This article explores India's Act East Policy (AEP), a cornerstone of its foreign policy strategy focused on strengthening ties with Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. It delves into the historical context, the policy's impact over the past decade, and the prospects for future development.
India's Act East Policy (AEP) occupies a prominent position within the nation's foreign policy framework. This significance is reflected in the considerable efforts and resources dedicated to cultivating relations with the region and addressing a multifaceted array of challenges, encompassing humanitarian assistance, maritime security, economic cooperation, and the delicate balance of power among regional states.
Indian leaders and diplomats actively and constructively engage in deliberations at all levels, from bilateral interactions to subregional and regional forums. Over time, India has solidified its position as a pivotal political force in the East.The AEP is a dynamic policy, not a static one, and its evolution must be understood within a historical context. Even before the colonial era, individuals from diverse walks of life—priests, monks, traders, and ordinary citizens—journeyed eastward from India's shores for centuries. This historical phenomenon endures in contemporary celebrations like the annual Bali Jatra festival in Odisha. The enduring legacy of Indian arts and culture is evident in the Hindu and Buddhist temples scattered across Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Indonesia.The impact of the AEP over the past decade (2014-2024) can be assessed from various perspectives. Firstly, India's relations with ASEAN have strengthened considerably. The annual summit serves as a valuable platform to review progress and advocate for further advancements across diverse domains, including political and security cooperation, trade and investment, and cultural, educational, and people-to-people exchanges. Secondly, adopting an inclusive approach, India launched its Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative in November 2019. With its focus on seven pillars—such as maritime security, maritime ecology, and maritime resources—it aligns seamlessly with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). Collaborative projects involving these two initiatives are under discussion and gradual implementation.The success of the AEP is widely recognized. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underscored that the policy has revitalized ties with ASEAN, 'infusing them with energy, direction, and momentum.' Nevertheless, the coming years will likely present more complex challenges for the region. While India's diplomacy must remain attentive to the broader regional challenges, it is equally crucial to continue deepening bilateral relationships with key players.
Foreign Policy ACT EAST POLICY INDIA ASEAN INDO-PACIFIC FOREIGN POLICY
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