Part 8/9:
As circumstances shift in the Indo-Pacific, India is actively strengthening its partnerships in Southeast Asia, embracing a more assertive foreign policy through 'Act East' initiatives. Recent arms deals with nations such as the Philippines indicate India's commitment to enhancing its regional influence and countering China's expansion.
By dispersing China’s maritime resources and increasing its own presence in critical regions, India aims to mitigate the threat posed by its neighbors. The outcomes of such strategic dynamics are uncertain, but control over these vital maritime territories remains highly contested.