Dr. Ashok Sharma – PM Modi’s Laos Visit

Sharma LE Mag Vol One Nov-Dec 2024

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Live Encounters Magazine Volume One November-December 2024.

PM Modi’s Laos Visit: Leveraging the Act East Policy
to address Indo-Pacific Challenges and Opportunities
– by Dr. Ashok Sharma.


Pm Modi in Laos PDR
Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi and the Prime Minister of Laos PDR Mr. Sonexay Siphandone.

Abstract 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Laos for the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits in October highlights India’s commitment to strengthening ties in Southeast Asia and advancing its “Act East” policy. The visit underscores the need for collaboration amid challenges such as geopolitical rivalry, maritime security, and climate change. By enhancing economic cooperation and connectivity, India aims to position itself as a key player in the Indo-Pacific, fostering regional stability and mutual growth among nations.

Introduction

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Vientiane, Laos, in October for the 21st ASEAN-India Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening ties in Southeast Asia.[1] This visit, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of India’s “Act East” policy, reflects Modi’s strategic vision for promoting regional stability, economic growth, and cultural exchange within the broader Indo-Pacific framework. The significance of this visit lies not only in reaffirming India’s role in the region but also in highlighting the necessity of collaboration to address multifaceted challenges facing the Indo-Pacific.

In an era characterized by shifting geopolitical dynamics, the Indo-Pacific has emerged as a crucial area of global interest, drawing attention from major powers, including the United States, China, Japan, and Australia. India’s engagement within this context is vital for enhancing its influence and fostering collaboration with ASEAN nations and other key players. The subsequent sections explore the implications of Modi’s visit, focusing on India’s Indo-Pacific strategy and “Act East” policy.

The Indo-Pacific Landscape

The Indo-Pacific region encompasses a vast area stretching from the eastern coast of Africa to the western shores of the Americas, holding significant strategic and economic importance.[2] The rise of China as a dominant force, coupled with ongoing maritime disputes in the South China Sea, has heightened tensions among regional actors. In response to these dynamics, countries like the United States, Japan, Australia, and India have sought to promote a “free and open Indo-Pacific” strategy, emphasizing the importance of international norms, maritime security, and economic cooperation.

India’s “Act East” Policy

India’s “Act East” policy, initiated in 2014 under Modi’s government, aims to enhance engagement with Southeast Asia and beyond, focusing on trade, investment, security, and cultural ties. This policy marks a significant shift from the previous “Look East” policy, emphasizing not just economic ties but also political and security relationships with ASEAN nations. Modi’s recent visit to Laos serves as a reaffirmation of this policy and an opportunity to address both the challenges and opportunities that define the Indo-Pacific.

Key Highlights of Modi’s Visit to Laos

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi engaged in high-level discussions with Laotian leaders, including President Thongloun Sisoulith and Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone. The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, infrastructure development, and capacity building. This engagement underscores Laos as a significant partner in India’s regional strategy and addresses the shared goals of both nations in promoting peace and development.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

A significant outcome of Modi’s visit was the commitment to bolster economic ties. Both leaders recognized the potential for increased trade and investment, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and technology. India has expressed interest in supporting Laos in its development initiatives through capacity-building programs that align with Laos’ development goals. By fostering these economic relationships, India aims to position itself as a crucial development partner for Laos, facilitating growth and stability in the region.

The signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) further solidified this commitment. These agreements focused on defense, broadcasting, and Quick Impact Projects, including cultural preservation initiatives related to the Lao Ramayan. Notably, India pledged $1 million to enhance nutrition security in Laos, marking its first project in Southeast Asia through the UN Development Partnership Fund. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to close cooperation in regional and multilateral forums, which is vital for achieving shared objectives.

India-ASEAN Cooperation

Modi’s visit was part of the broader context of India-ASEAN relations. The ASEAN-India Summit provided a platform for discussing shared challenges, including climate change, terrorism, and regional security. India and ASEAN nations have increasingly recognized the importance of collaboration to address these issues, fostering a sense of collective security and resilience in the region. Modi’s emphasis on ASEAN unity and centrality reinforces India’s commitment to this multilateral framework, enhancing cooperative efforts in the face of regional challenges.[3]

On the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the Act East Policy, Modi and other ASEAN leaders reviewed the progress of relations between India and ASEAN and charted a future direction for collaboration. This reflection underscores a shared commitment to strengthening partnerships and promoting regional stability.

