The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is undergoing a paradigm shift, a result of the dynamic interplay of international relations, specifically economic and strategic interests. As a key player in the evolving geopolitics of the region, the IOR, with its proximity to rapidly-growing regions and its role as a major energy and trade artery, holds immense significance in the global political arena. The proliferation of sea-based strategic deterrents and the exponential growth of military and strategic arsenals are further complicating the situation, triggering a new arms race and engendering ambiguity over the intent and capability of regional actors.
A significant factor contributing to the shifting dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region is India’s pursuit of a blue-water navy. India is fortifying its maritime presence in the region through various means, including an increase in naval capacities, strategic alliances with the USA and the Quad, broadened naval drills like the MALABAR exercise, and the Project Seabird – the country’s largest naval modernization endeavour. Project Seabird aims to modernize and enlarge India’s naval infrastructure with a cutting-edge naval base in Karwar, equipped with advanced features such as deep-draft harbour and training/simulation facilities, to reinforce maritime security and demonstrate naval strength in the IOR. The growth of India’s naval power and its increased presence in the IOR can be seen as a direct challenge to other regional actors, including Pakistan, as it has the potential to disrupt existing security dynamics and undermine regional stability.
India’s investment in Chabahar port has also raised security concerns for Pakistan, as it provides India with access to Afghanistan and central Asia, potentially compromising Pakistan’s strategic position. The close proximity of Chabahar port to Gwadar port, a crucial aspect of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), further exacerbates concerns that India may undermine its development and thus, Pakistan’s strategic standing in the region.
Another factor contributing to the evolving geostrategic environment in the IOR is China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI, which aims to connect China with Europe, Africa and the Middle East, is viewed by many as a major contributor to the changing balance of power in the region. The BRI is being implemented through the development of infrastructure and investment in ports, railways, and pipelines, which are viewed by some as tools for Chinese influence and control over regional economies.
The altering security dynamics in the IOR offer Pakistan a chance to establish itself as a pivotal player in regional stability. By leveraging its strengths and forming strategic alliances, Pakistan possesses the capability to make a significant contribution to regional security and fortify its position in the geopolitical arena. With a thorough and proactive approach to regional security, Pakistan can effectively neutralize emerging threats and assert itself as a dependable player in the IOR.
Pakistan, as a major Indian Ocean littoral country, has a policy of pursuing economic growth and development in the region. The country aims to realize the economic potential of the region through various initiatives. Pakistan has a significant interest in the BRI, as the country is a key participant in the CPEC, which is a major component of the BRI.
Pakistan is concerned about the implications of the Indo-US defence partnership on regional security dynamics, as the infusion of advanced military technologies and weapons systems to India from the West has the potential to disrupt the strategic balance in the region. As a result, Pakistan may be compelled to take necessary steps to maintain strategic stability and preserve the credibility of its nuclear deterrent, leading to the possibility of a new arms race in the naval domain and a strain on Pakistan’s limited resources for naval modernization.
Pakistan endeavours to counter India’s increasing military influence in the IOR through diplomatic measures. The country has raised its concerns at the United Nations General Assembly and engages in regional security dialogues, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the D8 Organization for Economic Cooperation. These actions reflect Pakistan’s unease towards India’s military expansion in the IOR and its pursuit for regional peace and stability. In an effort to protect its national interests, Pakistan strives to maintain positive relationships with both China and the USA. However, the onset of great power competition has the potential to exacerbate polarizations in the broader Asian region, creating a challenging dilemma for Pakistan.
As the security scenario in the IOR transforms and novel threats arise, it becomes critical for Pakistan to establish a formidable security strategy. To secure its sovereignty and maintain stability in the rapidly shifting global arena, the nation must evaluate the challenges it faces and craft a strategic solution. A consolidated national effort, incorporating all aspects of national power and taking into account regional and global dynamics, is crucial for achieving success.
The altering security dynamics in the IOR offer Pakistan a chance to establish itself as a pivotal player in regional stability. By leveraging its strengths and forming strategic alliances, Pakistan possesses the capability to make a significant contribution to regional security and fortify its position in the geopolitical arena. With a thorough and proactive approach to regional security, Pakistan can effectively neutralize emerging threats and assert itself as a dependable player in the IOR.
