భారత్ Squad Alliance Lo చేరబోతుందా?| Will India Join Squad To Counter China?| Telugu Defence News|

India, China, and the Squad: A New Power Game in Asia

India-China tensions have been rising since the 2020 Galwan clash, but both nations have recently attempted to stabilise relations. However, a new geopolitical shift has emerged. The Squad, a strategic group countering China, has invited India to join. Interestingly, when the Squad was initially formed, India was excluded. Now, with changing dynamics, the invitation has been extended. So, what is the Squad? Why is India being invited now? Will India join? Let’s explore.

The Philippines' Bold Statement

Recently, a Philippines military general openly declared China as a common enemy and invited India to join the Squad. This is not a casual statement. The Philippines and India share strong defence ties, with the Philippines being the first country to buy BrahMos missiles from India. The country has also expressed interest in acquiring more Indian weapons, including air defence systems and fighter aircraft.

This invitation signals a deeper strategic partnership. The Philippines is essentially saying, "We will buy more Indian weapons, and together, we can counter China." But before discussing India’s response, let’s understand the Quad and the Squad.

Understanding the Quad and the Squad

Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) includes India, the United States, Japan, and Australia. Formed to counter China's expansion in the Indo-Pacific, the Quad focuses on military exercises, intelligence sharing, and economic cooperation to challenge Chinese activities, particularly in the South China Sea.

On the other hand, the Squad was created in 2024 under US President Joe Biden’s leadership, consisting of the US, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines. India was deliberately excluded, leading to speculation that the US didn’t see India as strategic enough to counter China. Unlike the Quad, the Squad has a stronger military focus, with Philippines allowing American troops on its soil to directly challenge China.

At the time, some analysts argued that the Squad would replace the Quad, but now, the Philippines is inviting India. What caused this sudden shift?

Trump’s Return and the Philippines' Fear

The main reason is the return of Donald Trump as US President. Trump's "America First" policy means he prioritises US interests over alliances.

Under Biden, the US supplied billions in weapons to Ukraine, strengthening US arms exports while challenging Russia’s military. However, Trump views such actions as unprofitable. He cut aid and even demanded economic returns from Ukraine for past US support.

A similar situation exists with Japan. The US has long maintained military bases in Japan under a defence agreement, promising protection. But Trump questions this arrangement, suggesting Japan should defend itself rather than rely on the US.

The Philippines fears a similar situation—if China attacks, will the US still provide support? Trump may demand strategic concessions before helping. This uncertainty is why the Philippines wants India in the Squad—to strengthen its security with a reliable military ally. Other nations, like South Korea, may also push for India’s inclusion.

India’s Dilemma: To Join or Not to Join?

Reasons to Join:

Strengthening India-Philippines defence ties and expanding India's influence in the South China Sea.

Sending a strong message to China against its aggressive actions.

Reasons to Stay Out:

India-China relations are improving, with both sides working to avoid conflicts. Joining the Squad could reverse this progress.

Unlike other Squad members, India shares a land border with China, making direct conflict more likely if tensions escalate.

The Philippines openly declared China as an enemy, putting India in a tough spot. A balanced approach could be maintaining Quad partnerships, strengthening military ties with the Squad informally, but avoiding formal membership to prevent unnecessary conflicts with China.

What do you think? Should India join the Squad to counter China? Or should it focus on improving relations instead? Share your thoughts!

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