SOUTH ASIA IN THE EVOLVING INTERNATIONAL CONTEXT: THE ROLE OF JAPAN

This article examines the evolving role of Japan in South Asia at the dawn of the post-Cold War era. It analyzes Japan's foreign policy shift from a purely economic focus to a more proactive political and strategic engagement with the region. The study assesses the drivers of this change, including Japan's emergence as a global economic superpower and the changing geopolitical landscape. The research explores the key dimensions of Japan's role, focusing on its position as the largest aid donor to South Asian countries, its growing trade and investment, and its potential role in promoting regional stability and cooperation. The paper argues that Japan was poised to become a major influential actor in South Asia, offering an alternative model of engagement to that of the traditional Cold War powers. The analysis concludes by evaluating the opportunities and challenges for a deeper Japan-South Asia partnership.

As the bipolar world order of the Cold War crumbled, the international context for South Asia began to evolve rapidly, creating space for new actors and influences. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the expanding role of Japan in the region. The study begins by tracing the history of Japan's engagement with South Asia, which had been historically limited and overwhelmingly economic in nature, centered on development aid and trade. The core of the article argues that the late 1980s and early 1990s marked a significant turning point. It examines the key factors compelling Japan to adopt a more assertive foreign policy, including its desire for a political role commensurate with its economic might and the need to secure its sea lanes of communication. The paper analyzes the key instruments of Japan's influence in South Asia. It provides a detailed assessment of Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA) program, which made it the preeminent development partner for countries like Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. Beyond aid, the study explores the growing footprint of Japanese investment and trade. The findings suggest that Japan's role was transforming from that of a passive economic partner to that of a key strategic stakeholder, with the potential to significantly impact the region's economic development and security architecture in the coming decade.