THE GREAT POWER STRUGGLE IN THE INDIAN OCEAN REGION AND ITS EFFECTS ON SRI LANKA

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Authors
Kuruwita, Kuruwita A., VI
Subjects
great power competition
Indian Ocean Region
Non-Aligned Movement
Belt and Road Initiative
Advisors
Halladay, Carolyn C.
Date of Issue
2024-03
Date
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Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
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Abstract
Sri Lanka’s strategic position holds significant importance amid the dynamics of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), presenting it with the challenge of balancing regional powers—India and China. As a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, Sri Lanka has historically pursued a non-aligned foreign policy, which proved beneficial during the Cold War and post-Cold War. However, in the current era of great power competition (GPC) between India and China in the IOR, Sri Lanka faces the task of adjusting its foreign policy to survive and thrive. This thesis examines the historical efficacy of Sri Lanka’s non-alignment policy in managing relations with India and China, focusing on economic and security aspects. It evaluates the successes and failures of non-alignment in achieving Sri Lanka’s national objectives, particularly the post-civil war era. Given the impact of the India–China rivalry, the thesis suggests a reassessment of Sri Lankan foreign policy on following options. Sri Lanka may choose to engage closely with India, leveraging its geographical proximity and regional influence, or deepen ties with China to balance against India’s dominance. However, drawing on historical evidence and recent developments, this thesis advocates for Sri Lanka to pursue a middle ground, maintaining true non-alignment amid regional great-power dynamics.
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Thesis
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https://hdl.handle.net/10945/72724
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National Security Affairs (NSA)
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Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
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