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Geo-Political Dimensions of the Indian Ocean Region in the 21st Century: A Critical Analysis

. Dr. Inayat Kalim, Dr. Adam Saud, Salva Ikram, Hina Butt & Muhammad Salman


Abstract

With the start of twenty first century, Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has gained immense geopolitical and geo-economic importance. Having warm water throughout the year, this region is not only ideal for international trade but also contributes to the ecosystem while balancing the regional climate. Geographically, it is in the middle of world waters, thus an attraction for all the regional and global powers. Its geopolitical significance multiplies due to the globally recognized corridor for two thirds of oil and one third of cargo shipments. It is also significant for industrial nations like China, the US, and India, which heavily imports oil through this region. Recent naval-military expansion by China and India in the region increased its geo-political and strategic significance. Such developments have also intensified the power competition. China’s establishment of Maritime Silk Route and subsequently the so called “String of Pearls” strategy has impacts on the geo-politics of IOR. Furthermore, to protect its geo-political and economic interests in the region, China has started modernizing its navy. The increased hostility has multiplied the naval military activities like exercises, deployment of troops, vessels, and missile testing by all major powers. The research finds that the region in power transition where the US no more has superiority. Emerging powers particularly, China and India have intensified their involvement by not only investing in the naval military buildup but also negotiating with the littoral states to make sound and reliable partnership with them. All these developments presents both challenges and opportunities to Pakistan. It depends upon Islamabad, how it manages its priorities but it’s also clear that Pakistan’s geo-political, strategic, and economic interests coincide with the Chinese camp.

Key words: Geo-politics, Indian Ocean region, US, China, India, Pakistan, Strategic Competition.

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