India, South Korea explore joint projects in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh
NEW DELHI : India and South Korea are discussing joint development projects in neighbouring countries such as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, according to persons aware of the matter. While talks are still in early stages, the development is significant as it reflects a renewed focus on bilateral relations between India and South Korea, with Seoul seen expanding its strategic interests beyond East Asia. Mint had earlier reported that South Korean president Yoon Suk-Yeol is eyeing a visit to India to push key projects and discuss strategic technologies, the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative and China-related matters.
This also comes on the heels of India's aim to partner key countries such as the US, the UK, Germany and Japan to deliver projects in third countries. Resources and technical expertise from a number of these nations will help improve India’s pitch for greater integration with its neighbours, countering China's regional economic influence. On the sidelines of the G20 Summit in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met South Korean president Yoon and discussed trade, investments, defense, semiconductors, and battery technologies as well as their bilateral Special Strategic Partnership along with global and regional issues.
Seoul has been eager to strengthen ties with India. The nation's "New Southern Policy," implemented under former president Moon Jae-in, sought to focus on ASEAN and India. “First, we will advance our special strategic partnership with India, a leading regional partner with shared values.
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