The Philippines’ request comes at a time of increasing regional tensions, particularly following China’s recent live-fire naval drills in the Tasman Sea, located between Australia and New Zealand
India has been invited to join the multilateral security alliance known as ‘Squad’ to counter China’s growing influence in the South China Sea. The Philippines is advocating for India and South Korea to become part of the group, according to a Bloomberg report quoting the country’s military chief, Romeo Saturnino Brawner, on Wednesday.
What Is Squad?
Formed last year, Squad is an informal alliance comprising Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States. The grouping has focused on defence cooperation and conducted joint maritime activities within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea.
Philippines’ Outreach To India
Speaking ahead of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Brawner confirmed his plans to discuss India’s potential inclusion in Squad with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan.
“I’m going to talk to General Anil Chauhan this afternoon and I am going to open it up… I think we’re going to get a positive response,” Brawner said. He further stressed the importance of strengthening self-reliance while forming partnerships with “like-minded nations” to bolster regional security.
However, India has not issued any official confirmation regarding the proposal.
China’s Expanding Presence In South China Sea
The Philippines’ request comes at a time of increasing regional tensions, particularly following China’s recent live-fire naval drills in the Tasman Sea, located between Australia and New Zealand. The drills have raised concerns among several countries about Beijing’s military assertiveness.
Brawner underscored the need for enhanced intelligence-sharing and military cooperation to counter China’s expanding influence. He also highlighted the artificial islands built by China in the South China Sea, warning that they could signal “something big,” such as increased control over trade routes or a potential move against Taiwan. Taiwan has previously stated that China could attempt an invasion of the self-governed island by 2027.
India’s Strategic Approach
India has traditionally refrained from joining military alliances, preferring bilateral security partnerships and independent defence exercises. Currently, India is a member of the Quad, an informal security alliance with the United States, Japan, and Australia that focuses on countering Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
While Squad primarily engages in maritime operations specific to the South China Sea, the Quad operates at a broader strategic level, addressing security concerns across the Indo-Pacific. India’s response to the invitation will be closely watched, as it navigates its geopolitical stance amid evolving regional dynamics.
