ABSTRACT
The changing geopolitics of this interconnected world has shifted the focus from the physicality of a region to its connectivity. Given the geostrategic proximity between South Asia and South East Asia, the establishment of road links is vital for regional integration as well as to encourage and develop economic interactions. Further, a good road network constitutes the basic infrastructure that accelerates the development process through connectivity and leads to the opening up of backward regions to trade, investment and other social and cultural exchanges. One of the stated priority areas of BIMSTEC is to increase infrastructure connectivity, through the augmentation of transport and communication networks. It is in this reference that this chapter argues that the reopening of the Stilwell Road (also referred to as Ledo Road) offers crucial potential for sub-regional integration between South Asia and Southeast Asia, alongside reflecting upon the significance of improved connectivity. It, however, remains unused in the present times. Enhancing connectivity through various routes such as the aforementioned Stilwell Road is also in coherence with India’s Look and Act East policy, which offers re-engagement with its eastern neighbourhood closely, and has helped India emerge as a significant player in the strategic dynamics of the region.
