INDO PACIFIC POLICY
Prioritising India-UK ties, FTA in focus under new PM Keir Starmer
The India-UK FTA talks began in January 2022 but were stalled in the 14th round as both countries stepped into their general election cycles this year. India saw the new government in the first week and on Friday, it was the UK's. "There is no question in my mind that India will continue to be important for the new Labour government," said Rahul Roy-Chaudhury, Senior Fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).
North Korea fires suspected ballistic missile, says Japan; instructs for precaution
Japan issued an emergency alert after a suspected ballistic missile launch by North Korea on Tuesday. The Japan Prime Minister's Office quickly lifted the alert, stating the missile was not expected to reach Japan. Despite the false alarm, the PMO instructed officials to gather and analyze information, ensure the safety of aircraft and vessels, and prepare for contingencies. This incident follows increased missile activity by North Korea, leading the US, Japan, and South Korea to condemn such actions and enhance their strategic cooperation.
What's behind India's hardening posture against China?
India appears to be adopting a tougher stance towards China, with Prime Minister Modi set to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Kazakhstan in July. Recent developments suggest a hardening of India's posture against China, including refusing to resume direct passenger flights and engaging with Taiwan, signaling a shift in India's approach.
India, Bangladesh agree to start talks on comprehensive trade pact
India and Bangladesh have agreed to begin negotiations on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced after talks with Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina. Modi emphasized that Bangladesh is India's largest development partner and that New Delhi gives top priority to their relationship. The leaders also discussed enhancing defense cooperation, including defense production and modernization, and signed agreements in areas such as the digital domain, maritime sphere, and railway connectivity.
In China's backyard, America has become a humbler superpower
Far from Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, as the Group of 7 wealthy democracies gathered in Italy to discuss a range of old, entrenched challenges, the nature of American power is being transformed across the region that Washington sees as crucial for the century to come: the Asia-Pacific.
Italy will kick off foreign policy engagements for PM Narendra Modi in his third term
The Summit will also provide Modi a platform to elaborate on global issues of pertinence which were the focus of the successful Indian Presidency of the G-20.
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China ready to work with New Zealand to upgrade ties as Chinese Premier Li visits Wellington
New Zealand has in recent years taken a less assertive line with Beijing on security matters than its Western partners in the Five Eyes intelligence sharing partnership and has sought a consistent foreign policy approach to Beijing that spans political parties and administrations. But Luxon told reporters Monday that there were areas where, in talks with Li, Wellington would "call out our differences and discuss those openly, too."
S Jaishankar: A diplomat for all seasons and all situations
Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, known for his realistic view of foreign policy, has played a key role in defending India's position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and advancing India's interests with the Quad to balance expansionist tendencies in the Indo-Pacific region.
India's foreign policy priorities under Modi 3.0
Narendra Modi is all set to become India’s Prime Minister for a third consecutive term. Here's a look at the likely foreign policy priorities under Modi 3.0.
Delhi to sign IPEF pact on clean economy after domestic nod
Negotiations for these agreements were concluded in November last year, with the IPEF reaching a significant milestone in promoting a Clean Economy, Fair Economy, and an overarching agreement for Prosperity. Member countries have since conducted a legal review of the text and initiated domestic approval processes.
India offers USD 500 billion investment opportunities in clean energy, other sectors by 2030
New Delhi India offers huge investment opportunities worth over USD 500 billion, particularly in clean energy value chain including renewables, green hydrogen and EV, by 2030, the commerce ministry said on Thursday. This was stated by Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, who is in Singapore for the two-day meet of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) Clean Economy Investor Forum.
India’s expanding defence ties in Indo-Pacific region to increase Sino-Indian competition
The International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) highlighted India's expanding defence role and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, which could further intensify the competitive nature of India-China relations. India's focus on being a preferred security partner through defence partnerships, combined exercises, and arms transfers is increasing its regional presence and influence, countering Beijing's influence. The report noted that India's defence engagement is primarily focused on the Indian Ocean region but is expanding to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Ocean.
India is Australia’s top-tier security partner, says High Commissioner Green
Highlighting India's capabilities in producing electric vehicles and solar panels at scale, he noted, "India is a key part of our diversification agenda and supply chain resilience." This collaboration is particularly crucial as both countries aim to deal with supply chain disruptions and promote sustainable energy solutions. The High Commissioner lauded the rapid growth in India-Australia relations over the past five years, describing it as the "fastest build-up of one of our big relations in history."
Top US and Chinese defence officials seek to restore communications as tensions rise in Indo-Pacific
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun for the first time in person since 2022. The two discussed tensions in the Indo-Pacific region at the Shangri-La defence forum. The US emphasised freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. China accused the US of inflaming regional security. Both countries are restoring defence contacts and plan to resume military-to-military communications.
UK's July general election: Impact on India FTA, Indo-Pacific tilt
While political analysts and strategic experts have expressed confidence that very little should change on the bilateral relationship front whatever the outcome in either election, the very small window that was open for a deal being clinched by the Sunak-led Tory government has now been swept away in the election wave of both countries.
