Introduction:
Recent global events, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea and Vietnam, and the US presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, underscore the intricate and expanding links between European and Asian security.
These developments highlight new dimensions of “Eurasian” geopolitics and the increasing influence of middle powers across Eurasia.
Body:
Dimensions of New “Eurasian” Geopolitics:
Active Asian Participation in European Geopolitics:
- Historically, Asian resources significantly impacted European imperial countries during the colonial era.
- Example: Indian armed forces were crucial to the military victories of Britain and its allies in World Wars I and II.
Increased Asian Agency in Great Power Relations:
- Russia’s renewed engagement with North Korea, marked by Putin’s visit and security agreements, exemplifies this trend.
- The US is enhancing bilateral ties with South Korea and trilateral cooperation with Seoul and Tokyo, while China resumes trilateral collaboration with Japan and South Korea.
- Example: Vietnam balancing economic ties with China and the US, while exploring security cooperation with Washington.
Western Dilemmas Amid Asian Maneuverability:
- Some US policymakers argue for focusing military resources in Asia instead of the Ukraine conflict.
- The Biden administration prioritizes China as the primary challenge but remains committed to supporting Ukraine.
European Responsibility in Defense:
- Both Biden and Trump agree on the need for Europe to assume greater responsibility for its defense, balancing Russia and China to reduce America’s burden.
- Europe is divided on handling China, with deep economic ties complicating its strategic response.
Opportunities for India:
Upgrading Defense Industrial Base:
- India must urgently enhance its defense industrial base and boost domestic arms manufacturing to achieve strategic autonomy.
- Example: Self-sufficiency in weapons manufacture as a core component of strategic autonomy.
Strengthening Security Alliances:
- The US seeks to build strong security partnerships with middle powers like India to counterbalance China and Russia.
- Example: The American focus on “integrated deterrence” offers India a unique opportunity to enhance its overall national power, including military capabilities.
Conclusion:
The growing interconnectedness of European and Asian security, along with the rise of middle powers, is creating significant strategic opportunities.
However, this window of opportunity may be short-lived. It is imperative for the Indian bureaucracy to act swiftly and seize the current international possibilities to bolster India’s strategic position.