INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY BEHAVIOR IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC

(2014 - 2018)
Deadline:
- Content: 10AM December 9th
- Slide: 6PM December 9th
Content Assign to
Introduction Yumi
- This policy notion
The Act East Policy was introduced in 2014 under Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, evolving from the earlier Look East Policy. It focuses on
actively engaging with Southeast and East Asia, emphasizing trade,
security, and cultural partnerships.
- Specifying the Time Frame: 2014-2018
- Significance
The Asia-Pacific region’s strategic location, economic potential, and
geopolitical importance make it a critical focus for India’s foreign policy.
commitment to regional stability and economic integration.

- Why was this policy enacted? Linh

Dung
Main contents Khôi
1. Basis of India’s Foreign Policy Formulation Nguyên,
1.1. Individual level (leadership) Huyền
- Role of Narendra Modi (background, personality,…)
- (Narendra Modi has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s
foreign policy since 2014. Known for his decisive
leadership and long-term vision, Modi has championed key
initiatives like "Make in India", "Digital India", and "Startup
India", which have enhanced India’s global stature. His
leadership style is strategic and flexible, enabling India to
strengthen its position on the global stage.)
1.2. State level
- Three pillars: Party, Government, People -> Values, Policy
Orientation, Identity
(India’s foreign policy is shaped by the interplay between the government,
political parties (mainly the BJP), and the public. The Bharatiya Janata
Party (BJP), under Modi’s leadership, emphasizes nationalism, security,
and economic development. The government focuses on improving the
country’s global standing, while public opinion, reflected in initiatives like
"Swachh Bharat Abhiyan" and "Digital India", also plays an important role
in shaping policies.)
1.3. Interstate level
- China - India competition.
- India’s relations with other powers in the Asia-Pacific.
- (India’s relationship with China has always been complex,
with tensions over border issues and competition for
influence in Asia. This rivalry has led India to adjust its
foreign policy to secure its strategic interests. The
competition intensified between 2014 and 2018 as China
expanded its economic and military presence in South Asia
and the Indo-Pacific region, forcing India to reassess its
regional and global strategies.)
1.4. System level
- Eastward shift of power dynamics and economic activity.
(The shifting global power dynamics toward the East have had a significant
impact on India’s foreign policy. India has adjusted its strategies to align
with the growing economic and political influence of Asian countries,
particularly China. Through its "Look East" and "Act East" policies, India
aims to deepen its engagement in the region, capitalizing on opportunities
for economic growth and regional security while enhancing its global
influence.)
2. India’s Foreign Policy Behavior in Asia-Pacific Phương
Anh
 2.1. India’s Policy Behavior
- India’s foreign policy behavior reflects the broad strategic
orientation outlined in its concept papers.
- Notable developments include:
+ Taking the initiative for leadership: Act East Policy,
announced 2014; Indo-Pacific Economic Framework - IPEF,
initiative launched in 2022.
Assertive behavior in the immediate neighborhood region.
2.2. Identification of India’s Foreign Policy Phương
- Goals Anh
+ Security: protecting the regime, expanding maritime role,
competition with China.
+ Development: advancing long - economic growth and development
with trade and investments.
+ Influence: maintaining regional influences.
- Methods: Daiki
+ Economic statecraft: using economic tools and policies to
achieve its foreign policy and national security objectives.
+ Preference to engage with smaller states through bilateral
partnerships, focusing on regional stability and mutual
development.
+ Mobilising support from the developing world and advocates
for inclusive global norms, promoting multilateralism and
fairer representation in international institutions.
Economic Statecraft

● Title: Economic Tools for Strategic Goals

● Content:
○ Trade Agreements: FTA with ASEAN, engaging with RCEP.
○ Strategic Investments: Infrastructure, technology
partnerships.
○ Development Partnerships: Aid, lines of credit.
 ○ Countering BRI: Promoting alternatives.
○ Maritime Connectivity: Securing SLOCs.

