Modi visited US and France in quick succession. The agenda of both visits has been to strengthen the defence preparedness of the Indian Armed forces. India’s major national interests lie in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). With China spreading its tentacles along the proposed sea silk route the maritime threat has also become real. Recent foray of spy ship in Hambantota is just a recent example of this manifestation. Its effort to wean away Bangladesh, increase its presence in Myanmar are some other efforts to expand its influence. Base in Djibouti, growing relations with Iran and Saudi Arabia are adding further challenges.
Is India prepared to meet these challenges?
What all it needs to do to ensure the security of IOR?
Is there a need to go beyond the QUAD by including France and UK?
Commodore RS Vasan, Retd, Director Chennai Centre for China Studies and Regional Director NMF (TN) and Rishi Athreya were on a STRIVE Panel Discussion on 16 Jul 2023 at 1900
