Indo-Japan relations critical to stability of Indo-Pacific region in future, say experts

Relations between India and Japan, two nations prioritizing dialogue and consensus in their foreign policies, are crucial for the future stability of the Indo-Pacific region, according to experts who discussed the topic at a panel discussion. The two countries maintain strong economic and strategic ties, and experts believe that cooperation in manufacturing, technology exchange, semiconductor research, and Artificial Intelligence will further strengthen their relationship. Both nations share common goals, such as fostering a multilateral Asia, according to the panel.

Stanly Johny, International Affairs Editor at The Hindu, outlined three key aspects for India's future: maintaining economic growth to fund strategic investments, ensuring peaceful development for overall regional stability, and employing a "G-Minus-Two" strategy, similar to the G2 concept previously proposed by the U.S. President Donald Trump, to counterbalance the increasingly influential presence of China.

Dr. Stanly emphasized that India should not view itself as an ally of any superpower but rather as a cornerstone of the emerging global order.

Sridhar Krishnaswamy, a Visiting Professor and Scholar-in-Residence at Sai University, warned that a conflict in the Indo-Pacific region could be catastrophic, likening it to a "Saturday afternoon school picnic" compared to the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East. He questioned the commitment of the United States to the Indo-Pacific region, especially in comparison to its role during the Cold War.

Dr. M. Uma Maheswari, Head of the Department of Politics and Public Administration at the University of Madras, highlighted ongoing flashpoints such as extremism in South and Southeast Asia, instability on the Korean Peninsula, and territorial disputes in the South China Sea, all of which continue to shape regional dynamics.

Suguna Ramamoorthy, Secretary General of the Indo-Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IJCCI), emphasized the critical role of the Strait of Malacca, which accommodates more than one-fifth of global maritime traffic and significantly impacts global trade, energy supplies, and industrial components. Rita John, Registrar at the University of Madras, as well as other panelists, contributed to the discussion.