Prime Minister Modi's Eastward Journey and the "G Minus Two" Approach

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visits to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand highlight a strategic shift in India's Indo-Pacific approach, termed as "G Minus Two". This approach seeks to consolidate India's position by enhancing cooperation with Asian powers in response to the evolving dynamics between the US and China.

Background and Rationale

• The notion of a US-China G2 arrangement in Asia has historically unsettled Indian strategists.
• President Trump's administration amplified these concerns by downplaying the Indo-Pacific terminology.
• India, along with other Asian nations, is focusing on expanding intra-Asian cooperation to counterbalance US-China relations.

Strategic Importance of "G Minus Two"

• This approach is not about alienating the US; a stable balance of power in Asia necessitates US strategic presence.
• Countries like Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand continue to strengthen security ties with the US.
• India and Indonesia, despite non-aligned traditions, have intensified defense cooperation with the US.

Managing the China Factor

• The strategy is not aimed at containing China but managing its influence in Asia.
• Asian nations recognize the need to "de-risk" economic interdependence with China.
• India's trade with China is significant, with similar patterns observed in South Korea, Japan, Australia, and ASEAN.

Economic and Strategic Cooperation

• Deeper economic cooperation within Asia has gained impetus, partly due to Trump's tariff policies.
• Key themes in recent diplomatic visits include economic resilience and defense cooperation.
• The objective is to strengthen partnerships with major industrial, technological, and maritime powers in Asia.

Key Partnerships and Contributions

• Japan: Offers advanced manufacturing, defense technology, and infrastructure finance.
• South Korea: Known for shipbuilding, semiconductors, and defense production capabilities.
• Australia: Critical in minerals, maritime security, and stabilizing the eastern Indian Ocean.
• New Zealand: Provides opportunities in trade, education, agriculture, and technology.
• Indonesia: Geopolitical heart of the Indo-Pacific, crucial for economic and security cooperation with India.

Conclusion: India's Path Forward

India's success with "G Minus Two" will hinge on internal economic reform and defense modernization. A competitive economy and strong defense industrial base will amplify India's strategic partnerships in Asia, positioning it favorably in an emerging Asian order.