Strategic Context
Since the Sino-Indian War of 1962, a geopolitical rivalry has defined the relationship between China and India, particularly in the context of South and East Asia. The power dynamics shifted notably as China fostered robust commercial and military alliances with Pakistan, while also vying for influence in neighboring countries like Nepal and Bangladesh. Following Deng Xiaoping's introduction of economic reforms in 1979, China began to soften its overt expansionism, opting instead for a strategy that centered around building extensive trade relations with various Asian nations. This pivot allowed China to support Myanmar's military junta, which had become isolated globally due to its harsh crackdown on pro-democracy movements in 1988. In contrast, India's stance during the Cold War was one of cautious diplomacy towards Southeast Asia, reflecting a less assertive and engaged foreign policy approach during that period.
The Initiation of the "Look East" Policy
The evolution of India's "Look East" policy signifies a major transition in the country's foreign policy strategy, particularly under the leadership of Prime Ministers P.V. Narasimha Rao and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Launched in the early 1990s, this policy emerged alongside India's economic liberalization, which marked a departure from the protectionist, Cold War-era approaches. By embracing the "Look East" initiative, India aimed to foster closer economic partnerships, enhance strategic cooperation, and leverage its historical and cultural ties with regional nations.
Objectives and Implementation
The core objective of the "Look East" policy has been to develop and strengthen trade links, investment opportunities, and industrial collaboration in Southeast Asian economies. India recognized the potential of these markets and aimed to become a key player, enhancing regional integration and driving economic growth. Simultaneously, the policy also addressed the rising concern over China's expanding economic and strategic reach within Asia. By forming deeper military and strategic partnerships with Southeast Asian countries, India positioned itself as a counterweight to Chinese influence, all while promoting a vision for a stable and prosperous regional environment.
Cultural Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation
The significance of India's cultural and ideological connections with its Southeast Asian neighbors cannot be overstated. Through initiatives that celebrate historical ties, such as shared cultural practices, religious affinities, and historical trade routes, India has sought to deepen its engagement with the region. Additionally, India's participation in regional organizations like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and various bilateral and multilateral forums signifies its commitment to collaborative security frameworks and economic partnerships. As the regional landscape continues to evolve, India’s "Look East" policy remains a crucial element of its foreign strategy, adapting to new challenges while seeking to solidify its role as a leading power in Asia.
Evolving Relations with East Asia
In recent decades, India has significantly recalibrated its approach toward East Asia, especially in relation to Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). Historically, India was a strong supporter of Myanmar's pro-democracy movements; however, in 1993, it transitioned to forming strategic alliances with the military junta that had taken power. This shift included signing various trade agreements and increasing investments, particularly in infrastructure development. While private sector involvement remains limited, Indian state-owned enterprises have secured important contracts focusing on industrial projects, road and highway construction, pipelines, and enhancing port functionalities.
A pivotal aspect of India’s engagement with Myanmar involves tapping into the nation’s considerable reserves of oil and natural gas. This strategy directly addresses India’s growing energy demands and seeks to curtail the overwhelming influence that China has had in the region. By reducing reliance on oil imports from the Middle East, India aims to establish a more stable energy source. Despite China being Myanmar's predominant military supplier, India has taken steps to strengthen military cooperation, offering training to Myanmar's armed forces and addressing mutual concerns about separatist militancy and drug trafficking that affect northeastern India. The competition over natural gas resources has intensified, particularly as China invests heavily in refining infrastructures within Myanmar, raising concerns in New Delhi about the strategic ramifications of such developments.
Beyond Myanmar, India is expanding its commercial, cultural, and military ties with several key East Asian nations, including the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Recent years have seen India enter into free trade agreements with neighboring Southeast Asian countries like Sri Lanka and Thailand, bolstering military cooperation as well. These collaborations underline India's strategic pivot toward economic integration in the region, highlighted by notable agreements such as the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement with Malaysia and an Early Harvest Scheme with Thailand. Negotiations are also ongoing with Japan and South Korea, demonstrating the importance of these relationships in India’s broader economic strategy.
India’s approach has also encompassed sustained engagement with Taiwan, promoting connections while maintaining its commitment to the "One China" policy. This nuanced diplomatic strategy is reflective of India’s growing emphasis on various regional security issues, such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and anti-piracy operations, particularly vital given that more than half of India's trade transits through the Malacca Strait. Thus, the establishment of a Far Eastern Naval Command in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands signifies India's commitment to safeguard its maritime interests. Furthermore, joint naval exercises with countries like Singapore and Vietnam, along with collaborative efforts in humanitarian relief (as evidenced during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami), showcase India's proactive stance in fostering regional stability and building alliances that can counterbalance the influence of larger powers such as China.
In essence, India’s increasing engagement with East Asia reflects a strategic move not only to enhance its own economic interests and regional security but also to create a collective response to the rising dominance of external powers within a crucial geographic area. This intricate web of relationships is poised to form an essential aspect of India’s aspirations for greater influence and cooperation in East Asia.
