Act East Policy: A Review of India's Trade, Investments, Cultural Exchange, and Strategic Alliances

Abstract

India's Act East Policy (AEP) is a comprehensive foreign policy initiative that has gained momentum over the past few decades. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the AEP, focusing on its key components, including trade, investments, cultural exchange, and strategic partnerships. The AEP, launched in the early 1990s, represents a significant shift in India's engagement with the Asia-Pacific region, emphasizing economic cooperation, cultural diplomacy, and strategic collaborations. This paper explores the evolution of the AEP, its historical context, and its impact on India's relationships with countries in the East and Southeast Asian regions. The researchers examine the growth in trade and investment ties, highlighting the increasing economic interdependence between India and its eastern neighbours. Furthermore, this review discusses the cultural exchange initiatives that have fostered people-to-people connections and increased mutual understanding. The AEP's role in strengthening India's strategic partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region is a significant aspect of this analysis. We discuss India's engagement with major players like Japan, Vietnam, and the ASEAN nations, along with the implications for regional stability and security. This review synthesizes the existing literature on India's Act East Policy, offering insights into its successes, challenges, and potential for further development. By analysing trade statistics, investment patterns, cultural exchanges, and strategic alliances, this paper provides a holistic view of the AEP's multifaceted approach to regional diplomacy and cooperation.