“The true power lies with the country that dominates the seas” – by Alfred Mahan, US Navy flag Officer. India are China are biggest contender in the race of military and economic platforms. China these days got lots of publicity regarding the issue of South China Sea that started with the Senkaku Island. This issue made China’s relation a bit sour with Vietnam and some other countries and recently with India too. More over China’s military extension toward Indian borders is also a matter of concern. Construction of railway network near border and proposed railway network to its close friend Pakistan was revealed in Sino-Pak Economic Corridor. Indian Ocean also plays a major role in relations of these two countries. China see Indian Ocean as the best way to speed up trade. China’s 60% energy import passes through sea routes which will increase to 75% in upcoming years. So, China is taking keen interest in expanding its arms towards Indian Ocean for ease of trade and domination over Indian Ocean region.
String of Pearls by China
An initiative of China where each pearl is meant for ports having investment from China. The revival of maritime silk route is seen as an attempt to counter “String of Pearls” argument. The motive of this strategy include different phases. According to the sources the motives ranges from resources and commercial interests to diplomatic and finally security and military interests. Well this step is to pacify China’s rival India’s developing and strengthening status. Pakistan, an all-weather friend of China got investment for construction of port in Gwadar. China has also made investments in Chittagong in Bangladesh, Kyaukphyu in Myanmar, and Hambantota in Sri Lanka. The major aim behind string of pearls seems to impose dominance over South China Sea.
Iron Curtain by India
To deter Chinese presence in Indian Ocean region (IOR) and to become a true blue water navy, India made a strategy to neutralize the Chinese effect in IOR. This strategy was termed as IRON CURTAIN. India is currently discussing on fields of investment in Nepal Bhutan and Bangladesh. India had started construction of switte port in 2010 in Myanmar. Along with this, India became successful in setting up posts in Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique and Madagascar. India has also got berthing right in omen and Vietnam which will help India in expanding its influence.
Conclusion
Indian Ocean Region is always seen like a treasure box due to resource deposits, trade and military’s point of view. India’s step to construct Chabahar port also made a positive step toward expanding strength. As well as India’s cordial military relations with Mauritius (exported Indian coast guard’s barracuda) , Seychelles to whom India gifted PS constant petrol vessel last year and Dornier 228 maritime reconnaissance aircraft in 2013 and similar relations with other countries in contact with Indian Ocean. While China want its dominance in Indian Ocean to occupy a major position in trade and commerce. If China has largest army then, India possess great minds. India’s foreign policy has played a crucial role in establishing sound relations with its neighbors. But still India is boosting its military and defense sectors for bad times.
