Geo-Politics and China as a Factor in Indo-Sri Lankan Relations After 2005

Abstract

China has emerged as a significant factor between India and Sri Lanka relations. Historically, the Indian Ocean has had significant geographical importance and has attracted the interest of major countries owing to its economic significance in facilitating East and West maritime commerce. In the 21st century, India and China have emerged as influential countries in Asia, and now whomever dominates the Indian Ocean would dominate Asia in the coming times. China is strategically surrounding India by establishing its presence in several regions, including the Indian Ocean, Pakistan, Tibet, Nepal, Burma, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. This is achieved via initiatives such as the 'new silk road', 'string of pearls', and the 'Belt and Road Initiative' (BRI). The Chinese government was actively involved in the construction of Hambantota in Sri Lanka as a strategic port to secure its energy supply from the Gulf area. The Chinese policy has a direct impact on the relationship between India and Sri Lanka. In response, India initiated the ‘Security and Growth for All in the in the Region’ (SAGAR) programme in 2015. The objective of this programme is to promote the development of the 'blue economy' among the countries located around the Indian Ocean Rim. This initiative aims to offset the growing influence of China in the area. This research paper focuses on the diplomatic ties between India and Sri Lanka after 2005, with particular emphasis on the tenure of Mahinda Rajapaksa due to his favourable posture towards China.