Date : 09/01/2024

Relevance: GS Paper 2- International Relations - Indo-Pacific

Keywords: Indo-Pacific, ancient Maritime Silk Route, Colonial Legacy, 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' (FOIP) initiative, ASEAN

Context-

The Bay of Bengal, with its rich history of commercial and cultural interactions among littorals, has played a pivotal role in shaping the maritime dynamics of the region. From the ancient Maritime Silk Route to the colonial period, the Bay has witnessed a myriad of influences, connecting the eastern seaboard of India with Southeast Asia. In recent times, the Bay has experienced a resurgence in geopolitical importance, driven by its vast hydrocarbon reserves and crucial shipping routes. Here we look into the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Bay of Bengal, its integration into the broader Indo-Pacific construct, and the imperative for collaborative approaches to harness its potential.

Interpretations of the Indo-Pacific (I.P) region vary among countries, with three main versions:

Indian Version:

• Views I.P as an inclusive space for all stakeholders with common responsibilities and interests.
• Recognizes a strategic interconnection between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.
• Encompasses the area up to the shores of Eastern Africa.

US Version:

• Interprets a free and open I.P based on a rules-based order.
• Excludes countries not adhering to specified rules and norms of conduct.
• Extends from the Pacific shores of America to the Bay of Bengal, excluding some countries.
• Not widely subscribed by many nations.

ASEAN Version:

• Envisages I.P as a consociation model, emphasizing cooperation and power-sharing.
• Advocates practical cooperation with China instead of strict adherence to rules.
• Reflects economic ties with China, as some ASEAN countries are economically supported by China.
• Cooperative thinking, as outlined in a 2011 agreement, faces challenges.

India positions itself at the center, emphasizing ASEAN's central role and cooperation, while also balancing the narratives of the US and ASEAN through engagement with other nations like France, Australia, and Japan. This approach is seen as a countermeasure to geopolitical constraints on India's Northern and Western borders and as an opportunity for economic ties and regional balance.

Historical Context: Maritime Silk Route and Colonial Legacy

Centuries of trade along the Maritime Silk Route fostered economic and cultural ties between the Bay's littorals. The colonial era further intensified inter-bay connectivity, with European powers such as the British, French, and Dutch expanding commerce and influencing the region. Post-World War I, decolonization, and emerging nationalism led to the Bay becoming a 'strategic backwater' as newly independent countries prioritized their political and economic agendas.

Resurgence of Strategic Importance

Covering 2,173,000 square km, the Bay of Bengal is regaining significance as a strategic maritime space. Its hydrocarbon reserves and pivotal shipping routes make it a geostrategic and geoeconomic hotspot. This resurgence is particularly crucial for countries like India and China, heavily reliant on the region's resources, especially oil.

Situating the Bay in the Wider Indo-Pacific

Geographically, the Bay serves as an offshoot of the Indian Ocean, linking South and Southeast Asia. With nearly 22 percent of the world's population and a combined GDP of US$2.7 trillion, the region is at the heart of the Indo-Pacific. The concept of the Indo-Pacific gained momentum with the 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' (FOIP) initiative, emphasizing shared prosperity and stability. The Bay's centrality aligns with major stakeholders' interests, such as the US, Japan, and Australia, in maintaining stability in the larger Indian Ocean Region.

ASEAN Centrality and Indo-Pacific Cooperation

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plays a central role in the wider Indo-Pacific. The 'ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific emphasizes cooperation, a rules-based order, and economic engagement. This vision aligns with India's inclusive Indo-Pacific approach, promoting collaboration with organizations like the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

Security Concerns in the Bay

Traditionally, securing freedom of navigation along critical sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) has been a primary concern in the Bay. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are pivotal in protecting these routes, especially the East-West shipping route near the Strait of Malacca. China's assertive presence raises apprehensions, but littorals' economic dependence mitigates overt political-military actions. Non-traditional threats like piracy, trafficking, pollution, and natural disasters necessitate a comprehensive, collaborative approach.

Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)

BIMSTEC, endorsing "non-interference in internal affairs," focuses on non-traditional security. The organization's streamlined priority sectors, including security, underscore the need for regional collaboration. India's leadership in the security sector aligns with its 'Security and Growth for All in the Region' (SAGAR) vision.

Connecting Nations for Sustainable Growth

Collaboration among Bay littorals is essential for sustainable growth, emphasizing regional connectivity in physical, commercial, digital, and people-to-people dimensions. Engaging Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore in development discourse is crucial. The pandemic underscores the importance of intra-regional trade, requiring flourishing connectivity and low transaction costs.

Sections of 'Anchoring the Bay of Bengal in a Free and Open Indo-Pacific'

Securing the Bay

• Emphasis on maritime domain awareness for commercial prosperity.
• Indonesia's role in catalyzing growth between Southeast Asia and the Bay.
• Japan's proactive engagement and response to China's activities.

Rewiring Connectivity for a Bay of Bengal Community

• Japan's FOIP vision and infrastructure development in India's Northeast.
• Importance of ports and ports-led development in enhancing maritime connectivity.
• The economic potential of the Bay through improved linkages and connectivity.

Seamless Commercial Connectivity

• Thailand's opportunity for post-pandemic economic recovery through BIMSTEC.
• Significance of regional connectivity initiatives for trade in goods and services.
• India's strategic position in creating an economic alternative to China.

Blue Economy in the Bay of Bengal

• Building sustainability into the blue economy for long-term benefits.
• Bangladesh's approach to balancing development and conservation.
• Climate change adaptation of vulnerable Bay countries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bay of Bengal's historical significance, coupled with its evolving geopolitical dynamics, demands collaborative efforts for sustainable growth. From securing sea lanes to fostering economic connectivity, the Bay plays a crucial role in the broader Indo-Pacific context. The 'Anchoring the Bay of Bengal in a Free and Open Indo-Pacific' volume comprehensively explores these facets, providing valuable insights for scholars, researchers, and policymakers. Harnessing the Bay's potential requires a concerted approach, emphasizing connectivity, security, and inclusive growth.

Source- ORF