Abstract
Geography mainly determines geopolitics. One region where this is seen
is the Arctic. It is affected by politics, economics, strategy and climate
change. The Arctic eight are the leading countries in the region. Other
countries outside the region are also becoming involved. One country
located proximately to the Arctic is the United Kingdom, particularly
Scotland. The UK has been involved in the region for the past few years.
The UK is keen to play an active role along with allies. It seeks to maintain
stability and provide a military deterrent to ensure regional security.
Besides, it is concerned with climate change and the environment.
However, there are military and other technological challenges to attain
this goal. India, too, is taking an interest in the region. Geography makes
Russia the most proximate Arctic state to India. There is currently
cooperation with Russia primarily for economic and environmental
reasons. India could cooperate with other Arctic states. It is unlikely that
India would be geopolitically involved in the region. UK and India, too,
can cooperate in areas of relevance. While India does have an Arctic,
there should be references to the region in Maritime Policy documents.
Key Words: Arctic, Maritime, Pacific, Russia, UK
