India's Traditional Geopolitical Concept: Viewing Neighboring Countries as Natural Rivals
The ancient Kautilyan thought of India - viewing neighboring countries (ari) as natural rivals and offshore great powers (udasina) as neutral balancers.
What should be the foundation of US-India relations?
From India's perspective, the answer is obvious: maintaining a credible balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region. India is - and will continue to be - a key player in the region and a competitor on par with China. This requires the United States to support rather than undermine India's influence in the region by enhancing its technological, economic, and military strength. Washington must determine India's position in its strategic priorities. This relationship is undoubtedly significant - but only if it serves the long-term interests of both countries.
Any US policy towards India must be based on three fundamental realities.
Firstly, India seeks close partnerships, not subordinate alliances.
Secondly, despite being called the "oldest and largest democracies in the world," the two countries do not share common civilizational values. India is unlikely to develop into a Western-style liberal democracy, although its political culture remains deeply rooted in resilient indigenous pluralism and self-reflective traditions.
Finally, South Asia - more accurately, the Indian subcontinent - is India's natural sphere of influence. Attempting to compete with New Delhi in its backyard will only limit the potential of the bilateral partnership.
Source: The National Interest
Authors: Ambuj Sahu and Arun Sahgal
Original Article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1834798144370752/
Disclaimer: The article represents the views of the author alone.