India, EU hold consultations on Ukraine conflict, South Asia and West Asia developments
Furthermore, they discussed security and defence policy developments. The EU informed on the implementation of EU’s Strategic Compass and the Indo-Pacific Strategy, including the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS), as well as new EU operations, such as the EUNAVFOR Aspides, according to EU mission statement.
Japan’s bold steps to emerge as main security provider in Indo-Pacific region amid China’s expansionism
Currently, China is provoking countries in the East China Sea, Taiwan and the South China Sea at the same time. For China’s strategy, these areas are one set. For example, if China wants to invade Taiwan, China should dominate the East China Sea and the South China Sea to isolate Taiwan. And government in Beijing can control all these areas under one integrated strategy.
India has taken steps to modernise its military, reduce dependence on Russian arms: US
India's military modernization in 2023 aimed at countering China and reducing Russian equipment reliance. Tensions with China persist post-Galwan clash. Pakistan focuses on nuclear modernization despite economic challenges and increased terrorist violence.
Joe Biden hosts Japan's PM at White House, in strong message to China over policies in Indo-Pacific
US President Biden and Japanese PM Kishida strengthen Indo-Pacific ties with a focus on defense, economic disagreements, and upcoming leaders' summit, aiming to counter China's influence in the region.
"India surpasses China's growth rate...it will continue doing so": European Parliament policy expert
India's GDP growth exceeded China's annually for the past few years, with India's growth averaging over 7.5 per cent in 2023, while China's is 5.2 per cent. India's GDP is also expected to reach 7 per cent by 2026, while China is expected to reach 4.6 per cent. The IMF projects China's 2024 growth at 4.6 per cent, declining towards 3.5 per cent in 2028.
China's new Type 004 aircraft carrier: Can it challenge US naval dominance in Asia?
China's construction of the Type 004 aircraft carrier, potentially powered by nuclear energy, signifies a significant step in its naval expansion. This development could reshape the maritime balance of power in Asia and challenge US naval dominance. The carrier's advanced capabilities could enable China to project a more formidable presence in international waters, impacting regional power dynamics. However, increased tensions are expected, especially in areas like the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, prompting Southeast Asian nations to develop countermeasures.
Anxiety grips China as Japan strengthens defence capabilities & outreach
China expresses grave concerns over Japan's advanced fighter jets developed with Italy and the UK. Japan strengthens defence ties with Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia, holding a trilateral summit in Washington DC to bolster security arrangements in the Indo-Pacific region.
Building a win-win India-Australia Defence Partnership
Australia and India are strengthening their strategic partnership to enhance regional security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Their collaboration aims to ensure maritime security, freedom of navigation, and counter assertive behavior in the region. Key areas of cooperation include defense research, technology sharing, and joint maritime exercises. Both nations recognize the importance of their partnership in addressing regional challenges and fostering global good, particularly in containing China's maritime expansion.
Indo-Pacific Strategy has made US and region more secure, more prosperous: White House
The US has touted the success of its Indo-Pacific Strategy, claiming it has made the region more secure and prosperous while expanding its partnership with India. The strategy, launched by the Biden administration two years ago, has strengthened alliances and partnerships with countries such as Japan, Australia, and ASEAN, according to Adrienne Watson, a spokesperson for the National Security Council.
EAM Jaishankar discusses Indo-Pacific, West Asia situation with Australian counterpart Wong
EAM Jaishankar would address the inaugural session of the conference, along with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Australian Foreign Minister Wong and her Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan.
IPEF's supply chain pact has no impact on policy space to impose export curbs, duties: Official
On November 15, India, the US and 12 other members of the IPEF grouping signed a supply chain resilience agreement that would help mitigate risks of economic disruptions from supply chain shocks and improve crisis coordination.
Navy playing key role in supporting free, inclusive Indo-Pacific region: Admiral Hari Kumar
Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral R Hari Kumar, emphasized the Navy's pivotal role in fostering a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region at the Synergia Conclave. In an address on 'Indo-Pacific Challenges and Way Ahead,' he underscored the Navy's commitment to persistence, patience, and collaboration with like-minded partners for holistic maritime security. Admiral Kumar highlighted the Navy's self-reliance, efficient deployment, and proactive engagement in humanitarian assistance.
Complexities, potential of Indo-Pacific need concerted efforts: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for joint efforts to address the security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Speaking at a conference attended by army chiefs from the Indo-Pacific region, Singh emphasized the need for a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based order in the region. He highlighted India's commitment to building military partnerships with friendly countries to address global challenges.
US in active talks with India to look at producing military systems, says Pentagon official
The United States is engaged in discussions with India about producing military systems in areas such as Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and ground-based conventional warfare. Efforts are also being made to establish a reciprocal defense procurement agreement. The talks aim to finalize a security of supply arrangement and increase market access for US and Indian defense industries. This relationship is a top priority for the Pentagon, as it is considered essential for achieving their strategy in the Indo-Pacific region.
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