India has been invited to join the ‘Squad,’ a multilateral coalition aimed at countering China’s influence in the South China Sea. The Philippines’ military chief highlighted this alongside existing concerns due to China’s military activities. Current regional dynamics suggest a significant interest in forming partnerships for collective security, while India maintains a cautious approach to military alliances.

India has received an invitation to join the ‘Squad,’ a multilateral alliance aimed at countering China’s influence in the South China Sea. This development has been reported by Bloomberg News, citing Romeo Saturnino Brawner, the Philippines’ military chief, who expressed the desire for India and South Korea’s inclusion in this coalition.

The ‘Squad,’ formed last year, includes countries such as Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States. This informal alliance has conducted joint maritime operations within the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, strengthening regional security.

Ahead of the Raisina dialogue in New Delhi, Brawner announced his intention to engage with India’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, during a meeting scheduled for that afternoon. He anticipated a “positive response” regarding India’s potential involvement.

Brawner emphasized the importance of self-reliance and collaborating with similarly minded nations. However, as of now, there is no official declaration from India regarding its participation.

This invitation from the Philippines follows China’s live-fire naval drills in international waters of the Tasman Sea, raising concerns for multiple countries, including Australia and New Zealand. Brawner articulated a strong need for collaboration among nations to exchange intelligence and conduct joint military exercises to effectively counteract China’s assertiveness in the region.

He also expressed concerns about China’s construction of artificial islands in the South China Sea, speculating that this could foreshadow a strategic move to control vital trade routes or potential threats to Taiwan. The Taiwanese government remarked on the possibility of a Chinese invasion by 2027.

India has historically preferred bilateral agreements for defense exercises rather than joining widespread military alliances. Presently, India is a member of the Quad, which includes the United States, Japan, and Australia, and aims to monitor China’s influence in the broader Indo-Pacific region.

In summary, India’s potential engagement with the ‘Squad’ reflects the growing strategic partnerships in response to regional security challenges posed by China’s activities in the South China Sea. While an invitation has been extended, official confirmation from India is still pending, underscoring the cautious approach India typically adopts regarding military alliances. Collaborative efforts among like-minded nations may become essential as regional tensions rise.

Original Source: www.livemint.com

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