What is the Look East Policy?

The “Look East Policy” was an Indian foreign policy initiative that aimed to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with countries in Southeast Asia. Originally launched in the early 1990s, it was later renamed the “Act East Policy” to reflect a more proactive approach.

The policy focused on fostering cooperation in trade, investment, and strategic partnerships with nations in the Asia-Pacific region to enhance India’s regional influence and economic engagement.

Look East Policy: Objective, Difference

The Look East Policy launched by the Government of India in 1991 and led by the former Prime Minister Narasimha Rao had a clear objective to develop economic, political, and security cooperation amongst the countries belonging to Southeast Asia.

The Look East Policy led to a prudent shift in India’s reputation concerning the entire World’s perspective. Further improvements regarding this act were made by successive administrations that included Atal Bihari Vajpayee whose tenure was from 1998–2004 and Manmohan Singh whose tenure was from 2004–2014.

Look East Policy: Objective, Difference

Table of Content

  • What is the Look East Policy?
  • What is the East Act East Policy Policy?
  • Difference between the Act East Policy and Look East Policy?
  • What are the main Objectives of Look East Policy?
  • A Deeper insight into The Look East Policy

Similar Reads

What is the Look East Policy?

The “Look East Policy” was an Indian foreign policy initiative that aimed to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with countries in Southeast Asia. Originally launched in the early 1990s, it was later renamed the “Act East Policy” to reflect a more proactive approach....

What is the East Act East Policy Policy?

The Act East Policy aims to foster economic collaboration, strengthen cultural bonds, and cultivate strategic partnerships with nations in the Indo-Pacific region. This objective is pursued through sustained involvement at the levels of bilateral, regional, and multilateral interactions, emphasizing comprehensive connectivity....

Difference between the Act East Policy and Look East Policy?

A clear difference between the two policies is that the Act East Policy worked on extending the neighborhood of Southeast Asia and incorporated security cooperation whereas the Look East Policy centered on ASEAN nations regarding their economic cooperation....

What are the main Objectives of Look East Policy?

The Look East Policy has objectives that are worth highlighting are mentioned below;...

A Deeper insight into The Look East Policy

The Look East Policy aims to establish connections, between ASEAN and East Asian nations with a focus on promoting a centered approach. Also India has actively participated in agreements with East Asian countries, which has greatly contributed to the advancement of its Act East Policy. The point that is of utmost importance is the Noteworthy bilateral relationships formed under this policy include India’s engagement with the countries consisting China, Myanmar and Sri Lanka relations with India....

Conclusion on Look East Policy

After analysis it is clear that the Look East Policy had an impact, on Indias foreign relations by expanding its political and economic reach beyond its neighboring countries. This policy set the foundation for business partnerships, cultural exchanges and strategic alliances. The shift towards the Act East Policy demonstrated Indias dedication to taking a inclusive approach in the region signifying a notable advancement, in the countrys regional involvement....

FAQs on Look East Policy

What led to the establishment of the Look East Policy?...