Hindu Editorial Analysis :22-June-2023

The Asia-Pacific region is currently witnessing a growing theater of big-power rivalry, with China’s assertive stance being a key factor. China’s Defense Minister recently expressed concerns over the formation of “NATO-like” alliances, stating that such alliances would lead to a “whirlpool of disputes and conflicts.” This essay explores China’s statement on alliances, NATO’s expansion in the Asia-Pacific region, China’s dominance in the region, and India’s position in this complex scenario.

China’s Statement on “NATO-like” Alliances:
  1. Emphasizing open and inclusive cooperation: China’s Defense Minister highlighted the importance of open and inclusive cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, opposing the formation of small cliques. This statement was directed at the Australia, UK, and US (AUKUS) security pact and the Quad, which includes India, Australia, Japan, and the US.
NATO’s Expansion in the Asia-Pacific Region:
  1. NATO Plus and India’s inclusion: The US House Select Committee has recommended India’s inclusion in NATO Plus, a security arrangement comprising NATO and five aligned nations. This proposal aims to strengthen global security and deter aggression across the Indo-Pacific region. A NATO liaison office is also set to open in Tokyo, Japan, marking the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region.
  2. Strengthening partnerships in the region: NATO plans to enhance collaboration with its major partners in the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea. Individually Tailored Partnership Programs will be formulated to upgrade the existing partnerships.
The Quad as a “NATO-like” Alliance:
  1. Strengthening the Quad: To realize its full potential, the Quad needs to focus on a security agenda, particularly maritime security, to serve as a deterrent to China. The aim is to establish a mutual support system even when members are not aligned on policy or directly involved in combined operations.
China’s Dominance in the Region:
  1. Territorial disputes and dominance display: China has territorial disputes with several countries in the region, including Japan, Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. China has demonstrated its growing assertiveness in the South China Sea through increased patrolling, live-fire exercises, renaming of features, and the construction of facilities on disputed atolls.
  2. New Maritime Law for the South China Sea: China has notified new maritime rules requiring foreign vessels to report their information while passing through what it perceives as its “territorial waters.” This move is aimed at regulating foreign ships operating in the region.
India’s Position:
  1. India’s refusal for NATO Plus: India has rejected the proposal to join NATO Plus, citing that the “NATO template does not apply to India.” India believes in maintaining strategic autonomy and strengthening ties with allies and security partners in its own way.
  2. Defense of Taiwan: Interestingly, India has been urged to defend Taiwan, despite not having formal diplomatic relations with the island. However, India’s defense calculations do not currently include Taiwan.
  3. Strategic autonomy and the Quad: India’s strategic autonomy could be challenged by NATO’s overreach in the Asia-Pacific region. Similarly, transforming the Quad into a security alliance focused on countering China could also pose challenges for India’s autonomy.
Why In News

The Asia-Pacific has emerged as a prominent arena for intense competition among global powers, with geopolitical rivalries playing out on multiple fronts. The region’s strategic significance and economic potential have fueled a fierce power struggle, positioning it as a key battleground for major players vying for influence and control.

MCQs about NATO’s Growing Influence in the Asia-Pacific

  1. What did China’s Defense Minister express concerns about at the Shangri-La Dialogue?
    A. Formation of NATO-like alliances
    B. Open and inclusive cooperation
    C. China’s territorial disputes
    D. Military exercises in the South China Sea
    Correct Answer: A. Formation of NATO-like alliances
    Explanation: China’s Defense Minister expressed concerns about the formation of NATO-like alliances, stating that it would lead to disputes and conflicts in the Asia-Pacific region.
  2. Which country has been recommended for inclusion in NATO Plus?
    A. Japan
    B. Australia
    C. India
    D. South Korea
    Correct Answer: C. India
    Explanation: India has been recommended for inclusion in NATO Plus, a security arrangement that currently includes NATO and five aligned nations.
  3. How is China displaying its dominance in the South China Sea?
    A. Increased patrolling and live-fire exercising
    B. Signing strategic partnerships with Japan
    C. Opening a NATO liaison office in Tokyo
    D. Strengthening collaboration with Australia
    Correct Answer: A. Increased patrolling and live-fire exercising
    Explanation: China is displaying its dominance in the South China Sea through increased patrolling and live-fire exercising by its naval vessels.
  4. What is India’s response to the proposal of joining NATO Plus?
    A. India has accepted the proposal
    B. India has rejected the proposal
    C. India is considering the proposal
    D. India has requested more information about the proposal
    Correct Answer: B. India has rejected the proposal
    Explanation: India has rejected the proposal of joining NATO Plus, stating that the “NATO template does not apply to India.” India prefers to maintain its strategic autonomy.

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