expansionism, China opted to enhance its trade and economic relationships across Asia. Notably, it became a key ally of Myanmar's military junta, which had been isolated globally following its harsh crackdown on pro-democracy movements in 1988. In stark contrast, India's diplomatic stance during the Cold War was marked by a degree of uncertainty, particularly in Southeast Asia, where forging relationships was not prioritized as part of its foreign policy.
India’s "Look East" policy initiated a transformational phase in its foreign relations, primarily under the leadership of Prime Ministers P.V. Narasimha Rao (1991–1996) and Atal Bihari Vajpayee (1998–2004). This policy emerged as a proactive response to the changing dynamics in the region. India recognized the need to pivot from its previous Cold War-era postures towards a more integrated approach with Southeast Asian countries. The objectives of the Look East policy encompassed not only economic liberalization but also the enhancement of cultural and ideological ties. By emphasizing historical connections, India aimed to foster goodwill and cooperation across borders.
The Look East policy facilitated the development of robust economic partnerships, which involved increasing trade, investment, and industrial collaborations. India sought to establish itself as a significant player in regional markets, thereby enhancing its economic footprint in Southeast Asia. Additionally, the policy also encompassed strategic military cooperation, aimed at counterbalancing China's growing influence in the region. By building alliances with nations equally cautious of China's expansion, India worked towards ensuring a balance of power that would safeguard its national interests while promoting a collaborative framework in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment. As a result, the Look East policy fortified India's regional presence, transforming it into a pivotal hub for political, economic, and strategic engagement in Asia.
Evolving Relations with East Asia
India’s engagement with East Asia has undergone significant transformation over the years, particularly in its relations with Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. Historically, India championed the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar; however, in 1993, this approach shifted towards building cooperative ties with the military junta. This strategic pivot led to the signing of various trade agreements and a marked increase in investments. Notably, while private sector investment remains modest, Indian state-owned enterprises have secured lucrative contracts in various sectors, including the construction of critical infrastructure projects such as roads, highways, and ports. This investment surge aligns with India's broader energy security goals, as it competes with China to access Myanmar's vast oil and natural gas reserves. This competition is crucial for India to diversify its energy sources, reduce dependence on Middle Eastern oil, and counter China's established footprint in Myanmar, which includes military alliances and substantial resource contracts.
India's relationship with Myanmar also encompasses security concerns, particularly regarding separatist militants and drug trafficking that compromise stability in Northeastern India. In this context, India has offered military training to Burmese forces, thereby fostering cooperation on security issues. While China remains Myanmar's predominant military supplier and has expanded its naval presence along Myanmar's coast, India’s focus on enhancing its investment in port development and military cooperation is a strategic countermeasure aimed at bolstering its own influence and security in the region.
Beyond Myanmar, India has cultivated a rich tapestry of bilateral relations with several East Asian nations, including the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The nation has established free trade agreements with Sri Lanka and Thailand, augmenting military cooperation with these countries to enhance strategic partnerships. With a network of free trade agreements and economic cooperation pacts, such as the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement with Malaysia and the Early Harvest Scheme with Thailand, India is actively engaging with ASEAN member states as well as negotiating with key players like Japan, South Korea, and others to solidify its economic presence in East Asia. These relations underline a common commitment to democratic values and human rights while facilitating significant foreign investment flows into India.
While adhering to the "One China" policy and recognizing China's sovereignty over Taiwan, India has concurrently enhanced its engagement with Taiwan, a reflection of its broader goal of fostering stability and cooperation in the region. This engagement is particularly significant given India's reliance on the Malacca Strait—critical for its trade routes—where more than half of its trade passes. To support this strategic maritime interest, the Indian Navy has established a Far Eastern Naval Command in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Regular naval exercises with Singapore, Vietnam, and joint patrols with Indonesia have further strengthened India’s maritime capabilities. The collaboration extends to humanitarian efforts, as evidenced by India's participation in regional disaster response initiatives, including a notable collaborative effort with Japan, Australia, and the United States during the 2004 tsunami disaster.
Overall, India's proactive approach to enhancing relationships with East Asian countries stands as a testament to its strategic interests in balancing regional power dynamics, fostering economic growth, and ensuring maritime security.
Relations with China
India's "Look East" policy presents a complex yet nuanced approach to India's relationship with China, as both countries reserve their positions as strategic rivals. Nevertheless, India has actively sought to foster closer ties with China, particularly since the early 1990s. In 1993, India initiated high-level dialogues with Chinese leadership, a move intended to encourage confidence-building measures aimed at alleviating tensions. This initiative marked the beginning of a process to mend relations that had long been strained, particularly following the Sino-Indian War of 1962.
