A Study on India-China Relations under the Act East Policy

Abstract

In response to the neighbouring country’s aggressive expansionism, the Act East strategy aims to centre economic and political activities in the East. A win-win scenario for India, this expansion of the east’s sphere of influence would also boost India’s standing in the global economy. With the support of ASEAN and other allies, it is possible to handle China to the Northeast’s benefit if it is included in national policy and international agendas. Despite China’s decades-long “string of pearls” strategy against India, the tide has begun to turn. Southeast Asian states have a vibrant military-to-military alliance with India and a growing economic engagement with the country. To maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity, India has established military alliances with ^“Japan, Australia, and the United States (referred to as the ‘Quad’). The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project^” are two examples of connectivity projects India hopes to move forward quickly to boost regional economic advantages. This strategy follows international norms by not being hostile but increasing activities. As part of the “Act East Policy (AEP)”, feasibility is seen as the most important aspect of the country’s foreign policy. The move from a “Look East” policy to “Act East” is discussed in this article. China and the North-eastern States were significant areas of concentration