Taking note of India's "growing influence" in global affairs, the US has said the country will be a net provider of security in the Indian Ocean and beyond with the growth of its military capabilities.
"The distribution of global political, economic and military power is shifting and becoming more diffuse. The rise of China, the world's most populous country, and India, the world's largest democracy, will continue to reshape the international system," said the Quadrennial Defence Review (QDR) report released by US defence secretary Robert Gates.
The once in a four year report, which shapes the policy of the Pentagon for the next four years, noted that while the US will remain the most powerful actor, it must increasingly cooperate with key allies and partners to build and sustain peace and security.
"Whether and how rising powers fully integrate into the global system will be among this century's defining questions, and are thus central to America's interests," it said. As the economic power, cultural reach and political influence of India increase, it is assuming a more influential role in global affairs, the 128-page QDR report said.
"This growing influence, combined with democratic values it shares with the United States, an open political system, and a commitment to global stability, will present many opportunities for cooperation," it said.
"India's military capabilities are rapidly improving through increased defence acquisitions and they now include long range maritime surveillance, maritime interdiction and patrolling, air interdiction and strategic airlift," the report noted.
"India has already established its worldwide military influence through counter piracy, peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief efforts. As its military capabilities grow, India will contribute to Asia as a net provider of security in the Indian Ocean and beyond," report said.
On the other hand, the report expressed concerns over the lack of Chinese transparency over its military development. "The US welcomes a strong, prosperous, and successful China that plays a greater global role. However, lack of transparency and the nature of China's military development and decision-making processes raise legitimate questions about its future conduct and intentions within Asia and beyond," the report said.
Posted by Jayesh Varma | Views 166 | Share Blog
