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Reviews | 6 reasons why the Indo-Pacific has become a battleground for US-China influence
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Reviews | 6 reasons why the Indo-Pacific has become a battleground for US-China influence

Asia is currently experiencing significant geopolitical changes, driven by a confluence of interrelated forces. The term “Indo-Pacific” is increasingly supplanting “Asia-Pacific” in strategic discussions, reflecting a broader geopolitical scope that encompasses both the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This shift highlights the interdependence of security, economics and politics in these areas.

This article presents six observations on why the Indo-Pacific is becoming the next battleground for primacy and prosperity.

1. Asian century versus diversity

The idea of ​​an “Asian century” is one that Deng Xiaoping he himself approached with skepticism. Proponents of the concept often cite the historical dominance of China And India in the global economy and the growing dysfunction of Western politics, which has created a leadership vacuum that they believe Asia is destined to fill.
China has become a power in manufacturing, technology and cheap loans, inspired by the growth of the “Asian Tigers” and sparking dynamism in India and Southeast Asia . But Asia is too diverse to be treated individually. Economic growth has too often been confined to coastal urban areas and remains tempered by widespread crises. aging of the populationworsening climate risks and formidable frugality.
Since the rise of the Asian Tigers, no country in Asia has managed to escape the middle-income trap, unlike around twenty other mid-sized countries, such as Poland, ChileAnd Estonia. And for all of Asia’s dominance in global trade, it often depends on Western markets for final demand.

Asia’s influence will not follow its economic growth to the same degree as that of the West, because Asia is an artificial geographic agglomeration, glossing over irreconcilable differences not seen in the West. This diversity is both a strength and a challenge. When harnessed effectively, it can be a source of creativity, economic synergy and cultural wealth, giving Asia a competitive advantage.