India and the East Asia Summit

During the 19th East Asia Summit, Prime Minister Modi underscored the significance of the East Asia Summit as a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy. He highlighted that this forum plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue and cooperation among member nations. Modi emphasized the importance of addressing shared challenges, including maritime security and counter-terrorism, to ensure regional stability. He reiterated India’s commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, aligning with the summit’s goals.

Modi’s participation reflects India’s proactive engagement in enhancing partnerships in East Asia, reinforcing its strategic interests in the region’s peace and prosperity. The discussions during the summit highlighted the necessity of collaborative approaches to address common threats and promote mutual growth.

Emphasis on Connectivity

A significant aspect of Modi’s engagement was the emphasis on connectivity. The Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to enhancing both physical and digital connectivity in the region. This commitment includes initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which connects India’s northeastern states with Southeast Asia.[4] Enhanced connectivity not only facilitates trade but also promotes people-to-people ties, which are essential for building a cohesive regional community.

Infrastructure Development

The need for robust infrastructure is critical in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in developing nations. India has positioned itself as a key partner in infrastructure projects throughout the region, engaging in initiatives that promote connectivity and sustainable development. Projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway not only enhance physical connectivity but also promote socio-economic integration, facilitating smoother trade routes and boosting tourism. Such initiatives are integral to the success of India’s Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific strategy.

Indo-Pacific Challenges

The Indo-Pacific region faces numerous challenges that require concerted efforts from regional stakeholders:

1. Geopolitical Rivalry

The strategic rivalry between the United States and China has intensified, leading to increased military presence and competition in the Indo-Pacific. This rivalry affects regional stability and raises concerns about the potential for conflict. India’s role as a stabilizing force is crucial in navigating these tensions, fostering dialogue, and promoting peaceful resolutions to disputes. By actively participating in regional dialogues and multilateral forums, India seeks to mitigate the adverse effects of this geopolitical rivalry.

2. Maritime Security

The South China Sea remains a flashpoint for tensions, with ongoing territorial disputes involving several ASEAN countries and China. Ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight in these waters is essential for regional trade and security. India’s commitment to a rule-based maritime order reinforces the importance of international law in managing these disputes and ensuring peace in the region. While addressing the 19th East Asia Summit, PM Modi stressed the importance of conducting maritime activities under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) to ensure freedom of navigation. He highlighted that peace and stability in the South China Sea are crucial for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

3. Terrorism and Extremism

The threat of terrorism and extremism poses significant challenges to regional stability. Collaborative efforts among nations to combat these threats through intelligence sharing, capacity building, and joint exercises are critical. Modi’s emphasis on global cooperation to combat terrorism during his address at the East Asia Summit highlights India’s proactive approach to addressing this pressing issue.[5] By advocating for collective action, India aims to strengthen the region’s capacity to respond to terrorist threats effectively.

4. Climate Change

As a region vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, Southeast Asia faces challenges such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and food security. Collaborative efforts in sustainable development and disaster management are vital. India’s initiatives in renewable energy and disaster response can play a significant role in supporting ASEAN countries in addressing these environmental challenges. By sharing technological expertise and investing in sustainable practices, India positions itself as a leader in combating climate change within the Indo-Pacific.

Opportunities in the Indo-Pacific

Despite the challenges, the Indo-Pacific region offers numerous opportunities for cooperation and growth:

1. Economic Growth

The Indo-Pacific is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Enhanced trade and investment ties can unlock significant economic potential for all nations involved. India’s expanding economy, with a market of over 1.4 billion consumers, presents an attractive opportunity for ASEAN nations and beyond. By fostering trade agreements and reducing barriers, countries can tap into new markets and enhance economic interdependence. India’s engagement with ASEAN is pivotal in creating a more integrated economic landscape.

2. Infrastructure Development

The need for robust infrastructure in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in developing nations, presents an opportunity for India to enhance its role as a key partner. Engaging in initiatives that promote connectivity and sustainable development can bolster India’s influence in the region. Infrastructure projects not only facilitate trade but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth, contributing to regional stability.

3. Renewable Energy and Sustainability

As nations grapple with climate change, the shift toward renewable energy presents a significant opportunity for collaboration. India, with its ambitious renewable energy targets, seeks to be a global leader in solar energy and sustainable practices. Cooperation in renewable energy technology, investments in green infrastructure, and shared knowledge on sustainable practices can drive the transition to a more sustainable economy in the Indo-Pacific.[6]

4. Cultural and Educational Exchange

Strengthening cultural ties and educational exchanges can foster mutual understanding among nations. Programs promoting student exchange, vocational training, and research collaboration can enhance skills and knowledge sharing, benefiting both India and its partners in the region. Such initiatives contribute to building soft power and nurturing long-lasting friendships, essential for sustained cooperation.

