- India, the US and Japan pushed for bolstering cooperation for an open, free and inclusive Indo-Pacific region at their ninth trilateral meeting held in Delhi recently. The meeting aimed to give momentum to Indo- pacific construct through partnership with like-minded countries in the region including ASEAN
- The meeting comes at a time when China is asserting itself aggressively in the neighbourhood and the three countries along with Australia are working to give shape to the Quadrilateral grouping, or the Quad, to keep critical sea routes in the Indo-Pacific free of Chinese influence.
- .amid rising tensions in the South China Sea region and Beijing’s growing expansionist ambitions.
- Three sides led by their Joint Secretaries also discussed how to involve ASEAN countries to safeguard security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region. The issue of the need for ASEAN centrality to ensure the group’s role in safeguarding Indo-Pacific region was also discussed, indicated persons familiar with the development.
- The current tensions in the South China Sea region was also on the agenda of discussion as the three sides emphasised on Freedom of Navigation through the region. This comes amid Vietnam’s apprehension that tension in the South China Sea will hurt Petro Vietnam’s offshore exploration and exploitation activities this year, weeks after the Southeast Asian nation suspended a Spanish project under pressure from China.
- All sides agreed to remain engaged and strengthen cooperation in support for a free, open, prosperous, peaceful and inclusive Indo-Pacific region through partnership with countries in the region.
- The meeting was held in the backdrop of reports that the U.S. Navy could conduct drills at or near the South China Sea amid rising tensions with Beijing over trade tariffs and Chinese plans to deploy its first domestic aircraft carrier, according to Hong Kong press reports.
- China recently conducted a large-scale drill involving its first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning. A total of 40 Chinese ships were involved in the exercises. China is wary of the U.S. military presence.
Source: Economic Times