Future of Japan-South Asia Renewed Relationship in Emerging Chinese Influence

Abstract

The Abe administration has redefined Japan’s relationship with the South Asian countries for economic and geo-strategic interests and introduced country-specific strategies for success. However, Chinese influence in the region is increasing. On the other hand, Japan’s South Asia policy is India focused, and mainly to counter China, regionally and globally. Reintegration of Quad is another step towards the objective. Most of the existing literature evaluates the current South Asian geo-economic and geopolitical dynamics from a narrow angle of China or Japan while looking into the combined perspectives of Japan and China in South Asia remains outside their purview. This qualitative study examines the prospect of the renewed Japan-South Asia relations in emerging Chinese influence. By analyzing very recent data, this research finds Japan’s engagement in the South Asian region higher than in the past. The Chinese investment in the region has increased significantly and its influence is intensifying. This research reveals that the positive image of Japan as a trusted friend and the character of its services and quality of its products are helping Japan strengthen its renewed relationship with the South Asian countries. The research concludes that South Asian countries are seemingly dividing into two blocs, not yet clearly visible, but clears signs of a Japan-India alignment vis-a-vis China are there.