Relations with China
India's relationship with China has been characterized by both strategic rivalry and attempts at rapprochement, particularly under the "Look East" policy that seeks to enhance cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Initiated in the early 1990s, this policy has facilitated high-level dialogue and engagement between the two nations. The turning point came in 1993 when Indian leaders began to participate in sustained discussions with their Chinese counterparts, which eventually led to the establishment of confidence-building measures aimed at reducing tensions and improving bilateral ties. Notably, in 2006, the reopening of the Nathu La pass for cross-border trade marked a significant milestone in restoring economic exchanges after years of conflict stemming from the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
In November 2006, the diplomatic thaw was further solidified when Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Chinese President Hu Jintao issued a comprehensive 10-point joint declaration. This agreement aimed to enhance cooperation and effective conflict resolution on longstanding territorial and political issues. The trade relations between China and India have also seen remarkable growth, with projections suggesting a 50% annual increase, bringing the target trade volume to $60 billion by 2010, as set by both governments and industrial leaders.
Despite these advancements, several factors continue to threaten the bilateral relationship. China's longstanding strategic partnership with Pakistan and its territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh have been particular points of contention. Moreover, India's integration of Sikkim has been viewed skeptically by China, further complicating negotiations. The asylum provided by India to the 14th Dalai Lama, a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism and a symbol of Tibet's aspiration for autonomy, adds another layer of friction to the relationship, as it is perceived by Beijing as a challenge to its sovereignty.
Criticism of India's Look East policy also stems from Chinese commentators who have voiced their apprehensions about India's intentions. According to an editorial in the People's Daily, the policy was described as a failure rooted in India's previous attempts to leverage superpower rivalries during the Cold War. The article suggested that India's current strategy of strengthening ties with Japan to balance its relationship with China might similarly backfire. Likewise, a columnist from the China Internet Information Center characterized the Look East policy as a reaction to an exaggerated fear of Chinese ambitions, suggesting that it reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the strategic objectives of the People's Liberation Army (PLA). This critique illustrates the complex dynamics and the challenges faced by India and China as they navigate their intricate relationship, encompassing both cooperation and rivalry in the context of regional stability.
Participation in Supranational Organizations
India's engagement in supranational organizations reflects a strategic alignment aimed at fostering regional cooperation and enhancing its influence in South and Southeast Asia. The establishment of multilateral frameworks like the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) underscores India's commitment to advancing collaborative efforts in key areas such as environmental sustainability, economic development, and security. These organizations provide India with a platform to cultivate partnerships without the complications often arising from its relations with neighboring countries like Pakistan and China, which have historically impeded the potential for cooperative endeavors within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
India's relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) exemplifies its strategic pivot towards East Asia. Initiating its partnership as a sectoral dialogue partner in 1992, India progressively strengthened its ties with ASEAN, culminating in its recognition as a summit-level partner in 2002, placing it on par with influential economies such as China, Japan, and South Korea. This deepening engagement was marked by significant events such as the first India-ASEAN Business Summit held in New Delhi in 2002 and accession to ASEAN's Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in 2003. These developments reflect India’s intent to play a vital role within the ASEAN framework and contribute to regional stability and economic integration.
Furthermore, India's participation in these forums is partially a response to the changing geopolitical landscape, particularly the need for countries in the region to balance China's rising dominance. Japan, in particular, has taken an active role in incorporating India into frameworks like ASEAN+6, thereby countering the influence of ASEAN+3 where China holds significant sway. Moreover, countries like Singapore and Indonesia have been instrumental in facilitating India’s entry into the East Asia Summit. In the wider context, major powers such as the United States and Japan have actively supported India’s integration into the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), emphasizing a collective interest in achieving a strategic balance in the region.
In addition to diplomatic alliances, infrastructure projects are pivotal in reinforcing India’s connections with East Asia. India is currently involved in initiatives under the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), focusing on the development of the Asian Highway Network and the Trans-Asian Railway network. Moreover, discussions have reignited regarding the restoration of the Stilwell Road—a World War II-era connection linking Assam in India with Yunnan province in China through Myanmar. Such projects not only facilitate trade and connectivity but also symbolize India’s aspirations to enhance its strategic footprint in the region, thereby fostering regional integration and cooperation.
Connectivity Projects Under Look East Policy
As part of India's Look East Policy, several significant connectivity projects have been initiated to enhance regional integration and trade with Southeast Asian nations. Among these, the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project stands out as a crucial initiative designed to link India's northeastern states with Myanmar and further connect to the sea for broader access to international markets. This project encompasses a network of roads, river transport, and maritime transport routes that facilitate the movement of goods and foster economic relationships between India, Myanmar, and beyond.
The India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway is another pivotal project that aims to bolster trade and tourism among the three countries. This highway not only fortifies direct land connectivity, promoting seamless travel and transport, but it also serves as a crucial artery for economic engagement in the ASEAN region. As these projects progress, they promise to alter the regional dynamics significantly, allowing India to play a more influential role in Southeast Asia's economic landscape.
