Answer By law4u team
India’s Act East Policy, launched to deepen engagement with Southeast Asia and the broader Indo-Pacific region, focuses on enhancing economic ties, strategic cooperation, and regional connectivity. Under this policy, India has signed several important trade and security agreements to strengthen partnerships and support regional stability.
Key Trade Agreements
India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (FTA)
India signed comprehensive trade agreements with ASEAN countries covering goods, services, and investments, boosting bilateral trade and economic integration.
BIMSTEC Framework for Regional Cooperation
Through the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), India has fostered trade facilitation and connectivity with member countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
India-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
CEPA facilitates trade and investment between India and Japan, focusing on reducing tariffs and promoting economic collaboration.
India-Vietnam Bilateral Trade Agreements
These agreements enhance trade relations with Vietnam, a key strategic partner in Southeast Asia.
Key Security Agreements
India-Japan Security Cooperation
India and Japan cooperate on maritime security, joint naval exercises, and defense technology sharing to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.
India-Vietnam Defense Cooperation
Agreements include defense training, joint exercises, and maritime security cooperation aimed at maintaining regional stability.
India-Thailand Defense and Security Partnership
India and Thailand collaborate on counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing, and joint military exercises.
India-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation
India has initiated several maritime security dialogues and joint patrols with ASEAN countries to enhance maritime domain awareness.
Example
Scenario:
India and Vietnam conduct a joint naval exercise to enhance interoperability and maritime security in the South China Sea.
Outcome:
Strengthened defense ties deter potential regional threats and promote freedom of navigation in accordance with international law.
Conclusion
India’s Act East Policy has resulted in significant trade and security agreements that deepen economic integration and strategic cooperation with Asia-Pacific nations. These agreements support India’s goals of regional stability, economic growth, and a rules-based Indo-Pacific order.
