Hindu Editorial Analysis : 23-May-2023
India’s security potential in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) aligns well with the United States’ search for like-minded partners to share security responsibilities in the Asia-Pacific region. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) is an informal group consisting of India, the US, Japan, and Australia. It aims to ensure a free, open, inclusive, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, based on shared values of political democracies, market economies, and pluralistic societies.
The Evolution of QUAD
The idea of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue was first proposed by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2007. However, it could not materialize at the time due to Australia’s reluctance. In 2012, Abe again initiated the concept of Asia’s Democratic Security Diamond, which included Australia, India, Japan, and the US. The objective was to safeguard the maritime commons from the Indian Ocean to the western Pacific. Finally, in November 2017, the QUAD Coalition took its present-day form with the active participation of India, the US, Australia, and Japan.
Significance of QUAD for India
Countering Chinese Influence: Recent stand-offs on the Indo-China Border and the reluctance of Russia to step in have forced India to seek alternatives. QUAD provides India with a platform to counterbalance Chinese influence and ensure a secure regional environment.
Post-COVID Diplomacy: The disruption caused by the pandemic and China’s non-transparent systems present an opportunity for India to emerge as the world’s manufacturing hub. India can leverage its expertise in the vaccine and pharmaceutical industry, enhancing its soft power. Additionally, Japan and the US seek to diversify their manufacturing out of China, reducing dependence on its imperialistic behavior.
India’s SAGAR Initiative: India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative aims to become a net security provider in the Indian Ocean. Collaboration within the QUAD framework can provide India access to strategic locations for creating naval bases, strengthening its maritime capabilities.
Multipolar World: India supports a rule-based multipolar world, and QUAD can aid in its ambition to become a regional superpower. By collaborating with like-minded nations, India can enhance its influence and contribute to shaping the region’s security architecture.
Climate Change: The QUAD nations are actively working toward climate ambition, including targets for national emissions, renewable energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. Their cooperation in improving critical climate information-sharing and disaster resilience in the Indo-Pacific region is commendable.
India & USA’s Current Positions at QUAD
India’s view as a Major Power: Since the early 2000s, India has considered itself a major power, security actor, and first responder in the IOR. The USA, seeking a counterbalance to China’s influence, has provided an opportunity for greater convergence of interests.
Conflicting Positions: India’s muted criticism of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 raised questions about its credibility as a security partner. While India and the US share strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific, differences persist. India’s inclusive approach to the Indo-Pacific contrasts with the US perspective of a rules-based order against China’s rise.
Threat of China: The US openly acknowledges the threat posed by China and is prepared to deter and confront if necessary. India, however, opts for a competition-cooperation model in its relations with China, preferring to avoid direct balancing.
Divergent Views on Maritime Order: India and the US have contrasting interpretations of the maritime order and freedom of navigation. India has ratified the UNCLOS, while the US has not. India’s interpretation is closer to China’s understanding of the law, but diplomatic efforts have managed these differences effectively.
India’s Balancing Act: Embracing Multi-alignment and Non-involvement
Multi-alignment: India has adeptly managed its international relationships by adopting a strategy of multi-alignment. Over the past two decades, India has been leaning towards the West while simultaneously maintaining partnerships with countries that may have conflicting interests. This is exemplified by India’s collaboration with the United States and its allies in initiatives such as the Quad, while also upholding ties with China and Russia. India’s commitment to multi-alignment stems from its pursuit of “strategic autonomy” and its longstanding tradition of avoiding overdependence on any single nation. Consequently, this stance sheds light on India’s reserved response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Non-involvement: In addressing Chinese activities in regions that do not directly impact its security interests, India is likely to maintain a position of limited involvement or subdued enthusiasm. This is evident in India’s current approach towards issues like Taiwan and Ukraine, where it refrains from overtly intervening. India’s cautious stance in such matters is driven by its primary focus on safeguarding its own security interests.
Why In News
India’s security potential in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) aligns effectively with the US’ quest for compatible allies capable of jointly shouldering security responsibilities in the Asia-Pacific region.
MCQs about India’s Security Potential in the IOR and its Role in the QUAD Partnership
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What is one of the key objectives of the QUAD partnership?
A. Countering Chinese influence and securing the region
B. Promoting economic cooperation and trade partnerships
C. Enhancing cultural exchanges and tourism activities
D. Strengthening political alliances and military capabilities
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What is the main focus of India’s strategic ambitions in the Indo-Pacific?
A. India’s economic growth and development policies
B. India’s contributions to global climate change initiatives
C. India’s cultural heritage and soft power influence
D. India’s security and strategic ambitions in the Indo-Pacific
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What does India’s balancing act within the QUAD framework primarily involve?
A. Maintaining a neutral stance in international conflicts
B. Balancing partnerships with competing countries
C. Advocating for strict adherence to international laws
D. Focusing on regional development and economic growth
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