NEW DELHI -- Every regional crisis seems like an opportunity for U.S. policy to advance its interests. This has come out starkly since 9/11, as Washington has gone about extending its influence and building long-term strategic arrangements with nations across Asia, from the Caspian region to the South China Sea. It has put in place a network of forward bases that can serve as vantage platforms to launch attacks on any nation or group threatening U.S. interests.

In South Asia, the United States has employed its antiterror campaign not only to position its military on the territories of Afghanistan and Pakistan for what appears to be the long haul, but also to propose or enter into strategic tie-ups of varying types with India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh. In the name of fighting terrorism, the U.S. has set up long-term military bases in other places, such as Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell's latest subcontinental tour was a reminder that Washington is now seeking to fashion a lasting role in South Asia, particularly in Kashmir. Having twice averted an open war between India and Pakistan since last December's terrorist attack on the Indian Parliament, the U.S. has begun extracting a price from both in the form of an overt American role in managing the Indo-Pakistan conflict and relationship. Such a role, despite its altruistic and peacemaking character designed to appeal to the self-interest of both sides, is primarily intended to promote U.S. interests.