The idea of Indo Pacific a critical geopolitical analysis

Abstract

Indo-Pacific region, spanning the Indian and the Pacific oceans, has gained enormous significance in the international politics in recent times. The thesis seeks answers to this question by studying various official statements and speeches made by various policy makers, officials and think tanks through a methodology of discourse studies and content analysis. The thesis examines the extent to which various countries deploy the term Indo-Pacific from the lenses of their national interests. For instance, the United States has used the term to both maintain its hegemonic position in the world and expand its Asia-Pacific Strategy. Moreover, the US has been wanting to curb Chinaand#8223;s expansionist policies. India has defined Indo- Pacific region as the strategic space to further its Look East Policy into Act Policy, while competing with China. Both Australia and Indonesia seek multi-lateral regional cooperation to enhance their status and actively support the US against China. However, China views the concept negatively for it believes that the concept is being used by a US led coalition to contain China. Accordingly, China has emphasised the security and the safety of the sea lanes of communication. newlineIn short, in the present scenario, the significance of the Indo-Pacific region has been steadily increasing. India, United States, Australia, China, Japan and a number of middle powers, including Vietnam are likely to play key role in the region. Indiaand#8223;s cooperation with United States, Australia and Japan has so far helped maintain balance of power in the region, in the wake of Chinaand#8223;s increasingly aggressive policy and postures in the region, making other countries suspicious of its role in the region. newline newline