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External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently declared that India-China relations remain “significantly disturbed,” despite his earlier statement suggesting a 75% resolution to the border dispute. This declaration highlights the ongoing tensions and complexities plaguing the bilateral relationship, with patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) identified as the primary point of contention. The current situation underscores the fragility of peace in the region and the intricate challenges posed by the parallel rise of both countries in the global order.
Jaishankar’s remarks at an event in New York shed light on the historical context of the India-China relationship, emphasizing its troubled past. He referenced the 1962 conflict and the prolonged process of rebuilding diplomatic ties, culminating in the establishment of agreements aimed at maintaining peace along the border. However, the 2020 Galwan clash, marked by the deployment of a large number of Chinese forces near the LAC, shattered the fragile stability achieved through these agreements.
Jaishankar’s statement regarding the 75% progress on the border dispute provides clarity on the limited scope of this achievement. He explained that the progress referred to solely the disengagement of troops, leaving the broader issues of patrolling and the disputed LAC unresolved. This clarification underscores the fact that achieving lasting peace requires addressing not only troop movements but also the underlying territorial disputes that continue to simmer beneath the surface.
The parallel rise of India and China presents a unique challenge in global politics, as both nations are vying for regional and global influence. This dynamic, coupled with their shared border and overlapping spheres of influence, creates a complex interplay of interests and potential points of friction. As both countries continue to assert their presence on the world stage, navigating this delicate relationship becomes increasingly critical for maintaining regional stability and promoting global cooperation.
The current state of India-China relations reflects the ongoing struggle to balance cooperation and competition. While both nations have a vested interest in maintaining a peaceful border, the unresolved issues surrounding patrolling and territorial claims continue to cast a shadow over their bilateral relationship. The parallel rise of these two major powers demands careful and nuanced diplomacy to manage their interactions and prevent the escalation of tensions into conflict.
Source: India-China relations ‘significantly disturbed’: Jaishankar, weeks after ‘75% issues sorted’ remark