New Security Equations in Asia, and Iran’s Opportunity

09 November 2010 | 02:10 Code : 9280 Asia & Africa
By Nozar Shafee’i.
New Security Equations in Asia, and Iran’s Opportunity
Since the end of the Cold War—which ushered in a new order in global affairs—India, a prominent leader of the Non-Aligned Movement, has moved closer to the United States. New Delhi-Washington ties gained momentum particularly during George W. Bush’s tenure, perhaps best represented by the July 2005 nuclear deal that aroused the ire of Pakistan. India’s stature as the world’s largest democracy and a potential key partner in global affairs is acknowledged by the United States. Nonetheless, in return for preferential status, Washington expects New Delhi to be further hesitant in its relations with Iran, and for it to not engage in a strategic partnership with Tehran. Such a demand may fall in contradiction with New Delhi’s strategic interests. Indians prefer to enjoy close relations with both countries.

Sanctions against Iran will undoubtedly be on Obama’s agenda during his visit to New Delhi. Nevertheless, both the Indian diplomatic apparatus and academic circles believe that Tehran-New Delhi ties should be regulated within the neoclassical realism framework, meaning that India’s national interests should serve as the primary benchmark, though US demands and the international community’s demands should be taken into consideration. Thus, it seems that in spite of Washington’s pressures, New Delhi seeks middle of the road approach: relations with Iran should be pitched at a level which is neither irritating for the United States nor detrimental to India’s interests.

Meanwhile, the South, South-East, and East Asian security systems are generally based on the notion of balance of power. Regional equilibrium should be maintained in any event; thus, U.S. pressure on India to stand against China encourages India to move closer to Iran in order to preserve balance. Meanwhile, Obama’s efforts to curb China’s regional influence will ultimately persuade Beijing to approach Iran and Pakistan in order to preserve an equilibrium.

It seems that new security equations are forming in the South, South-East and East of Asia. This is an opportunity that Iran should grasp in order to retrieve its role as a balance-creating factor in regional and continental affairs.

Nozar Shafee’i is political sciences professor in University of Esfahan and Sub-Continent affairs analyst.