India Deepens Strategic Ties with Taiwan and ASEAN Nations

Narendra Modi is leading a strategic shift in India's foreign policy by deepening engagement with Taiwan and Southeast Asian nations under the Act East Policy. This expansion includes the establishment of a new Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in Mumbai and the integration of Taiwanese think tanks into the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.

India is increasingly pursuing strategic autonomy, moving away from a strict endorsement of the One China Policy. This shift is intended to support regional stability and Taiwanese independence. To further this goal, India is seeking to integrate Taiwan into trilateral and multilateral forums, specifically to leverage Taiwan's cybersecurity expertise in protecting critical infrastructure from Chinese attacks.

Beyond Taiwan, India has expanded defense and security cooperation across ASEAN countries. This effort is highlighted by the 2023 opening of a Hindustan Aeronautics Limited regional office in Kuala Lumpur, marking a concrete step in enhancing aerospace and defense ties within the region.