India’s Maritime Diplomacy: Strategies for Navigating the Indo-Pacific Landscape

The Indo-Pacific region can be understood as a geopolitical area that comprises of the waters of the Indian Ocean, the central and western Pacific Ocean, and the seas that connect the two. Its stretch is debated to range from the eastern shores of the African continent to the western coast of the North American continent, howbeit with contrast in definitions depending on each stakeholder and their geographic positioning in the vast expanse of this region. The region is home to two of the world’s most populous countries, India and China, along with several other emerging powers like Japan, Australia, and Indonesia. It plays a pivotal role in global trade as it connects the Indian Ocean with the Pacific Ocean. It hosts some of the busiest shipping lanes, including the Strait of Malacca, the South China Sea, and the Indian Ocean, through which a significant portion of global trade flows. The region accounts for 63% of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP), and a little over than 60% of the world’s merchandise trade flows through its waters. In recent times, the Indo-Pacific region is witnessing strategic competition among major powers. China’s growing assertiveness in the South China Sea and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) have raised concerns among regional countries and have led to increased engagement by other powers, like the United States of America, United Kingdom, Australia and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members. There is thus no doubt about the immense significance the Indo-Pacific region holds in today’s geopolitical landscape as it has become a focal point for geopolitical rivalries and strategic partnerships, shaping the balance of power in the 21st century. As India positions itself as a rising power, its engagement in the Indo-Pacific reflects a broader ambition to enhance its influence and secure its interests amid a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
India is one of the key players in the region and this article aims to explore its perspective on Diplomacy as a way of furthering its national interests in the Indo-Pacific. The Indian maritime diplomacy takes a varied approach aligning itself with the strategic scenarios in different sub-regions of the Indo-Pacific. It also takes into account the diplomatic objectives of other counties of concern into consideration while formulating its own diplomatic objectives. The recent establishment of the Indo-Pacific division in the Ministry of External Affairs reflects the government’s intention to bring a holistic Indo-Pacific perspective towards India’s maritime diplomacy. The diplomatic approach adopted by India reflects its expanding strategic interests along with its growing regional and wider international role.
These interests can be categorised as follows:
1. Economic Prosperity – India seeks to harness the economic opportunities presented by Indo-Pacific’s dynamic market. India has financed and built transportation, energy and social infrastructure across Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
2. Security and Stability – The Indo-Pacific region faces various security challenges, including territorial disputes, piracy and terrorism. India is keen on ensuring maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Indian Ocean, vital for its energy and trade lifelines.
3. Countering China’s Influence – China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific has raised concerns among many nations including India. While India does not seek confrontation, it is committed to preserving its sovereignty and interests. Diplomatically it means engaging with other regional powers and enhancing its strategic partnerships.

India’s diplomatic efforts in the Indo-Pacific are guided by its desire to promote a free, open, and inclusive order in the region. Several key initiatives and engagements underscore India’s commitment to diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific:
1. Act East Policy: Launched in 2014, India’s Act East Policy is a significant diplomatic initiative aimed at strengthening economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asian nations and beyond. This policy envisions greater connectivity, trade, and cultural exchanges with countries in the Indo-Pacific, contributing to regional stability.
2. Quad: The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad, is a strategic forum that brings together India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. This grouping serves as a platform for discussing shared interests, including maritime security, infrastructure development, and disaster response. India’s active participation in the Quad signals its commitment to regional security and cooperation.
3. Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA): India plays a vital role in the IORA, an organization that fosters regional cooperation and economic integration among Indian Ocean littoral states. As a founding member, India advocates for collective action on issues such as disaster management, trade facilitation, and sustainable development.
4. Bilateral Engagements: India’s bilateral relationships with key Indo-Pacific nations, such as Japan, Australia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, are crucial components of its diplomatic efforts. These partnerships focus on a range of issues, from defense cooperation to infrastructure development, reflecting India’s multifaceted approach to regional diplomacy.

While India’s diplomatic efforts in the Indo-Pacific are marked by enthusiasm and ambition, several challenges and considerations must be taken into account:
1. China Factor: Managing India’s relationship with China is a delicate balancing act. India must engage with China economically while remaining vigilant about its strategic interests. Escalating tensions or conflicts could hinder India’s diplomatic objectives in the region.
2. Infrastructure Development: Building robust infrastructure and connectivity links in the Indo-Pacific requires significant investments and coordination. India must overcome financial and logistical challenges to ensure the success of projects like the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor and the North-South Transport Corridor.
3. Regional Perceptions: India’s actions and policies in the Indo-Pacific are closely watched by regional nations. To build trust and credibility, India must be consistent in its diplomatic approach and demonstrate a commitment to the region’s stability and prosperity.
4. Internal Challenges: India faces numerous internal challenges, including poverty, healthcare, and education. Balancing domestic priorities with regional engagement is a constant challenge for Indian policymakers.

India’s perspective on diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific is shaped by its strategic interests, diplomatic initiatives, and the challenges it faces. As a rising global power, India recognizes the importance of the Indo-Pacific in shaping the world order. Its commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific reflects its aspiration to be a responsible and influential actor in the region. While challenges persist, India’s proactive diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific is likely to have a lasting impact on regional dynamics and global geopolitics.