Despite being only a sea away, China has not always been a major actor inside Indian Ocean politics. Despite this, its strategic presence in the region has been ramping up in recent decades as its government prepares for a new age political face-off against the United States and other major powers. For China, pushing the boundaries of its maritime control is nothing new, as its claims in the Southeast Chinese Sea have created friction with other major actors in the region. In the Indian Ocean, China hopes not only to protect its trade lines with its allies in the Middle East and Africa, but further foster strategic partnerships in the region to combat Indian and American influence. Using military presence along with trade to help accomplish its objectives.

While other actors - like India and the United States - may have a head start in the region, the cabinet of China is tasked with guiding Chinese influence towards a new position inside the Indian Ocean. Delegates are tasked with ensuring strategic partnerships, using targeted military positioning, diplomacy, and alliances to accomplish their goals, and deal with domestic and international economic and political crises alike. As China looks towards the uncertain future, no ideas are ruled out.