he most visible expansion in India-China bilateral relations since the turn of the century is in the sphere of their economic and commercial engagement. This expansion coincided with their emergence as the fastest-growing economies in the world. Today, China is India’s largest goods trading partner. And for China, India is its seventh-largest export destination. Even more remarkable, this upsurge in bilateral trade and economic ties has occurred over a short span of time. read more

The Indian Ocean is becoming an important area of rivalry between India and China. The shape of any future security order in the Indian Ocean, and the roles of India and China in that order, are big unanswered questions. But public analysis of China's role in the region is relatively unsophisticated. Some Indian commentators see China as an aggressive intruder in the Indian Ocean, accusing it of building "strings" of naval bases and of even trying to "encircle" India. read more

As Chinese Premier Li Keqiang prepares for his visit to India, what are the possibilities that could arise from his historic visit? Three issues have, over the past sixty years been prominent in Chinese and India diplomacy; the border issues, Tibet, and trade. All are on the agenda for Li’s visit, and all have recently been raising their hands begging for attention. Looking beyond the India-China border disputes for a moment, the recent behavior of China towards its neighbors has been somewhat assertive. read more

The presidential election in Iran, to be held on 14 June 2013, will significantly impact the country’s internal affairs. It is possible that the outcome will create domestic unrest and affect national stability. The outcome will also have implications for the entire region, and for emerging powers such as India, with economic and political interests in Iran. The election will be closely watched by the West. read more