What is Indo-Pacific? Comment on the Indo-USA growing convergence on Indo-Pacific and its impact on India’s national interest.

Approach:

Discuss how India-USA’s interests are converging in the region. Also look if this convergence is good or bad for India. Finally, recommendation if any for India’s policy making.

Introduction:

Define what Indo-Pacific is. For ex- It is a geo-political construct which stretches from eastern coast of Africa to Western Coast of Americas. (You can give a rough map showing the region). The Indo-pacific becoming new arena of great games has brought India-USA closer.

Body:

Why convergence and how

• Counterbalance to China
• Economic aims: Free and open seas as this is the busiest trade route
• Like-minded countries (democracies, rule of law)
• Regional security (Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific)
• Engagement with ASEAN and other important players in region

Rising convergence is seen from QUAD, USA renaming it Indo-Pacific, Strategic relationship by signing foundational agreement of USA (LEMOA, BECA etc), 2+2 talks, ASEAN+, East Asia Summit etc.

Positive impacts:

• India as a Net Security provider in region. Ex- US Strategic Framework for the Indo-Pacific – India remains talks of India’s pre-eminent role in South Asia and the leading role in maintaining Indian Ocean security, increases engagement with Southeast Asia, and expands its economic, defence, and diplomatic cooperation with other US allies and partners in the region
• Addressing Chinese assertiveness or String of pearls and its encirclement amidst border standoff. Ex- UU Strategic Framework for Indo-Pacific talks of diplomatic, military, and intelligence channels – to help address continental challenges such as the border dispute with China and access to water.
• Greater technological exchanges (rising share of USA in defence imports)
• Economic partnership with like-minded countries when world is witnessing slowdown and isolationism
• Promotion of democracy and facing global challenges together

Concerns

• India’s strategic autonomy approach is threatened as it is being seen as too close to USA which critics argue is threatening its own independent stances (Ex- USA sanction on Iran)
• India’s north problem as China along with Pakistan is trying hard to create border issues to keep India’s rise in check
• Involvement in someone’s else war as China is today an important trade partner

Conclusion:

Indo-Pacific presents India a timely opportunity to boost its geopolitical aims and claim its rightful place in comity of nation. In this it must be seen as a pro-active player shaping the rules of law for the region.