Paper: GS – II, Subject: International Relations, Topic: India’s relations with major powers, Issue: India-China-Russia triangular relations.
Context:
PM Modi’s meeting with Xi Jinping during the SCO Summit in Tianjin marks focus shift towards India–China–Russia dynamics amidst shifting global order. The key issue remains managing India–China relations without undermining India–U.S. strategic partnership.
Key Highlights:
India–China Engagement:
Diplomatic Nuance:
- Modi–Xi meeting symbolises attempts at normalisation.
- But structural challenges remain: border disputes, lack of trust, repeated stand-offs.
- History of setbacks:
Persistent Contradictions:
- Rhetoric vs reality: Rhetoric of “partnership, non-rivals, Asian solidarity” masks deeper gaps.
- India’s policy dilemma: Balancing strategic autonomy with realities of border threats.
- Aggression tactics: China continues aggressive postures, undermining trust.
India–U.S. Factor:
- India’s growing alignment with U.S. overshadows its engagement with China.
- Strategic partnership with U.S. is carefully built over 3 decades.
- Current friction with U.S. especially over Russia and trade does not change India’s long-term alignment.
- India cannot underestimate the importance of Washington while engaging with Beijing.
Rebalancing and Equilibrium:
Lessons from History:
- India–China relations shaped not just by bilateral issues, but also external factors such as U.S., Russia, and global economy.
- Need to find balance between short-term tactical moves and long-term strategic interests.
- Need to overcome the past oscillations between cooperation and confrontation.
Modi–Xi Engagement in Tianjin:
- Seen as leap of faith and attempt to stabilise ties.
- Xi invoked Panchsheel Principles which signals continuity with older frameworks.
- But China’s actions such as border militarisation, economic coercion, “weaponisation of dependencies” create contradictions.
Contemporary Challenges:
India’s Strategic Choices:
- Do not overestimate: Possibilities with China.
- Do not underestimate: Necessity of U.S. partnership.
- Maintain strategic autonomy, but strengthen trusted partnerships.
- Balance tactical engagement with China and strategic convergence with U.S. & allies.
Conclusion:
India–China relations remain fragile, tactical, and vulnerable to shocks. Trust deficit persists despite summitry and dialogue. India must pursue a careful balancing strategy engage China through SCO/BRICS, strengthen strategic partnerships with U.S., Japan, EU and preserve autonomy while ensuring security, stability, and economic resilience.
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