A significant milestone in this growing rapprochement took place in 2006, when the Nathu La pass was reopened for cross-border trade for the first time in over four decades. This not only facilitated increased economic interaction between the two nations but also symbolized a willingness to overcome historical hostilities. Further solidifying the cooperative spirit, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Chinese President Hu Jintao issued a 10-point joint declaration on November 21, 2006, aiming to bolster ties and address long-standing disputes, including border issues. The ensuing years saw a remarkable surge in bilateral trade, with growth rates reaching 50% annually, propelling trade figures toward the ambitious target of $60 billion set for 2010.
Despite these positive developments, several issues have emerged as significant obstacles to a fully cooperative relationship. China's close ties with Pakistan, alongside its skepticism regarding India's incorporation of Sikkim and its persistent claims over Arunachal Pradesh, have created friction that threatens to undermine the goodwill achieved through diplomatic engagements. Furthermore, India's asylum provision for the 14th Dalai Lama, a political and spiritual figure revered in Tibetan Buddhism, adds another layer of complexity to the bilateral dynamics, as it exacerbates existing sensitivities regarding China’s territorial claims and perceived influence in Tibet.
Chinese commentary on India's Look East policy reflects a critical perspective regarding these diplomatic maneuvers. Some analysts argue that this policy stems from India's historical attempts during the Cold War to manipulate relations between superpowers for national gain. A notable editorial in the Chinese state-run People's Daily described India’s efforts to cultivate relationships with nations like Japan as a misguided strategy intended to balance against China. Critics from the China Internet Information Center have viewed this approach as indicative of India’s fear of China's rising influence, interpreting it as a manifestation of a limited understanding of the strategic goals of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). This ongoing debate over diplomatic intentions not only illustrates the complexities of Sino-Indian relations but also emphasizes the delicate balance that must be struck for both nations to navigate their multifaceted interactions effectively.
Participation in Supranational Organisations
India's engagement in multilateral initiatives reflects its strategic vision and desire to play a significant role in regional stability and prosperity. The formation of organizations like the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has enabled India to foster collaborative efforts in crucial areas such as environmental sustainability, economic development, security, and strategic affairs. These partnerships extend India's influence beyond the confines of South Asia and circumvent the impediments posed by the contentious relations with Pakistan and China, especially within the framework of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which has often been hampered by political tensions.
India’s integration into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is noteworthy, having established itself as a sectoral dialogue partner in 1992 and moving up to advisory status in 1995. By 1996, India became a member of the ASEAN Regional Forum, a crucial platform for security dialogue in the region. The apex of this engagement came in 2002 when India was recognized as a summit-level partner in ASEAN alongside major powers like China, Japan, and South Korea. Additionally, the first India-ASEAN Business Summit held in New Delhi in 2002 marked a significant step in economic cooperation, while India's accession to ASEAN’s Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia in 2003 highlighted its commitment to peace and mutual respect in international relations.
A strategic dimension to these partnerships is evident in their implications for counterbalancing China's increasing dominance in the region. Notably, Japan's role in incorporating India into the ASEAN+6 framework was aimed at diversifying influence away from the ASEAN+3 which is closely aligned with China. Similarly, significant contributions from nations like Singapore and Indonesia facilitated India’s inclusion in the East Asia Summit, a platform designed to address broader regional concerns. Moreover, advocacy from the United States and Japan for India’s entry into the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) underscores the international community's recognition of India's potential as a regional player.
Infrastructure projects further reinforce India's connectivity with East Asia, enhancing both economic ties and strategic partnerships. Involvement in initiatives led by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific focuses on connecting key transport routes, such as the Asian Highway Network and the Trans-Asian Railway network. Furthermore, discussions on revitalizing the historic Stilwell Road, which links India’s Assam with China’s Yunnan province through Myanmar, exemplify India's commitment to fostering closer ties and facilitating trade across borders, serving as a critical link in promoting regional integration and cooperation. Thus, through multifaceted engagements, India is positioning itself as a pivotal player in East and Southeast Asia, reinforcing its strategic and economic interests in an increasingly multipolar world.
Connectivity Projects
The Look East Policy has prioritized a range of connectivity projects aimed at enhancing trade and mobility between India and its Southeast Asian neighbors. Among these initiatives, the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project stands out as a significant infrastructure undertaking that seeks to create a seamless transport link between the northeastern states of India, particularly Mizoram, and Myanmar's ports. By establishing a multi-modal transport corridor that includes road, river, and sea transport, this project aims not only to facilitate trade but also to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Myanmar.
Another critical initiative under this policy is the India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway. This highway aims to provide a direct land route connecting India with Myanmar and Thailand, significantly reducing travel time and promoting economic interaction among the three countries. As the project progresses, it is expected to act as a catalyst for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange, thereby contributing to the regional economy in a significant way.