Bilateral Partnerships

● Title: Strategic Partnerships: Building Influence

● Content:
○ Diverse Partnerships: Major powers & regional states.
○ Security Cooperation: Joint exercises, defense technology.
○ Development Assistance: Capacity building, economic
support.
○ Maritime Security: Joint patrols, intelligence sharing.

Multilateralism & Global Norms

● Title: India in a Multipolar World

● Content:
○ Active Engagement: Shaping the global agenda.
○ Inclusive Order: Voice for the Global South.
○ Rule of Law: Upholding international norms.
○ Global Contributions: Peacekeeping, climate action, counter-
terrorism.

- Means: Hải Yến

+ Political/Diplomatic: Mobilising support from the
developing world by positioning itself as a leader of the
Global South, advocating for equitable reforms in global
governance .
+ Economic: Engaging with partners through trade agreements,
investments, and capacity-building programs, such as the
development of digital infrastructure in Africa and South
Asia.
Military means: Establishing a strong presence in disputed territories by
enhancing border infrastructure and increasing troop deployments.
Concluding remark Phương
Anh,
Huyền
INTRODUCTION
Good morning, everyone. Today, I’ll briefly introduce India’s foreign policy
behavior in the Asia-Pacific region from 2014 to 2018.
This period marked the beginning of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s
administration, during which India’s diplomatic approach underwent significant
changes. Among these, the Act East Policy, introduced in 2014, stands out as
particularly important. This policy was an evolution of the earlier Look East Policy,
shifting from simply "looking" to actively "acting" in its engagement with Southeast
and East Asian countries. It specifically aimed to strengthen trade, security, and
cultural partnerships.
The Asia-Pacific region is of critical importance to India due to its strategic
location, economic potential, and geopolitical significance. The Act East Policy
emphasized India’s commitment to regional stability, economic integration, and a
rules-based international order, showcasing India’s active presence in the Asia-Pacific.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the background of this policy and its practical
implementation. First, I would like to talk about the role of the government in the
formulation of the Act East Policy. The Prime Minister and the Ministry of External
Affairs play a crucial role in shaping India's foreign policy. This policy is heavily
influenced by national security concerns, economic priorities, and geopolitical factors.
India focuses on maintaining independence in its foreign relations while fostering
partnerships with both regional and global powers.
Next, let's discuss the diverse political parties in India. There are six major
parties recognized by the Election Commission of India, and these major parties often
agree on key issues such as national security, economic development, and regional
stability. Foreign policy typically reflects a broad commitment to democratic values,
peace, and stability.
Finally, let's discuss the role of the people. The public plays a crucial role in
shaping public opinion, which can indirectly influence the government’s foreign
policy. Generally, the public supports policies that promote economic growth, regional
security, and international cooperation. Additionally, India's large diaspora has helped
enhance cultural and economic links between India and the world.
 The Act East Policy, introduced in 2014, stands out as particularly important.
This policy was an evolution of the earlier Look East Policy, shifting from simply
"looking" to actively "acting" in its engagement with Southeast and East Asian
countries. It specifically aimed to strengthen trade, security, and cultural partnerships.
The Asia-Pacific region is of critical importance to India due to its strategic
location, economic potential, and geopolitical significance. The Act East Policy
emphasized India’s commitment to regional stability, economic integration, and a
rules-based international order, showcasing India’s active presence in the Asia-Pacific.
From 2014 to 2018, India made significant adjustments to its foreign policy to
better align with the new dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. These adjustments
aimed to maintain the balance of power amidst the growing influence of the United
States and China in Asia while continuing to enhance cooperation and ensure stable
development in one of the world's most dynamic and vital economic regions.
Since taking office in May 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's
administration has gone beyond merely observing sovereignty disputes in the South
China Sea and terrorism in Southeast Asia. It has expanded the scope of the "Look
East" policy to include countries ranging from Australia to Japan and China, with
ASEAN remaining the core focus. This strategic shift led to the creation of the "Act
East Policy" (AEP), which is considered an evolved and more advanced version of the
"Look East Policy" adopted by previous administrations. These strategic adjustments
are reflected across four levels of relations: direct neighbors (South Asia), extended
neighbors (East Asia, West Asia, South Pacific), major powers (the U.S., Japan,
Russia, China), and other global regions (Europe, Africa, Latin America).
India's foreign policy adjustments under Prime Minister Narendra Modi since
2014 have been strongly influenced by several factors, including security issues in
Southeast and South Asia, India-West Asia relations, and the roles of the United States
and Japan, with China being the most significant factor. Consequently, India has
revised its foreign policy for two main reasons.
On one hand, India must demonstrate greater focus, determination, resource
allocation, and practical actions to address urgent and attractive opportunities in
regions of geostrategic importance, such as South Asia, East Asia, and West Asia, in
terms of economics, trade, military, and security. On the other hand, India needs to
exercise caution and decisiveness in its relationships with China and the United States
to secure support in scientific, technological, and military advancements. This
approach helps solidify India's position as a leading power in the Asia-Pacific without
provoking the two largest economies in the world—both now and over the next two to
three decades.