5. Regional Security Cooperation

Amid the complex security landscape, there is an opportunity for India and its ASEAN partners to enhance cooperation in defense and security. Joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and capacity-building programs can strengthen regional security frameworks. By collaborating on issues such as maritime security and counter-terrorism, countries can build resilience against common threats.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Laos and the discussions at the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits reflect India’s strategic commitment to enhancing its role in the Indo-Pacific. By navigating the challenges of geopolitical rivalry, maritime security, terrorism, and climate change, India is positioning itself as a proactive player in the region.

The opportunities presented by economic growth, infrastructure development, renewable energy, cultural exchange, and regional security cooperation highlight the potential for a robust partnership among nations in the Indo-Pacific. As countries work together to address common challenges and seize emerging opportunities, the Indo-Pacific can become a hub of stability, prosperity, and mutual respect.

Through its “Act East” policy, India not only seeks to strengthen bilateral ties with individual countries but also aims to foster a collaborative regional framework that supports sustainable development and peace. The ongoing dialogue, enhanced connectivity, and shared visions for the future are essential for building a resilient Indo-Pacific that benefits all its nations.

As India continues to engage with its ASEAN partners and other stakeholders in the Indo-Pacific, the journey toward deeper cooperation and understanding is well underway. This promises a brighter and more interconnected future for the region, characterized by shared growth, stability, and a commitment to mutual respect among diverse cultures and nations. Modi’s visit will resonate as a crucial moment in shaping India’s engagement with Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific, laying the groundwork for enduring partnerships in the years to come.

[1]  “PM Modi arrives in Laos to attend India-ASEAN, East Asia summits”, The Hindu, 14 October 2014,https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/pm-modi-arrives-in-laos-to-attend-india-asean-east-asia-summits/article68740329.ece

[2] Rory Medcalf, Contest for the Indo-Pacific: Why China Won’t Map the Future (Melbourne: La Trobe University Press, 2020)

[3] “PM Modi Laos Visit Live Updates: PM Modi arrives in Delhi after concluding his two-day visit to Lao PDR”, The Times of India, 11 october 2024,  https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pm-narendra-modi-laos-visit-live-updates-asean-india-summit-bilateral-meetings-east-asia-summits-lao-pm-sonexay-siphandone/liveblog/114102040.cms

[4] “How India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway Will Bolster Economic Growth And Regional Cooperation”, News 18, 11 October 2024, https://www.news18.com/explainers/how-india-myanmar-thailand-trilateral-highway-will-bolster-economic-growth-and-regional-cooperation-9082672.html

[5] “Solutions to problems can’t come from battlefield: PM in Laos”, The Tribune, 11 october 2024, https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/india/solutions-to-problems-cant-come-from-battlefield-pm-modi-in-laos/

[6] Ashok Sharma, India’s Pursuit of Energy Security: Domestic Measures, Foreign Policy and Geopolitics (New Delhi: Sage Publications, 2019)


© Dr Ashok Sharma

Dr. Ashok Sharma is a Visiting Fellow at the University of New South Wales Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy and is an Academic Fellow of the Australia-India Institute at the University of Melbourne. His recent roles include Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University in the Department of Strategic & Defence Studies within the Coral Bell School of Asia-Pacific Affairs, and Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Canberra. There, he was the Head of the “South Asia Strategic, State Fragile and Security Program” and Conjoint Head of the “Indo-Pacific Strategic Issues and Major Powers Studies” at the National Asian Security Studies Centre.

An alumnus of both Jawaharlal Nehru University and Delhi University, Dr. Sharma’s academic journey includes Faculty, Fellow, and Honorary positions at the Australian National University, the University of Melbourne, the University of Auckland, and Victoria University of Wellington, as well as the University of Delhi. Notably, he served as the Deputy Chair of the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs, Auckland Branch, from February 2012 to June 2022.

Dr. Sharma is a prominent authority in global affairs and security studies, specializing in the great power dynamics among the U.S., China, and India. He is recognized for his expertise in India’s global positioning, particularly its strengthening strategic ties with the U.S. and Australia, as well as its role in the Quad within the evolving strategic landscape of the Indo-Pacific. An accomplished author, Dr. Sharma has penned influential works, including India’s Pursuit of Energy Security: Domestic Measures, Foreign Policy, and Geopolitics and Indian Lobbying and Its Influence in U.S. Decision Making: Post-Cold War.

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