India and the Non-Arctic Asian Observer States

In this chapter the author analyses the engagement and policies of the Asian Arctic Observer States, China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, and India’s relations with each of these countries. This chapter has endeavoured to undertake an analysis of the evolution of the policies of non-Arctic Asian states and identify salient aspects. The analysis considered several factors such as history, geopolitics, geo-economics, natural resources and shipping routes. The chapter inferred that the involvement of Asian states in the Arctic is primarily due to climate change and scientific research, and perceived economic and technological benefits. The Arctic has great potential to benefit the economic development of these countries. The countries of Northeast Asia, China, Japan and South Korea are also keen on developing a shorter trade route, as the melting sea ice in the region makes such a route feasible. The author infers that although climate change remains the priority of China’s Arctic policy, economic concerns related to the region are presently at a higher priority. Nevertheless, geopolitics, relatively stable global oil prices, the limited number of vessels plying the NSR, high exploitation costs and a sensitive environment may result in delays to earlier envisaged Arctic development forecasts. Consequently, the Arctic is of lesser economic significance to China than many Chinese expected in the short and mid-term. India needs to focus on greater partnership with China, Japan, South Korea and Singapore in all areas concerning the Arctic. A more significant collaborative effort could benefit all countries. The chapter also analyses their relationship with India and implications for India’s Arctic engagement.