The editorial titled “India with Indonesia: on ancient ties to a new phase,” published in The Hindu on January 27, 2025, emphasizes the deepening cultural and strategic relationships between India and ASEAN, particularly through enhanced cooperation with Indonesia. This relationship is underscored by Indonesia’s participation in India’s Republic Day celebrations, marking its significance as ASEAN’s largest economy and a crucial G20 member.
Historical Context and Evolution
The ties between India and ASEAN have evolved from ancient trade and cultural links, highlighted by India’s influence through Buddhism and Hindu traditions in Southeast Asia, to a contemporary focus on strategic partnerships. During the colonial era, India actively supported Indonesia’s independence, further solidified by the Bandung Conference in 1955, where India joined newfound Asian and African nations.
In the post-independence period, interactions were limited due to India’s non-alignment and focus on domestic issues. However, from the 1990s onwards, India’s economic liberalization paved the way for deeper engagement with ASEAN, culminating in India becoming a full dialogue partner and later establishing significant trade agreements.
Strategic Partnership Strengthening
In recent years, particularly since the enactment of the Act East Policy in 2014, India has articulated a strategic partnership with ASEAN, with maritime security emerging as a primary focus amid increasing assertiveness from China in the South China Sea. The partnership has been elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as of November 2022, indicating a robust commitment to mutual concerns, including regional stability and economic collaboration.
Areas of Convergence
Key areas such as maritime security, trade and economic integration, connectivity, and defense cooperation are pivotal in strengthening India-ASEAN relations. Both aim to navigate challenges posed by China’s dominance and seek enhanced collaboration in defense, intelligence sharing, and economic initiatives. The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) linking with Singapore’s PayNow exemplifies progress in digital economic ties, while proposals for joint naval exercises aim to bolster maritime cooperation.
Moreover, ASEAN and India are committed to renewable energy initiatives and technology collaboration, with India positioned as an emerging manufacturing hub, especially relevant amidst the shifting dynamics of global supply chains.
Challenges and Areas of Friction
Despite robust cooperation, several challenges persist. India faces a significant trade deficit with ASEAN and has previously withdrew from RCEP due to apprehensions regarding Chinese goods. Connectivity projects have encountered delays, affecting credibility in regional infrastructure initiatives. Moreover, differing defense priorities and reliance on China among ASEAN members complicate deeper military collaboration.
Political discrepancies regarding Myanmar’s crisis and divergent perspectives on digital trade regulations highlight additional friction. Furthermore, issues like trade imbalance and cybersecurity regulations impede seamless economic integration.
Looking Ahead
To reinforce the relationship, India must accelerate connectivity projects while revising the FTA to address trade imbalances. Co-development in emerging technologies, enhanced maritime cooperation, and renewable energy partnerships can foster resilience amid global shifts. Promoting cultural exchanges and tourism can further weave a stronger fabric of people-to-people ties.
In conclusion, while historical ties have laid the groundwork, the contemporary partnership between India and ASEAN can be robustly strengthened through addressing challenges and leveraging collaborative opportunities. The continued proactive engagement of India with ASEAN promises to deepen strategic and economic integration, tasking both sides with navigating complexities in a multipolar world.