MAIN CONTENT
1. The basis of the formulation of the Act East Policy
India’s foreign policy formulation reflects its historical experiences,
geographical imperatives, and the evolving dynamics of the global landscape. Rooted
in principles of sovereignty, peaceful coexistence, and strategic autonomy, it seeks to
balance the nation’s internal priorities with its external engagements. In the early
1990s, India introduced the “Look East Policy” – a novel concept that aimed to turn
the country’s North East into the gateway to the Indo-Pacific region and to help build
stronger ties with India’s extended neighborhood. The policy remained India’s pivot
for successive governments. While dividends of the Look East Policy can be debated,
the Modi government, after its landslide victory in the 2014 parliamentary elections,
had accorded high priority to turning India’s Look East Policy into Act East Policy.
This shift is at the heart of India’s eastward orientation and aligns with its broader
approach to the Indo-Pacific region.
a) State level
The Indian government plays a central role in shaping foreign policy, with the
Prime Minister and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) at the forefront of
decision-making. India's foreign policy is heavily influenced by national security
concerns, economic priorities and geopolitical factors. In recent years, the government
has increasingly emphasized strategic autonomy, aiming to maintain independence in
its foreign relations while fostering partnerships with both regional and global powers.
For example, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has taken a
more assertive stance in the Indo-Pacific, focusing on issues like maritime security,
regional cooperation and economic integration.
India's political landscape is marked by a significant diversity of political
parties, reflecting the country's complex social, cultural, and regional variations. Since
gaining independence in 1947, over 200 political parties have been established,
demonstrating the vibrancy and pluralism of India's democracy. As of March 2024,
there are six nationally recognized parties, which have a widespread presence across
several states and are acknowledged by the Election Commission of India (ECI) for
their performance in national elections. Political parties in India, though they may
differ on domestic issues, largely align on key aspects of foreign policy. National
security, economic development, and regional stability are often seen as areas of
consensus across major parties. However, there are differences in how these priorities
are implemented. For instance, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has placed a strong
emphasis on strengthening ties with countries like the United States and Japan, while
the Indian National Congress (INC) has traditionally advocated for a non-aligned,
more diplomatic approach to international relations. Regardless, India’s foreign policy
typically reflects a broad commitment to democratic values, peace and stability.
The Indian people, though not directly involved in policy formulation, play a
crucial role in shaping public opinion, which can indirectly influence the government's
foreign policy. The public is generally supportive of policies that promote economic
growth, regional security and international cooperation. National pride and the sense of
India's emerging global status have also contributed to public support for a more active
foreign policy. Furthermore, India’s large diaspora, especially in the Middle East,
United States and Southeast Asia, has helped enhance cultural and economic links
between India and the world, often influencing policy on issues such as labor
migration, trade agreements and international diplomacy.
India’s foreign policy reflects a desire to project itself as a rising global power
with a unique identity rooted in its rich history and diverse culture. India sees itself as
a leader of the Global South, advocating for the interests of developing nations and
promoting multilateralism. This identity is reflected in its role in international
organizations like the United Nations, BRICS, and the G20. At the same time, India’s
policies are shaped by its historical experience of colonialism and its commitment to
maintaining strategic autonomy, ensuring that it does not align too closely with any
particular power bloc.
In conclusion, India’s foreign policy formulation at the state level is shaped by
the interplay of government priorities, party politics, public opinion, core values,
policy orientations and national identity. This multifaceted approach allows India to
navigate its complex international relationships while maintaining its sovereignty and
promoting national interests on the global stage.

