INDIA'S ACT EAST POLICY IMPACT ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND VIETNAM

Abstract

India’s Act East Policy, launched in 2014, marks a shift from its “Look East” policy to a more proactive approach to expanding relations with Southeast Asia amid growing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region. This paper analyzes the motivations, content, and impact of the Act East Policy on international relations, and assesses its impact on Vietnam – an important partner of India in the region. Through policy analysis and case studies, the paper shows that the Act East Policy helps India increase its influence in Southeast Asia through trade, investment, defense, and infrastructure connectivity cooperation. For Vietnam, the Act East Policy opens up opportunities to expand economic cooperation, transfer defense technology, and enhance maritime security, but also poses challenges in adjusting foreign policy strategies amid competition among major powers. In conclusion, the Act East Policy not only strengthens India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region but also creates momentum to promote the Vietnam-India comprehensive strategic partnership. To maximize the benefits from this policy, Vietnam needs to have a flexible strategy, promote substantive cooperation, and adjust its foreign policy to suit the changing regional situation.