Bridging Regions: South Asia, East Asia, and the Indian Ocean in a Shifting Strategic Landscape

By : Santosh K. Gupta

Page No: 45-58

Abstract
India and East Asian nations share deep-rooted historical and cultural linkages, with Indian culture playing a significant role in shaping East Asian socio political, religious, and philosophical traditions. These connections were further strengthened over centuries through sustained people-to-people interactions and vibrant commercial exchanges. In the contemporary era, such cultural linkages have evolved into important instruments of soft power diplomacy, opening new avenues for business, investment, and strategic cooperation. Against this backdrop, this paper examines contemporary strategies to address maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean Region while leveraging historical ties to promote security and prosperity. Particular attention is given to the concept of the Indo-Pacific. This vast and strategically significant region is home to approximately 65 per cent of the world’s population and accounts for nearly 62 per cent of global GDP and 46 per cent of international trade. Given that nearly half of global maritime trade passes through the Indian Ocean Region, it serves as a critical arena where the economic and security interests of states converge. From an East Asian perspective, the region is shaped by key strategic nodes that influence control over vital sea lanes, including French Réunion Island, Australia’s Cocos (Keeling) Islands, India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Diego Garcia, which is leased by the United States from the United Kingdom. These locations collectively form a network of strategic maritime outposts that enhance surveillance and power projection across the Indian Ocean.

Author
Dr. Santosh K. Gupta is an Associate Professor & Head, Centre for East Asian Studies, Amity University Haryana (AUH).
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JIOS.2025.34.01.4