b) Interstate level
China - India competition
In international relations, countries maintain two aspects: cooperation and
competition. This becomes even more evident as globalization has become the main
trend in international relations since the beginning of the 21st century. Countries are
increasingly interconnected economically, removing barriers at borders, which now
exist only on paper. This also leads to complex and unpredictable conflicts and
contradictions. Regarding the China-India relationship, the competition between the
two largest countries in the region has received increasing attention, especially in the
context of the global order shifting towards the Indo-Pacific.
Geopolitical competition is a core element in the China-India rivalry. India, a
country in South Asia, borders China through Tibet, Nepal and Bangladesh. Moreover,
this South Asian nation has a vast area in the region and opens up to the Indian Ocean.
When a country possesses favorable geostrategic and geopolitical factors, it has an
advantage in many fields. Therefore, for China, India poses a constant threat to its
security and national interests as the Northeast Asian country shifts its policy from
"Hide your strength, bide your time" (韬光养晦) under Deng Xiaoping to a full-fledged
rise under President Xi Jinping. In practice, the two countries have had numerous
conflicts in the past related to territorial disputes, which still persist in the present.

India’s relations with other powers in the Indo-Pacific

India's relationship with other major powers in the Indo-Pacific region is also a
critical aspect of its foreign policy. As part of its strategy to strengthen its position in
the region, India has worked to build robust ties with countries like Japan, Australia,
and the United States, forming part of the "Quad" (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue).
These partnerships focus on a shared vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-
Pacific, countering the growing influence of China. India has long maintained strong
relations with Japan, especially in terms of economic cooperation, technology, and
infrastructure development. With Australia, India has expanded its collaboration on
security and defense, particularly in maritime security and counter-terrorism efforts.
Moreover, India's growing ties with the United States reflect its aspirations to enhance
its global influence, as both nations share concerns about China's assertiveness in the
region. These relationships not only help India to bolster its strategic position but also
contribute to its broader goal of shaping the evolving balance of power in the Indo-
Pacific.
c) System level
After the Cold War, India built a multilateral foreign policy strategy,
diversifying its relations with major powers and regions. Among these, the East Asia
region, with a focus on Southeast Asia, was identified as a key factor with strategic
value for India to gather and attract cooperation from countries across all fields,
including politics, economy, military, foreign affairs, and socio-cultural aspects. Over
more than two decades of implementing the Look East Policy (LEP), India has become
more connected with the East Asian region, and its relations with ASEAN, including
Vietnam, have continually expanded across all areas, contributing to the development
of both India and the region.
The shifting global power dynamics, with growing influence from Asian
countries—especially China—have significantly shaped India’s foreign policy. In
response, India has adapted its strategies to better engage with the East. Through its
"Look East" and "Act East" policies, India is aiming to strengthen its economic ties,
boost regional security, and expand its global influence.
The "Look East" policy, initiated in the 1990s, was India’s effort to strengthen
relationships with Southeast Asia and other East Asian nations, focusing on trade and
regional cooperation. Later, the "Act East" policy, which came into play more
recently, represents a deeper commitment to this region—especially as China’s power
continues to rise.
By actively engaging with the region, India is looking to tap into economic
growth opportunities and secure a more influential role in regional and global affairs.
Ultimately, these strategies help India safeguard its own security while positioning
itself as a key player in the evolving global order, especially in the face of increasing
competition with China.

