US-China Strategic Competition in South Asia: Implications for Regional Power Dynamics

Abstract

The close competition between the US and China in South Asia has greatly changed how the region deals with politics, business and defense. As China and the US strive for dominance through defense cooperation, infrastructure development initiatives, diplomatic engagements, military and political means, smaller countries in South Asia make sure not to depend too much on either of the two. The study examines the rising conflict between the US and China in South Asia and its effects on the region’s peace, independence and cooperative activities with other nations. Examining Pakistan, India and Bangladesh as main examples, the study shows how people at the local level interact with superpower plans which can result in imbalances of power and new partnerships. Researchers also examine whether adversarial or cooperative outcomes may arise in the Indo-Pacific, China’s BRI and the Quad. According to the analysis, while regional tensions rise because of intense great power competition, South Asian nations have a chance to use economic and strategic opportunities but could remain vulnerable if they depend too much. At the end, the study suggests ways to decrease conflict escalation and encourage mutual cooperation in the region.