Answer: Third
Notes: The 2025 Asia Power Index, published by the Lowy Institute, assesses Asian countries’ resources and influence, including nations as far north as Russia and as far into the Pacific as Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. The United States remains the leading power in Asia, with influence extending beyond any single administration. China is the second-most powerful, narrowing its gap with the US to the lowest since 2020, partly due to policies during the Donald Trump administration. India ranks third, surpassing Japan last year, with a comprehensive power score over 40 points, making it a “major power.” India’s economic, military, cultural, and geopolitical capabilities have grown modestly, though diplomatic and defence influence has not expanded equally.
