The Asia-Pacific and Indo-Pacific regions have emerged as pivotal geopolitical theaters, wielding significant influence in shaping the trajectory of the 21st century. Historically, the Asia-Pacific term has been widely used to encapsulate the vast expanse from East Asia to the Western Pacific, encompassing diverse nations with varied cultural, economic, and political backgrounds. However, the evolving global dynamics have led to this region's redefinition, with the Indo-Pacific concept gaining prominence.

The Indo-Pacific extends beyond the traditional Asia-Pacific boundaries, incorporating the Indian Ocean into the geopolitical calculus. This expanded framework reflects the interconnectedness of maritime routes and underscores the strategic importance of both the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The Indo-Pacific encapsulates the convergence of interests and the interplay of major powers, amplifying the significance of regional cooperation and competition. Regional disputes have become integral to this narrative, with contested territorial claims, historical rivalries, and maritime disputes defining the geopolitical landscape.

In this book, we have examined the claims about the South China Sea, national interests in the region, balancing policies, disputes, diplomatic efforts and multilateral dialogues in a wide perspective in terms of geopolitical developments.