2. India’s foreign policy behaviors in Asia - Pacific region

The “Act East” policy had not been introduced with an official document in 2014
after the announcement that India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave at the
ASEAN-India Summit on November 12th, 2014. Therefore, we decide to assess India’s
behaviors to identify the core point of the Act East Policy.
Since the announcement of the "Act East Policy" in 2014, India has adopted a more
proactive foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific, focusing on strengthening its diplomatic,
economic, and security ties with the region. The policy is an evolution of India's earlier
"Look East Policy" and aims to enhance India’s role in East and Southeast Asia to
comprehend the new context of global arena. To have a better look at how different the
Look East and the Act East, here is the comparison table.
Act East Look East
India was in a very favorable position India had a very fragile economy due to
from the perspective of economic might the 1991 economic crisis, it was in a
transition phase to a liberalized economy
Focus is more on boosting economic Focus more on boosting economic
cooperation, building infrastructure for cooperation
greater connectivity, importantly
strategic and security ties
To tackle the changing geo-political The Indian economy was heavily
scenario due to dominance by China in dependent on the Soviet Union, but the
the South China Sea and its increasing fall of Soviet bloc propelled India to look
influence in the Indian Ocean region at alternative regions so sustain the
econonomy.
Has a greater strategic and political The focus was more on boosting trade and
angle to the cooperation. Relationships investment relations with Southeast Asian
with Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, countries. There was not much focus on
Malaysia, Australia have been upgraded Quad – India, USA, Japan, and Australia
to a strategic partnership to counter the or up-gradation to the strategic partnership
 dominance of China in the entire with other nations in the region.
region.
Focusing more on historical, cultural, Historical ties between India and ASEAN
linguistic, and religious ties through were not given much prominence and
more people-to-people exchanges. therefore not capitalized in its Look East
Policy.
Heavy focus is being given to the North East of India was neglected in its
development of the North East region. plans of forging deeper ties with East
India believes that the North East Asia.
region of India can be the gateway to
East Asia and Southeast Asia. Japan is
helping India by providing funds for
many infrastructure projects.
Greater focus on defense cooperation Not much focus on defense cooperation
India is collaborating with Japan in India did not focus on developing
developing infrastructure in Sri Lanka, infrastructure in other countries.
Myanmar, and Bangladesh

India has significantly increased its diplomatic engagements, with high-level visits
and participation in forums like the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum,
strengthening relationships with countries such as Japan, South Korea, Australia, and
Vietnam. During the period of 2014 – 2018, PM Narendra Modi had made a total of 48
official visits to other countries, most of them are Asia Pacific countries and the core
agenda of these visit were to promote and enhance it ties them via culture means.
India has deepened strategic partnerships with key Asia-Pacific nations. Its
relationship with Japan has grown, with an emphasis on defense cooperation and
infrastructure development, while ties with Australia have focused on defense, trade,
and education. The partnership with Vietnam has strengthened, particularly in defense
and maritime security. In terms of regional security, India has expanded its naval
presence to counter China’s growing influence, particularly through participation in
the Quad (with the U.S., Japan, and Australia), promoting a free and open Indo-
Pacific.
 Economically, India has increased engagement with ASEAN and other Asia-
Pacific countries, focusing on trade, investment, and infrastructure projects like the
Mekong-Ganga Cooperation. India is also responding to China’s growing influence in
the region, balancing its ties with China while building stronger defense and economic
relations with regional partners. Its relationship with the United States has deepened,
particularly in defense and security, with India and the U.S. sharing a Comprehensive
Global Strategic Partnership that strengthens their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

To have a closer look into this, we have brief description of important initiatives under
this policy.

