India has been invited to join the Squad alliance to counter China’s influence in the South China Sea. The Philippines seeks collaboration for enhanced security among like-minded nations, amidst rising concerns over China’s military drills. Discussions are ongoing, but India has not officially confirmed its involvement yet.

India has received an invitation to join the multilateral alliance known as Squad to counteract China’s influence in the South China Sea. The Philippines has expressed interest in having India and South Korea join this alliance, as reported by Bloomberg News, citing Romeo Saturnino Brawner, the military chief of the Philippines.

The Squad is an informal alliance established last year comprising Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, which have cooperated through joint maritime operations within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea. Ahead of the upcoming Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Brawner revealed his plan to discuss the matter with India’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, stating he expects a positive response.

Brawner emphasized the importance of fostering self-reliance and collaborating with other like-minded nations. However, it is noteworthy that India has not yet provided any official confirmation regarding its participation.

The request from the Philippines follows mounting concerns about China’s military activities, including recent live-fire naval drills in international waters between Australia and New Zealand. Brawner underscored the necessity of cooperation among like-minded countries for intelligence exchange and joint military endeavors to address China’s growing influence in the South China Sea.

Brawner also pointed out the implications behind China’s construction of artificial islands in the South China Sea, suggesting it may indicate a significant strategic purpose—potentially regarding control over trade routes or even threats to Taiwan. Taiwan has recently warned of a possible Chinese invasion by 2027.

While India has generally opted for bilateral defense agreements rather than joining formal military alliances, it remains part of the Quad—a partnership with the United States, Japan, and Australia that seeks to balance China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

In summary, India’s potential involvement in the Squad alliance highlights the growing concerns regarding China’s influence in the South China Sea. The Philippines has invited India and South Korea to join forces in countering this influence, particularly amidst China’s recent military activities. Although India has yet to confirm its participation, discussions are underway, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among nations sharing similar interests in regional security.

Original Source: www.livemint.com

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