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External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the paramount importance of the India-China relationship in shaping the future of Asia, highlighting its influence on both regional and global dynamics. He asserted that the relationship's success is vital for the emergence of a multipolar world, underscoring its significance for both Asia and the world at large.
Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the evolution of India's 'Act East' policy, which has gone beyond its initial focus on ASEAN. He stated that the Indo-Pacific strategy, a broader strategic concept, signifies the success of the 'Act East' policy and extends India's interests to Australia, a crucial Quad partner. This strategic shift underscores India's expanding engagement in the region.
The minister also highlighted the significance of India's relations with the Gulf region, emphasizing how these ties have transformed over the past decade. He pointed to initiatives like the IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor) as examples of connectivity projects connecting the Atlantic to India and Europe via the Arabian Peninsula. These initiatives aim to facilitate trade and economic integration.
Furthermore, Dr. Jaishankar mentioned India's efforts to build connectivity to the Pacific through Myanmar via the Trilateral Highway. He expressed optimism that by the end of the decade, a land-based connectivity network could be established stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific, traversing Asia. This ambitious project holds significant strategic and economic implications, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the region.
Source: 'India-China relationship is key to future of Asia': EAM Jaishankar