Maritime Geopolitics in Indian Ocean: China's Bid for Regional Dominance

ABSTRACT: In the contemporary world, China is one of the giants that intends to dominate the whole world. To achieve this enormous dream China took the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which will connect most of the world through land and maritime routes. BRI’s geographical span is constantly expanding which comprises 3 continents, 68 countries covering 65% of the world’s population which will involve infrastructural development like ports, roads, railways, and airports costing over US$1 trillion in investments. The Indian Ocean has become a key strategic arena in maritime geopolitics due to its increasing importance in terms of global economic trade and security. This paper focuses on explaining the geopolitical dimension of BRI. Hambantota and Gwadar, two mammoth seaports, in the Indian Ocean play a crucial role in China’s plan to increase its maritime footprint in littoral South Asia. This paper also attempts to find out China’s emerging strategic security interests in this region by exercising soft power which is a key element in China’s national security. The objective of the paper is to trace China’s changing maritime stance towards the Indian Ocean, with the aim to improve regional dominance and integration by increasing trade and economic growth. KEYWORDS: BRI, geopolitics, Indian Ocean, Gwadar, Hambantot