This chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of India's strategic evolution and engagement within the Indo-Pacific region, focusing on the Act East Policy and its alignment with the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision. The study traces the policy trajectory, objectives, and execution mechanisms, emphasizing economic integration, connectivity initiatives, maritime security cooperation, and strategic partnerships. The research explores the transition from the Look East Policy to the Act East Policy, highlighting the nuanced motivations and the policy's holistic role in shaping the region. Central to this analysis is India's ambition to be a regional anchor for stability, evident in strategic alliances, enhanced connectivity, and geopolitical shaping. The chapter delves into India's economic engagement, dissecting trade pacts, connectivity projects, and its role in RCEP negotiations. Security dimensions are explored, emphasizing naval modernization, multilateral partnerships, and diplomatic outreach.
Top1. Act East Policy: Goals, Implementation, And Alignment With The Foip
India's foreign policy approach towards the Indo-Pacific region has witnessed a strategic shift, transitioning from the initial “Look East Policy” to the more comprehensive “Act East Policy” introduced in 2014. This chapter explores the nuanced motivations driving this policy reorientation, tracing India's evolution from a focus on economic engagement with Southeast Asia to adopting a more holistic role in influencing the geopolitical dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region.
A central aspect of this transition is India's aspiration to position itself as a reliable anchor for regional stability and leadership. The Act East Policy reflects India's ambition to extend its influence through strategic partnerships, promote greater connectivity, and play a proactive role in the region's evolving geopolitical landscape. The policy emphasizes strengthening economic integration, connectivity projects, and maritime security cooperation, aligning with the overarching principles of the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision.
The chapter critically examines the Act East Policy's goals, implementation, and alignment with the FOIP construct. It explores India's efforts to bolster strategic alliances and partnerships, such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), trilateral collaborations, and bilateral defense agreements. The analysis delves into India's diplomatic outreach towards ASEAN, Australia, and other like-minded nations, highlighting their shared interests in fostering a stable, open, and inclusive regional order.
Furthermore, the chapter evaluates India's economic initiatives under the Act East Policy, including trade pacts, connectivity projects, and engagement with platforms like the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC). It assesses India's complex role in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations, shedding light on the challenges India faces in balancing its economic interests with broader strategic objectives.
The security dimensions of the Act East Policy are also thoroughly examined. The chapter underscores the paramount importance of naval modernization, multilateral partnerships, and diplomatic outreach in upholding maritime security in a context marked by increasing competition and non-traditional threats.
Additionally, the section assesses the implications and challenges India confronts as it endeavors to augment its strategic influence in the dynamic Indo-Pacific region. It contemplates the intricacies of managing economic cooperation and competition, the hurdles posed by geographical and resource constraints, and the delicate balance between safeguarding national interests and meeting regional expectations.