Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
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The Look East Policy represented India's shift towards establishing and strengthening economic and strategic ties with East and Southeast Asian nations, stemming from historical ties and proportionate in response to the changing geopolitical landscape following the Cold War.
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Origins of the Look East Policy
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While the Look East policy officially began in the early 1990s, the foundations of India’s economic and strategic engagement with East and Southeast Asia were laid during the 1980s.
Detailed Explanation
India's Look East Policy emerged in the 1990s, but its roots trace back to initiatives started in the 1980s. During this time, India began recognizing the importance of strengthening connections with countries in East and Southeast Asia for both economic and strategic reasons. By looking east, India aimed to enhance its trade relationships, foster diplomatic ties, and increase its influence in a region that was rapidly developing.
Examples & Analogies
Think of the Look East Policy like planting a garden. In the 1980s, India was preparing the soil and selecting the right seeds (establishing initial relationships), but it was not until the 1990s that the flowers (economic and strategic partnerships) began to bloom and flourish.
Economic and Trade Relations
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India sought to expand its economic and trade relations with countries like Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN nations.
Detailed Explanation
A primary objective of the Look East Policy was to boost India’s economic growth by expanding trade with East Asian nations like Japan and South Korea. Additionally, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries were pivotal in this strategy. By fostering trade agreements and partnerships, India aimed to become a significant player in regional trade dynamics, which would help in bolstering its own economy alongside enhancing its geopolitical standing.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine that India is a student looking to study abroad. Just like that student would research and connect with universities in different countries to find the best fit for their studies, India pursued partnerships with Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN nations to enrich its economic 'education' and growth.