| Summary/Abstract |
This analysis examines how Indian diplomacy enabled Burma and Ceylon to turn down requests by the West to join the Southeast Asian Treaty Organisation [SEATO]. It shows how this diplomacy allowed elements in Burma and Ceylon that favoured a non-aligned approach to hold their own in the face of calls to join SEATO. Contrary to the depiction of Indian diplomacy as being simply idealistic and given to pious invocations, this article shows how India used different resources to strengthen the non-aligned constituency in the region. It also shows that whilst many de-colonised states favoured non-alignment, threats to their security led some to align with the Great Powers. Whilst Burma and Ceylon did perceive a clear threat from communism, the example set by India in its own foreign policy, its aid policies, and its relationship with China helped them reduce their fear of communism and stay committed to non-alignment.
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