Current efforts under the Look East Policy also embrace a broader vision of economic cooperation that extends beyond infrastructure. There is an ongoing emphasis on enhancing trade agreements, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges. By fortifying these connections, India seeks to harness the economic potential of its northeastern states while promoting stability and development in the region. The ongoing nature of these projects reflects not just a commitment to connectivity but also an intent to foster lasting partnerships that shape future diplomatic and economic relations in South and Southeast Asia.
Strengthened Regional Ties
The 'Look East' policy, first articulated in the early 1990s, has played a pivotal role in reshaping India's engagement with Southeast Asia and the Pacific. According to Rejaul Karim Laskar, a distinguished scholar of Indian foreign policy, this initiative has significantly bolstered India's political, economic, and cultural connections with these regions. The policy aims to enhance cooperation in diverse fields, including trade, security, and cultural exchanges, which helps India position itself as a key player in the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape of the region. The proactive engagement has fostered a sense of mutual respect and collaboration, thereby facilitating stronger diplomatic ties that span across various sectors.
Economic Significance
The economic dimension of the 'Look East' policy is particularly noteworthy, with commerce with South and East Asian nations constituting nearly 45% of India's total foreign trade. This statistic highlights the importance of trade relationships in promoting regional integration and economic interdependence. India's imports and exports with these countries encompass a wide range of goods and services, contributing significantly to its economic growth. However, despite the progress achieved, India finds itself trailing behind China regarding the volume of trade and economic ties in the region. China's aggressive trade initiatives and strategic investments have established it as a dominant economic player in Southeast Asia, prompting India to take further actions to enhance its competitiveness and relevance in regional trade frameworks.
Strategic Implications
The 'Look East' policy also has strategic implications, as India's active participation in regional security dialogues and multilateral platforms reflects its intent to foster a stable and peaceful Indo-Pacific region. This policy has led to increased defense cooperation, joint military exercises, and intelligence sharing with Southeast Asian nations. Moreover, through engagements such as the ASEAN-India Summit and participation in regional organizations, India seeks to collaborate with its partners on critical security issues, ranging from counter-terrorism to maritime security. The rising geopolitical tensions in the region necessitate a cohesive approach, and India's commitment to the 'Look East' policy underscores its ambition to secure its strategic interests while contributing positively to regional stability.
Cultural Exchange
On a cultural level, the 'Look East' policy has facilitated vibrant exchanges that foster understanding and appreciation of shared heritage. Initiatives that promote people-to-people connections, including cultural festivals, educational exchanges, and tourism, serve to strengthen the historical ties that bind India and Southeast Asia. These exchanges not only enrich bilateral relationships but also cultivate goodwill and mutual respect among the nations, enhancing India's soft power in the region. As cultural understanding deepens, it lays a robust foundation for more profound political and economic collaborations in the future.
In conclusion, while the 'Look East' policy has made significant strides in enhancing India's engagement with Southeast Asia and the Pacific, challenges remain, particularly in relation to the competitive dynamics posed by China's economic clout. The continued commitment to the 'Look East' policy is essential for India to navigate this complex landscape, ensuring that it remains a vital player in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific region.
Act East Policy: A Shift in India's Foreign Relations
The Act East Policy, championed by the Modi administration, marks a significant evolution from the long-standing Look East Policy that began in 1991. During her visit to Hanoi, Sushma Swaraj articulated the essential need for this new approach to enhance India's proactive stance in the East Asian region. The Act East Policy not only maintains the original focus on strengthening ties with ASEAN and East Asian countries but also expands this focus to include strategic partnerships and security cooperation, particularly with nations like Vietnam and Japan. This shift acknowledges the geopolitical changes in the region and aims to place India in a more competitive and collaborative position.
Under the Act East framework, India seeks to rectify the shortcomings of the earlier Look East Policy, which was primarily centered on major partners while neglecting smaller neighboring countries such as Myanmar and Bangladesh. This oversight allowed China to strengthen its foothold in these nations, evidenced by burgeoning trade relations and strategic alliances. In response, the Act East Policy aims to nurture deeper ties with these border nations, recognizing their importance in building a comprehensive regional strategy that includes economic, security, and cultural dimensions. By closely engaging with all Eastern neighbors, India aspires to create a more balanced power dynamic in the region.
The Act East Policy also emphasizes significant infrastructural development as a catalyst for regional integration. High-profile projects like the Agartala-Akhaura Rail Project—which connects Northeast India with Bangladesh—and the Asian Trilateral Highway, linking India to Thailand through Myanmar, exemplify this commitment. These initiatives are not merely infrastructural undertakings; they are strategic instruments intended to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth, ultimately countering Chinese influence in vital areas such as the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. The emphasis on robust infrastructure illustrates India's dedication to employing "soft power" as a strategic tool in international relations.
In summary, the Act East Policy represents a fundamental shift from India's earlier non-alignment and equidistant approaches to a more proactive, infrastructure-driven foreign policy. This new strategy seeks to solidify India's position as a regional leader, enhance connectivity, and counter influence from external powers. By fostering stronger relationships with both larger and smaller neighbors, India is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of East Asia, ensuring that its interests align with the region's evolving geopolitical landscape.