The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway Project connects India’s

Northeast with Myanmar and Thailand, promoting enhanced trade and travel between
the regions. The Kaladan Multi-modal Transit Transport Project focuses on improving
connectivity between India and Myanmar, facilitating the development of India’s
landlocked Northeastern states. The Rhi-Tiddim Road Project further strengthens
connectivity between India and Myanmar, improving cross-border trade and
movement. Border Haats, established as trade centers, aim to foster closer economic
ties between India and its neighbors, particularly Bangladesh and Myanmar. The
Agartala-Akhaura Rail Link connects India with Bangladesh, enhancing regional trade
and transport. Finally, the Mahabahu-Brahmaputra Inland Waterway Programme seeks
to improve intermodal transport and inland waterways in the region, promoting greater
connectivity and economic integration. These projects collectively contribute to
enhancing infrastructure, trade, and economic development across India’s northeastern
border and neighboring countries.

2.1.
2.1.1. Goals
The Act East Policy (AEP), introduced by India in 2014, aims to strengthen
India’s relations with East and Southeast Asia. This policy focuses on economic,
security, and cultural cooperation, building on the earlier Look East Policy.
A key goal of the AEP is to enhance economic ties with ASEAN countries, East
Asia, and the Pacific region. This includes boosting trade, investment, and
participation in regional economic initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive
Economic Partnership (RCEP) and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC).
The policy also prioritizes regional security by fostering cooperation in
maritime security, counterterrorism, and other security issues. India actively
participates in multilateral forums like the East Asia Summit (EAS) and Quadrilateral
Security Dialogue (Quad) to strengthen security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific
region.
Cultural diplomacy is another key goal of the AEP, with India focusing on
increasing people-to-people linkages through educational exchanges, tourism, and
cultural programs. This helps foster deeper ties and mutual understanding between
India and its neighbors.
 The Act East Policy seeks to build strategic partnerships with countries such as
Japan, Australia, South Korea, and Vietnam, focusing on defense cooperation, joint
military exercises, and infrastructure development to enhance India’s influence in the
region.
The policy also aims to counter China’s influence in the region by
strengthening relationships with countries concerned about China’s assertive actions,
especially in the South China Sea, and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Lastly, the AEP emphasizes improving connectivity between India and East and
Southeast Asia through infrastructure projects, including transportation, ports, and
digital connectivity, to facilitate trade and regional integration.

Methods

Slide 1

India's Role in the Asia-Pacific:

India is becoming increasingly important in the Asia-Pacific region.

India is asserting itself on the world stage due to its growing economic and military
power.

The Asia-Pacific region is a key area of focus for India's foreign policy.

This presentation will analyze the strategies India employs to pursue its interests and
enhance its influence in the region.

Slide 2

Economic Tools:

Trade Agreements:

The India-ASEAN free trade agreement has significantly increased trade between
them by eliminating tariffs on a wide range of goods.

Strategic Investments:
 India invests in infrastructure projects in neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Sri
Lanka, and Nepal to build strong relationships. These investments improve
connectivity, facilitate trade, and stimulate economic development.

Development Partnerships:

India provides aid and loans to countries in need, such as Sri Lanka during its
recent economic crisis. This assistance included lines of credit, currency swaps, and
humanitarian aid.

Countering China's Belt and Road Initiative:

India supports alternative projects focused on sustainable development and

transparency, such as the International North-South Transport Corridor, which
connects India with Central Asia and Europe through Iran.

Securing Maritime Connectivity:

India prioritizes improving security in the Indian Ocean, which is vital for trade and
energy. The Indian navy plays a crucial role in safeguarding sea lanes and ensuring the
free flow of trade.

Slide 3

Strategic Partnerships:

India builds strong relationships with major powers (US, Japan, Australia) and
regional players (Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh). This reflects India's "multi-
alignment" strategy.

Security Cooperation:

India participates in joint military exercises, like the Malabar exercise, to strengthen
regional security.

