| dc.description.abstract | The Indo-Pacific has become the focal
point of discussion among strategists in the 21st
century, which is evident from the
implementation of different instruments such as
the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue and the Free
and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP). The strategic
posture entailed within the Indo-Pacific security
architecture necessitates a military balance of
power within the region, as the power rivalry in
the Indian Ocean has evolved beyond military
aspects into economic, ideological and technical
dimensions. Therefore, this research examines
how these international instruments could be
better coordinated, in order to improve the
balance of power in the region. Towards this end,
this research has two objectives, firstly, to map
out the different regional mechanisms that are in
position to improve interaction; and secondly, to
analyse what steps need to be taken to improve
the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.
Qualitative in nature, the research utilises
primary sources such as the strategy documents
issued by governments and security groupings,
speeches from world leaders, along with
secondary sources. The research underscores
that the oceans of the Indo-Pacific remains
central to this evolving power struggle, as the
economic centre of gravity shifts to the East,
necessitating peaceful interaction to increase
trust and improve the balance of power. FOIP
assures a proactive contribution to peace based
on the principle of international cooperation,
encouraging likeminded navies in the region to
increase collaboration and cooperation. In
conclusion, it can be ascertained that the
increased number of regional groupings has
reduced the level of trust within the Indo-Pacific
thus, calling for more synergies and
understanding among international instruments. | en_US |
