India’s Rising Influence in the Indo-Pacific: A New Era of Cooperation
Over the past decade, India has significantly deepened its engagement with Southeast and East Asian nations through its Act East Policy. This has led to a new high in relations, particularly focusing on defense and security cooperation with ASEAN countries like Kuala Lumpur and Hanoi. This proactive stance signals India’s growing role in promoting peace and security within the Indo-Pacific region.
Strengthening Defense Ties and Regional Security
India’s expanding defense cooperation isn’t merely about arms deals; it’s a strategic move to foster a more balanced security landscape. The establishment of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd’s first regional office in Kuala Lumpur in 2023 exemplifies this commitment. This increased engagement is viewed favorably by Taiwan, which, like India and its Southeast Asian counterparts, faces increasing pressure from China.
Taiwan: A Key Partner in a Shifting Dynamic
India’s approach, including not endorsing the “one China policy” and expanding cooperation with ASEAN, promotes strategic autonomy and challenges China’s dominance. This creates a more favorable environment for Taiwan, with a growing recognition that maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait is vital for the maritime interests of regional nations. There is increasing awareness that disrupting this balance would invite further assertive behavior from China.
Exploring Trilateral and Multilateral Cooperation
Opportunities exist for India, ASEAN and Taiwan to collaborate in trilateral and multilateral exercises, particularly in maritime security. Taiwan’s expertise in cybersecurity could be invaluable in protecting critical infrastructure from Chinese cyberattacks. Initial steps have been taken, such as Taiwan’s participation in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Impact Summit in New Delhi, and further bilateral and multilateral engagement is crucial.
The Potential of AI and Economic Collaboration
A powerful synergy exists between Taiwan’s hardware capabilities and India’s strengths in algorithms and AI design. This collaboration could establish a new pillar in the global AI ecosystem, building on existing initiatives like the Taiwan Indian Artificial Intelligence Center, a partnership between National Chung Cheng University and the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar. Reducing economic vulnerability is a shared goal, opening avenues for a more independent and democratic regional economic order.
Upholding Democratic Values and Human Rights
As India and Southeast Asian countries operate to strengthen democracy in the Indo-Pacific, supporting Taiwan’s role as a representative of democratic ideals and human rights becomes paramount. This includes advocating for Taiwan’s inclusion in global bodies like the WHO and inviting its participation in regional programs. Such actions send a clear message against autocratic tendencies.
Governance, Connectivity, and Taiwan’s Expertise
Achieving substantial progress in connectivity and governance requires Taiwan’s active participation. Through its New Southbound Policy, Taiwan has already demonstrated a commitment to developing robust and ethical governance models. India and other regional powers should create platforms for Taiwan to share its expertise in these areas.
Institutionalizing Engagement with Taiwan
The opening of a Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in Mumbai and the inclusion of Taiwanese feel tanks at the Raisina Dialogue signal India’s growing intent to engage with Taiwan. Expanding this engagement to include Southeast Asian countries in addressing regional economic, governance, and security issues is a logical next step.
FAQ
Q: What is India’s Act East Policy?
A: It’s India’s strategic initiative to strengthen economic and security ties with countries in Southeast and East Asia.
Q: Why is Taiwan important to India’s strategy?
A: Taiwan shares similar concerns regarding China’s assertiveness and offers valuable expertise in areas like cybersecurity and AI.
Q: What are the potential benefits of India-Taiwan cooperation?
A: Enhanced regional security, economic growth, and the promotion of democratic values.
Q: What is the New Southbound Policy?
A: Taiwan’s strategy to enhance cooperation with countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.
Did you understand? The 21st ASEAN-India Summit was held in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on October 10, 2024, marking a decade of India’s Act East Policy.
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