From Asymmetric Strategic Rivalry to Strategic Bargaining and Cooperation: Is There a Case for India–China Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific?

India and China both have a long history of engagement based on their asymmetric power capabilities, differences in threat perceptions and international status. Given these three aspects of asymmetry, this article argues that China and India must focus on cooperation that can come through bargaining and compromises and promote peace and stability in the region. The article argues that by cooperating with each other they can develop a strong alternative to the existing Western liberal order, in the particular context of the Indo-Pacific.