These projects are not merely about infrastructure development; they embody a broader vision of enhanced regional integration and cooperation. The strategic focus on connectivity reflects India's commitment to engaging with Southeast Asia, ensuring that the region plays a pivotal role in India's economic ambitions. The ongoing nature of these projects underscores the importance of connectivity in facilitating better access to markets, resources, and people across borders, fostering socio-economic growth in the region.
In summary, the Look East Policy's emphasis on connectivity projects represents a multifaceted approach to strengthening India's linkages with its eastern neighbors. As these initiatives unfold, they hold the potential to reshape regional trade dynamics, enhance people-to-people connections, and position India as a vital player in the evolving landscape of Southeast Asia.
Assessment of India's Look East Policy
The 'Look East' policy, initiated in the early 1990s, has been a cornerstone of India's foreign policy approach, particularly as it relates to Southeast Asia and the Pacific region. Scholar Rejaul Karim Laskar points out that this strategy has not only fortified India's political, economic, and cultural bonds with its neighbors but has also positioned India as a significant player in the evolving economic and security landscape of the region. The interconnection facilitated by this policy has led to enhanced diplomatic engagements, trade agreements, and collaborative initiatives across various sectors, including technology, education, and environmental concerns.
In terms of economic interactions, commerce with countries in South and East Asia now constitutes nearly 45% of India's overall foreign trade. This substantial percentage underscores the importance of these regions to India's economic strategy and its aspirations for growth. The establishment of strategic partnerships, participation in regional forums such as the ASEAN Summit, and involvement in trade agreements have enabled India to secure a foothold in regional economies that are experiencing rapid growth. However, despite these advancements, India faces the challenge of lagging behind China with respect to the volume of trade and economic engagement in the region. China's aggressive trade policies and investments, along with its Belt and Road Initiative, have significantly increased its influence and economic ties in Southeast Asia, posing a competitive challenge for India.
Furthermore, the implications of the 'Look East' policy extend beyond just trade and economics; it also encompasses aspects of cultural diplomacy and soft power. India's cultural heritage, including its traditions, festivals, and education, has been promoted as part of this policy, facilitating deeper connections with the peoples of Southeast Asia. Initiatives such as the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, which offers capacity building and educational opportunities, further strengthen these ties. Additionally, collaborations in areas such as tourism and people-to-people exchanges have enriched mutual understanding and goodwill.
In conclusion, while the 'Look East' policy has achieved commendable results in elevating India's position within Southeast Asia and the Pacific, the need for India to enhance its trade and investment ties remains critical. To effectively compete with China and solidify its role in the regional architecture, India may need to adopt more innovative strategies, increase its investment in infrastructure development, and actively engage in multilateral frameworks that promote economic reliance and security cooperation. This holistic approach could reinforce India's maritime and terrestrial links, ultimately ensuring a more balanced and influential presence in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment.
Act East Policy: A New Dimension in India's Regional Engagement
During her visit to Hanoi, Sushma Swaraj highlighted the necessity of transitioning from the longstanding Look East Policy to a more assertive Act East Policy. This shift reflects the Modi administration's commitment to a proactive stance in regional diplomacy and engagement, particularly with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and East Asian countries. The original Look East Policy, initiated in 1991, aimed primarily at enhancing economic ties with these nations; however, the new Act East Policy broadens this approach to encompass a wider array of strategic partnerships and security collaborations, particularly with key players such as Vietnam and Japan.
One of the critical observations about the earlier Look East Policy was its limited outreach towards smaller neighboring countries, notably Myanmar and Bangladesh. While India sought to establish meaningful partnerships beyond the influence of the Soviet Union, these vital border nations were largely ignored. China effectively capitalized on this oversight, significantly increasing its trade and influence within Myanmar and Bangladesh, thereby positioning itself as a primary partner in Southeast Asia. In response to this shifting geopolitical landscape, India's Act East Policy addresses these gaps and aims to create closer ties through infrastructural and economic initiatives.
Integral to the Act East Policy are several ambitious infrastructure projects designed to strengthen connectivity and enhance trade across the region. Notable initiatives include the Agartala-Akhaura Rail Project, which represents the first direct rail link between North Eastern India and Bangladesh, and the Asian Trilateral Highway, establishing a vital route from Moreh, India, to Thailand via Myanmar. These projects not only enhance regional connectivity but also facilitate greater economic interaction, which is essential for fostering a robust South Asian presence against the backdrop of heightened Chinese activity in both the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Through the Act East Policy, India is embracing a more active role in international relations, moving away from a historical posture of non-alignment and equidistance. This strategic shift emphasizes the importance of infrastructure as a form of "soft power," showcasing India’s commitment to fostering diplomatic ties through economic and developmental collaboration. Ultimately, the Act East Policy is positioned to solidify India's relationships with Southeast Asian nations, reinforcing its status as a critical player in regional stability and growth.