| Summary/Abstract |
Lately, China’s politico-diplomatic and economic engagements with the Indian Ocean littorals, and its naval activities in the region, have become increasingly conspicuous. This paper aims to undertake a comprehensive assessment, not only of the trends, but also of the underlying factors shaping these trends, which makes China potentially an Indian Ocean power. The underlying factors examined are China's economic, strategic and geopolitical objectives and imperatives, and its national strategy – including its maritime military strategy – in the region. The paper concludes with a prognosis, and its implications for the region and India.
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