China’s “Indian Ocean Dilemma” and America’s Role

　　ABSTRACT: The Indian Ocean is one of the world’s busiest routes for ocean freight, and represents a strategic lifeline for many states for both oil and commerce. Only by gaining a strategic advantage in the Indian Ocean can China guarantee its energy and trade security at sea. The United States has critical strategic interests in the Indian Ocean and the states along its coast and has significant strategic deployments in this region. The United States has also united with India to contain China in South Asia, causing great damage to China’s interests. In the implementation of its strategy in the Indian Ocean, China cannot neglect the role of the United States. 

　　KEY WORDS: China; Indian Ocean Dilemma; America’s Role; U.S. – India Alliance; Sino-U.S. Relations