The South East Asia and Oceania Centre focuses on policy-relevant research with respect to the ten ASEAN states, East Timor and Oceania, including Australia and New Zealand. The Centre studies India’s bilateral and multilateral relations with states of the region with a view to providing contemporary relevance to India’s Look East policy. It has a futuristic-looking approach and examines the emerging trends in the regional security architecture. The Centre studies the potential for India’s enhanced defence cooperation (including maritime issues) and cooperation in non-traditional security issues with the region. It examines internal developments of countries in this region, especially political transitions and the role of the military, and their implications for India. The Centre seeks to promote Track-II institutional linkages with the region. Southeast Asia & Oceania Centre brings out a monthly newsletter – Insight Southeast Asia.
Indonesia can emulate best practices from neighbouring countries like Malaysia vis-à-vis deradicalisation programmes to further reduce recidivism rates.
The visit of Vietnamese Defence Minister General Phan Van Giang to India reflects the deepening of the partnership which has evolved as a consequence of the rapidly changing regional security dynamics.
Indonesia needs a robust policy response vis-à-vis Foreign Returned Terrorist Fighters in terms of their integration, dismantling of networks, and regular monitoring of their activities.
Tailored strategies that cater to the unique needs and aspirations of the North Eastern Region can ensure comprehensive development, regional cooperation and long-term stability.
Anwar Ibrahim’s ascent to power could prove advantageous for dealing with Malaysia’s fractious domestic dynamics as well as for furthering the country’s foreign policy goals.
The Shan state of Myanmar is the largest producer of illegal drugs within the infamous Golden Triangle—a tri-junction at the Myanmar, Laos and Thailand borders.
The new Labor Party government in Australia is likely to show continuity on AUKUS and Quad initiatives in the Indo-Pacific, while policy approaches on Pacific Islands and China, as also on climate change, may get a re-look.