Development Assistance:
 India provides development assistance and capacity building in the region, focusing
on areas like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Maritime Security:

India works with partners on joint patrols and intelligence sharing to ensure the
safety and security of sea lanes in the Indian Ocean.

Slide 4

Multilateral Engagement:

India actively participates in multilateral forums like the UN, ASEAN, and the G20.

Advocate for International Law:

India upholds the principles of international law and a rules-based order for stability
and predictability in international relations.

Global Contributions:

India contributes to global efforts on climate change, counter-terrorism, and

cybersecurity.

Conclusion

India utilizes a combination of economic tools, strategic partnerships, and multilateral

engagement to achieve its foreign policy goals in the Asia-Pacific.

India's proactive approach is shaping the dynamics of the region, and its role in
promoting regional stability and economic prosperity will continue to grow.

Means
India's Act East Policy has emerged as a strategic initiative to strengthen its
presence and influence in the Asia-Pacific region. There are three main means of
utility in India's Act East Policy: political-diplomatic, economic, and military means.
 First is the political-diplomatic means, India has strategically positioned itself
as a leader of the Global South, leveraging its influence to garner support from
developing nations. By advocating for equitable reforms in global governance
structures, India seeks to address the imbalances in international decision-making
processes and ensure that the voices of the developing world are adequately
represented. This diplomatic approach not only strengthens India's political alliances
but also enhances its standing as a proactive and responsible global leader.
India has strengthened bilateral relations with key Asia-Pacific nations such as Japan,
South Korea, Indonesia, and Vietnam through high-level visits, summits, and strategic
partnerships. Additionally, India's active participation in regional forums like the
ASEAN, East Asia Summit (EAS), and the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus
(ADMM-Plus) highlights its commitment to regional stability and cooperation.

Second is economic means, India's economic engagement in the Asia-Pacific region is

multifaceted. Through comprehensive trade agreements, significant investments, and
capacity-building initiatives, India aims to foster mutual economic growth and
development. A notable example is India's effort in the development of digital
infrastructure in Africa and South Asia, which not only boosts regional connectivity
but also positions India as a key player in the digital economy. These economic
strategies are crucial for establishing robust economic ties and promoting sustainable
development across the region.
Moreover, India has actively pursued Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with
several Asia-Pacific countries to reduce trade barriers and facilitate smoother
economic transactions. Initiatives such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) negotiations, although India opted out eventually, signify India's
intent to integrate more deeply into the regional economic framework.
Finally is the military means, in response to regional security challenges, India
has taken decisive steps to establish a strong military presence in disputed territories.
This includes enhancing border infrastructure and increasing troop deployments to
ensure sovereignty and deter potential conflicts. India's military strategy in the Asia-
Pacific is characterized by a balance of defensive measures and proactive
engagements, aimed at maintaining regional stability and safeguarding national
interests.
India's participation in joint military exercises with countries like the United
States, Japan, and Australia, such as the Malabar Naval Exercise, underscores its
commitment to regional security cooperation. These exercises enhance
interoperability, build mutual trust, and demonstrate India's capability to contribute to
regional security.
India's Act East Policy is a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that
employs political/diplomatic, economic, and military instruments to enhance its
influence and secure its interests in the Asia-Pacific region.

CONCLUSION
The Act East Policy, implemented by India from 2014 to 2018, marked a
significant shift in India’s foreign policy focus towards strengthening its relationships
with Southeast Asia, East Asia, and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Through a series
of strategic projects and initiatives, the policy successfully enhanced connectivity,
economic collaboration, and regional security. Key infrastructure projects, such as the
India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-modal Transit
Transport Project, improved regional integration and boosted trade. India also
expanded its defense and security ties with regional powers like Japan, Australia, and
Vietnam, fostering a collaborative approach to regional stability. Additionally,
initiatives in the cultural and educational spheres enhanced India's soft power in the
region. Overall, the Act East Policy played a crucial role in positioning India as a key
player in the Asia-Pacific, strengthening its diplomatic, economic, and security ties,
and contributing to regional growth and stability.
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