| dc.description.abstract | This research paper focuses on Sri Lanka, an
island nation geopolitically significant in the Indian Ocean
and Asia-Pacific region. It evaluates the geopolitical
aspect benefits versus the challenges of integrating Sri
Lanka within the world's most significant free trade
agreement (RCEP). Although the economic aspects of Sri
Lanka joining the RCEP are analysed, the geopolitical
implications and aspects are yet to be uncovered.
Therefore, this research paper investigates the geopolitical
implications of Sri Lanka joining the RCEP and how it will
continue to do so, especially analysing the impact of
relations with member states, especially after India had
opted out of participating in the RCEP partnership.
Therefore, this study addresses the possible benefits and
challenges that strengthen Sri Lanka's geopolitical aspect
by joining a trade bloc by drawing on the context of
relations with countries across the Asia-Pacific, the
concept of geopolitical factors, and the geopolitical
significance of the RCEP. In this qualitative research, data
collection was conducted among experts in relevant fields
sampled as representatives of government and nongovernment
institutions. The themes were explored in depth
using secondary data. Interview-based qualitative data
were analysed and presented through thematic analysis,
followed by themes that illustrate the aspects of geopolitics.
The findings of this research will contribute to the
understanding of how small nations such as Sri Lanka can
use regional economic partnerships to enhance their
geopolitical aspects and navigate complex international
relations in an increasingly interconnected world. | en_US |
