India’s Increasing Influence in Southeast Asia: Countering China’s Dominance
Heading: Introduction
India is making significant efforts to expand its influence in Southeast Asia, a move aimed at countering China’s dominance in the region. This development has been met with enthusiasm and recognition by experts in the field.
Heading: India’s Ambitions in Southeast Asia
According to Harsh V. Pant, Vice President for Studies and Foreign Policy at the Observer Research Foundation, India is becoming more ambitious in Southeast Asia. This newfound assertiveness is evident in India’s proactive approach towards strengthening its ties with the region.
Heading: India-China Rivalry
The growing rivalry between India and China has played a crucial role in shaping India’s strategic calculations in Southeast Asia. Due to historical tensions along the Himalayan border, Indian leaders had been hesitant to actively engage with the region. However, since China has not shown any willingness to resolve the border issue, India now believes that cautiousness has yielded no tangible benefits.
Heading: Strengthening Ties
To counter China’s aggression, India has been actively strengthening its ties with countries in Southeast Asia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has intensified its outreach efforts, reinforcing India’s comprehensive strategic partnership with the region. For example, India has provided a naval warship to Vietnam and has been training pilots and ground crew of the Vietnam Air Force. Vietnam is even planning to purchase missiles from India.
Heading: India’s Policy Shift
India’s “Look East” policy, which began in 1991, has evolved into the more proactive “Act East” policy. This shift in policy reflects India’s recognition of the changing dynamics in the region, particularly China’s assertiveness. India’s foreign minister and his Filipino counterpart issued a joint statement urging China to comply with The Hague’s 2016 arbitration decision on the South China Sea. This move has led to speculation that India is moving away from its neutral stance on territorial disputes in the region.
Heading: Countering Chinese Power
India’s efforts to strengthen ties with Southeast Asian countries are aimed at balancing, hedging against, or countering Chinese power. China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to expand its influence through infrastructure projects, has raised concerns in the region. India aims to safeguard its own security, especially maritime security, as it navigates the complex dynamic created by China’s expanding influence.
Heading: India’s Independent Foreign Policy
India’s independent foreign policy has been well-received by Southeast Asian countries. They see India as an important player in shaping a more multipolar order rather than one dominated by U.S.-China competition. A regional survey conducted by the ASEAN Studies Centre showed that India’s standing among Southeast Asian nations has greatly improved, making it a top option for hedging against the uncertainties of the U.S.-China rivalry.
Heading: A Neutral Option for Southeast Asian Countries
India’s neutral stance in the U.S.-China conflict offers a way out for countries that seek to remain impartial. Southeast Asian countries, particularly those that distrust China, view India as an additional partner to help counter Beijing’s influence. Although China remains the most influential economic power in the region, its standing has diminished as countries grow more cautious of its actions.
Heading: China’s Response
China will likely be cautious about India’s growing influence in Southeast Asia, as it may cause unease in Beijing. However, given that Southeast Asia is a central pillar of India’s Indo-Pacific strategy, New Delhi remains undeterred. India’s push into the region will continue to gain momentum, despite China’s watchful eye.
In conclusion, India’s efforts to expand its influence in Southeast Asia are motivated by a desire to counter China’s dominance. Through strengthening diplomatic, economic, and security ties, India aims to provide Southeast Asian countries with an alternative to Chinese power. This proactive approach has been well-received in the region and is likely to continue growing in the future.
